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Day 1: Arrival Kunming

Arrive in Kunming, the capital of Yunnan Province, often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring” due to its mild climate year-round.

Upon arrival, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in.

Kunming is home to 26 ethnic minority groups, including the Yi, Bai, Miao, Dai, and Hani, making it a cultural hub of southwest China.

Begin your exploration with a visit to the Bird and Flower Market, a lively local marketplace featuring antiques, jewelry, handicrafts, and everyday goods.

Continue to Cuihu Park (Green Lake Park), a tranquil oasis with willow-lined banks and seasonal lotus blooms, offering a peaceful introduction to the city.

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Day 2: Kunming – Stone Forest (B/L)

Today, explore the remarkable Stone Forest, a UNESCO-listed geological wonder formed over 270 million years. This vast karst landscape features towering limestone formations resembling a forest of stone, complete with caves, ponds, and natural bridges.

According to legend, this is the birthplace of Ashima, a Yi maiden turned to stone.

Return to Kunming and visit the Golden Temple, a unique Taoist temple constructed entirely of bronze, giving it a golden sheen.

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Day 3: Kunming – Dali (B)

Transfer to the railway station and board a high-speed train to Dali (approx. 2 hours).

Upon arrival, begin sightseeing with a visit to the Three Pagodas and the historic Chongsheng Temple, symbols of Dali’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Continue with a leisurely walk through Dali Ancient Town, known for its cobbled streets, traditional Bai architecture, and scenic mountain backdrop.

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Day 4: Dali – Erhai Lake & Weibaoshan (B/L)

After breakfast, visit Erhai Lake, often called the “Pearl of the Plateau” for its picturesque setting.

Continue to Donglianhua Village, home to the Hui ethnic minority, where historic Islamic-style architecture reflects its prosperous trading past.

Proceed to Weibaoshan, one of China’s renowned Taoist mountains, featuring ancient temples from the Ming and Qing Dynasties set amidst forested landscapes.

Overnight in Dali.

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Day 5: Dali – Xizhou – Shaxi (B/L)

Visit Xizhou Village and its vibrant local market, showcasing traditional Bai architecture and culture.

Continue to Shaxi, an important stop along the historic Tea Horse Caravan Road.

In the afternoon, explore the Shibaoshan Grottoes, a mountainside complex of Buddhist carvings, temples, and scenic trails.

Overnight in Shaxi.

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Day 6: Shaxi – Lijiang (B/L)

Visit the local morning market, where ethnic communities gather to trade goods.

Travel onward to Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Naxi ethnic minority.

Visit Black Dragon Pool and the Dongba Culture Museum, offering insight into the Naxi’s unique pictographic writing system and traditions.

Enjoy a walk through Lijiang Old Town, known for its canals, stone bridges, and traditional architecture.

Overnight in Lijiang.

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Day 7: Lijiang – Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (B/L)

Excursion to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the southernmost snow-capped mountain range in China.
Take a cable car to Yak Meadow for panoramic views of the peaks and alpine meadows.

Visit Yuhu Village, former residence of explorer Joseph Rock, and learn about his work documenting the region.

Continue to Baisha Town, the earliest Naxi settlement, and view the historic Baisha Frescoes dating back to the Ming Dynasty.

Overnight in Lijiang.

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Day 8: Lijiang – Shangri-La (B/L)

Drive to Shangri-La, stopping en route at the spectacular Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world, carved by the Jinsha River.

Continue to Shangri-La, a region known for its Tibetan culture, snow-capped peaks, and dramatic landscapes.

Overnight in Shangri-La.

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Day 9: Shangri-La Exploration (B/L)

Visit the impressive Shangri-La, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan.

Continue to Pudacuo National Park, a pristine nature reserve featuring forests, lakes, and diverse wildlife.

Visit Nixi Village, known for its traditional black pottery craftsmanship that has been preserved for generations.

Overnight in Shangri-La.

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Day 10: Shangri-La Departure (B)

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

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