20 Days South to North Yunnan Panorama Tour with Three Parallel Rivers

Upon your arrival at Kunming Airport, our guide will be waiting for you at the exit of the arrival hall. Following this, we will proceed to your hotel for check-in.

You will then have the remainder of the day at your leisure, allowing you to rest and recuperate after your long flight.

Exploring the Stone Forest

• Today, you will begin our journey by visiting the renowned Stone Forest, located approximately 90 km southeast of Kunming.
• This remarkable Karst landscape, famous both nationally and internationally, was formed around 270 million years ago during the Carboniferous Period.

Journey to Jianshui

• After enjoying lunch, you will continue our drive to Jianshui, a historic and cultural city that has been thriving for over 1300 years.
• This journey will take about 3 to 3.5 hours, covering a distance of 220 km.

Visit Family Zhu’s Garden

• Upon our arrival in Jianshui, you will explore Family Zhu’s Garden, a magnificent estate built by the Zhu family approximately 100 years ago.
• This garden features beautifully arranged courtyards, well-appointed rooms and halls, intricate pathways, and a variety of ornamental plants and flowers.
• It is often referred to as "the Grand View Garden at a Border Town."

Strolling Through Jianshui's Old Area

• You will then take a leisurely stroll through the Old Town of Jianshui, where you can observe the various types of ancient wells that dot the landscape.
• Additionally, you will visit a local Doufu workshop to learn about the process of utilizing well water to create the famous snack - Doufu.

Morning Visit to Jianshui Confucius Temple

• In the morning, you will visit the Jianshui Confucius Temple, the largest of its kind in Yunnan and the second-largest in the entire country.

Explore Tuanshan Village

• Following our temple visit, you will drive to Tuanshan Village, which was established as a mining hub in the late 14th century.
• Most of the well-preserved homes, gateways, temples, ancestral halls, and walls date back to the 19th and early 20th centuries, a period when the village thrived due to trade with Southeast Asia, facilitated by the Yunnan-Vietnam railroad.

Discover the Twin Dragon Bridge

• Next, you will admire the stunning Twin Dragon Bridge, a 30-meter-long bridge spanning the confluence of the Lu and Tachong Rivers.
• Notable for its 17 arches, the construction of this beautiful bridge took place over two periods of the Qing Dynasty, with its completion achieved in 1839.

Journey to Yuanyang
After enjoying lunch, we will embark on a 3-hour drive to Yuanyang, a vibrant region home to various ethnic groups, including the Hani, Yi, Yao, and Zhuang.

Upon arrival, you will check in to your hotel and settle in for your stay in Yuanyang.

Early Morning Sunrise at Duoyi Village

• Start your day with an early rise to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the terraced fields in Duoyi Village. After enjoying this stunning sight, take a leisurely stroll through the local market, where the vibrant aspects of the local ethnic culture come to life.

Explore Qingkou Hani Village

• Next, you will visit Qingkou Hani Village, a quintessential example of a Hani community, home to 150 families and a population of about 800 individuals belonging to the Hani ethnic minority.
• This village beautifully showcases the typical characteristics of Hani Terraced Fields culture.

Afternoon at Bada Rice Terraces

• In the late afternoon, you will transfer to the Bada Rice Terraces, recognized as one of the best spots in Yuanyang for capturing stunning photographs of the terraced fields bathed in the warm glow of the sunset.

Journey to Pu’er

• Today, you'll continue your adventure as we head towards Pu’er, formerly known as Simao. Along the way, you'll be treated to captivating landscapes that include terraced fields, tea gardens, and picturesque valleys. This scenic drive will take approximately 6 to 7 hours, and feel free to stop and explore local villages along the route.

Arrival and Check-In

• After reaching your destination, you will check in to your hotel and unwind after the day's journey.

Morning Transfer to Jinghong

• In the morning, embark on a transfer lasting approximately 2.5 to 3 hours to Jinghong, the capital of Xishuangbanna.

Afternoon Exploration of Wild Elephant Valley

• In the afternoon, immerse yourself in the wonders of Wild Elephant Valley, a stunning forest park renowned for its primal tropical rainforest and herds of Asian wild elephants.
• Also known as Sanchahe Forest Park, this scenic area is home to around 130 wild elephants that are often spotted roaming freely.
• In China, Asian elephants are only found in the rainforests of Xishuangbanna, making Wild Elephant Valley the exclusive location where these majestic creatures can frequently be observed.

