13 Days South Yunnan Cycling Tour from Kunming to XishuangBanna

Tour Overview

A scenic cycling adventure unfolds as I pedal from Kunming to Jinhong in the picturesque Xishuangbanna region, situated at the southernmost tip of Yunnan Province. Spanning a distance of...

Code of Tour: YET0000059561

Length of Travel: 13 Day

Destinations of Tour: Kunming → Fuxian Lake → Jianshui → Yuanyang → Lvchun → Puer → Jinghong (Xishuangbanna)

Departure City: Kunming

Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour:

Features of Tour: Cycling tours Ethnic culture tours Rice terraces tours

More Map & Picture

A scenic cycling adventure unfolds as I pedal from Kunming to Jinhong in the picturesque Xishuangbanna region, situated at the southernmost tip of Yunnan Province. Spanning a distance of approximately 1,000 kilometers (621 miles), this leisurely journey traverses a relatively flat terrain, replete with breathtaking vistas and charming attractions that will leave you in awe.

Introduction

Embark on a thrilling adventure through the picturesque southern province of Yunnan, where the mystical allure of ancient ruins, lush green valleys, and towering mountains await. Your 13-day cycling tour takes you from the charming city of Kunming to the idyllic Xishuangbanna region, a hidden gem nestled at the border with Laos and Myanmar. As you pedal through the rolling hills and scenic valleys, you’ll discover a rich cultural heritage, including ancient villages, historic temples, and vibrant markets. From the gentle pace of cycling to the warm hospitality of the local people, this journey is designed to immerse you in the authentic charm of Yunnan’s southern provinces, with its stunning landscapes and warm cultural traditions.

Hilight

• Pedal through the stunning scenery of the Yunnan-Guizhou Plateau, with its lush green valleys, towering mountains, and picturesque villages
• Explore the ancient town of Dali, known for its rich cultural heritage and well-preserved architecture
• Visit the iconic Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest river canyons in the world, and hike to the top for breathtaking views
• Cycle through the rural villages of Xishuangbanna, where you’ll experience the warm hospitality of the local Dai people and their unique culture
• Visit the ancient cities of Lijiang and Zhongdian, with their well-preserved traditional architecture and vibrant markets
• Ride through the tropical rainforests of Xishuangbanna, home to a diverse range of flora and fauna
• Enjoy local cuisine and drinks, including rice wine, coffee, and traditional dishes such as crossbow noodles and smoked pork
• Additional activities:
  • Hiking to the top of a mountain for stunning views
  • Visiting local tea plantations and learning about tea production
  • Taking a boat ride along the Lancang Rive
  • Attending a traditional Dai minority music and dance performance

Brief Initerary

Day 1 Kunming to Fuxian Lake

Day 2 Fuxian Lake to Lihaozhai Village

Day 3 Lihaozhai to Jianshui Ancient Town

Day 4 Jianshui to Yuanyang

Day 5 Nansha Town to Laomeng Town

Day 6 Laomeng Town to Lvchun County

Day 7 Lvchun County to Daheishan Town

Day 8 Daheishan Town to Jiangcheng County

Day 9 Jiangcheng County -Zhengdong Town-Manla Town

Day 10 Manla Town-Yiwu Town-Menglun Town

Day 11 Menglun-Dai Minority Garden-Jinghong

Day 12 Nannuo Tea Mountain Cylcing Tour in Jinghong

Day 13 Departure from Jinghong

Day by Day Initerary

Day 1 Kunming to Fuxian Lake

Sightseeing and Activities: Fuxian Lake
Accommodation: budget inn nearr the Fuxian Lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 60 km (37 mi)
► Time: 6 to 7 hours

• Rolling Out of Kunming
  • Begin your cycling adventure by pedaling southward along the No.213 National Highway, bound for the picturesque Fuxian Lake in Chengjiang City.
• The Liangwang Mountain Challenge
  • About 50 km (31 mi) out of Kunming, you’ll encounter the Liangwang Mountain, the first major ascent of your journey. At an elevation of 2,800 meters (9,186 feet), this climb will be a great test of endurance. But don’t worry, the views from the top are well worth the effort!
• Fuxian Lake Delight
  • As you descend from the mountain, you’ll arrive at the serene and stunning Fuxian Lake.
  • Take your time to enjoy the breathtaking scenery and tranquility of this beautiful lake.
  • You’ll stay overnight in a cozy budget inn nearby, ready to face the next day’s adventures.

