Yunnan 9-Day Premium Journey
From the Stone Forest to Shangri-La — discover Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La & Lugu Lake on an unforgettable 8-night adventure through China's most diverse province.
A Journey Through Yunnan's Greatest Treasures
This carefully curated 9-day itinerary takes you deep into the heart of Yunnan — a land of eternal spring, ancient kingdoms, snow-capped peaks, and pristine highland lakes.
Begin in Kunming, the City of Eternal Spring, where the surreal Stone Forest awaits. Travel north to Dali, home of the Bai people and the serene Erhai Lake. Continue to Lijiang, a UNESCO-listed ancient town beneath the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Venture into Shangri-La, where Tibetan culture flourishes amid alpine meadows and sacred monasteries. Finally, discover the tranquil beauty of Lugu Lake, the legendary home of the matrilineal Mosuo people.
Five Unforgettable Destinations
Each stop on this journey reveals a different face of Yunnan — from karst wonderlands to Tibetan highlands.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
A thoughtfully paced journey that balances iconic sights with hidden gems, leaving room for spontaneity.
Welcome to Kunming
Arrive at Kunming Changshui International Airport, where your private guide and driver will greet you. Transfer to your hotel in the city center and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Stroll along Green Lake Park, where locals practice tai chi and feed red-billed gulls, or explore the vibrant flower and bird market nearby.
Stone Forest & Journey to Dali
After breakfast, drive to the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest — a surreal labyrinth of karst pillars formed over 270 million years ago. Wander through the Major and Minor Stone Forests, where local Sani guides share legends of the immortal Ashima. In the afternoon, board a high-speed train to Dali (approx. 2 hours). Upon arrival, check into your boutique hotel near Erhai Lake.
Dali Ancient Town & Erhai Lake
Explore Dali Ancient Town, the former capital of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms. Walk along the cobbled Foreigner Street, visit the iconic Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, and admire Bai minority architecture with its distinctive white walls and ink-wash paintings. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive along Erhai Lake, stopping at Xizhou Village for a traditional Bai tie-dye workshop.
Lijiang & Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Travel north to Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site famed for its Naxi culture and canal-lined old town. After settling in, ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain by cable car to the Glacier Park at 4,506 meters. Walk the wooden plankways for panoramic views of the 13 peaks. Descend to Blue Moon Valley, where mineral-rich waters create an otherworldly turquoise landscape.
Lijiang Old Town & Baisha Village
Spend the morning wandering Lijiang Old Town at your own pace — cross the ancient stone bridges, visit the Mu's Mansion, and listen to the haunting melodies of Naxi ancient music. In the afternoon, visit nearby Baisha Village, the cradle of Naxi culture, to see centuries-old murals blending Tibetan, Han, and Naxi artistic traditions. Return to Lijiang for an evening of local cuisine.
Tiger Leaping Gorge
Embark on a spectacular drive through one of the world's deepest river canyons. Tiger Leaping Gorge stretches 16 kilometers along the upper Yangtze, with cliffs rising over 3,900 meters on either side. Walk the High Trail for breathtaking views of the rushing Jinsha River, or take the easier lower trail to the famous Tiger Leaping Stone. Continue to Shangri-La in the late afternoon.
Shangri-La — Songzanlin & Old Town
Visit Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, often called the "Little Potala Palace." Join the morning prayer session and explore the richly decorated halls. Afterward, stroll through Dukezong Ancient Town, whose giant prayer wheel is the world's largest. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Tibetan hotpot dinner with your guide.
Lugu Lake & Mosuo Culture
Journey to the legendary Lugu Lake, straddling the border of Yunnan and Sichuan. Known as the "Pearl of the Plateau," this pristine alpine lake sits at 2,690 meters and is home to the Mosuo people, one of the world's last matrilineal societies. Take a traditional wooden canoe across the crystal-clear waters, visit a Mosuo family home, and enjoy a bonfire dance under the stars.
Sunrise at Lugu Lake & Departure
Rise early to witness a spectacular sunrise over Lugu Lake — the still water mirrors the golden sky and surrounding mountains in perfect symmetry. After breakfast, transfer to Lijiang Sanyi Airport or continue your journey. Your guide will assist with check-in and bid you farewell, leaving you with memories of one of China's most enchanting provinces.
Highlights in Pictures
Glimpses of the landscapes, culture, and moments that await you on this journey.
Plan Your Yunnan Adventure
Every journey is unique. Share your travel preferences and our consultants will craft a personalized itinerary with flexible dates, handpicked hotels, and exclusive experiences.
24/7 Travel Support
Your dedicated consultant is available around the clock before and during your trip.
Transparent Pricing
No hidden fees. Every inclusion is clearly listed with flexible payment options.
Full Travel Insurance
Comprehensive coverage included for peace of mind on every journey.
Request a Free Quote
Fill in your details and we will reply within 24 hours.