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Summary

This 8-day tour of Yunnan Province in China offers a rich blend of cultural and natural experiences. From exploring ancient towns and Buddhist temples to hiking through dramatic gorges and visiting scenic lakes, this itinerary provides a comprehensive look at the region's diverse landscapes and traditions.

🌸 Day 1: Welcome to Kunming

  • Welcome to Kunming, the 'City of Eternal Spring'. Explore the city's parks, markets, and temples at your own pace.

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🌳 Cui Hu Park (Green Lake Park)

Cui Hu Park is a sprawling lagoon in the city's center, perfect for walking along paths and over charming bridges. The park is a serene oasis, offering a peaceful escape from the bustling city life.

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Tips

Visit islands such as Bamboo Forest Island and explore numerous temples and architectural gems. Don't miss the opportunity to witness the traditional dance of the Yi people in their colorful dress, adding a cultural touch to your visit.

Travel Information
📍   Address: China, Yunnan, Kunming, Wuhua District, Cuihu W Rd, 小西门 邮政编码 - 650091

💐 Flower and Bird Market

The Flower and Bird Market is a vibrant hub selling beautiful local flora and exotic birds, along with locally made artwork and handicrafts. The market is a sensory delight, filled with the colors and scents of the region's diverse flora and the lively chirping of birds.

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Tips

This market is a great place to immerse yourself in the local culture and purchase unique souvenirs to remember your visit to Kunming. Take your time to browse through the stalls and interact with the friendly local vendors.

Travel Information
📍   Address: China, Yunnan, Kunming, Panlong District, 63, 东北方向60米 邮政编码 - 650051

🌿 Day 2: Stone Forest & Yuantong Temple

Take a guided day trip to the Stone Forest Scenic Area and visit the Yuantong Temple, one of Yunnan's most important Buddhist sites.

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🏞️ Stone Forest Scenic Area

The Stone Forest Scenic Area is a UNESCO-listed site that spans approximately 425 square miles (1,100 sq km) and features diverse landscapes, from limestone formations to dense forests. The focal point of the entire area is the tall rocks resembling petrified trees, creating the illusion of a stone-made forest. The karst landscape offers caves, lakes, underground rivers, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints, including Bushao Hill and the Eternal Mushroom.

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Tips

Marvel at the tall rocks resembling petrified trees and immerse yourself in the legend of Ashima, a beautiful girl of the Yi people who was forbidden from marrying her true love, turning into stone in the forest.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 871 6771 1606
📍   Address: R88H+RMW, Shilin Yi Autonomous County, Kunming, Yunnan, China, 652207

🕌 Yuantong Temple

The Yuantong Temple is an ancient temple with many halls and pavilions, intricate artwork, and paths lined with cypress. It is one of Yunnan's most important Buddhist sites, offering a peaceful and sacred atmosphere.

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Tips

Walk through the peaceful grounds and immerse yourself in the history of this beautiful, sacred site.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 871 6512 7433
📍   Address: 30 Yuantong St, Wuhua District, Kunming, Yunnan, China, 650091

🚂 Day 3: Train to Dali

  • Catch a train to Dali, tour Xizhou and Dali Ancient Towns, and enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride around Lake Erhai.

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🏘️ Xizhou Ancient Town

Xizhou Ancient Town, a well-preserved village populated mainly by the Bai people, showcases magnificent Bai architecture. The town's traditional courtyards and ornate woodcarvings offer a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Bai ethnic minority.

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Tips

Visit the Museum of Bai Architecture to marvel at the intricate design details and gain insights into the architectural traditions of the Bai people. Don't miss the opportunity to savor local delicacies such as xizhou baba, a delightful choice of sweet or savory flavored bread rounds that reflect the region's culinary diversity.

🌊 Erhai Lake

Erhai Lake, a picturesque body of water surrounded by mountain peaks, provides the perfect setting for a leisurely horse-drawn carriage ride. The serene ambiance and breathtaking natural beauty of the lake make it an idyllic spot for relaxation and exploration.

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<div class="-md-ext-youtube-widget"> { "title": "Breathtaking scenery of Erhai, "mother lake" of Dali, China", "link": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SfHYheQJzE", "channel": { "name": "New China TV"}, "published_date": "Oct 11, 2020", "length": "0:55" }</div>

Tips

Indulge in a delectable lunch at a local restaurant by the lake, where you can savor authentic flavors while soaking in the tranquil lakeside atmosphere.

🏰 Dali Ancient Town

Dali Ancient Town, nestled between the serene waters of Erhai Lake and the majestic Cang Mountains, exudes an aura of historical charm with its tranquil pedestrian streets and well-preserved historic architecture. The town's ancient legacy is palpable as you wander through its timeless alleys and courtyards.