Evening at the Night Food Market

• As evening falls, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant night food market, where you can indulge in delicious local barbecue dishes and a variety of snacks.

Morning Transfer to Ganlanba

• In the morning, embark on a journey across expansive rubber plantations and the Mekong River to reach Ganlanba, the primary residential area of the Dai people. Here, you'll have the opportunity to visit a local morning market and explore nearby villages in the countryside, allowing you to discover the intricacies of their culture and authentic way of life.

Visit to the Tropical Botanical Garden

• Next, you'll explore the Tropical Botanical Garden, an establishment dedicated to preserving the diversity of tropical plants and combating extinction. Their efforts include plant exploration, propagation, habitat restoration, scientific research, and educational initiatives. The NTBF's garden and preserves serve as vital refuges for at-risk species that may otherwise vanish forever.

Return to Jinghong

• Following your visit, you will make your way back to Jinghong. If time allows, consider stopping by the village of the Jinuo people for an enriching cultural experience.

Morning Drive to Menghun

• This morning, set off on a drive to Menghun to explore the local Saturday market, a vibrant weekly gathering featuring both ethnic villagers and a variety of local produce.
• Next, visit the Dai paper-making village, where artisans continue the traditional practice of crafting paper from tree bark.
• Here, you'll discover how this age-old technique is used for packing tea. Also, take a moment to stop at a serene countryside temple to learn about the Dai's Theravada Buddhism.

Afternoon Exploration of Mount Nannuo

• In the afternoon, head to Mount Nannuo for a short hike through ancient tea tree plantations and the villages of the Aini people. Enjoy a conversation with locals over a cup of homegrown organic tea, delving into the deep connection between local life and tea cultivation. After concluding your tour, you will continue your drive back to Jinghong.

Morning Journey to Dali

Begin your day with a drive to Jinghong Airport for your flight to Dali, which takes approximately one hour.

Scenic of Erhai Lake
Upon your arrival in Dali, embark on atour of Eclogicl Carridor besides Erhai Lake.

Enjoy stunning views of the lush Cangshan Mountain and the iconic Three Pagodas in the distance, while observing numerous birds and seagulls soaring over the lake.

On your return to Dali Old Town, make a photo stop to capture the exterior view of the Three Pagodas, a significant landmark of Dali.

These pagodas, constructed of brick and adorned with white mud, consist of three independent structures arranged in a symmetric triangle. Their elegant and harmonious design is distinctive in China's ancient Buddhist architecture, making them a must-see attraction in Dali. The Three Pagodas have long been a striking feature of the city, recognized as a national treasure deserving of preservation.

Explore Dali Old Town
Next, delve into Dali Old Town, a historically rich city renowned for its cultural significance. Established in 1382 AD during the Ming Dynasty, Dali Old Town served as the capital of the Dali Kingdom. Today, visitors can admire the remnants of its past, including the south and north gate towers that still stand, as well as well-preserved traditional homes of the Bai ethnic group.

Today, begin your journey with a visit to the morning market of Xizhou Town, where you can admire the elegant Bai-style architecture, savor the fragrant three-course tea—a traditional way the Bai people welcome their honored guests—and immerse yourself in their distinctive local culture.

After the visit, continue your trip to Jianchuan County (about 2–2.5 hours’ drive) to explore the magnificent Shibaoshan Mountain, praised by the famous writer Jin Yong as “The Treasure of South China.” Located in Dali’s Jianchuan County, the mountain area consists of three temple groups: Stone Bell (Shizhong), Lion Pass (Shizi Guan), and Shadeng Village. These sites feature some of the finest Bai stone carvings in southern China, offering valuable insights into life during the Nanzhao Kingdom of the 9th century.

Afterward, proceed to Shaxi Old Town, where you can enjoy dinner on your own account.

Morning Stroll in Shaxi Old Town

Take a leisurely walk through Shaxi Old Town, once a bustling trade hub along the ancient Tea Horse Caravan Road. As you wander its cobbled streets, you’ll feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. Visit the 700-year-old Theatre, admire the picturesque Yujin Bridge, explore the historic Xingjiao Temple that has stood for over six centuries, and discover the elegant Ouyang Courtyard. Don’t miss the lively Friday Market, where locals gather to trade goods and showcase the town’s vibrant culture.

After exploring Shaxi, continue your journey to Zhongdian (Shangri-La) with your driver, a scenic drive of about 4–5 hours, then check in to your hotel upon arrival.

