Morning:
Halal Breakfast at Hotel:
Start your day with a Halal breakfast at your hotel in Kunming, enjoying a variety of traditional dishes:
Steamed buns (包子), a common breakfast staple in China, filled with meat or vegetables.
Yogurt, which is often served fresh and slightly sweetened.
Lamb skewers (羊肉串) or beef skewers (牛肉串), a popular Muslim street food in Kunming, served hot and spiced.
Fresh fruit, providing a refreshing and healthy start to the day.
Transfer to Shilin County to Visit the Stone Forest:
After breakfast, board the coach for a transfer to Shilin County (Stone Forest), located about 90 km (approximately 1.5-2 hours) from Kunming. The Stone Forest is one of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites and one of the most famous natural attractions in Yunnan.
Stone Forest (石林) is a breathtaking karst landscape formed by limestone erosion over millions of years. As you walk through the maze of towering rock formations, you’ll have a chance to explore this "forest" of stones, shaped like trees, hence the name.
Your guide will provide fascinating insights into the geological history of the area and the local Sani ethnic minority culture, which has strong ties to the Stone Forest.
Lunch:
Halal Lunch at a Local Restaurant in Yiliang County:
After visiting the Stone Forest, stop for a Halal lunch in Yiliang County (which is on the way back to Kunming). Enjoy a meal at a Muslim-friendly restaurant with traditional Yunnan flavors.
A signature dish you might enjoy is Yiliang Roast Duck, famous for its tender meat, crispy skin, and rich flavor. You can also try the following dishes:
Samosas (饺子), savory pastries filled with spiced meat or vegetables, perfect as an appetizer.
Grilled lamb or beef skewers (羊肉串/牛肉串), often served with flatbreads (饼).
Steamed bread (馒头), a fluffy and soft bread served alongside lamb or beef dishes.
Afternoon:
Shun Cheng Mosque (顺成清真寺):
After lunch, head to Shun Cheng Mosque, one of the oldest and most renowned mosques in Kunming, built in 1425 during the Ming Dynasty.
Significance: This mosque is the headquarters of the Islamic Association of Yunnan Province and plays an important role in the religious life of Kunming’s Muslim community. During your visit, your guide will provide a detailed explanation of the mosque’s architectural style, which includes traditional Islamic elements such as arched doorways, Islamic calligraphy, and intricate tile work. You’ll also learn about its historical importance in the development of Islam in Yunnan.
Shopping at Nanping Pedestrian Street:
After visiting Shun Cheng Mosque, enjoy some free time for shopping at Nanping Pedestrian Street. This bustling area is lined with shops and boutiques offering everything from local handicrafts and ethnic arts to international brands.
You can stroll along the street, experiencing the lively atmosphere and picking up souvenirs, gifts, and local treats.
Don’t forget to visit Jinbi Square (金碧广场), located nearby, where you will find the Golden Horse & Jade Rooster Archway, a historic landmark of Kunming.
Evening:
Guandu Ancient Town:
After shopping, visit Guandu Ancient Town, located about 8 km southwest of Kunming’s city center. This historic area is famous for its well-preserved traditional architecture and vibrant cultural heritage.
Exploring Guandu: Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow alleys, explore ancient temples, and enjoy the traditional houses built in the local style. This town is an excellent place to get a feel for Kunming’s rich history and ethnic diversity, as it is home to both Han Chinese and minority groups.
Guandu has been an important cultural hub for centuries, and it’s still a lively area where locals gather for daily activities.
Shopping at Luosiwan International Wholesale Market:
End the evening with a visit to Luosiwan International Wholesale Market, which is a great spot for shopping. The market is known for a wide variety of products, including:
Local handicrafts like handwoven textiles and ethnic jewelry.
Souvenirs such as wooden carvings, tea, and ethnic clothing.
International goods at more affordable prices, ranging from clothing to electronics.
Meals:
Hotel Breakfast: Enjoy a traditional breakfast with a variety of Halal options.
Halal Lunch: Savor a delicious meal featuring local Yiliang Roast Duck and other Halal specialties.
Halal Dinner: You will have the opportunity to enjoy a Halal dinner at the end of your day, either at a local restaurant or within your hotel.