6 Days Dali Lijiang Tour with Ancient Tea Horse Road Adventure

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Dali

   Located in Yunnan Province, Dali is known for its rich culture and stunning natural scenery. Upon arrival, the local guide and driver will take you to the hotel in Dali Ancient Town. For the rest of the day, you can rest at the hotel or explore the ancient city on your own.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: in Dali

   

2. Day 2: Dali Exploration Tour
   Admire Stunning Landscapes and Explore the Cultural Heritage of Dali

   After breakfast, drive to Cangshan Mountain, the treasure of Dali’s natural landscape. Cangshan Mountain is a majestic mountain with 19 peaks. The main peaks form a relative height difference with the Erhai Lake, creating spectacular gorges and waterfalls. Take the cable car to the top of the mountain, and overlook the green meadows and the crystal Erhai Lake in the distance. Stroll along the hiking trails to immerse in the sparkling streams and lush forests.

   

   Then explore the Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple, one of the landmarks in Dali. This historical site consists of a large pagoda and two small pagodas, blending the architectural features of the Tang and Song dynasties. Learn about the rich Chinese Buddhist culture while visiting these exquisite Buddhist architectures.

   

   After lunch, wander through Dali Old Town, which retains the traditional architecture and culture of the Bai people. There are many ancient Bai architectures, including ancient city buildings, ancient academies, and ancient temples. Also, explore the local stores, taste delicious Yunnan cuisine, and buy distinctive souvenirs to experience the vibrant local life.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Dali

3. Day 3: Dali to Shaxi Ancient Town Tour
   Immerse in Wonderful Lake Views and Charming Old Town

   In the morning, continue your Dali tour from Erhai Lake, which is famous for its beautiful scenery. The Erhai Lake offers various and fascinating views in all seasons. Along the lake, enjoy the sparkling lake with the Cangshan Mountain reflected in the lake, forming a picturesque landscape. Choose optional activities like a sightseeing bus tour, a cruise, or cycling around the lake to admire the scenery (at your own expense).

   

   Later head to Zhoucheng Old Town, the largest Bai village in China. Walk along the roads to observe the distinctive Bai dwellings and local customs. Also, visit a tie-dye workshop to witness the traditional craft of the Bai people. If you are interested, you can participate in a tie-dye production to create your own souvenir (optional).

   After that, proceed to Shaxi Ancient Town, a historical spot on the Ancient Tea Horse Road. There are many ancient architecture and cultural relics, including ancient streets, ancient theaters, and typical Bai dwellings. Stroll through the old town, admire the exquisite architecture and feel the charm of the ancient market.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Shaxi Ancient Town

   

4. Day 4: Shaxi Ancient Town to Lijiang Tour
   Magnificent Ancient Architecture and Splendid Ethnic Culture

   In the morning, continue your tour of Shaxi Ancient Town. Take a leisurely stroll along Sideng Sifang Street to explore the relics of the Ancient Tea Horse Road and Silk Road. Visit the ancient trade caravans, ancient temples, ancient theaters and historic Bai dwellings.

   If you visit Shaxi Ancient Town on a Friday, you can attend the lively Friday Market. There are diverse stores for fresh fruits, vegetables, traditional costumes, and handicrafts.

   Then, drive to Lijiang to start your Lijiang tour. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the hotel in the Lijiang Ancient Town for a brief rest.

   After lunch, visit the Mufu Palace, one of the iconic attractions of Lijiang Ancient Town. Admire the grand ancient architecture to learn about the Naxi culture. Climb the Lion Peak for the panoramic view of the Lijiang Ancient Town. Also wander along the Sifang Street Square to buy exquisite ethnic handicrafts, taste traditional Yunnan cuisine, and witness the lively local life.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Lijiang Ancient Town

   

5. Day 5: Lijiang Discovery Tour
   Distinctive History, Culture and Art of the Naxi People

   After breakfast, your guide and driver will take you to Yuhu Village, located at the southern foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

   Later move to Baisha Village and observe the Baisha Mural Paintings, depicting the religious culture and social life of the ancient Naxi people. Also, choose to learn Baisha embroidery from a local master and create your own embroidery pieces (optional).

   

   The next stop is Shuhe Ancient Town. There are a large number of traditional Naxi ancient buildings, displaying the architectural style and customs of the Naxi people. And watch traditional Naxi folk performances at the square to experience the vibrant life of the locals.

   Head to Dongba Culture Museum to explore the cultural heritage of the Naxi people. There are over 12,000 artifacts, including Dongba texts, Dongba paintings, ritual objects, and living tools of the Naxi people.

   Finally, walk to Black Dragon Pool Park with beautiful mountains and clear water. Stand on the bridge and admire the magnificent views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Lijiang

   

6. Day 6: Tiger Leaping Gorge Hiking Tour, Lijiang Departure
   Marvel at the Wonderful Natural Wonders

   Today, drive from Lijiang to visit the spectacular First Bend of the Yangtze River. The Yangtze River turns suddenly at Shasongbi Village in Shangri-La, forming a wonderful V-shaped bend. Capture the stunning scene created by the magnificent mountains and the sparkling river around you.

   Continue to drive to the Tiger Leaping Gorge for an exciting hike. Walk along the trestle and enjoy the magnificent canyon views from different locations. Hike the Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge section to marvel at the roaring rivers and towering cliffs. Also see the 13-meter-high Tiger Leaping Rock, a large boulder in the middle of the river.

   

   The 6-day Dali and Lijiang Tour of Yunnan ends here. Your guide and driver will drive you back to Lijiang airport or train station for your departure.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: N/A