9 Days Yunnan Trip With My Friends
Yunnan Exploration makes it easy to plan a trip the way we prefer to travel: with a lot of support, planning help and guidance and yet you are not in a big group but independent. Definitely recommend. And thank you for a great nine days!
A 9-day trip to Yunnan, covering Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangrila, sounds like an exciting adventure. Yunnan is a province in southwestern China known for its diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant ethnic communities. Here's a suggested itinerary for your trip:
Day 1-2: Kunming
- Day 1: Arrival in Kunming
- Arrive in Kunming and settle into your accommodation.
- Take a leisurely stroll around Green Lake Park.
- Explore the vibrant Nanping Street for shopping and local cuisine.
- Day 2: Kunming Sightseeing
- Visit the iconic Stone Forest (Shilin), known for its unique limestone formations.
- Explore the Yuantong Temple, one of the oldest and most important Buddhist temples in Kunming.
Day 3-4: Dali
- Day 3: Travel to Dali
- Take a morning flight or train to Dali.
- Visit the Dali Ancient Town, known for its well-preserved traditional architecture.
- Explore the Three Pagodas of Chongsheng Temple.
- Day 4: Dali Exploration
- Take a cruise on Erhai Lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
- Visit Xizhou, a historic town with Bai ethnic architecture.
- Explore the vibrant local markets.
Day 5-6: Lijiang
- Day 5: Travel to Lijiang
- Drive or take a bus to Lijiang.
- Wander through Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- Visit the Black Dragon Pool and enjoy views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
- Day 6: Lijiang Highlights
- Explore Shuhe Ancient Town, a quieter alternative to Lijiang Ancient Town.
- Visit the Mu Residence, a traditional Naxi mansion turned museum.
- Attend a local cultural performance in the evening.
Day 7-9: Shangrila
- Day 7: Drive to Shangrila
- Drive to Shangrila (formerly known as Zhongdian or Gyalthang).
- Visit Songzanlin Monastery, often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace."
- Day 8: Shangrila Exploration
- Explore Dukezong Ancient Town.
- Visit the Ganden Sumtseling Monastery and enjoy panoramic views of the surroundings.
- Experience Tibetan culture and try local specialties.
- Day 9: Departure
- Depending on your departure time, you might have some free time for last-minute exploration or souvenir shopping.
- Depart from Shangrila.
This itinerary provides a mix of cultural experiences, historical exploration, and natural beauty. Keep in mind that travel times between destinations may vary, so plan transportation accordingly. Additionally, consider adjusting the itinerary based on your group's preferences and any specific events or festivals happening during your visit.