8 Days Yunnan Small Group Tour to Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La

Welcome to Kunming — the Capital of Yunnan Province!
Upon arrival at Kunming Changshui International Airport or the train station, your guide will meet you and escort you to your hotel. Take some time to rest and recover from your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the city at your own pace. Your guide will be happy to offer suggestions.

Kunming is known as the “Spring City 春城” thanks to its mild, pleasant climate throughout the year. Its comfortable weather allows flowers to bloom in every season, earning Kunming the nickname “Flower City 花都.” The city is also the hometown of Zheng He (1371–1433), the great Ming Dynasty navigator who led seven maritime expeditions across Asia and Africa. Whether you are seeking cultural experiences, natural scenery, or delicious cuisine, Kunming is an excellent starting point for your Yunnan journey.

Recommended Free-Time Activities

1. Discover Yunnan’s Ethnic Diversity
Visit the Yunnan Ethnic Village or the Yunnan Museum of Minority Nationalities (closed on Mondays) to learn about minority cultures. Nearby Haigeng Park on the edge of Dianchi Lake offers beautiful lakeside scenery and a chance to see migrating black-headed gulls in winter.

2. Kunming City Walk
Start at the Eastern and Western Pagodas, iconic landmarks of Kunming, then walk to the Jinma and Biji Archways, symbols of old Kunming. Continue to the Kunming Flying Tigers Museum (Kunming Museum) to learn about the WWII story shared by China and the United States. End at the lively Jingxing Flower and Bird Market, a window into local life.

3. Enjoy Kunming’s Food Culture
Explore Daguan Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market, famous for fresh mushrooms, flowers, ferns, Yunnan ham, rushan cheese, insects, and all kinds of snacks. For street food and local restaurants, stroll through Nanqiang Pedestrian Street (dating back to the Qing Dynasty) and Nanping Pedestrian Street, one of Kunming’s most historic commercial areas.

How to Arrive in Kunming

Kunming is the major transportation hub of Yunnan and an ideal city to begin your trip.

By Air

Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) offers numerous international routes, including direct flights from:

• Laos (Vientiane)

• Thailand (Bangkok / Chiang Mai / Phuket)

• Vietnam (Hanoi / Ho Chi Minh City)

• Cambodia (Siem Reap)

• Nepal (Kathmandu)

• India (Kolkata)

• Sri Lanka (Colombo)

• Japan (Tokyo)

• Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur)

• Singapore

Domestically, Kunming connects with major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Chengdu, Guangzhou, Hong Kong, and more. It also offers easy flights to Yunnan’s top destinations, including Lijiang, Dali, Shangri-La, and Xishuangbanna.

By High-Speed Train

Kunming is served by Kunming Railway Station and Kunming South Railway Station, with frequent high-speed services to destinations including:

• Dali (2.5 hrs)

• Lijiang (4 hrs)

• Xishuangbanna (3.5 hrs)

• Guiyang (2 hrs)

• Chongqing (4 hrs)

• Chengdu (5.5 hrs)

• Guangzhou (7 hrs)

• Hong Kong (7.5 hrs)

• Beijing / Shanghai (approx. 11 hrs)

Additionally, the China–Laos Railway connects Kunming → Vientiane in about 10 hours, offering an international overland travel option.

Why Start Your Yunnan Trip from Kunming?

Kunming not only provides excellent transportation links but also serves as a comfortable and relaxing introduction to Yunnan’s culture and natural landscapes. From Kunming, you can conveniently explore:

• Dali Ancient Town

• Dongchuan Red Land

• Jianshui Ancient Town & Zhu’s Family Garden

• Yuanyang Rice Terraces (Honghe)

• Xishuangbanna Rainforest

• Lijiang & Shangri-La

Whether you seek mountain scenery, ethnic heritage, historic old towns, or culinary exploration, Kunming offers a smooth and enjoyable start to your journey.

