Private Yunnan Tour: Kunming Dali Shangri-La Lijiang & Lugu Lake

Begin your day with a visit to the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest, located about 78 kilometers from Kunming in Shilin Yi Autonomous County. Marvel at the towering karst limestone formations, some resembling petrified trees, that have been sculpted over 270 million years. This surreal landscape, often called the “First Wonder under the Heaven,” is steeped in Yi minority legends, including the famous Ashima story, offering both natural and cultural richness.

After lunch, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Dounan Flower Market, Asia’s largest fresh-cut flower market. Witness the lively auctions that supply blooms nationwide and explore the orchid section, showcasing Yunnan’s renowned butterfly orchids, a true feast for the senses.

You will board a morning high-speed train from Kunming to Dali, a comfortable 2-hour journey. Upon arrival, begin your exploration at the Santorini-inspired lakeside resort, where whitewashed buildings overlook the shimmering Erhai Lake, offering stunning panoramic views and perfect photo opportunities.

Next, wander through the cobbled streets of Dali Ancient Town, admiring traditional Bai architecture and vibrant local life. Don’t miss Foreigner Street, a lively area filled with cafes, shops, and cultural charm. As evening falls, savor local specialties such as rushan cheese or clay-pot fish while watching the sunset paint the peaks of Cangshan Mountain in warm hues, creating a magical end to your day.

Today, you will begin your day at the 1,200-year-old Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, Dali’s most iconic landmark and a symbol of the region’s rich Buddhist heritage. From there, continue to Xizhou Ancient Town, where you can admire exquisite Bai courtyard homes with their intricate woodwork and stone carvings. Don’t miss tasting the local specialty, flaky Xizhou baba pancakes, a delicious treat unique to the area.

In the afternoon, visit Zhoucheng Village, renowned as the hometown of Bai tie-dyeing art. Watch master artisans demonstrate this UNESCO-recognized craft using natural indigo dye, then participate in a hands-on workshop to create your own beautiful patterned textile souvenir, connecting you deeply with Bai culture and tradition.

After breakfast, you will ascend to the Tibetan-influenced town of Shangri-La, situated at 3,300 meters above sea level. Upon arrival, enjoy a warm welcome during a visit to a local Tibetan family home, where you will savor traditional butter tea and barley bread, experiencing authentic hospitality.

Next, explore the golden-roofed Songzanlin Monastery, Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist complex, renowned for its stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere. Afterwards, wander through the prayer flag-lined streets of Dukezong Ancient Town, a 1,300-year-old settlement rich in Tibetan culture. Finally, join locals at Guishan Park to spin the massive 21-ton golden giant prayer wheel, believed to send blessings into the mountain air, completing a deeply spiritual and cultural day in Shangri-La.

Today, you will marvel at the dramatic cliffs of Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the Jinsha River thunders through one of the world’s deepest canyons, plunging nearly 3,790 meters between towering peaks. This breathtaking natural wonder stretches about 23 kilometers, framed by Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain, offering spectacular views and a powerful sense of nature’s grandeur.

Afterwards, continue to Lijiang and visit Black Dragon Pool Park, where you can capture perfect reflections of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on the serene water. As night falls, lose yourself in the enchanting maze of Lijiang Ancient Town, wandering lantern-lit alleys while traditional Naxi music drifts from courtyard restaurants, immersing you in the town’s rich cultural atmosphere.

Begin your journey by winding through scenic mountain roads to reach the pristine Lugu Lake, renowned as the home of the matriarchal Mosuo people. Upon arrival, board a traditional pig-trough boat, a narrow wooden canoe unique to the region, and glide across the crystal-clear waters to Liwubi Island’s temple. Here, gain insight into the Mosuo’s fascinating “walking marriage” customs, a rare cultural practice that shapes their society.

As evening descends and stars begin to twinkle, immerse yourself in a vibrant bonfire dance alongside Mosuo performers dressed in traditional attire. Their haunting songs and rhythmic dances resonate across the tranquil lake under the moonlight, creating an unforgettable atmosphere that beautifully blends cultural heritage with the serene natural surroundings.

At sunrise, you’ll be greeted by the romantic misty vistas of Lover’s Beach, a perfect spot for quiet reflection and photography. Next, visit the photogenic Lige Peninsula, where stunning lake views await and countless photo opportunities abound. Deepen your cultural experience with a traditional Mosuo home visit, where you’ll learn about their unique matriarchal family structures and customs directly from local residents.

Afterward, journey back to Lijiang via scenic mountain passes. Upon arrival, unwind in the tranquil ambiance of Shuhe Ancient Town, wandering its stone bridges and quiet canals. This peaceful town offers a gentle contrast to bustling Lijiang, allowing you to soak in a more serene side of the region’s rich heritage.

Begin your day by ascending via the Glacier Park Cable Car to an altitude of 4,506 meters, where breathtaking views of snowfields and towering peaks await. From this high vantage point, marvel at the vast glaciers and the majestic expanse of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. After descending, visit the enchanting Blue Moon Valley, famous for its turquoise pools cascading over white limestone terraces, creating a striking natural contrast.

In the evening, experience the spectacular “Impression Lijiang” outdoor show, featuring 500 ethnic performers who bring local traditions to life against the stunning mountain backdrop. Conclude your day with a visit to Baisha Village, where ancient Naxi murals beautifully blend Buddhist, Taoist, and local Dongba religious art, offering a rich cultural finale to your mountain adventure.

A morning high-speed train will take you back to Kunming in about 3.5 hours, offering scenic views of the countryside along the way. Depending on your flight schedule, you can visit the Yunnan Provincial Museum to explore its rich collections showcasing Yunnan’s history, ethnic cultures, and ancient artifacts. Alternatively, enjoy some final shopping at the vibrant Flower Market. Finally, you will be transferred to Kunming Changshui International Airport for your departure, carrying with you lasting memories of Yunnan’s snow-capped mountains, ancient towns, and diverse cultural heritage.