Day 3 Kunming -Dali by High Speed Train

Sightseeing and Activities:Three pagodas in Chongsheng Monastery, Erhai lake, Dali Old town
Accommodation: Dali
Meals: Breakfast

Morning Departure to Dali

In the morning, board a high-speed train bound for Dali, a city famous for its rich historical and cultural heritage, particularly its Bai ethnic culture. The journey takes approximately two hours, taking you to this remarkable destination.

Visit to the Three Pagodas

Upon your arrival, your first stop will be the Three Pagodas in the Chongsheng Monastery, which boasts a history of over 1,800 years. Nestled at the base of Cangshan Mountain and overlooking Erhai Lake, the Three Pagodas are a stunning trio of ancient structures that form a perfect symmetrical triangle.

Afternoon Visit to Dali’s Ecological Corridor
After savoring a delightful lunch, you have the option to explore the Ecological Corridor of Dali. This serene location offers a perfect opportunity to unwind amidst stunning natural landscapes and picturesque sights. Here, you can enjoy the tranquility of the outdoors while immersing yourself in the beauty of the surrounding environment.

Exploration of Ancient Dali Town

Finally, you will explore the historic Ancient Dali Town. Stroll through Foreigner Street, where you can relax and mingle with the locals. For a memorable experience, climb up to the Dali City Wall, where you will be rewarded with a panoramic view of the expansive Erhai Lake.

• About Erhai Lake: As the largest highland lake adjacent to Dianchi, Erhai Lake is one of China’s seven largest freshwater lakes. Its name translates to ‘sea shaped like an ear’ in Chinese, aptly describing its ear-like shape and vast size.

Day 4 Dali – Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities:Xizhou Old Town, Zhoucheng Village, Black Dragon Pond, Dongba Culture Museum, Lijiang Old Town
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast

Day 5 Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities:Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Impression Lijiang Show, Baisha Murals
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast

Morning Excursion to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

This morning, embark on a journey of approximately 30 km to the breathtaking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Upon arrival, you’ll take a sightseeing bus for a brief tour along the beautiful Baishuihe River and Blue Moon Valley before boarding the chairlift to reach Spruce Meadow at an elevation of 3,200 meters.

Please note that the cableway operation will depend on the mountain’s conditions. Once at Spruce Meadow, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the original forest for about an hour.

Cultural Experience with the Impression Lijiang Ethnic Show

After a delightful lunch, immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of the region by attending the Impression Lijiang Ethnic Show (regular seating) at Ganhaizi Meadow, situated at 3,100 meters. This extraordinary cultural performance showcases the rich traditions and lifestyles of the Naxi, Yi, and Bai ethnic groups. Set against the stunning backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the outdoor theater sits at an altitude of 3,500 meters, enhancing the natural beauty of the performance. The show, directed by renowned figures Zhang Yimou, Fan Yue, and Wang Chaoge, features a cast of over 500 performers and numerous horses.

Visit Baisha Old Town

In the late afternoon, you will transfer to Baisha Old Town. Here, you can explore the captivating Baisha Murals, recognized as a significant part of the World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO since 1997.

Journey to the First Bend of the Yangtze River

From Lijiang, set off on a scenic drive of approximately 60 km to the First Bend of the Yangtze River. This area boasts breathtaking gorge views and includes a visit to the Iron Chain Bridge, along with the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument located in Shigu Old Town. The town of Stone Drum derives its name from a large, cylindrical marble tablet resembling a drum. As you travel through the Lijiang Valley, you’ll be treated to magnificent scenery, with wheat fields and drying haystacks lining the road.

Exploring the Tiger Leaping Gorge

Next, explore the iconic Tiger Leaping Gorge (the Shangri-La section), which is recognized as the deepest gorge in the world. Renowned for its 34 rapids of the Yangtze River, this area is known as Jinsha, indicative of the gold that can be found within its waters.

Afternoon Adventure in Shangri-La

In the afternoon, continue your journey to Shangri-La, formerly known as Zhongdian, a destination famed for its paradise-like allure among travelers. Stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town, a significant hub in the ancient Tea-Horse Trade Caravan route connecting Yunnan with Tibet and India.

Scenic Views from Guishan Hill

Ascend to the summit of Guishan Hill (also referred to as Tortoise Hill), where you will encounter the largest prayer wheel in the world. Enjoy sweeping panoramic views of Shangri-La County and Dukezong Ancient Town from this breathtaking vantage point.

Day 7 Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities:Songzanlin Monastery, Pudcuo National Park, Tibetan Family Visiting
Accommodation: Shangri-La
Meals: Breakfast

Sightseeing and Activities:Departure from Shangri-La
Accommodation:
Meals: Breakfast

Free at leisure before be transferred to Shangri-La airport for the departure flight to Kunming, then take flight AK102 at 17:55 back home, service ends.

Recommended Hotels

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
• High speed train tickets from Kunming to Dali (2nd class seats).

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Chinese visa fees;
• Excess baggage charged by Airlines;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.