Day 2 Fuxian Lake to Lihaozhai Village

Sightseeing and Activities: from Fuxian Lake to Jiangchuan
Accommodation: Tonghai
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 109 km (68 mi)
► Time: 11 hours

• Pedal to the Picturesque Countryside
  • Start your day with a gentle ride southward to Lihaozhai, passing through Jiangchuan and Tonghai.
  • The scenic route from Fuxian Lake to Jiangchuan is a photographer’s dream, with breathtaking sunrises and winter blooms.
  • Take in the serene beauty of the surroundings as you cycle along.
• Lunch Break
  • Stop in Jiangchuan for a well-deserved lunch break and some rest.
  • Recharge your energy for the next leg of your journey.
• The Mountain Road Challenge
  • Get ready for a more challenging section of road from Jiangchuan to Tonghai.
  • The mountainous terrain will test your endurance, but the stunning views from the top will be your reward.
• Arrival in Lihaozhai Village
  • After navigating the mountain road, arrive in Lihaozhai Village, nestled in the Honghe Hani & Yi Autonomous Region.
  • As night begins to fall, take a moment to appreciate the tranquility of this picturesque village.

Day 3 Lihaozhai to Jianshui Ancient Town

Sightseeing and Activities:get to Jianshui, explore Jianshui City
Accommodation: Jianshui
Meals: Breakfast, Lunck

► Distance: 28 km (17 mi)
► Time: 3 hours

• A Descent to Jianshui
  • After a morning of cycling, you’ll soon find yourself cruising downhill for a scenic 20-kilometer (12-mile) stretch, bringing you to the charming town of Jianshui.
  • This easy ride will give you a chance to relax and take in the views.
• Exploring Jianshui’s Rich Heritage
  • Once you arrive, take your time to discover the ancient charm of Jianshui.
  • Wander through the streets, visit the local landmarks, and soak up the history and culture of this fascinating town.
  • With a good rest under your belt, you’ll be ready to tackle the next day’s cycling adventures.

Day 4 Jianshui to Yuanyang

Sightseeing and Activities:Jianshui Ancient Town, Yuanyang county, Nansha Town of Yuanyang
Accommodation: Yuanyang county
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 78 km (48 mi)
► Time: 8 to 9 hours

• Climbing to New Heights
  • Get ready for a challenging ascent as you tackle the 18-kilometer (11-mile) uphill climb to Potou, the gateway to the Ailao Mountain region.
  • At an elevation of approximately 2,000 meters (6,562 feet), you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• A Rollercoaster Ride to Yuanyang
  • After the initial climb, you’ll embark on a thrilling ride down the mountain, followed by another steep ascent to Nansha Town in Yuanyang.
  • The ever-changing scenery will keep you engaged and excited, making this journey an unforgettable experience.

Day 5 Nansha Town to Laomeng Town

Sightseeing and Activities: Nansha Town of Yuanyang, Ailao Mountain, Yuanyang Rice Terraces, Xinjie Town of Yuanyang,Laomeng Town
Accommodation: Laomeng Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 80 km (50 mi)
► Time: 8 to 9 hours

• Crossing the Ailao Mountain Summit
  • Begin the day by tackling the 40-kilometer (25-mile) uphill road, which will take you to the summit of Ailao Mountain, reaching an impressive height of 1,700 meters (5,577 feet).
  • The stunning views from the top will be a reward for your efforts.
• Discovering the Yuanyang Rice Terraces
  •  After descending from the mountain, you’ll arrive at the picturesque Yuanyang Rice Terraces, a breathtaking sight created by the Hani people.
  • Take your time to explore these magnificent terraces and soak up the serene atmosphere.
• Xinjie Town and a Night in Yuanyang
  • In the afternoon, arrive in Xinjie Town, where you can choose to spend the night exploring the town’s charm or continue on to Laomeng Town for a new adventure.
  • Either way, you’ll have a memorable experience in this enchanting region.

