Join on an epic 12-day adventure through the breathtaking landscapes of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces in southwestern China. The “Sichuan-Yunnan Photograph Tour with Daocheng Yading and Lugu Lake” will take you on a thrilling journey to capture the region’s most spectacular natural wonders and cultural treasures. This photography-focused tour is designed for shutterbugs and nature enthusiasts alike, as you explore the majestic mountain ranges, pristine lakes, and charming villages of this lesser-known region. You’ll delve into the scenic valleys of Sichuan’s Mount Emei and the Tibetan Plateau, marvel at the towering peaks of Yunnan’s Hengduan Mountains, and wander through the picturesque streets of Lugu Lake’s Mosuo villages.

Introduction

Embark on a 12-day odyssey through the enchanting landscapes of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, as you weave a tale of breathtaking natural beauty and cultural richness. The tour is a photographer’s dream come true, as we venture into the heart of southwestern China to capture the region’s most awe-inspiring wonders. From the majestic mountain ranges to the serene lakes and quaint villages, this journey is designed for shutterbugs and nature enthusiasts alike, offering a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the region’s hidden gems. We’ll delve into the scenic valleys of Mount Emei and the Tibetan Plateau, marvel at the towering peaks of Yunnan’s Hengduan Mountains, and wander through the picturesque streets of Lugu Lake’s Mosuo villages, all while capturing the region’s vibrant colors and textures through our lenses.

Hilights

• Witness the breathtaking sunrise over Mount Emei’s snow-capped peaks
• Marvel at the towering Himalayan peaks of Yading Nature Reserve, including Chomo Yummo Peak
• Explore the traditional villages of the Mosuo people, known for their unique culture and matriarchal society
• Capture the serene beauty of Lugu Lake, often referred to as the “Switzerland of China”
• Discover the ancient tea plantations of Bingdao Village in Yunnan Province
• Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Tibetan Buddhism in Zhongdian (Shangri-La)
• Visit the vibrant marketplaces and ancient streets of Dali Old Town

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1 Chengdu to Daocheng Yading
Day 2 Daocheng Yading (B)
Day 3 Daocheng Yading (B)
Day 4 Daocheng Yading-Luya Road-Lugu Lake (250KM)
Day 5 Lugu Lake
Day 6 Lugu Lake-Lijiang
Day 7 Lijiang Jade Dragon Snow Mountain-Lijiang
Day 8 Lijiang -Tiger Leaping Gorge -Lijiang
Day 9 Lijiang-Kunming-Shilin (Stone Forest)
Day 10 Shilin (Stone Forest)-Dongchuan
Day 11 Dongchuan-Kunming
Day 12 Departure from Kunming

Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Chengdu to Daocheng Yading 

Sightseeing and Activities: Fly from Chengdu to Daocheng Yading – Benbo Monastery – Poplar Forest

Accommodation: Shangri-La

Meals: Breakfast

• Arrival in Daocheng Yading
  • Upon arrival at Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport, your guide and driver will be waiting to escort you to the airport, where you’ll board a 1-hour flight to Daocheng Yading.
  • Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by your local guide and driver at the airport terminal (4,411m).
• Exploring Benbo Monastery
  • Your first stop will be the ancient Benbo Monastery (3,940m), a striking claret-red Kagyu Buddhist temple complex over 900 years old. Learn about its fascinating history and the story of its establishment, and gain insight into the sincere Buddhist pursuits of the local Lamas.
• Poplar Forest and Red Grassland
  • Next, head to the Bang River to admire the breathtaking ten thousand acres of poplar forest (3,740m) from the best vantage point. During spring and summer, the poplar trees are a vibrant green, while in autumn, they turn orange and golden beneath the endless blue sky. En route to the poplar forest, take in the painting-like scenery at Sangdui Red Grassland, with its fiery red grass set against traditional Tibetan village houses.
• Check-in and Rest
  • After a day of exploration, your guide and driver will escort you to Shangri-La Town (2,950m), where you’ll check-in to your hotel. Take some time to rest and acclimate to the high altitude before embarking on your next adventure.
• Important Note:
  • Please note that Daocheng Yading’s altitude is generally above 3,000 meters. To avoid altitude sickness, we strongly advise against strenuous exercise today or engaging in activities that may exacerbate symptoms. Take it easy and enjoy your surroundings!

