6 Days Yunnan Tour to Lijiang, Shangri-La, Kunming

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Lijiang Arrival, Lijiang Old Town Tour
   Admire the Combination of Ancient Architecture and Natural Landscape

   Welcome to Lijiang! Upon arrival, your guide and driver will transfer you to the hotel at the Lijiang Ancient Town for check-in. Then you can explore the ancient town on your own. Stroll through the Lijiang Ancient Town, admire the exquisite ancient architecture, observe the great ethnic handicrafts, and learn about the colorful minority cultures.

   In the afternoon, visit the Mufu Palace, one of the landmarks of Lijiang Ancient Town. There are many ancient buildings, showing the architectural style of the Naxi minority. Climb up to the Sanqing Hall to overlook the panoramic view of Lijiang Ancient Town and the wonderful natural landscape.

   

   Later wander along the Sifang Street Square, the center of Lijiang Ancient Town. It is a great place to buy souvenirs, taste Yunnan cuisine and experience local leisure activities.

2. Day 2: Lijiang Exploration Tour
   Learn about the Splendid Naxi History and Culture

   After breakfast, start today’s Lijiang culture tour. First, move to Yuhu Village at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which is one of the earliest settlements of the Naxi ancestors. The buildings of the village are well-preserved with typical Naxi traditional features. Learn about the ancient ethnic culture while enjoying the spectacular snowy mountain scenery.

   

   Then head to Baisha Village, one of the birthplaces of the Naxi minority. Here witness the Baisha Mural, portraying the religious culture and social life of the ancient Naxi people.

   The next stop is the Shuhe Ancient Town, which has a history of over 1,000 years. There are a large number of traditional Naxi ancient buildings, displaying the architectural style and customs of the Naxi people. Also watch traditional Naxi folk performances at the square to experience the vibrant life of the locals.

   In the afternoon, visit the Dongba Culture Museum. Admire numerous artifacts, showing Dongba texts, Dongba paintings and ritual objects. Explore the basic exhibitions to know about the ancient production and living tools of the Naxi people.

   

   Next to the Dongba Culture Museum is the Black Dragon Pool Park. Walk along the bank of the pool to enjoy the beautiful picture of the clear water and lush trees. Stand on the Five-hole Bridge and admire the magnificent views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance.

   After visit, drive back to the hotel for rest.

3. Day 3: Lijiang to Shangri-La Tour by Car
   Breathtaking Landscapes and Profound Tibetan Cultural Heritage

   Today, drive to Shangri-La, known as “Paradise on Earth”. On the way, stop at the First Bend of the Yangtze River. The Yangtze River turns suddenly at Shasongbi Village in Shangri-La, forming a rare V-shaped bend. Marvel at the stunning scene created by the magnificent mountains and the sparkling river around you.

   

   Then, proceed to Tiger Leaping Gorge, known for its diverse terrain and spectacular views. Hike the Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge to admire the roaring rivers and towering cliffs. Also observe the 13-meter-high Tiger Leaping Rock, a large boulder in the middle of the river.

   Upon arrival in Shangri-La, the local guide and driver will take you to the hotel for a rest. Afterward, visit Dukezong Old Town, which is the treasure of Tibetan Culture. Admire the traditional Tibetan dwellings to explore the Tibetan culture and history. See traces left by the ancient caravans, such as horseshoe prints and saddles. Climb up to the top of Guishan Hill and witness the largest prayer wheel in the world.

   

4. Day 4: Shangri-La Highlights Tour
   Learn about Tibetan Culture and Discover the Natural Heritage.

   In the morning, continue to your Shangri-La culture and nature tour. Drive to Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Admire the majestic temples and colorful Buddhist murals. Also observe precious Buddhist artifacts such as Buddha statues, thangkas, and scriptures.

   

   Later move to Pudacuo National Park, about 22 kilometers from Shangri-La City. It is home to lakes, wetlands, forested meadows, and various wildlife. Admire the clear Shudu Lake, reflecting the surrounding green hills and trees and the blue sky. Stroll through the vast Militang Pasture to observe the colorful flowers and herds of yaks.

   In the afternoon, visit a local Tibetan family. Talk with the Tibetan people to learn about their customs and life, as well as taste the delicious Tibetan cuisine.

5. Day 5: Shangri-La to Kunming Tour by Flight
   Immerse in the Picturesque Views of Dianchi Lake

   Today, you will take a flight to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan. The local guide and driver will drive you to 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.

   Also visit the historical attractions of Western Hills, including the Dragon Gate, Sanqing Pavilion, and Huating Temple. Explore the ancient caves and exquisite stone art to learn about the ancient religious culture of this region.

   

6. Day 6: Kunming Departure
   Rich Buddhist Culture and Distinctive Stony Landscapes

   After breakfast, start today’s tour of Kunming from Yuantong Temple, one of the oldest Buddhist monasteries in Kunming. The temple is built on the mountain and constructed in layers. The Yuantong Hall is the center of the temple and enshrines exquisite Buddhist statues. The Copper Buddha Hall is enshrined with a copper statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, a gift from Thailand. There are also many Buddhist relics, such as Buddhist murals, cliff inscriptions and scriptures.

   

   The next stop is Green Lake Park, located in the center of the city. The park is famous for its lotus flowers, which bloom on the wide lake in summer, creating a picturesque scene. Stand in the pavilions to enjoy the clear lake, lush trees and old buildings with glazed tiles.

   In the afternoon, drive to Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring karst formations. Wander along paths and bridges to observe rocks in various shapes and sizes. Admire the Dashilin consisting of dense stone peaks. Explore the scenery of the Xiaoshilin consisting of stone pillars with ponds and lawns.

   The 6-day Yunnan tour ends here. Your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport for your next destination.