This morning, drive 80 km (about 1.5 hours) to the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site representing the spectacular South China Karst landscape. This world-famous geological wonder was once submerged beneath an ancient sea. Over 270 million years, marine sedimentation, crustal uplift, volcanic activity, and long-term erosion shaped today’s dramatic stone pillars.
At the site, a sightseeing bus will take you to explore the Big Stone Forest and Small Stone Forest, where you can observe unique karst formations and learn about their geological history. The Stone Forest is also home to the Yi ethnic group and the legendary tale of Ashima, a cultural symbol of the Yi people. Additionally, it served as a filming location for the 1986 TV series Journey to the West—the scene depicting Sun Wukong trapped beneath Wuxing Mountain was filmed here. Take your time to discover rock formations resembling animals, figures, and mythical scenes.

After the visit, return to Kunming for a city tour beginning with Yuantong Temple, located in the downtown area. With a history of more than 1,200 years, it is the oldest Guanyin Temple in China and uniquely structured as a “Downhill Temple.” Instead of walking upward upon entering, visitors gradually descend into a serene water-courtyard layout rarely seen in Chinese temples.
Yuantong Temple is also the only Buddhist temple in China that integrates Han, Southern, and Tibetan Buddhist traditions. At the rear stands the Bronze Buddha Hall, built in 1985 to house a bronze Shakyamuni statue gifted by Thailand’s Buddhist Association, making it a major pilgrimage site for visitors from Southeast Asia.

A short 700-meter walk from Yuantong Temple brings you to Green Lake Park (Cuihu Park), known as the “Jade of the City.” Once a bay of Dianchi Lake, it was transformed into a scenic lake park during the Ming Dynasty. Surrounded by lush willows, emerald waters, and vibrant lotus blossoms, Cuihu is a beloved leisure spot for locals. The north and south embankments, called Ruandi, were built by Governor Ruan Yuan and modeled after the Su Causeway of West Lake. The east and west embankments, known as Tangdi, were constructed during the Republican era. Within the park, you can also find former residences of scholars and a statue of Nie Er, the composer of China’s national anthem March of the Volunteers.
Depending on the season, you may see Black-headed Gulls migrating from Siberia, locals dancing, feeding fish, strolling along the water, or enjoying the relaxed atmosphere.

After finishing your city tour, return to your hotel and enjoy a restful evening.

Optional Free Time Suggestions

1. Kunming Old Street
Located about 1 km from Green Lake Park, Kunming Old Street is the city’s last remaining historic block preserving its original architectural style. With over 900 years of history, it features stone-paved lanes, Yunnan antique shops, traditional medicine stores, and local eateries. This is also a great place to try authentic Yunnan Rice Noodles (Cross-Bridge Rice Noodles) and visit the Former Residence of Nie Er. It’s ideal for a relaxing walk while experiencing local culture.

2. “Yunnan Impression” Performance
At 8:00 p.m., you may enjoy Yunnan Impression, a stage performance created by Yang Liping, one of Yunnan’s most influential dance artists. The show draws inspiration from the diverse ethnic groups of Yunnan—Yi, Wa, Tibetan, Hani, Dai, Bulang, Jinuo—and blends traditional ethnic dance elements with contemporary choreography. Vibrant, rhythmic, and deeply expressive, it showcases the colorful cultural heritage of Yunnan and is a memorable way to spend the evening.

This morning, you will be escorted to the train station to board a high-speed train to Dali, a comfortable ride of about two hours. Upon arrival, your local guide and driver will greet you at the station exit and take you directly to one of Dali’s most important cultural landmarks—the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple.

Standing elegantly between the Cangshan Mountains and Erhai Lake, the Three Pagodas (三塔) are the iconic symbol of Dali. The central Qianxun Pagoda, rising to about 69 meters, is flanked by two smaller pagodas, forming a harmonious architectural ensemble more than one thousand years old. According to local legends, Dali was once plagued by dragons living in the swamps; the pagodas were built to subdue these mythical creatures and protect the region. As you explore, take time to appreciate the intricate brickwork and ancient engineering that have allowed these pagodas to withstand earthquakes and natural disasters for centuries. The nearby reflection pond provides a perfect spot for photography, capturing the pagodas mirrored beautifully in the still water.