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Tips

Make sure to visit the iconic Three Pagodas, an awe-inspiring temple complex that has stood the test of time for over a millennium, offering a captivating glimpse into the region's rich cultural and architectural heritage. Conclude your day with a visit to one of the charming local restaurants, where you can savor authentic flavors and immerse yourself in the town's enchanting ambiance.

Travel Information
📍   Address: China, Yunnan, Dali, 苍屏街 邮政编码 - 671003

🌆 Day 4: Transfer to Lijiang

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🏰 Lijiang Ancient Town

Lijiang Ancient Town is a historic center that offers a glimpse into the rich culture of the Naxi people. The traditional homes with colorful facades and intricately carved wooden doors and windows create a picturesque setting that transports visitors back in time. The town's significance as a stop on the ancient Tea Horse Road trading route adds to its allure, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and cultural explorers.

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Tips

Explore the ancient Tea Horse Road trading route to gain a deeper understanding of the town's historical importance and cultural heritage.

🏞️ Black Dragon Pool

Black Dragon Pool, spanning 99 acres, is a serene green space nestled at the foot of Elephant Hill. The park is adorned with historic landmarks such as the 15th-century Deyue Pavilion, the arched Suocui Bridge, and the 16th-century Longshen Temple, each contributing to the park's timeless charm. The crystal-clear streams, snow-tipped mountain views, and charming bridges create a tranquil ambiance, perfect for leisurely strolls and moments of reflection.

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Tips

Wander along the crystal-clear streams to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.

Day 5: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Take a day trip to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Baisha Village, learn to make Naxi baba, and meet a dongba (shaman).

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

A mountain with 13 craggy peaks, the highest being Shanzidou at 18,360 feet.

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Tips

Travel up the mountain on a scenic cable car to the Spruce Meadow plateau.

Baisha Village

A village where you can meet a dongba (shaman) and learn about the Naxi culture.

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Tips

Admire the Baisha Murals, millennium-old masterpieces showcasing stories from China's major religions.

Day 6: Transfer to Shangri-La

Tiger Leaping Gorge

Tiger Leaping Gorge is a massive canyon located on the Jinsha River, a tributary of the Yangtze. The gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder, with its steep cliffs and the roaring river below creating a mesmerizing sight.

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Tips

Hike along the walkway and immerse yourself in the legend of the tiger who leaped across the river, as narrated by your guide. The 1,000 steps from the start to the Tiger Leaping Rock in the middle of the river offer a thrilling experience, and the views from this vantage point are truly awe-inspiring.

🏞️ Day 7: Songzanlin Lamasery & Pudacuo National Park

  • Explore the Songzanlin Lamasery and Pudacuo National Park, home to beautiful lakes and diverse wildlife.

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🕌 Songzanlin Lamasery

The Songzanlin Lamasery is an impressive Buddhist monastery built in 1679 CE, showcasing grand architecture and housing a rich collection of cultural artifacts. The resident lamas offer a unique opportunity to connect and gain insight into their spiritual way of life.

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Tips

Connect with the resident lamas to gain a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhist traditions and rituals.

Travel Information
📍   Address: China, Yunnan, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Shangri-La City, 建塘镇 邮政编码 - 674400

🏞️ Pudacuo National Park

Pudacuo National Park is a protected area boasting the stunning lakes Bita and Shudu, surrounded by dense oak forests. The park provides a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including squirrels, golden cats, and pheasants, making it a nature lover's paradise.

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Tips

Keep an eye out for the diverse wildlife while exploring the park, and take in the serene beauty of the glassy lakes nestled within the lush surroundings.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 887 822 4338
🌐   Website: http://www.pdcuo.com/index.html
🕒   Hours: See hours
📍   Address: China, Yunnan, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Shangri-La City, 建塘镇红坡村双桥东环线

🌄 Day 8: Depart Shangri-La

  • Enjoy your last morning in China before transferring to the Shangri-La Airport for your departure.

🛫 Shangri-La Airport

The main airport serving Shangri-La, providing connections to major cities like Shanghai and Beijing. Situated amidst the breathtaking natural beauty of Yunnan Province, the airport offers a serene and picturesque setting for your final moments in this enchanting region.

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Tips

Ensure you have all your belongings and travel documents ready for departure. Take a moment to soak in the tranquil ambiance of the airport surroundings before bidding farewell to the captivating landscapes of Yunnan Province.

Travel Information
📞   Phone: +86 887 822 9916
🌐   Website: https://www.shangri-la.com/
📍   Address: 1 Shenying Rd, Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan, China, 674400