14 Days Yunnan Three Parallel Rivers Circle Tour from Kunming

Day 9 Feilaisi-Meili Snow Mountain-Biluo Snow Mountain-Bingzhongluo

Sightseeing and Activities:the sunrise of Meili Snow Mountain, Lancang-Mekong Grand Canyon, Mingyong Glacier Park, Biluo Snow Mountain, Nujiang River, Bingzhongluo
Accommodation: Bingzhongluo
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Early in the morning, you will enjoy the magnificent sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain, watching the golden light gradually illuminate the sacred Kawagebo Peak and surrounding summits.

After sunrise, drive to Mingyong Village, where you will begin a memorable hike to the Mingyong Glacier (2,600 meters). This glacier is renowned as the lowest-altitude glacier at the lowest latitude anywhere in the world. Along the trail, you can admire pristine alpine forests, glacial streams, and dramatic views of the snow-capped peaks.

After lunch in Mingyong Village, you will descend directly to the edge of the Mekong River (approx. 2,050 meters / 6,724 feet). From here, walk along the Lancang-Mekong Grand Canyon, experiencing the vast gorge carved by the river over millennia.

You will arrive in Xidang Village (2,200 meters / 7,216 feet), where you can visit scattered Tibetan houses and learn about the local way of life.

In the afternoon, drive south along the Mekong Grand Canyon towards Biluo Snow Mountain. On the way, stop to visit Kongqueshan Mountain Pass (Peacock Mountain Pass), which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

After crossing the pass, your route descends dramatically into the Nujiang Grand Canyon, one of the most spectacular gorges in Asia.

The Nujiang River Gorge stretches 316 kilometers and is flanked by mountains rising over 4,000 meters, with peaks averaging more than 3,000 meters in altitude. This region, located in northwestern Yunnan Province, is not only a geological wonder but also a treasure trove of ethnic minority cultures. Today, it has become a first-choice destination for both domestic and international travelers seeking unspoiled landscapes and authentic cultural experiences.

In the evening, you will arrive in Bingzhongluo, often called the “last paradise,” to rest and prepare for the next day’s adventure.

Day 10 Deqin-Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities: Nujiang Valley and over the Gaoligong Mountains into the secluded Dulongjiang Valley.
Accommodation: Dulongjiang
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

Morning Exploration of Bingzhongluo (丙中洛):

The First Bend of the Nujiang River (怒江第一湾):
Admire the famous hairpin curve where the river dramatically changes direction, surrounded by sheer cliffs and terraced fields.

Stone Houses of the Nu Ethnic Group (怒族石板房):
Visit traditional dwellings built of stacked stone, reflecting the ancient lifestyles of the Nu people.

Peach Island (桃花岛):
A small island in the river known for its serene scenery and peach trees blooming in spring.

Puhua Tibetan Temple (普化寺):
A quiet monastery perched on the hillside where you can observe Tibetan Buddhist rituals and architecture.

Chongding Catholic Church (重丁教堂):
A remarkable church built by missionaries, blending European and local styles.

Cultural Experience:

Walk through Shimen Pass (石门雄关), a dramatic natural gateway into the valley.

Visit Wuli Village (雾里村), one of the most picturesque villages along the ancient Tea Horse Road (茶马古道), and learn about mule caravan history.

Option to visit a local household to experience Nu and Tibetan culture firsthand.

Lunch: Local restaurant in Bingzhongluo (丙中洛).

Afternoon Drive:

Depart Bingzhongluo and ascend the winding road over the Gaoligong Mountains (高黎贡山)—renowned for their biodiversity and lush forests.

En route, stop at:

Dimopa Scenic Overlook (迪莫帕观景台): a spectacular viewpoint of the Dulongjiang Valley.

Sacred Tree Stump Overlook (神树桩观景台): an ancient, giant tree revered by locals for centuries.

Continue descending into the Dulongjiang Valley (独龙江谷地), one of China’s most remote and pristine regions.

Stay at Dulongjiang Tianjing Dulong Grand Hotel (独龙江天境独龙大酒店) or equivalent

Day 11 Dulongjiang – Gongshan-Fugong-Shiyueliang

Sightseeing and Activities:the unique culture and landscapes of Dulongjiang, home to the Dulong (独龙族) people, one of China’s smallest ethnic groups
Accommodation: Shiyueliang Star Valley Luxury Camp Hotel (石月亮星谷野奢酒店)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning Excursion:

Dulongjiang National Park (独龙江国家公园):
Trek through dense forests and along riverbanks, encountering waterfalls, ancient trees, and wild orchids.