Overnight at Shangri-La.

In the morning, begin your day with a visit to Pudacuo National Park, located about 30 kilometers from downtown Shangri-La. This stunning park is a true natural wonderland, home to endemic fish species found nowhere else on earth, as well as rare orchids, graceful black-necked cranes, and Taxus yunnanensis, a yew tree whose extracts are essential for producing cancer-treating medicines. Nestled in the mountains of Southwest China, Pudacuo National Park forms part of the Three Parallel Rivers Scenic Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of China’s most famous natural attractions.

In the afternoon, continue to explore the Ganden Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan. Known as the Little Potala Palace for its impressive Tibetan architectural style, it was founded in 1679 when the Fifth Dalai Lama selected its site through divination. Since then, it has served as the most significant center of Tibetan Buddhism in the region.

Later, take a relaxing stroll through Dukezong Old Town, where you can admire traditional Tibetan houses and spin the grand prayer wheel, which stands about 10 meters tall. In the evening, visit a local Tibetan family to enjoy authentic butter tea and Tibetan snacks, accompanied by traditional Tibetan songs and dances.

Overnight at Shangri-La.

In the morning, drive about 4–5 hours to Deqin County (3,450 m altitude), where around 80% of the 55,000 inhabitants are Tibetan. If you can comfortably adjust to the altitude (3,550 m), it’s an excellent base for hiking; otherwise, simply relaxing and soaking in the mountain atmosphere is equally rewarding.

Along the way, stop at the Great Jinsha River Corner, located less than 10 km from Bengzilan Town along the Yunnan–Tibet Highway. Here, the Jinsha River makes a dramatic 180-degree turn, creating a breathtaking natural spectacle. A viewing terrace beside the highway offers the perfect spot to capture stunning photos of the river’s grand curve.

Continue your journey to visit the Dongzhulin Monastery, originally built in 1667 during the Kangxi Period. Once known as “Chongchongcuogang Temple,” meaning “the temple by the crane lake,” this monastery is one of the most important Tibetan Buddhist temples in the region.

Then, make a stop at the Baima Snow Mountain Pass (altitude 4,292 m), where snow glistens all year round like a galloping white horse—hence its name, White Horse Snow Mountain. This area is home to rare flora and fauna, including several species of star-leaf grass, sassafras, and endangered animals such as the golden monkey, clouded leopard, and red panda. Revered as the “King of temperate alpine flora and fauna,” it holds significant ecological and scientific value.

Upon arrival in Deqin, check in to your hotel near Feilaisi Temple.

Overnight at hotel near Feilaisi.

If weather permits, rise early to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain, a majestic range composed of 13 peaks. The main peak, Kawagebo Peak, stands at an elevation of 6,740 meters, making it the highest point in Yunnan Province. Due to its sacred status and extreme conditions, none of its major peaks have ever been successfully summited.

After enjoying the sunrise, visit the Feilaisi Temple, first built in 1614 A.D. Situated directly facing the peaks of Meili Snow Mountain, the temple offers the most spectacular vantage point to admire the mountain’s golden glow at dawn.

Continue your journey to explore the Mingyong Glacier, located at the foot of Kawagebo Peak. This impressive glacier stretches about 11.7 kilometers long and over 500 meters wide, and it is known as the lowest-latitude and lowest-altitude modern glacier in China today.

Then, drive along the magnificent Lancang–Mekong River Grand Canyon to reach Cizhong Village, a tranquil settlement where Tibetan and Christian cultures blend harmoniously.

Overnight at hotel in Cizhong.

Enjoy the scenic drive along the way and make a stop at Cizhong Village, which borders Gongshan County of Nujiang Prefecture to the east and Cikatong Village in Xiaru Township to the west. To the south, it connects with Badong Village in Yanmen Township, and to the north with Chunduole Village, sitting at an average altitude of about 1,800 meters. Here, you can visit the historic Cizhong Catholic Church, originally built in 1909. After its completion, it became the main church of the Yunnan Parish and was later listed in 1987 as a key protected cultural relic of Yunnan Province.

After exploring Cizhong, continue driving to Tacheng via Weixi. Upon arrival in Tacheng, visit the Snub-Nosed Monkey Nature Reserve, where you can observe and feed the rare Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys in the late afternoon, a truly memorable wildlife experience.

Overnight at Tacheng.

