3 Days Kunming Tour with Jiuxiang Cave & Stone Forest

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Kunming Arrival, Kunming City Tour
   Immerse in the Vibrant Life of Kunming

   Welcome to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province. Upon arrival, your guide and driver will transfer you to the hotel for check-in.

   In the afternoon, wander through the Flowers & Birds Market, a vibrant local market. There is a wide range of flowers, birds and fish. Also buy exquisite handicrafts, souvenirs, Yunnan snacks and tea. Explore the various stores at the market and experience the lively local life.

   

   Then visit Yuantong Temple, the oldest Buddhist temple in Kunming. The temple is home to many well-preserved Buddhist architectures, such as the Yuantong Main Hall, the Bajiao Pavilion and the Bronze Buddha Hall. There are a large number of Buddhist relics, including scriptures, statues, and cliff inscriptions. You can explore the cultural heritage of Buddhism while admiring the majestic temples.

   Later head to Green Lake Park, located in the center of Kunming. There are beautiful lotus flowers, which bloom on the wide lake in summer, creating a picturesque scene. In winter, witness a large number of seagulls flying from Siberia to Kunming. Also observe the local people singing, exercising, and playing chess at the park.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: in Kunming

   

2. Day 2: Kunming Stone Forest Tour
   Explore the Strange Rocks and Mysterious Cave Palace

   After breakfast, continue your Kunming tour from Stone Forest, about 80 kilometers from downtown. As a World Heritage-listed site, Stone Forest is famous for its distinctive karst landscape. At the Greater Stone Forest Scenic Area, see dense stone peaks like Sword Peak Pond, Lotus Peak, and Elephant Trunk Hill. At the Lesser Stone Forest, admire the scenic views of stone pillars, ponds, and lawns. Also, know about the local legend about the ancient love story of the Sani ethnic group.

   

   After lunch, drive 50 minutes to the Jiuxiang Scenic Area, famous for its cave landscapes. There are more than 90 caves of different sizes, known as the “Cave Museum”. Be stunned by the different forms of stalagmites, pillars, and stone curtains. Standing on the viewing platform, you can overlook the magnificent rocks illuminated by colorful lights. Also witness the fantastic views of underground waterfalls and rivers.

   In the evening, return to the hotel in Kunming downtown for an overnight stay.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Kunming

   

3. Day 3: Kunming Exploration Tour, Kunming Departure
   Beautiful Mountain Scenery and Rich Ethnic Culture

   Today is the last day of your 3-day tour in Kunming. In the morning, visit the Western Hills, located on the west bank of Dianchi Lake. Hike along the trail and enjoy the spectacular mountains and lush trees. Take a cable car to the top of the hills to admire the panoramic views of Dianchi Lake. And explore the Dragon Gate to see the ancient caves, temples, and exquisite stone sculptures.

   

   Finally, head to the Yunnan Nationalities Museum, the largest ethnic-themed museum in China. There are more than 40,000 artifacts that show the customs, festivals, and lifestyles of Yunnan’s ethnic groups. Also, visit the diverse themed exhibitions and explore the traditional houses, production tools, and handicrafts of ethnic minorities.

   After the visit, your guide and driver will take you to the airport or train station for your departure.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: N/A