Day 2 Daocheng Yading

Sightseeing and Activities: Yading Nature Reserve, Milk Lake, Five Color Lake

Accommodation: Shangri-La

Meals: Breakfast

• Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve: A Journey to the Soul of Shangri-La
  • Begin your day with an early breakfast, and then embark on an unforgettable adventure to the renowned Yading Nature Reserve, a breathtakingly beautiful region often referred to as the “Last Pure Land on Earth”. This wonderland has captivated hearts for centuries, including that of American explorer Joseph Rock in 1928.
• Luorong Pasture
  • Take a scenic bus ride to Zhaguanbeng, followed by a leisurely 2-2.5 hour hike to Luorong Pasture (4,150m) via Chonggu Monastery (3,900m). Alternatively, you can choose to walk 20 minutes to Chonggu Monastery and take a 0.5 hour battery car ride to Luorong Pasture if you prefer to conserve energy.
  • As you explore this idyllic pasture, be mesmerized by the serene beauty of grazing cattle and goats, lush multicolored forests, winding streams, and towering snow-capped mountains, including Xiannairi (Mount Chianrezig), Yangmaiyong (Mount Jambeyang), and Xianuoduoji (Mount Chanadorje). The majestic Xianuoduoji snow mountain will leave you in awe, resembling a powerful man.
• Milk Lake and Five Color Lake
  • Next, embark on a challenging 5 km hike for 3-3.5 hours to reach the breathtaking Milk Lake (4,600m).
  • For an additional fee, you can opt for a horse ride to Milk Lake instead. Marvel at the extraordinary beauty of this sacred lake, which is said to be so captivating that it can bring tears of joy to your eyes.
  • A short 0.5 hour walk will take you to the nearby Five Color Lake (4,500m), where you’ll be treated to a breathtaking vista featuring snow-capped mountains in white, grey, silver, and chocolate hues; crystal-clear water; varied alpine plantations; and a clear blue sky – a true masterpiece of nature that rivals a world-class oil painting.
• Return to Shangri-La Town
  • After your visit, descend and return to the entrance via car and bus. Your guide and driver will then escort you back to your hotel in Shangri-La Town.

Day 3 Daocheng Yading (B)

Sightseeing and Activities: Yading Nature Reserve,Chonggu Monastery, Chonggu Meadow, Pearl Lake

Accommodation: Doucheng

Meals: Breakfast

• Chonggu Monastery and Chonggu Meadow
  • Today, after breakfast, you’ll star a similar journey to Chonggu Monastery as yesterday, taking the sightseeing bus and hiking to the temple.
  • At the monastery, marvel at the stunning Gelug Buddhist architecture in white, red, yellow, and black, and learn about its fascinating history and Joseph Rock’s visit.
  • From this unbeatable vantage point, capture breathtaking photos of the temple and the three majestic pure white holy snow mountains.
• Wandering through Chonggu Meadow
  • After exploring the monastery, take a short walk to Chonggu Meadow (4,020m), a haven that rivals a fairyland on earth.
  • Stroll through the vast grassland, feeling like you’re walking on a thick and soft carpet in shades of yellow and green throughout the seasons. Play along the crystal-clear river, where little stones glisten like countless grains of gold sunk to the bottom.
  • Don’t miss the perfect angle to admire Xianuoduoji snow mountain, which resembles a powerful man.
• Visiting Pearl Lake
  • Continuing our journey, hike for 30 minutes to reach Pearl Lake (4,120m), a breathtakingly beautiful spot that offers a picturesque landscape of surrounding snow peaks, green and orange dense forests, iridescent prayer flags, and their dazzling reflection in the shimmering clear lake.
  • This location is also ideal for admiring the majestic Xiannairi snow mountain.
• Return to Daocheng County
  • After our visit, your guide and driver will escort you to your hotel in Daocheng County (3,700m) and assist with check-in. Take some time to rest and recharge for the next day’s adventures!