After breakfast, visit the Tacheng Black Snub-Nosed Monkey Park, home to the rare Yunnan golden monkey, an endangered primate species found only in China. Covering an area of 334.16 square kilometers, Tacheng Black Snub-Nosed Monkey National Park in Weixi County is a true paradise where people and nature coexist in harmony, offering visitors a glimpse into the delicate balance between wildlife and local communities.

After the visit, continue your scenic drive to Tiger Leaping Gorge (about 4 hours), one of the deepest gorges in the world. The mighty Yangtze River, known here as the Jinsha River, rushes through 34 rapids, creating a spectacular natural wonder. On the way, stop at Shigu Town to admire a panoramic view of the First Bend of the Yangtze River, where the river makes a dramatic turn from south to north.

Enjoy lunch in Qiaotou Town, then explore Tiger Leaping Gorge in the afternoon, taking in the breathtaking cliffs and roaring river below.

Later, transfer to Lijiang and check in at your hotel.

Overnight in Lijiang.

In the morning, drive to visit the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. Composed of 13 towering peaks, the highest being Shanzidou Peak at 5,600 meters, the mountain stretches 35 kilometers from north to south and 20 kilometers across. Seen from Lijiang Old Town, 15 kilometers away, the snow-capped range appears like a jade dragon lying gracefully among the clouds—hence its name.

Take the cable car up to Yak Meadow (3,700 m), a tranquil alpine grassland surrounded by stunning snow peaks. Known for its serene beauty, this area is often compared to the landscapes of Switzerland and Sweden for its pure and untouched charm.

After descending, enjoy the spectacular outdoor performance “Impression Lijiang” (regular seat) at Ganhaizi Meadow (3,100 m). Directed by the renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou along with Fan Yue and Wang Chaoge, this large-scale cultural show features over 500 performers and several horses. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, it vividly showcases the traditions and lifestyles of the Naxi, Yi, and Bai peoples.

In the afternoon, take a walk through Baisha Village to admire the ancient Baisha Frescoes, which date back over 600 years. These murals, recognized as part of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site (1997), blend Buddhist, Taoist, and Naxi cultural elements, reflecting the region’s artistic diversity.

Continue to visit the serene Black Dragon Pond (Yuquan Park), built in 1737 during the Qing Dynasty. From its elegant white marble bridge, you can enjoy a perfect view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain mirrored in the crystal-clear green water. Nearby, explore the Dongba Culture Museum to learn about the ancient scripts, rituals, and traditions of the Naxi people.

Afterward, spend a relaxing evening strolling through Lijiang Dayan Old Town, also known as Lijiang Old Town. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1997, it is one of the four best-preserved ancient towns in China, together with Langzhong, Pingyao, and Shexian. The old town, home to the Naxi ethnic group, charms visitors with its cobbled streets, flowing canals, and traditional wooden architecture.

Overnight in Lijiang.

Early in the morning, drive about 4–5 hours along the spectacular mountain road to reach the enchanting Lugu Lake. Formed in a geological fault dating back to the Late Cenozoic era, Lugu Lake sits at an altitude of 2,685 meters (8,809 ft), making it the highest lake in Yunnan Province. Surrounded by towering mountains, the lake features five islands, four peninsulas, fourteen bays, and seventeen beaches. As you travel, enjoy the breathtaking scenery of majestic mountains and winding rivers along the way.

In the afternoon, take a traditional canoe ride across the crystal-clear waters to visit Liwubi Island, one of the most beautiful and tranquil spots on the lake. Then, visit a local Mosuo family to experience the unique customs and matriarchal traditions of the Mosuo people, often referred to as the “last matrilineal society” in China.

In the evening, join a lively bonfire party with the local villagers, where you can sing, dance, and share in the warm hospitality of the Mosuo community.

Overnight at Lugu Lake.

In the morning, drive to visit the Zhamei Lamaist Monastery, the largest Pumi Tibetan Buddhism (Lamaism) temple in the region. Covering an expansive area of 24,000 square meters, the monastery is a stunning example of Tibetan architecture. The main hall of the monastery features beautiful structures, including three pavilions and civil buildings, with the highlight being the golden-plated copper roof that adds a magnificent touch to the complex. The monastery’s grandeur makes it a truly spectacular sight.

After your visit, drive back to Lijiang (about 4–5 hours). Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. You may choose to relax, explore the area, or enjoy some free time in this charming ancient town.

Overnight at Lijiang.

After breakfast, you will transfer to Lijiang Airport for your morning flight to your next destination.