Day 6 Laomeng Town to Lvchun County

Sightseeing and Activities: Huangcaoling, Lvchun County
Accommodation: Lvchun County
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 65 km (40 mi)
► Time: 6 to 7 hours

• Cycling Through the Mountains to Huangcaoling
  •  Pedal your way through the picturesque mountains along a 40-kilometer (25-mile) route to reach the captivating town of Huangcaoling.
  • This leisurely bike ride will treat you to breathtaking views and a chance to soak up the local atmosphere.
• Exploring Lvchun County’s Cultural Heritage
  • Your journey concludes in Lvchun County, renowned for its rich cultural heritage of the Hani people.
  • Learn about their customs, traditions, and way of life as you immerse yourself in this charming region.

Day 7 Lvchun County to Daheishan Town

Sightseeing and Activities: Jiangcheng county, Daheishan
Accommodation: Daheishan
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 100 km (62 mi)
► Time: 10 to 11 hours

•  En Route to Daheishan
  • After exploring Lvchun County, your next destination is Jiangcheng County.
  • However, you’ll take a scenic detour to Daheishan, located 100 kilometers (62 miles) along the river from Lvchun County.
  • This leg of the journey will take two days to complete.
• The Easy Ride to Daheishan
  •  The second day’s ride is a relatively easy one, with only a 20-kilometer (12-mile) uphill stretch.
  • Enjoy the peaceful scenery and take your time as you make your way to Daheishan, where you’ll discover new wonders and experiences.

Day 8 Daheishan Town to Jiangcheng County

Sightseeing and Activities: Jiangcheng County of Puer City
Accommodation: Jiangcheng County of Puer City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 60 km (37 mi)
► Time: 6 to 7 hours

• The Homestretch: A 60-kilometer Journey
  • Today, you conclude your journey with a 60-kilometer (37-mile) ride to Jiangcheng County, a charming destination within Puer City.
  • Although the road conditions are not ideal, the scenic views and sense of accomplishment will make the effort worthwhile.

• A Challenging Uphill Climb
  • The second half of today’s ride features a grueling 40-kilometer (25-mile) stretch of rough uphill terrain.
  • Take your time, stay focused, and enjoy the thrill of conquering this challenging section as you make your way to Jiangcheng County.

Day 9 Jiangcheng County -Zhengdong Town-Manla Town

Sightseeing and Activities: Zhengdong Town, Chengzi Sanzhai Village, Manla Town, Mantan Village, Luode Village,Mannai Village
Accommodation:  Manla Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 113 km
► Time: 8hours

• A Journey to the Dai Ethnic Community
  • Today, you will start a 56-kilometer ride from Jiangcheng to Zhengdong Town(整董镇), your next destination.
  • You’ll make a special stop at the Chengzi Sanzhai Village(城子三寨村), home to the Dai ethnic minority group.
  • This will be an enlightening experience, allowing us to immerse ourselves in their culture and way of life.
•  Lunch in Zhengdong Town
  • • After exploring the village, you’ll take a break for lunch in Zhengdong Town. Savor the local flavors and recharge for the remainder of your journey.
•  A 57-kilometer Ride to Manla Town
  • In the afternoon, you’ll continue our ride from Zhengdong Town to Manla Town(曼腊乡), a Yao ethnic minority settlement.
  • Along the way, we’ll pass through several picturesque villages, including Mantan Village(曼滩村), Luode Village(倮德村) , and Mannai Village(曼乃村).
  • Each stop will offer a glimpse into the unique traditions and customs of these ethnic communities.

