8 Days Yunnan Speed Train Tour (Lijiang-ShangriLa-Shaxi-Dali-Kunming)

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For this 8 Days Kunming Dali Lijiang Shangri-La High Speed Train Tour, you will visit the highlights of Kunming, Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La. This is also a minority discovery tour, because you will find minority diversity during your trip, the minorities such as Yis, Bais, Naxis and Tibetan. Moreover, the Tiger Leaping Gorge will be the most impressive part of your trip, you could be shocked by the ruggedness and magnificence of Tiger Leaping Gorge and the mountains around when you are there. This part can not be missed. Visit Balagezong Scenic Area which belongs to Hongshan Section in the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas.

Introduction

Embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure to discover the vibrant cities of Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La, as well as the rich cultural heritage of the region’s diverse minority groups. During your journey, you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of the Yis, Bais, Naxis, and Tibetan communities.The highlight of your trip will undoubtedly be the awe-inspiring Tiger Leaping Gorge, a breathtaking natural wonder that will leave you speechless. The rugged beauty of the gorge and its surrounding mountains is truly unforgettable. To marveling at the majesty of Tiger Leaping Gorge, you’ll also have the chance to explore the stunning Balagezong Scenic Area, which forms part of the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas. This natural wonder is a must-see on your journey through this incredible region.

Highlights:

  • Visit the highlights of Kunming, Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La.
  • Step into ethnic villages to meet colorful and mysterious ethnic cultures.
  • Visit the Tiger Leaping Gorge to feel the grotesque and raging rapids of the magnificent gorge.
  • Balagezong Scenic Area belongs to Hongshan Section in the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas. It earns very high admiration for the mysterious ancient Bala Village, hospitable villagers, holy snow mountains, plank road over Gangqu River, and precipitous gorges, especially Shangri-la Grand Canyon.
  • Romantic Erhai Lake in Dali;
  • Impressive Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in Lijiang;
  • Discover the city life in Kunming;
  • Experience of anceint towns of Dali, Lijiang, Shaxi, Shuhe, Baisha, Zhoucheng and Xizhou.
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Brief Itinerary

  • Day 1: Lijiang Arrival
  • Day 2: Lijiang
  • Day 3: Lijiang-Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shanri La
  • Day 4: Shangri La
  • Day 5: Shangri La-Shaxi-Dali
  • Day 6: Dali
  • Day 7: Dali-Kunming
  • Day 8: Departure from Kunming

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Detailed Itinerary

Day 1 Arrive in Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities:Arrive in Lijiang, Lijiang Old Town
Accommodation:Lijiang
Meals:None

  • Journey Begins
    • Arrive in Kunming and embark on a high-speed train journey to Lijiang, a city steeped in history and culture
  • Arrival in Lijiang
    • Arrive in the charming city of Lijiang and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage
    • Explore the iconic Lijiang Old Town, a 800-year-old gem that boasts a unique blend of history, architecture, and tradition
  • Discovering Lijiang’s Cultural Heritage
    • Wander through the ancient streets of Lijiang Old Town, taking in the sights and sounds of this UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site since 1997
    • Marvel at the stunning wooden architecture of the Naxi ethnic group, a testament to their rich cultural heritage
Lijiang Anceint Town
Lijiang Anceint Town

Day 2 Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities:Yulong Snow Mountain, Ganhaizi Meadow, Baishui River and Terraces, Baisha Old Town and Murals
Accommodation: Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

  • Mountain Majesty
    • Drive to Ganhaizi Meadow (3100M) and take a short sightseeing bus ride along the Baishuihe River
    • Ride the chairlift up to explore Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with the cableway operating according to mountain conditions
    • Take a 1-hour hike through the pristine forest in Spruce Meadow (3200M)
  • Ethnic Extravaganza
    • Enjoy the Impression Lijiang Ethnic Show in Ganhaizi Meadow (3100M), a spectacular display of traditional Naxi, Yi, and Bai cultures
    • The show, directed by Zhang Yimou, Fan Yue, and Wang Chaoge, features over 500 performers and horses in an outdoor theater set amidst the stunning Jade Dragon Snow Mountain backdrop
  • Whispers of the Past
    • Take a leisurely walk through Baisha Old Town, an enchanting traditional Yunnan town with a rich history
  • Artistic Heritage
    • Visit the ancient Baisha Murals, dating back 600 years and recognized as part of the World Cultural Heritage by UNESCO in 1997

Blue Moon Valley and Baishuihe River in Lijiang

Day 3Lijiang-Tiger Leaping Gorge-Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities:The First Bend of Yangtze river, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Old Town, Guishan Hill Park, Giant Prayer Wheel
Accommodation: Shangri La
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch

  • River Odyssey
  • Harvest Delight
    • Marvel at the stunning scenery along the winding road through the Lijiang valley, filled with golden wheat fields and drying haystacks
  • Tiger’s Leap
    • Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge, the deepest gorge in the world, featuring 34 rapids of the Yangtze River (known locally as the Jinsha River)
    • Discover why it’s called Jinsha River, as gold can be found in its waters
  • Paradise Found
    • Arrive in Shangri-La, formerly known as Zhongdian, a haven for tourists and a gateway to Tibetan culture
    • Explore Dukezong Ancient Town, a vital stop on the Ancient Tea-horse Trade Caravan route from Yunnan to Tibet and India
    • Wander through the picturesque town, surrounded by barley fields and yaks grazing in the valleys

Day 4 Shangri-La

Sightseeing and Activities:Pudaocuo National Park, Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, Dukezong Ancient Town, Guishan Hill, the largest Prayer Wheel
Accommodation: Shangri-La
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Serene Oasis
    • Begin the day with a visit to the serene Shudu Lake in Pudacuo National Park, a haven for nature enthusiasts
    • Discover the incredible biodiversity of this region, which despite making up only 0.7% of China’s land area, is home to over 20% of the country’s plant species, one-third of its mammal and bird species, and almost 100 endangered species
  • Monastery Marvels— Tibetan Tapestr
    • Visit the Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan Province
    • Explore the majestic Songzanlin Monastery, also known as the “Little Potala Palace” due to its traditional architecture and mysterious atmosphere.

