Yunnan Odyssey: Ancient Kingdoms & Himalayan Peaks
An In-Depth Exploration of Yunnan's Cultural Tapestry and Natural Wonders
Itinerary Overview
This redesigned 10-day Yunnan adventure takes you deep into the heart of Southwest China's most spectacular landscapes and diverse ethnic cultures. From Kunming's stone forests to the sacred Meili Snow Mountain, experience the perfect blend of natural beauty, ancient traditions, and authentic cultural encounters across Yunnan's most iconic destinations.
Detailed Daily Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in the Spring City - Kunming
Highlights: Kunming arrival and leisure exploration - Airport pick up service - Accommodation: Kunming hotel - Meals: No meals included
Welcome to Kunming, Yunnan's provincial capital known as the "Spring City" for its year-round temperate climate. Upon arrival at Kunming Changshui International Airport, our representative will greet you and transfer you to your pre-booked hotel. Settle in and enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring the vibrant Green Lake area, where locals gather for recreation and traditional performances.
Day 2: Stone Wonders & Ancient Towns - Kunming to Dali
Highlights: Guandu Ancient Town, Stone Forest, bullet train experience - Accommodation: Dali hotel - Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Begin your day with a visit to Guandu Ancient Town, a well-preserved historical site featuring architecture from five Chinese dynasties. Then journey to the magnificent Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring spectacular karst formations that resemble a petrified forest. In the late afternoon, experience China's modern high-speed rail system with a bullet train transfer to the ancient city of Dali.
Day 3: Bai Culture & Erhai Lake - Dali Exploration
Highlights: Three Pagodas, Erhai Lake cycling, Bai tie-dyeing experience, Dali Ancient Town - Accommodation: Dali hotel - Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Discover Dali's rich Bai ethnic culture starting with the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, dating back over 1,000 years. Enjoy a scenic bicycle ride along the Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. Visit Zhoucheng Village for an authentic Bai tie-dyeing workshop, learning this traditional craft from local artisans. Conclude your day exploring the charming cobblestone streets of Dali Ancient Town, with its traditional Bai architecture and vibrant evening atmosphere.
Day 4: Ancient Tea-Horse Road - Dali to Lijiang via Shaxi
Highlights: Scenic drive to Lijiang, Shaxi Ancient Town exploration - Accommodation: Lijiang hotel - Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Travel along the historic Tea-Horse Road to Shaxi Ancient Town, one of the last surviving trading posts on this ancient network. Explore the well-preserved market square, ancient theater stage, and traditional architecture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. Continue to Lijiang, arriving in the evening to settle into your accommodation in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
Day 5: Mountain Majesty - Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Highlights: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain cable car, Glacier Park, Impression Lijiang show, Baisha Old Town - Accommodation: Lijiang hotel - Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Ascend to the heights of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain via cable car, reaching Glacier Park at 4,506 meters for breathtaking close-up views of the majestic peaks. Witness the spectacular "Impression Lijiang" cultural performance set against the mountain backdrop at Ganhaizi Meadow. Explore Baisha Old Town in the afternoon, admiring the 600-year-old murals that represent a fusion of Han Chinese, Tibetan, and Naxi artistic traditions. Complete your day with panoramic views from Lion Hill's Wangu Tower overlooking Lijiang's ancient rooftops.
Day 6: Gorges & Tibetan Gateway - Lijiang to Shangri-La
Highlights: First Bend of Yangtze River, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Ancient Town - Accommodation: Shangri-La hotel - Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Journey into deeper Yunnan, stopping at the dramatic First Bend of the Yangtze River before reaching Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world's deepest river canyons. Witness the powerful waters of the Jinsha River crashing through narrow passages. As you ascend in altitude, notice the landscape transforming into Tibetan highlands dotted with prayer flags and yak herds. Arrive in Shangri-La and explore Dukezong Ancient Town, an important historical stop on the Ancient Tea-Horse Trade Caravan route.
Day 7: Tibetan Culture & National Parks - Shangri-La Discovery
Highlights: Songzanlin Monastery, Pudacuo National Park, Tibetan village visit - Accommodation: Shangri-La hotel - Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Immerse yourself in Tibetan Buddhist culture at Songzanlin Monastery, Yunnan's largest Tibetan monastery often called the "Little Potala Palace." Explore the pristine wilderness of Pudacuo National Park, visiting the crystal-clear waters of Bita Lake and Shudu Lake surrounded by ancient forests. Experience authentic Tibetan hospitality with a family visit in a local village, gaining insight into traditional lifestyles and customs.
Day 8: Himalayan Approach - Shangri-La to Meili Snow Mountain
Highlights: Scenic mountain drive, Moon Bend of Jinsha River, Meili Snow Mountain sunset - Accommodation: Feilai Temple area - Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Embark on one of China's most spectacular mountain drives, traversing high passes with panoramic views of the Hengduan Mountain Range. Stop at Bengzilan Town to admire the dramatic Moon Bend of the Jinsha River and visit Dongzhulin Monastery. Cross the Baima Snow Mountain Pass, watching the landscape transform as you approach the sacred Meili Snow Mountain range. Arrive at Feilai Temple in time to witness the magical sunset illuminating the peaks of Meili Snow Mountain.
Day 9: Glacier Trekking & Grand Canyons - Meili Exploration
Highlights: Meili Snow Mountain sunrise, Mingyong Glacier trek, Lancang River Grand Canyon - Accommodation: Shangri-La hotel - Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Wake early to witness the spectacular sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain, a sacred peak that remains unclimbed. Trek to Mingyong Glacier, one of the lowest latitude glaciers in the Northern Hemisphere, walking through pristine forests to reach breathtaking viewpoints. Explore the dramatic Lancang River Grand Canyon, with optional extended trekking opportunities along the Mekong River with continuous views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Day 10: Departure from Himalayan Highlands
Highlights: Airport transfer from Shangri-La - Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy a final morning in the highlands of Shangri-La before transferring to Diqing Shangri-La Airport for your departure flight. For international connections, flights are available to Kunming or other major Chinese gateway cities.
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