Yunnan Essence: A 6-Day Journey Through Ancient Kingdoms & Himalayan Peaks

6days5nights
Max Guests : 20
Enligsh-Guide
Jan - Dec
Min. 2 people

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An Unforgettable Small-Group Adventure Blending Natural Wonders, Deep Culture, and Authentic Cuisine

This meticulously crafted 6-day tour is your ultimate gateway to the soul of Southwest China. Journey from the majestic snow-capped mountains of Lijiang to the spiritual depths of Tibetan culture in Shangri-La and the serene beauty of Dali’s Erhai Lake. Travel in a private vehicle with a small group, ensuring an intimate and flexible experience. You will be immersed in the rich heritage of the Naxi, Bai, and Tibetan peoples, witness some of Asia’s most stunning natural landscapes, and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Price Includes

- Accommodation: 5-Diamond (5-Star) hotel accommodations based on twin-sharing room, including double breakfasts.
- Transportation: Private 7-seater business van (e.g., Buick GL8) for all land transfers as per itinerary. All high-speed rail and domestic transportation costs within China during the trip.
- Guide Service: Professional, friendly, and knowledgeable English-speaking tour guide.
- Gratuities: All tips for your tour guide.
- Attractions & Activities: All entrance tickets and fees for scenic areas, cable cars, and experience projects mentioned in the itinerary.
- Meals: All main meals as specifically mentioned in the itinerary (e.g., Yak Hot Pot, Campfire BBQ).

Price Excludes

- Airfare: International and domestic airfare to and from Yunnan.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, mini-bar consumption, and beverages not included with meals.
- Single Room Supplement: A supplemental fee will be applied if you require a single room throughout the tour.
- Other Meals: Any meals not explicitly stated as included in the itinerary.

What to Expect

- Conquer the Mighty Jade Dragon Snow Mountain: Ascend via the Glacier Park Cable Car for breathtaking, up-close views of glaciers and hike through the ethereal, turquoise waters of Blue Moon Valley.
- Cultural Immersion in Ancient Towns: Lose yourself in the UNESCO-listed cobblestone streets of Lijiang Ancient Town, explore the Tibetan-flavored Dukezong Ancient Town, and experience the laid-back charm of Dali and Xizhou.
- A Spiritual Encounter in Shangri-La: Visit the magnificent Songzanlin Monastery, known as the 'Little Potala Palace,' and find peace in the pristine meadows and lakes of Pudacuo National Park.
- Hands-On Heritage Experiences: Get creative with a traditional Tie-Dye workshop in Xizhou and discover ancient Naxi Dongba culture, connecting with local traditions in a meaningful way.
- Culinary Delights: Savor a signature Shangri-La Yak Hot Pot dinner and enjoy a fun campfire barbecue, tasting the unique flavors of Yunnan.

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in the Naxi Kingdom - Lijiang

Morning/Afternoon: Arrive in Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Your private driver and guide will meet you and transfer you to your luxurious 5-star hotel.
Evening: The rest of the day is yours at leisure. Begin your exploration by getting lost in the enchanting maze of cobblestone streets, ancient waterways, and bustling markets of Lijiang Ancient Town. Admire the unique Naxi architecture and feel the vibrant atmosphere.
Accommodation: 5-Star Hotel in Lijiang.

Day 2: Peaks & Valleys - Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Morning: Embark on an awe-inspiring journey to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Take the Glacier Park Great Cable Car to high altitudes for unforgettable, close-up views of the glacier. Afterwards, be mesmerized by the “Impression Lijiang” outdoor show, a spectacular cultural performance directed by Zhang Yimou, set against the stunning backdrop of the mountain.
Afternoon: Descend to the Blue Moon Valley, a series of stunning turquoise-blue pools and waterfalls that resemble a moon fallen from the sky. Then, delve into the fascinating world of the Naxi people at the Dongba Cultural Park, where you will learn about the ancient Dongba pictographic script and participate in a traditional Dongba Blessing ceremony. Continue to Baisha (White Sand) Ancient Town, the original capital of the Naxi Kingdom, to see its famous frescoes.
Evening: Free at your leisure to explore more of Lijiang.
Accommodation: 5-Star Hotel in Lijiang.

Day 3: Journey to Shangri-La - Pure Lakes & Tibetan Culture

Morning: Travel to the Tibetan plateau and explore Pudacuo National Park, the first national park in mainland China. Walk along wooden plank trails through pristine forests, past tranquil lakes, and across vast meadows, enjoying breathtaking high-altitude scenery.
Afternoon: Explore Dukezong Ancient Town, the best-preserved Tibetan town in China. Climb to the top of the giant prayer wheel for panoramic views. Visit an Ancient Town Intangible Cultural Heritage Experience Center to engage with authentic local Tibetan crafts and traditions.
Evening: Enjoy a complimentary and delicious Shangri-La Yak Hot Pot Dinner, a hearty and warming local specialty.
Accommodation: 5-Star Hotel in Shangri-La.

Day 4: Monasteries & Gorges - To Dali

Morning: Visit the magnificent Ganden Sumtseling Monastery (Songzanlin Monastery), the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Often called the ‘Little Potala Palace,’ its golden roofs and grand halls offer a profound spiritual experience. Then, witness the power of the Yangtze River at Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, where you can walk along viewing platforms to feel the thunderous force of the water.
Afternoon: Drive to the historic city of Dali.
Evening: Enjoy a Night Tour of Dali Ancient Town. Walk along the ancient city walls, explore the vibrant Foreigner Street, and soak in the bohemian and relaxed atmosphere.
Accommodation: 5-Star Hotel in Dali.

Day 5: Erhai Lake Elegance & Craftsmanship

Morning: Enjoy the beauty of Erhai Lake. Visit Ideal State (Shengtu); a photogenic resort complex with Mediterranean-style architecture offering fantastic lake views. See the tiny Xiao Puto (Little Putuo) island and its temple, and stroll through the lakeside Shuanglang Ancient Town.
Afternoon: Participate in a hands-on Tie-Dye Workshop in Xizhou Ancient Town, learning the ancient Bai ethnic technique of indigo dyeing. Afterwards, explore Xizhou’s market and marvel at its beautifully preserved Bai-style courtyard houses, renowned for their “Three Courses One Wall” architecture.
Evening: Conclude your adventure with a fun and social Campfire Barbecue Dinner.
Accommodation: 5-Star Hotel in Dali.

Day 6: Departure from Dali

Morning: After breakfast at your hotel, enjoy some last-minute souvenir shopping or a final stroll through Dali. Your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport or train station for your departure, marking the end of your wonderful Yunnan journey.