D1: Arrival in Kunming
Upon arrival in Kunming, your local guide and driver will meet you and transfer you to your hotel for check-in.
The rest of the day is free for you to relax and recover from your journey.
Overnight: Kunming
D2: Kunming – Jiuxiang Karst Cave – Stone Forest – Dali
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and drive approximately 90 km to Yiliang County, where you will visit the spectacular Jiuxiang Karst Cave.
Jiuxiang is famous for its extensive network of underground caves, rivers, waterfalls and dramatic limestone formations. Take an elevator down into the cave system and explore its fascinating underground landscapes, including towering rock formations and impressive natural chambers.
After the cave visit, return to the surface by cable car and continue to the Stone Forest, one of Yunnan’s most iconic natural attractions.
The Stone Forest is characterized by thousands of towering limestone formations in remarkable shapes and sizes. Walk along the scenic paths through this extraordinary karst landscape and learn about the area’s geological features and local Yi culture.
In the evening, transfer to the railway station and take a high-speed train to Dali. Upon arrival, your local driver will transfer you to your hotel.
Overnight: Dali
D3: Erhai Lake – Dali Ancient Town – Three Pagodas
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, explore some of the highlights of the Dali area, beginning with Erhai Lake, a beautiful highland lake surrounded by mountains and traditional villages.
Enjoy the peaceful scenery along the lakeshore and take in views of the Cangshan Mountains across the water. The name “Erhai” literally means “Ear Sea” in Chinese, referring to the lake’s ear-like shape.
Continue to Dali Ancient Town, where you can stroll along its historic streets, browse local shops and cafés, and discover the distinctive architecture and atmosphere of this historic town.
Later, visit the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple, one of the most recognizable cultural landmarks around Dali. The three ancient pagodas stand against the backdrop of the Cangshan Mountains and reflect the area’s long history and Buddhist heritage.
Return to your hotel after sightseeing.
Overnight: Dali
D4: Xizhou Ancient Town – Lijiang Ancient Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, travel to Xizhou, a historic town near Dali known for its traditional Bai architecture and distinctive local culture.
Take a leisurely walk through the old streets and admire the traditional courtyard houses. Xizhou is also well known for its local cuisine, including the popular Xizhou baba, a traditional flaky pastry.
After lunch, continue to Lijiang. Upon arrival, explore Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved traditional architecture, stone-paved lanes, canals and bridges.
Take a relaxing walk through the old town and enjoy the lively atmosphere of its streets and small squares. In the evening, you can explore the town at your own pace before returning to your hotel.
Overnight: Lijiang
D5: Lijiang – Jade Dragon Snow Mountain – Locke’s Village – Lijiang
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The mountain rises to 5,596 meters above sea level and is famous for its snow-covered peaks, alpine scenery and dramatic contrast between snow-capped mountains and the forests and meadows below.
Depending on weather conditions and your preferred activities, your guide can arrange suitable sightseeing and transportation within the mountain scenic area.
Afterwards, continue to Locke’s Village, associated with the American botanist and explorer Joseph Rock, who spent many years documenting the landscapes, plants and cultures of the Lijiang region. The village and surrounding area offer a glimpse into the rural landscapes and ethnic cultures of northwestern Yunnan.
After sightseeing, return to Lijiang for your overnight stay.
Overnight: Lijiang
D6: Lijiang Departure
After breakfast, your guide and driver will transfer you to Lijiang Airport or Lijiang Railway Station according to your onward travel arrangements.
Your 6-day Kunming, Dali and Lijiang tour ends here.