7-Day Yunnan Highlights Tour: Kunming & Dali & Lijiang & Shangri-La

Welcome to Yunnan, a land of stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage! Upon arrival in Kunming, your guide will greet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel. Enjoy a peaceful evening to rest or take a leisurely walk nearby, soaking in the fresh mountain air and unique charm.

Departing from Kunming, you will take a smooth and scenic high-speed train to Dali, a city known for its tranquil lake views and ancient charm. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride through Yunnan’s stunning landscapes.
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Shuanglang (双廊 shuāng láng): Best Views of Erhai Lake
A must-visit village for Erhai scenery. Wander lakeside paths, swing in flower fields, and enjoy quiet cafés with unbeatable views.

Jinsuo Island（金梭岛 jīn suō dǎo）: A Hidden Escape on Erhai
Take a 5-minute boat ride to this tiny island escape. Peaceful, uncrowded, and full of local charm—it feels like entering a secret world.

Ideal Land（理想邦 lǐ xiǎng bāng）: Santorini Vibes in Dali
With white buildings and blue domes by the lake, this spot brings a touch of Greece to Yunnan. Great for photos and lakeside strolls.

Dali Ancient Town（大理古城 dà lǐ gǔ chéng）: A Lively Blend of History and Creativity
Packed with energy, this ancient town is full of street artists, musicians, painters, and even fortune-tellers offering astrology readings. Explore shops, snacks, and stories at every corner.

Panxi S-Bend（磻溪S弯 pán xī S wān）: Erhai’s Iconic Photo Spot
This S-shaped road by Erhai Lake is one of Dali’s top photo locations. Its smooth curve, set between the lake and rice fields, is perfect for drone shots and stunning lake views.

Xizhou Ancient Town（喜洲古镇 xǐ zhōu gǔ zhèn）: Old Bai Charm Lives On
Stroll past traditional Bai-style mansions and quiet courtyards. Less crowded than Dali Old Town, but just as rich in history and culture.

Tie-Dye Workshop（扎染 zhā rǎn）: Make Your Own Art
Learn Bai tie-dye from a local artisan. Fold, twist, dye—and take home your handmade souvenir. A fun, hands-on way to connect with tradition.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain（玉龙雪山 yù lóng xuě shān）: Touch the Sky
Take the Spruce Meadow Cable Car up the mountain for stunning views. Then visit Blue Moon Valley—turquoise water, white stones, like stepping into a postcard.

Yushui Village Experience（玉水寨 yù shuǐ zhài）: Dive into Naxi Culture
Join a blessing ritual, try Dongba pictograph DIY, and visit a local Naxi village. Taste handmade rice wine at an ancient distillery, watch Dongba papermaking, and enjoy traditional Naxi music or folk shows.

Lijiang Old Town（丽江古城 lì jiāng gǔ chéng）: Timeless Cobbled Charm
Wander stone-paved lanes, pass ancient wooden houses, and watch Naxi locals sing, sell crafts, or play traditional music in open courtyards.

Tiger Leaping Gorge（虎跳峡 hǔ tiào xiá）: A Hiker’s Dream
Stand on one of the world’s deepest gorges. Feel the roar of the Jinsha River as it crashes past steep cliffs and narrow bends.

Pudacuo National Park（普达措国家森林公园 pǔ dá cuò guó jiā sēn lín gōng yuán）: Wild Tibetan Beauty
Walk forest trails, see mirror-like alpine lakes, and spot rare wildlife in this peaceful, high-altitude nature reserve.

Tibetan Tusi Banquet & Bonfire Night: Feast, Fire, and Folk Culture

Enjoy a hearty Tibetan banquet while watching live folk music and dance. After dinner, join locals around a roaring bonfire—sing, dance, and feel the warmth of Tibetan hospitality.

Dukezong Ancient Town（独克宗古城 dú kè zōng gǔ chéng）: A Tibetan Time Capsule
Climb winding lanes to the world’s largest prayer wheel. By dusk, golden roofs glow and prayer flags flutter. If you’re lucky, join locals and travelers for a joyful Southeast Asian-style water splashing festival—fun, wet, and unforgettable.

Songzanlin Monastery（松赞林寺 sōng zàn lín sì）: The Mini Potala of Yunnan
Explore Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Marvel at golden rooftops, giant Buddha statues, and the soft chants of resident monks.

Napa Lake（纳帕海 nà pà hǎi）: Where Sky Meets Grassland
Ride horses along wide open fields where yaks graze and clouds reflect in shallow wetlands. A peaceful escape near Shangri-La.

After having a good time in Yunnan, take the high-speed train back to Kunming, bringing your unforgettable Yunnan journey to a perfect close.

Your guide will transfer you to the airport, marking the end of your memorable journey. Safe travels and see you next time!