Pukawang Scenic Area (普卡旺景区):
A picturesque zone with alpine meadows, traditional villages, and lush vegetation.

Along the way, you may meet Dulong villagers wearing colorful hand-woven garments. Older women may have facial tattoos, a unique tradition once marking adulthood and identity.

Lunch: Enjoy a meal in the Dulongjiang (独龙江) area.

Afternoon Drive:

Depart Dulongjiang, retracing the mountain road back over the Gaoligong Mountains (高黎贡山).

Arrive in Fugong County (福贡县) and cross the Happiness Bridge (幸福桥), a symbolic landmark.

Continue to Shiyueliang Lamadi Star Valley Scenic Area (石月亮拉马底星谷景区), renowned for:

Towering rock arches resembling a “stone moon.”

Lush river scenery and cultural heritage.

Evening Activities (Optional):

Relax at the 219 Happiness Café (219幸福咖啡馆), where you can join:

Tea tastings

Cultural salons

Craft workshops and small group experiences

For those interested, visit a local church to explore the region’s missionary history.

Dinner: Served in your accommodation.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Overnight: Shiyueliang Star Valley Luxury Camp Hotel (石月亮星谷野奢酒店)

Day 12 Shiyueliang-Nujiang Grand Canyon-Liuku

Sightseeing and Activities:the Shiyueliang Lamadi Star Valley (石月亮拉马底星谷), with options for hiking and adventure, Nujiang Grand Canyon
Accommodation: Nujiang Denggeng Hot Spring Hotel (怒江登埂温泉酒店)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Morning Exploration at Shiyueliang Lamadi Star Valley Scenic Area (石月亮拉马底星谷景区)

Start your day with a buffet breakfast at your tented camp nestled within the breathtaking Star Valley. The fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings make for a perfect start.

You can choose from several optional activities depending on your interests and fitness level:

Via Ferrata Climbing (飞拉达)
Experience an adrenaline-pumping 200-meter-long secured cliff climb along vertical rock faces. The route ascends to a height of about 42 meters, offering spectacular views over the valley below. This activity typically takes around 2 hours for adults and a bit longer for children, and it’s an unforgettable way to connect with the region’s dramatic geology.

Trekking Route C: Expeditionary Trail (远征军归国小道)
This 4-hour moderate hike takes you through dense cardamom forests that perfume the mountain air. The trail follows the path used by the Chinese Expeditionary Army returning from Burma during World War II, adding a historical layer to the natural beauty. Along the way, you’ll see diverse flora, including rare orchids and ancient ferns, and enjoy sweeping views of the Stone Moon Arch (石月亮) and the Twin Peaks (双耳峰). Your guide will provide detailed botanical explanations and stories about the area’s history and culture.

Trekking Route B: Moon Valley Trail (月亮山谷)
A scenic walk through moss-covered forests with well-maintained paths designed to prevent slipping. This route highlights the area’s rich biodiversity, including the Chinese tree fern (中华桫椤), a protected species, and the fascinating symbiotic relationship between the apple fig tree (苹果榕) and its wasp pollinator. Along the way, stop at the Xia Nv Waterfall (侠女瀑布), a local natural wonder with legends attached, and learn about traditional medicinal plants used by local communities.

Trekking Route A: Yeren Mountain Multi-Day Expedition (野人山徒步线路)
For the adventurous, this is a challenging 3-day, 2-night trek into the remote wilderness, retracing ancient paths once used by local tribes and explorers. This requires prior arrangement and good physical fitness.

Cultural Activities at 219 Happiness Café (219幸福咖啡馆)
After your morning adventure, you can relax at this cozy café that also functions as a cultural hub. Enjoy tea tastings, local snacks, and participate in handicraft workshops or small group cultural salons designed to share the heritage of the Nujiang region.

Church Visits and Missionary History
Explore the unique Christian influences in the region by visiting local churches. Learn about the missionary efforts in Nujiang and how religion blends with local traditions.

Afternoon Drive: Fugong to Liuku (Lushui Town 六库镇)

After lunch, embark on a scenic drive southward along the Nujiang Grand Canyon (怒江大峡谷), a deep and dramatic gorge carved by the Nu (Salween) River over millions of years.

The canyon stretches for 316 kilometers, flanked by rugged mountains soaring above 4,000 meters in elevation, creating some of the most awe-inspiring landscapes in China.