Day 4 Daocheng Yading-Luya Road-Lugu Lake (250KM)

Sightseeing and Activities: Riwa(日瓦)-Geka Town(各卡乡)-Eya Town(俄牙乡)-Yiji Town(依吉乡)-Wujiao Town(屋脚乡)-Qiansuo Town(前所乡)-Lugu Lake(泸沽湖)

Accommodation: near Luguhu Lake

Meals:  Breakfast

• A Scenic Journey Through the Countryside
  • Today, we’ll embark on a breathtaking drive from Riwa Town to Lugu Lake, a photographer’s paradise.
  • Your route will take us through several charming towns, including Geka Town, Eya Town, Yiji Town, Wujiao Town, and Qiansuo Town, before arriving at our destination in the late afternoon.
• Lugu Lake: A Journey Along the “Sky Road”
  • The Luya Road, also known as the “Sky Road”, is renowned as the 7th 4WD driving road in China.
  • This scenic route begins in Lugu Lake Town, Yanyuan County, and ends in Yading Nature Reserve. As we drive along this winding road, we’ll pass through Daocheng, Muli, and Yanyuan counties of Ganze and Liangshan prefectures.
  • Along the way, you’ll be treated to stunning vistas of lakes, ponds, temples, valleys, grasslands, and original forests.
  • The zigzag road will lead us to Lugu Lake in the late afternoon, where you’ll arrive after a day of exploring the countryside.

Day 5 Lugu Lake

Sightseeing and Activities: islands of Lugu Lake – Liwubi Island, Luoshui Village

Accommodation: Luguku Lake

Meals: Breakfast

• A Relaxing Day at Lugu Lake
  • After a delicious breakfast, we’ll begin our day with a serene canoe ride on the lake, taking in the breathtaking views of the mirror-like water and feeling the gentle breeze whispering in your ear. We’ll visit one of the three magical islands of Lugu Lake – Liwubi Island – and explore a stunning lama monastery of the yellow sect.
• A Peaceful Afternoon by the Lake
  • After our island excursion, you’ll have some free time to stroll along the lake’s shores and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Take a moment to appreciate the stunning sunset at Luoshui Village, a truly unforgettable experience.
  • Evening Entertainment in Lige Village
  • Later, you’ll transfer to Lige Village, surrounded by water on three sides, and indulge in an unforgettable Mosuo Bonfire Party. Join in with local children and adults alike for an evening of singing and dancing around a roaring bonfire in the outdoor square. This is a unique opportunity to experience the vibrant culture and traditions of the Mosuo people.
• Getting Here
  • Luguhu Airport offers direct flights from Kunming and Chengdu, making it easy to reach Lugu Lake. Simply inform your travel consultant of your preferences, and they will adjust the itinerary to suit your needs.

Day 6 Lugu Lake-Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities: Visit Zhamei Monastery, enjoy the 12-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha, visit Sweetheart Trees in Nisai Village,Lijiang Ancient Town,Black Dragon Pool Park

Accommodation: Lijiang Ancient Town

Meals: Breakfast

• Morning Splendor
  • In the morning, rise and shine to witness the breathtaking sunrise over Lugu Lake. After fueling up with breakfast, head out to visit the majestic Zhamei Monastery.
  • This ancient Buddhist temple, built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), is the largest and most revered for the Yunnan Mosuo people and Pumi group. Marvel at the 12-meter-tall Maitreya Buddha, intricate murals, and vibrant color-engravings.
• Exploring Lugu Lake and Its Wonders
  • Then embrace a memorable journey around Lugu Lake, where you’ll discover the famous Sweetheart Trees in Nisai Village.
  • Explore the last remaining tribe of Mosuo, with only 24 households in Little Luoshui Village. Gain insight into the matriarchal system, marriage customs, festivals, religion, costumes, and daily life of the Mosuo people by visiting a local family.
  • Later, visit the Mosuo Museum, China’s only museum dedicated to showcasing the history, culture, and folk customs of the Mosuo people.

