A Private Tour of China – Kunming, Dali, Shangri-La, Lijiang

Day 1. Arrive Kunming:
Upon arrival at Kunming, you’ll be met and transferred to Green Lake Hotel.

Day 2. Kunming (Stone Forest)
A full-day excursion to the remarkable Stone Forest with towering peaks of bizarrely shaped limestone that stretches out over 200 acres. (B,L)

Day 3. Kunming / Dali 
This morning, board a 2-hour high-speed train for Dali. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant followed by a walking tour of Dali’s beautiful Old Town. Visit Three Pagodas and Chongsheng Temple, South Gate, Catholic Church, Foreigner’s Street and Wuhua Tower. Overnight at your resort overlooking beautiful Erhai Lake. (B,L)

Day 4. Dali (Erhai Lake, Xizhou Village & Zhoucheng Village) 
After breakfast, take a short drive to Xizhou Village. Situated by the picturesque Erhai Lake, Xizhou village this charming village showcases Bai architecture and traditions. It features ornate courtyards with intricate carvings and colorful frescoes. Enjoy time at the local market and plus a chance to explore a local farm village nearby. Afterwards, proceed to Zhoucheng Village, the biggest Bai village in the area where we’ll join a fun-filled tie dyed workshop taught by local Bai women. Enjoy time for a stroll or bicycle ride around Erhai lake before returning to your hotel. Includes lunch at a local restaurant. (B,L)

Day 5. Kunming /Shaxi Village /  Shangri-la
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive northbound for Shangri-la. On the way, stop by Shaxi village, yet another beautifully preserved ancient Bai village renowned for its timeless charm, traditional wooden Bai-style homes, and Market Square. Visit the town’s Xingjiao Temple, Caravan Courtyard and Yujin Bridge in Shaxi Town before continuing to Shangri-la. Check-in to your resort for a brief rest before heading out to the Old Town for dinner and stroll around town. (B,D)

Day 6. Shangri-la (Pudacuo National Park)
Today enjoy a full-day excursion of Pudacuo National Park. This trip offers an immersive journey into the pristine landscapes of Shangri-La. Start with a leisurely walk along the serene shores of Shudu Lake, surrounded by alpine meadows and lush forests. Continue to Bita Lake, a tranquil mirror-like body of water with breathtaking reflections of dense pine woods. Stroll along well-maintained boardwalks to spot diverse flora and wildlife, including rare black-necked cranes. Lunch is served at a local restaurant this afternoon. Return to your resort in the afternoon. (B,L)

Day 7. Shangri-la / Tiger Leaping Gorge / Lijiang:
This morning, visit Shangri-la prized landmark in Songzanlin Monastery. Also known as Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, it is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in all of Yunnan. Often called the “Little Potala Palace” due to its architectural resemblance dating back over 300 years, the monastery houses stunning golden roofs, vibrant murals, and intricate Tibetan-style carvings. Visitors can witness monks in prayer, explore sacred halls adorned with Buddhist relics, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and tranquil grasslands. Afterwards, proceed by road to Lijiang. Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge along the way. As one of the world’s deepest and most spectacular gorges, Tiger Leaping Gorge features dramatic cliffs, roaring rapids, and breathtaking scenery spanning 16kms boasting a line-up of awe-inspiring viewpoints. Check-in to your hotel in Old Town Lijiang upon arrival and enjoy the balance of the afternoon at leisure to enjoy beautiful Lijiang. (B,L)

Day 8. Lijiang:
Enjoy a morning tour of Black Dragon Pond followed by a visit to a local Naxi Minority Village. Lunch at a local restaurant. Enjoy the balance of the day at your leisure to relax, shop or explore the Old City on your own. (B,L)

Day 9. Depart Lijiang:
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight onward. (B)

• Prices are per person, based on double occupancy.
• Price includes all entrance fees, domestic air taxes, hotel taxes & service charges
• LS= Low Season: September – May 
• HS= High Season: June – August, National Holidays (Lunar New Year, May & October Golden Week Holidays, etc.)
• Prices exclude airfares, personal expenses, beverages and gratuities to guides and drivers
• China visa required for entry. Not included in package.