8 Days Shangri-La & Daocheng Yading Tour from Lijiang

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Lijiang, Lijiang Ancient Town Tour
   Experience the Charm of Local Life in Lijiang

   Welcome to Lijiang, a famous city with a rich history and culture. Upon arrival, the local guide and driver will take you to the hotel in Lijiang Ancient Town. As a World Heritage Site, the old town is famous for its magnificent ancient architectures and various ethnic cultures.

   

   After check-in, embark on a guided tour of Lijiang Ancient Town. The first stop is Mufu Palace, one of the iconic attractions of Lijiang Ancient Town. There are numerous majestic architectures with exquisite carvings, reflecting the excellent architectural art of ancient times. Admire this grand ancient architecture to learn about the Naxi culture.

   Next wander along the Sifang Street Square, the center of Lijiang Ancient Town. It is a great place to buy beautiful souvenirs, taste delicious Yunnan cuisine and watch Naxi traditional performances. Also, experience the vibrant local life at various bars and cafes.

   Choose to climb Lion Hill for a panoramic view of the ancient city and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the distance (optional). At the top of the hill, you can visit the five-story Wanggu Tower, the symbol of Lijiang.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: Lijiang Ancient Town

2. Day 2: Lijiang Highlights Tour
   Diverse Ethnic Cultures and Natural Landscapes

   After breakfast, start today’s Lijiang tour from Yuhu Village, a scenic village located at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Visit the former residence of Joseph Rock, an American explorer who showed the Naxi culture and the plants of the region to the world. There is a large collection of photos, books and artifacts about Naxi culture at his former residence.

   Then drive to Baisha Village, which is famous for its rich Naxi culture and distinctive architectural style. You can witness the Baisha Mural Paintings, showing the religious culture and social life of the ancient Naxi people.

   Optional Activity: Baisha embroidery is a traditional handicraft of the Naxi people, known for its exquisite patterns and vibrant hues. Choose to learn to make the Baisha embroidery from a local craftsmen.

   The next stop is Shuhe Ancient Town. Wander through the streets and admire the wooden buildings of the Naxi people, a variety of stores and great local performances. Explore historical sites such as murals from the Ming Dynasty, the Museum of the Ancient Tea Horse Road, and the Qinglong Bridge.

   

   Head to Dongba Culture Museum to explore the cultural heritage of the Naxi people. The museum buildings are organized according to the development of Naxi dwellings. There are over 12,000 artifacts, displaying 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. Walk around the banks of the pool to capture the reflections of the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the clear water.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Lijiang

   

3. Day 3: Lijiang to Shangri-La Tour
   Marvel at Natural Wonders and Explore Tibetan Culture

   In the morning, drive from Lijiang to Shangri-La, which takes 3-4 hours. Along the way, witness the First Bend of Yangtze River. The Yangtze River turns suddenly at Shasongbi Village in Shangri-La, forming a rare V-shaped bend. Capture the breathtaking scene of a rushing river, green fields and snow mountains in the distance.

   Later, reach Tiger Leaping Gorge, which is known as one of the world’s top ten classic hiking destinations. Hike the Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge section, which is about 11 kilometers long and takes 3-5 hours. Along the way, marvel at the great canyon landscape of roaring rivers, lush forests, and towering cliffs.

   

   Finally, explore Dukezong Old Town, the largest Tibetan residential area in China. Walk through the ancient streets and admire the traditional Tibetan architecture. Visit cultural and religious attractions such as Tibetan murals, Guishan Temple and the Prayer Wheel. At Moonlight Square, immerse yourself in local life and taste authentic Tibetan cuisine.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Shangri-La

   

4. Day 4: Shangri-La Discovery Tour
   Splendid Buddhist Culture and Beautiful Natural Scenery

   After breakfast, continue your Shangri-La tour. Head to Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. The architectural complex is modeled on the design of the Potala Palace in Tibet and is built on the mountain. Observe precious Buddhist artifacts such as Buddha statues, Buddhist murals, thangkas, and scriptures.