• Lijiang Ancient Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • After an unforgettable day of exploration, return to Lijiang Ancient Town.
  • With a rich history dating back over 800 years, Lijiang Ancient Town is a treasure trove of unique architecture and local ethnic culture. Its orderly arrangement of bridges and waterways is a sight to behold.
  • Wander along the winding cobbled paths – it’s said that as long as you follow the water, you won’t get lost.
• Black Dragon Pool Park: A Scenic Oasis
  • Finally, visit Black Dragon Pool Park, where the majestic view of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is one of southwest China’s most iconic postcard-perfect sceneries. Spend the night in Lijiang Ancient Town, surrounded by its ancient charm and beauty.

Day 7 Lijiang Jade Dragon Snow Mountain-Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain,Blue Moon Valley, Baishuihe River

Accommodation: Lijiang

Meals: Breakfast

• Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Adventure
  •  This morning, beginning a scenic journey to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Take a short sightseeing bus ride along the Baishuihe River, followed by a chairlift ride to reach the mountain’s summit.
  • Visit Blue Moon Valley, this picturesque valley is renowned for its stunning scenery, featuring towering peaks, crystal-clear streams, and lush greenery. The valley is particularly famous for its unique ecological environment, where the local flora and fauna thrive in harmony. Visitors can take a cable car ride to the valley and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Hiking in the Glacier Park
  • The cable car ride will be arranged according to the mountain’s condition.
  • Get ready for a 1-hour hike in the Glacier Park, which sits at an altitude of 4506 meters.
• Yuhu Village: A Naxi Minority Village
  • Transfer out of Lijiang Old Town and arrive at Yuhu Village, situated at the foot of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
  • This authentic Naxi Village is a treasure trove of unique stone houses, traditional Naxi clothing, and carefree children playing. Take your time to explore the village and its serene Yuhu Lake.
• The Legacy of Joseph Rock
  • Visit the Former Residence of Joseph Rock, an Austrian-American botanist who spent 27 years in Yuhu Village, dedicating his life to researching the Naxi minority. His legacy continues to inspire and educate visitors today.
• Stroll Through Time
  • Take a leisurely walk through Baisha Old Town, an enchanting traditional Naxi-style old town. Be mesmerized by the ancient architecture and rich history that permeates every corner.
• Preserving the Past
  • Visit the 600-year-old Baisha Mural, a part of the World Cultural Heritage listed by UNESCO in 1997.
  • This incredible piece of art is a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage and a reminder of its importance in preserving our collective past.

Day 8 Lijiang -Tiger Leaping Gorge -Lijiang

Sightseeing and Activities: First Bend on the Yangtze River, the Iron Chain Bridge, the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument, Tiger Leaping Gorge

Accommodation: Lijiang

Meals: Breakfast

• The Journey to the First Bend
  •  From Lijiang, start a 60km drive to the First Bend on the Yangtze River, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking gorge scenery.
  • Visit the iconic Iron Chain Bridge, a testament to engineering ingenuity, and pay respects at the Red Army’s Long March Memorial Monument.
• The Town of Stone Drum
  •  Explore the charming town of Stone Drum, which gets its name from a magnificent marble tablet shaped like a drum.
  • This unique landmark is a must-see attraction in the area.
• Lijiang Valley Scenery
  • As you continue your journey, marvel at the stunning scenery of the Lijiang valley. The rolling hills are filled with wheat fields and drying haystacks, creating a picturesque landscape that will leave you in awe.
• Deep in the Jinsha Gorge
  • Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge, also known as the Shangri-La section, which boasts the title of being the deepest gorge in the world. With 34 rapids of the Yangtze River, this area is called Jinsha due to the presence of gold in the river.