Day 10 Manla Town-Yiwu Town-Menglun Town

Sightseeing and Activities: Yiwu Town the origin of the Ancient Tea Horse Road, Yiwu the Hometown of Pu’er Tea, visit the local Puer tea factory in Yiwu Town
Accommodation: Menglun Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

► Distance: 80 km
► Time: 7hours

• A 30-kilometer Ride to Yiwu Town
  • Today, you begin a 30-kilometer ride from Manla Town to Yiwu Town, the birthplace of the Ancient Tea Horse Road.
  • As you arrive, you’ll discover the well-preserved historical relics of the “Ancient 6 Teas Mountains”, a testament to the region’s rich cultural heritage.
• Exploring Yiwu’s Timeless Charm
  • As you stroll through Yiwu’s old streets, you’ll be greeted by iconic tea businesses that have been around for centuries, including Cheshun, Qianlizhen, Anle, and Tongxing.
  • These landmarks are a reminder of Yiwu’s long history as the hometown of Pu’er Tea.
• Lunch and Local Insights
  • You’ll take a break for lunch in Yiwu Town and visit a local Pu’er tea factory to gain a deeper understanding of the tea-making process.
  • This will be a unique opportunity to experience the art of tea production and learn about the region’s tea culture.
• A 50-kilometer Ride to Menglun
  • After lunch, you’ll continue our journey with a 50-kilometer ride from Yiwu Town to Menglun Town.
  • The ride will take you through scenic landscapes and charming villages, setting the stage for another unforgettable day on our adventure.

Day 11 Menglun-Dai Minority Garden-Jinghong

Sightseeing and Activities: Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, Dai Minority Garden, Gaozhuang Night Market
Accommodation: Jingdong City
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

• A Visit to the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden
  • You begin our day with a visit to the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden, a renowned institution founded in 1959.
  • As the largest and most comprehensive botanical garden in China, it has established relationships with over 50 countries worldwide and is gaining international recognition.
  • Today, it serves as a National Education Base of Science and a National Tourism Spot.
•  A 40-kilometer Ride to Dai Minority Garden
  • After your visit, you’ll sart a 40-kilometer cycling tour from Menglun to the Dai Minority Garden (傣族园) in JingHa Town.
  • This picturesque ride will take us through rolling hills and lush landscapes, setting the tone for an unforgettable experience.
• Lunch and Local Flavors
  • You’ll take a break for lunch in JingHa Town and enjoy the local cuisine before continuing our journey.
• A 30-kilometer Ride to Jinghong City
  • In the afternoon, you’ll ride along the majestic Mekong River, passing through the stunning XishuangBanna Primitive Forest Park.
  • The scenic views and tranquil atmosphere will make this ride truly unforgettable.
• Exploring Jinghong City
  • As we arrive in Jinghong City, you’ll take a stroll around Gaozhuang Market, immersing ourselves in the local culture and daily life.
  • In the evening, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking night view of Gaozhuang Night Market and the Mekong River, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Day 12 Nannuo Tea Mountain Cylcing Tour in Jinghong

Sightseeing and Activities: ride to Nannuo Tea Mountain, Menghai, Gelanghe Town
Accommodation: Jingdong City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

• A Morning Ride to Nannuo Tea Mountain
  • You begin your day with a ride to Nannuo Tea Mountain, a scenic route that takes us through the heart of the tea-producing region.
  • This mountain is famous for its high-quality tea and is also home to the Aini people, who have been cultivating tea for generations.
  • You’ll explore the ancient tea plantations, where we’ll find numerous tea trees aged several hundred years, still bearing buds and providing for the local villagers.
• A Scenic Ride Through Villages and Tea Plantations
  • You’ll ride along the winding country road, taking in the breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.
  • The route will take yous through villages and ancient tea plantations, where you can enjoy the fresh air, listen to the songs of birds and chirps of insects, and experience the simple and traditional way of life of the Aini people.
  • You may even stop to visit a traditional wooden house built on stilts and share a cup of organic homegrown Pu’erh tea with our hosts.
• A Tea-Making Workshop
  • You’ll visit a local tea workshop and learn how to make Pu’erh tea with the help of the tea farmers.
  • You’ll also have the opportunity to collect Pu’erh tea from a 300-year-old tea tree, an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime.
• A Return Journey to Jinghong City
  • In the late afternoon, we’ll ride back down to Gelanghe Town and then return to Jinghong City. The ride will take us through a different route, offering new perspectives on the scenic landscape.

Day 13 Departure from Jinghong

Sightseeing and Activities: departure from Jingdong
Accommodation: None
Meals: None

You will be free in the morning until your time to the airport or railway station.
Service ends.