Afterward, continue to Chongsheng Temple (崇圣寺), located just behind the pagodas. Once the royal temple of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms, it earned the title “Capital of Buddhism” and remains a significant spiritual center. The temple grounds feature impressive halls, including the grand Mahavira Hall, serene courtyards, and peaceful walkways lined with ancient trees. Fans of Chinese martial arts literature may recognize it as Tianlong Temple from Jin Yong’s Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils. From elevated viewpoints within the temple, enjoy sweeping vistas of Cangshan’s snow-capped peaks and the shimmering Erhai Lake below.

Following your temple visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before setting off on a relaxing bike ride along the west side of Erhai Lake. “Erhai,” meaning “Ear-shaped Sea,” is China’s second-largest highland lake and the heart of the Bai Autonomous Prefecture. The lakeside cycling route is one of Dali’s most scenic experiences. As you ride, you’ll be treated to a panorama of sparkling blue water on one side and the dramatic slopes of Cangshan on the other. The route winds past traditional Bai villages, rice fields, flower gardens, and quiet rural landscapes. You’ll have many opportunities to stop, breathe in the fresh air, and capture postcard-worthy photos of the lake and mountains.

After completing the lakeside ride, you will be transferred to your hotel in Dali where you can enjoy a restful afternoon or evening.

Free Time Suggestion

Dali Ancient Town 
In the evening, you may choose to explore Dali Ancient Town on your own. With a history stretching back over 600 years, this charming old town was once the capital of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. As night falls, lanterns light up the stone streets, and lively markets, cafés, boutique shops, and small bars create a warm and vibrant atmosphere.
Stroll along Renmin Road, Foreigner Street, and the quieter side alleys to admire well-preserved Bai architecture, characterized by whitewashed walls, grey-green roof tiles, elegant courtyards, and intricate decorative patterns. Traditional workshops, temples, schools, and historic residences give the town its nostalgic charm. Whether you choose to enjoy a cup of local coffee, shop for Bai handicrafts, or simply wander the old streets, Dali Old Town offers a perfect end to your day.

Begin your day with a visit to the vibrant Xizhou Local Market (喜洲市场), one of the best places to witness authentic local life in Dali. This century-old market bustles with activity as villagers trade fresh produce, handmade crafts, and flavorful street snacks. Yunnan is often called the “Kingdom of Flora and Fauna,” so don’t be surprised to find unusual vegetables, flowers, insects, and varieties of wild mushrooms on display. Be sure to taste Xizhou Baba, a crispy stuffed pancake (sweet or savory), and try a cup of fragrant local Yunnan coffee while observing the daily rhythm of Bai villagers.

After exploring the market, take a walking tour through Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇), known as the “Premier Town of the Bai People.” Xizhou is home to the largest and best-preserved collection of traditional Bai architecture. As you wander through the quiet lanes, you will pass elegant Bai courtyard homes such as the Yan Family Compound, notable for architectural styles like the “Three-Room and One-Screen Wall (三房一照壁)” and the classic “Siheyuan Courtyard (四合院).” White walls, grey roofs, carved windows, and beautifully painted murals embody the refined Bai aesthetic. Don’t miss the chance to experience the Three Courses of Tea (三道茶) ceremony—a cultural practice symbolizing the progression of life: from bitterness, to sweetness, to a lingering aftertaste of reflection. Surrounding the village are wide stretches of wheat fields that blend harmoniously with the white-and-grey houses, offering soothing scenery, especially in spring and autumn.

Continue to nearby Zhoucheng Village (周城), the largest Bai village in Dali and famed as the “Hometown of Bai Embroidery.” Zhoucheng is also the birthplace of Bai tie-dye art (扎染), an important National Intangible Cultural Heritage. Explore traditional workshops where artisans create intricate tie-dye textiles featuring motifs like lotus flowers, birds, and fish, each carrying symbolic meaning. You may witness live demonstrations of dyeing and embroidery techniques passed down for generations.
Optional: Join a hands-on tie-dye workshop and create your own handmade fabric under expert guidance—a memorable cultural experience.