   

   Venture to Pudacuo National Park, which boasts 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. Travel through the park on a sightseeing bus and battery car to observe precious animals and plants.

   The last stop of the day is to visit a local Tibetan family. Communicate with the hosts and learn more about their daily life, culture, and customs. Also, taste Tibetan food like butter tea and homemade snacks.

   Meal: Breakfast + Lunch

   Accommodation: in Shangri-La

5. Day 5: Shangri-La to Daocheng Tour by Private Car

   After breakfast, the local guide and driver will meet you at the hotel in Shangri-La. Drive to Daocheng Yading, a treasure in western Sichuan province.

   Along the way, pass by landmarks such as the Jinsha River and White Horse Snow Mountain to admire breathtaking views. Cross the Tibetan Plateau and witness the vast grasslands, herds of yaks, and nomadic tents.

   Upon arrival, settle into your hotel in Shangri-La Town. For the rest of the day, you can relax at the hotel or explore Daocheng Yading on your own.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: in Shangri-La Town

6. Day 6: Daocheng Yading Hiking Tour
   Hike to Admire the Stunning Natural Landscapes

   Embark on a fascinating trekking tour at Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve, known for its diverse natural views. Located in the transition zone from the Tibetan Plateau to the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, the reserve is characterized by complex and diverse landform, including high mountains, canyons, and glaciers. Three magnificent snow mountains and three clear sacred lakes form a picturesque landscape here.

   

   Take a sightseeing bus to Zhaguanbeng, which is the starting point of the trek to Luorong Pasture. You can admire the snowy peaks, blue sky, and brightly colored flowers that surround the vast meadows. Along the way, encounter yaks, horses and sheep and immerse in the peaceful atmosphere.

   

   Pass by the Chonggu Monastery, located at the foot of Chenresig Mountain. A statue of Guanyin Bodhisattva is enshrined here. See Buddhist artifacts such as prayer flags and prayer wheels. Listen to the soothing sounds of bells and chants. Take a battery car to Luorong Pasture and enjoy the wonderful view of the three holy snow mountains.

   The three snow mountains consist of Chenresig Mountain, Jambeyang Mountain and Chanadorje Mountain, which respectively represent Guanyin Bodhisattva, Manjushri Bodhisattva, and Vajrapani Bodhisattva. Climb up to the viewing platform to enjoy the majestic snowy mountains and the sea of clouds reflected in the clear lakes.

   After visit, descend and return to your hotel in Shangri-La Town by car.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: in Shangri-La Town

7. Day 7: Daocheng Yading Exploration Tour
   Immerse in the Serene Views of Lakes and Meadows

   After breakfast, continue your exploration tour of Daocheng Yading. Take a sightseeing bus to Chonggu Monastery and then walk to Chonggu Meadow near the monastery. Stroll through expansive meadows and capture magnificent snow mountains, sparkling streams and lush forests.

   Continue trekking to Pearl Lake, a crystal lake located at the foot of Chenresig Mountain. Stand near the lake to see the reflection of the snowy mountain and feel the serenity of the holy land.

   Later, proceed to the ten thousand-acre poplar forest around the Bang River, which shows different colors in all seasons. In autumn, the leaves of the poplar trees turn golden, forming a beautiful picture with the blue sky and the river bank. Besides, visit Benpo Monastery here, the oldest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Daocheng County. There are historical Buddha statues, Buddhist murals and thangkas, showing the cultural heritage of Tibetan Buddhism.

   In the evening, your guide and driver will transfer you to the hotel in Daocheng County for a rest.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: in Daocheng County

   

8. Day 8: Daocheng County Departure

   The 8-day Lijiang, Shangri-La and Daocheng Yading tour ends here. After breakfast, you will be escorted to Daocheng Yading Airport for your departure.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: N/A