The region remains relatively untouched, preserving an extraordinary diversity of plants, animals, and ethnic cultures including Nu, Lisu, Dulong, and Tibetan peoples.

Along the way, your guide will point out natural landmarks, share stories of local folklore, and explain the ecology and geology that make this place so special.

You will arrive in Liuku Town (六库镇), the administrative center of Lushui City (泸水市). Here you can relax and rejuvenate.

Evening & Accommodation

Check into the Nujiang Denggeng Hot Spring Hotel (怒江登埂温泉酒店), where you can soak in natural hot springs to unwind after your day of adventure and travel.

Dinner is available at the hotel or nearby local restaurants, offering a chance to sample Nujiang cuisine — known for its fresh river fish, wild mushrooms, and spicy flavors.

Day 13 Liuku-Baihualing-Baoshan

Sightseeing and Activities: Baihualing Birding Tour (百花岭观鸟徒步), Wild Hot Spring (野温泉)
Accommodation: Kunming
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, drive to Baihualing (百花岭), one of Yunnan’s top birdwatching spots. Over 300 species have been recorded here.

Hiking Loop (7 km, approx. 4 hours including hot spring):
Option 1 – Clockwise (Recommended):
Parking Lot → Baihualing Grand Waterfall (百花岭大瀑布) (1 hr) → Yin-Yang Valley Wild Hot Spring (阴阳谷野温泉) (1 hr) → walk past Beauty Waterfall (美人瀑) (10 min) → return to Parking Lot (50 min). Ideal for exploring diverse scenery.

Option 2 – Counterclockwise:
Parking Lot → Wild Hot Spring (direct 1 hr) → walk upstream to Beauty Waterfall → cross primeval forest (1 hr back). Suitable if time is limited or focus is hot springs.

🌟 Key Sites and Experiences:

Wild Hot Spring (Yin-Yang Spring 阴阳泉): Naturally mixed hot and cold water, perfect for soaking or foot bath. Bring swimsuit. Water is odorless and warm.
Baihualing Grand Waterfall (百花岭大瀑布): Huge waterfall with misty spray, very photogenic.
Beauty Waterfall (美人瀑): Small, delicate cascade, especially graceful in winter.
Birding Sanctuary (观鸟圣地): November–March is peak season. Hire a birding guide (50–100 RMB) to spot rare species like Blood Pheasant.
Rainforest Wonders: Ancient strangler figs, massive buttress roots, liana vines you can swing on.

🧳 Preparation:

Recommended Gear: Non-slip hiking shoes, light clothes, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, trash bag.
Must Bring: Swimsuit, drinking water, snacks, camera with telephoto lens.
Safety Tip: Some parts require crossing streams and squeezing through rocks. Watch for slippery ground.

🍽️ Dining & Accommodation:

Dining: Bring snacks or eat at local farmhouse restaurant (~40 RMB/person).
Accommodation: Few lodges nearby; better to return to Baoshan (保山) or Tengchong (腾冲). Camping possible with prior arrangement.

🌤️ Season & Costs:

Best Season: Nov–Apr (avoid rain). Peak birding Nov–Mar.
Costs: Entry ~15 RMB/person, guide ~50–100 RMB, meals ~30–50 RMB.

🌱 Tips:

Environmental: Strictly carry out all trash (Leave No Trace).
Family Friendly: Moderate difficulty, suitable for families, with rainforest education.
Nearby: On return, visit Ancient Banyan Tree (丙闷村大榕树), 700 years old, trunk 9 meters across.

🚄 Afternoon Transfer:

After lunch, drive to Baoshan (保山), drop at the high-speed rail station, take train to Kunming (昆明). Upon arrival, transfer to hotel and check in.

Day 14 Departure from Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities:Kunming City
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast

Today you will explore Kunming (昆明) on your own.

Optional Places to Visit:

Yuantong Temple (圆通寺): One of Kunming’s oldest and most famous Buddhist temples.

Nanping Street (南屏街): Popular pedestrian shopping area with local snacks and shops.

The Flowers and Birds Market (昆明花鸟市场): Traditional market for flowers, birds, antiques, and curios.

Jinma Biji Archway (金马碧鸡坊): Iconic twin archways symbolizing Kunming’s heritage.

Dianchi Lake (滇池): The largest lake in Yunnan Province, famous for waterfront views.

Yunnan Ethnic Villages (云南民族村): A cultural park showcasing architecture and customs of Yunnan’s ethnic groups.

In the afternoon or according to your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Kunming Changshui International Airport (昆明长水国际机场) for your departure.

Service ends.