After your village visits, drive approximately two hours (140 km) to Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site nestled beneath the stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Lijiang serves as a cultural bridge between Dali in the south and Shangri-La in the north. Its Old Town—comprising Dayan, Shuhe, and Baisha—is one of China’s best-preserved ancient town clusters and the cultural heartland of the Naxi people, who make up about 74% of the local population. A visit to Lijiang offers snow-capped mountain scenery, cobblestone old towns filled with history, and rich Naxi cultural traditions that have endured for centuries.

Upon arrival, the rest of the day is free for you to explore Lijiang Old Town at your own pace. Wander through its waterways, wind through narrow streets lined with wooden houses, and enjoy the peaceful charm that makes Lijiang so beloved among travelers.

Optional Free Time Idea:

Black Dragon Pond Park (黑龙潭公园)
Located at the northern edge of Lijiang Old Town, this scenic park is a tranquil spot to enjoy Lijiang’s natural beauty. On clear days, the reflection of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain shimmering in the still waters of the Black Dragon Pool creates one of the region’s most iconic and photogenic landscapes. It’s a perfect place for a quiet stroll, photography, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views before ending your day.

After breakfast, set out from Lijiang Old Town to explore the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山), one of Yunnan’s most iconic natural landmarks. Known for its dramatic peaks, rich biodiversity, and glacier-fed landscapes, the mountain was inscribed as part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. Its name comes from its resemblance to a jade dragon when the peaks are covered with snow—especially striking in winter.

The mountain features 13 towering peaks, with the highest, Shanzidou, reaching 5,596 meters (18,360 ft). A highlight of your visit is the 10-minute cable car ride to Spruce Meadow (云杉坪) at 3,240 meters. As you ascend, enjoy sweeping views of deep valleys, lush forests, and the snowy massif. At Spruce Meadow, take a relaxing walk through tranquil alpine meadows, surrounded by pristine spruce forests and stunning scenery. Afterwards, take the cable car back down the mountain.

Continue by sightseeing bus to the breathtaking Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷). Known for its surreal turquoise waters, this scenic valley features four lakes and a picturesque White Water Terrace. The lakes vary in color and clarity, but the most stunning is Jade Liquid Lake, which reflects the snow mountain like a natural mirror. On sunny days around midday, the water turns a vivid, crystal blue—perfect for photography.

Optional Activity: Impression Lijiang Show

In the afternoon, you may choose to watch “Impression Lijiang”, an outdoor performance directed by Zhang Yimou, staged at Ganhaizi Meadow (altitude 3,100 m). Featuring more than 500 performers, this one-hour show highlights traditional Naxi music, dance, and local customs, all set against the dramatic backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

After your mountain experience, continue to Baisha Village (白沙村), the earliest settlement of the Naxi people and former capital of the Mu chieftains. As part of the UNESCO-listed Lijiang Old Town heritage area, Baisha offers a peaceful look into traditional Naxi life. Visit the famous Baisha Murals (白沙壁画), created between the Ming and Qing dynasties and blending Buddhist, Taoist, and Naxi Dongba religious imagery. These murals, found in temples such as Dabaoji Palace, Liuli Temple, and Wenchang Palace, are treasured for their fine craftsmanship and cultural significance.

In the late afternoon or evening, enjoy free time exploring Lijiang Old Town (Dayan Ancient Town), a beautifully preserved 800-year-old World Heritage site. Its maze of cobblestone streets, flowing canals, stone bridges, and traditional wooden houses create a timeless charm. Wander at your own pace, browse local shops, or relax at a riverside café. Make your way to Sifang Street (四方街), the lively central square, where you can shop for Naxi handicrafts, sample local snacks, and experience the vibrant atmosphere filled with music, culture, and life.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel for a scenic journey from Lijiang to Shangri-La, with several breathtaking stops along the way.

Your first visit is the First Bend of the Yangtze River (长江第一湾), where the mighty river makes a dramatic 90-degree turn from south to east within just one kilometer. From the viewing platform, enjoy sweeping views of the river and surrounding valleys. Continue to Shigu Town, where you can take a leisurely walk along the water, admire the ancient Iron Chain Bridge, and visit the Red Army Long March Memorial Monument, which commemorates an important chapter in Chinese revolutionary history.