Day 9 Lijiang-Kunming-Shilin (Stone Forest)

Sightseeing and Activities: visit Stone Forest, visit Sibeihou Village

Accommodation: Kunming

Meals: Breakfast

•  Exloring the Stone Forest 
  • Transfer to the Stone Forest, located 86 km from Kunming City and requiring a 1.5-hour drive. An old local saying goes: “If you have visited Kunming without seeing the Stone Forest, you have wasted your time.” Indeed, the Stone Forest is one of Yunnan’s most prized attractions.
• Visiting Sibeihou Village
  • In the late afternoon, visit the Yi minority village of Sibeihou (寺背后村), situated 12 km away from the Stone Forest. Then, transfer back to your hotel in Kunming downtown.
• Arrival in Kunming
• Upon arrival Kunming, meet your local guide and driver, and check-in to the hotel.

Day 10 Shilin (Stone Forest)-Dongchuan

Sightseeing and Activities: Dongchuan Red Soil, Huagou village, Ancient Dragon Tree, the sunset view of Luoxiagou Valley

Accommodation:Dongchuan

Meals: Breakfast

• Journey to the Red Land
  • Pick up from your hotel in Kunming and embark on a 3.5-hour drive (180km) to the stunning Dongchuan Red Land area.
• Capturing the Beauty of Huagou Village
  • After lunch, arrive at Huagou village, a photographer’s paradise, where many enthusiasts gather to capture the breathtaking beauty of the red land.
  • Take a moment to admire the vibrant hues of this unique landscape.
• A Sacred Spot for Sacrifice
  • Visit the Ancient Dragon Tree, a revered site for local people, where they come to pay their respects.
  • This ancient tree is steeped in history and culture, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.
• Endless Photography Opportunities
  • As we continue our journey, pass through Luoxiagou Valley and take in the breathtaking views of villages and farmlands surrounded by the striking red landscape.
  • The sunset casts a golden glow, transforming the scenery into a photographer’s dream come true, with endless opportunities to capture unforgettable moments.

Day 11 Dongchuan-Kunming

Sightseeing and Activities: The sunrise view of Dongchuan Red Soil

Accommodation: Kunming

Meals: Breakfast

• Sunrise Serenade
  • Rise and shine! Begin your day as the sun rises over the majestic Dongchuan Red Land, casting a warm glow over the breathtaking landscape.
• A Kaleidoscope of Colors
  • Start your day by enjoying the sunrise (weather permitting) at Damakan, followed by a visit to Qicai Po, Luosi Wan, Waliang Houses, and Jinxiuyuan.
  • From a distance, the rolling hills and fields appear as a tapestry of red hues, painting a stunning picture. Take a moment to observe local peasants going about their daily farm work.
• Exploring Wangfang Liangzi
  • Continue along the winding road to Yuepu Ao, and eventually arrive at Wangfang Liangzi, a charming village perched on the slopes of the mountain. Take in the tranquility of this picturesque village and enjoy the serenity of rural life.
• Kunming Delights
  • After your tour, head back to Kunming and visit the vibrant Flowers and Birds Market in the downtown area.
  • The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend as you please – take a leisurely stroll around The Green Lake or indulge in some retail therapy.

Day 12 Departure from Kunming
Transfer to Kunming Airport for returning.
Service ends.

Service Inclusions:

• Transportation: Private van or car with driver
• Accommodation: 3-star hotels or local guesthouses
• Meals: Chinese meals and snacks throughout the trip
• Entrance fees to national parks and cultural sites
• Local guides and interpreters
• Camera equipment rental (optional)

Service Exclusions:

• International airfare to/from Chengdu
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional meals