Day 5 Shangri La-Shaxi-Dali

Sightseeing and Activities:Shaxi Old Town, Sideng Street, Yujin Bridge, Anceint Stage, Dali Old Town
Accommodation:Dali
Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

  • Ancient Odyssey
    • Embark on a journey from Shangri-La to Shaxi, a charming ancient town on the Tea-Horse Trail (approximately 3.5 hours, 222 kilometers)
    • Visit the historic Shaxi Ancient Town, a 2,400-year-old trading hub with a unique charm unlike Lijiang or Dali old towns
    • Explore the Yujin Bridge from the late Ming Dynasty and the majestic Xingjiao Temple, the largest and most typical Esoteric Buddhist temple in the region
  • Treasures of Shaxi
    • Stroll through the old streets, discovering hidden gems and taking in the sights and sounds of this ancient town
    • Visit the vibrant Sifang Square, the heart of trading and commerce, with its red sandstone pavement and ancient locust trees

Browse the local market on Sideng Sifang Street, a unique opportunity to experience the authentic culture and traditions of the region

  • Market Magic
  • If you’re visiting on a Friday, join the bustling Shaxi Friday Market, stretching over 1 kilometer with local farmers selling daily essentials and traditional goods
  • Marvel at the ancient stage used for traditional performances and music shows
  • Dali Discovery
    • Explore Dali Old Town, a historic city with  a square-shaped structure and a north-south and east-west axis layout
    • Visit the iconic Wuhua Tower and enjoy the lovely views of Honglongjing (Red Dragon Well) with its clear water flowing through ancient dwelling houses and modern bars
    • Wander along Renmin Road, browsing shops selling Yunnan specialties and interesting items, and visit the only Christianity church in the town to experience the cultural fusion
    • Stroll along Foreigner Street, immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of old cafes, boutique shops, and restaurants

Day 6 Dali

Sightseeing and Activities:the Three Pagodas Temple, Erhai Lake Cruise, Dali Old Town, Ancient City Wall
Accommodation:Dali
Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

  • Dali Icons
    • Visit the revered the symbol and historic of Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple, built in the 10th century
    • Marvel at the unique architecture of the Three Pagodas, forming a symmetrical triangle, and learn about its rich history and stories
  • Erhai Oasis
    • Explore the breathtaking Erhai Lake, dubbed the “Immaculate Jade between Mountains”
    • Choose from three ways to experience the lake: sightseeing bus, boat trip, or cycling
    • Take in the stunning scenery and picturesque views of the lake
  • Artistic Expressions
  • Cultural Immersion — Bai Heritage
    • Explore the traditional houses of the Bai minority people in Xizhou Old Town
    • Discover their customs, traditions, and dresses
    • Take a horse-drawn carriage ride along the Erhai lakeshore, enjoying the stunning scenery and relaxed atmosphere
    • Savor a local lunch at a popular restaurant
  • Ancient Charm
    • Wander through Dali Old Town, a historic city with a square-shaped structure and typical north-south and east-west axis layout
    • Visit Wuhua Tower and Honglongjing (Red Dragon Well), with its lovely views and clear water flow
    • Stroll along Renmin Road, browsing shops selling Yunnan specialties and interesting items
    • Discover the only Christianity church in the old town and feel the cultural fusion
Erhai Lake in Dali
Erhai Lake in Dali

Day 7 Dali-Kunming by Speed Train

Sightseeing and Activities:The Green Lake, The Flowers and Birds Market, Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market, Jinma Biji Archway
Accommodation:Kunming
Meals:Breakfast and Lunch

  •  Welcome to Kunming
    • Meet your local guide and driver at the train station, who will escort you to your hotel and help with check-in
    • Settle into your hotel and get ready for an exciting day ahead
  • Magic Zhuanxin Wonderland
    • Visit Zhuanxin Farmers’ Market, the largest marketplace in Kunming
    • Get a glimpse into daily life in Kunming, as thousands of locals come to buy fresh produce, meats, and more
  • Jinma Biji  Archway’s Charm

Day 8 Departure from Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities:Departure from Kunming
Accommodation:None
Meals:Breakfast

Today the tour guide and driver will take you to Kunming Airport or Kunming Railway Station.
Service ends.

Recommended Hotels

Destination 5 Star 4 Star 3 Star Hostel
Kunming Softel Hotel Wenhui Hotel Jinhua Hotel T&T Story Hotel
Dali Hilton Dali Resort & Spa Shouyi Boutique Hotel Dali Taihe Boutique Inn Dali Fengxue Gucheng
Lijiang Pullman Hotel Wangfu Hotel Liwang Hotel Baisha Holiday Resort
Shangri-La Shangri-La Hotel Shangri-La Old Town Hotel Moon City Hotel Guzang Xiangbala Wu Fu Diannan Boutique Inn

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.
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