Next, drive onward to the Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge (上虎跳, 1,800m), one of the deepest and most spectacular gorges in the world. According to legend, a tiger once leaped across the gorge at its narrowest point, escaping a hunter. Here, the roaring Jinsha River surges between Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5,596m) and Haba Snow Mountain (5,386m), creating a dramatic natural masterpiece. Walk along the plank road to admire the force of the river and the towering cliffs. (Optional cable lift available at an extra fee if you prefer to conserve energy.)

After your visit, continue driving toward Shangri-La (about 108 km, 2–2.5 hours). As you approach the highlands, the scenery gradually shifts to open grasslands, alpine meadows, and Tibetan-style villages.

Welcome to Shangri-La (香格里拉) — a serene land nestled in the northwestern part of Yunnan, within the Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. Formerly known as Zhongdian, it is believed to be the real-world inspiration for the hidden paradise described in James Hilton’s novel Lost Horizon. Surrounded by sacred snow mountains and enveloped in mystery, Shangri-La offers a sense of peace, spirituality, and timeless beauty.

Stay overnight in Shangri-La.

This morning, your guide will take you to visit Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺), also known as Ganden Sumtsenling Monastery, located at an altitude of 3,380 meters. Founded in 1679 by the Fifth Dalai Lama, it is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan and is often called the “Little Potala Palace” for its striking resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa. The monastery blends Tibetan and Han architectural styles and is home to about 700 monks.

Climb the steps to explore its three main halls—Zhacang Hall, Jikang Hall, and Sakyamuni Hall—where you may see monks chanting and practicing daily rituals. From the upper platform, enjoy a sweeping view of the golden-roofed monastery complex and the tranquil Lamuyangcuo Lake.

In the afternoon, drive about 25 km to Pudacuo National Park (普达措国家公园), the first national park in China and part of the UNESCO-listed “Three Parallel Rivers” region. Known for its pristine highland scenery, the park features forests, meadows, lakes, and diverse wildlife, including several protected species.

Begin with a sightseeing bus ride to Shudu Lake (3,705m), the largest lake in the park. Walk along its peaceful boardwalk to admire clear waters, alpine meadows, and possible sightings of birds and yaks. Then continue by bus to Bita Lake (3,568m), considered sacred by local Tibetans. Surrounded by lush forests and mountains, the lake’s turquoise surface creates a postcard-perfect reflection. A short, easy trail allows you to fully enjoy the quiet beauty of the area.

On the way back to Shangri-La, you’ll pay a visit to a local Tibetan family, where you can taste homemade snacks and try yak butter tea—an inviting way to learn more about Tibetan daily life and hospitality.

Returning to the city, continue to Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城), a well-preserved Tibetan town with more than 1,300 years of history. Once an important stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road, it is known as the “Moonlight City” because its name can be translated as “Castle Built on Moonlight Stone.” Wander through its narrow alleys lined with traditional Tibetan houses and prayer flags, and walk up Guishan Hill to turn the world’s largest prayer wheel—an auspicious ritual shared with locals seeking blessings. From the hilltop, enjoy a panoramic view of the entire ancient town.

Optional Evening Experiences:
Around 19:00, locals often gather in Sifang Square for traditional Tibetan dancing, and visitors are welcome to join. Later in the evening, the ancient town lights up beautifully, creating a warm and enchanting night atmosphere perfect for a leisurely stroll.

After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel in Shangri-La.

After breakfast, your 8-day Kunming–Dali–Lijiang–Shangri-La journey comes to an end. Enjoy some free time in Shangri-La at your own pace before your guide escorts you to the airport for your onward flight.

Departure Tips:
Diqing Shangri-La Airport (DIG) is a small regional airport offering domestic flights to Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and other major cities. For international departures, we recommend taking a high-speed train (about 5.5 hours) or a short flight (about 1 hour) to Kunming, where Kunming Changshui International Airport provides a wider range of global connections.

Extension Ideas:
If you’d like to extend your journey, we can help you explore more of Yunnan—such as the Yuanyang Rice Terraces, tropical Xishuangbanna, or other hidden gems—customized to your interests.