8-Day Yunnan Discovery: Kunming, Dali, Lijiang & Shangri-La

Day 1 Arrive Kunming

Welcome to Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province celebrated as China’s “City of Eternal Spring” for its pleasant, blooming weather year-round. Situated alongside the shores of Dianchi Lake, this gateway city pairs vibrant local culture and diverse ethnic heritage with stunning natural landmarks like Green Lake Park and the renowned Stone Forest. Upon arrival at the airport at midnight, your friendly Muslim expert guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel. 

Meals Included: No
Accommodation: Local 4-star Wanjinan Hotel (Muslim-Friendly) or similar

Important Notice: This itinerary is specifically scheduled around midnight arrivals and departures in Kunming. If flight or transit arrangements fall outside these midnight hours, please contact us prior to booking so adjustments can be made accordingly.

Day 2 Kunming – Dali | Transfer to Dali, Dali City Highlights

Dive into the tapestry of Yunnan, weaving through time and terrain on a 5-hour odyssey from Kunming to Dali. Once the capital of the Nanzhao and Dali Kingdoms (738 – 1253), Dali served as the political, economic, and cultural center of ancient Yunnan for over 500 years. Following salat at Dali Nanmen Mosque, the journey transitions to the picturesque hillside architecture of Dali Santorini (Ideal State), where an electric buggy ride navigates the whitewashed coastal terraces overlooking Erhai Lake, with a relaxing afternoon tea break against panoramic lakeside views. After dinner, immerse yourself in the enduring allure and history of Dali Old Town, nestled between the serene Erhai Lake and the majestic Cangshan Mountains. Stroll along its ancient cobblestone avenues, grand city gates, and the lively Foreigner Street, where traditional Bai heritage effortlessly blends with cozy cafes and artisan boutiques.

Salat Prayer: Dali Nanmen Mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Vienna International Hotel or similar

Optional Experience: Music Caravan Travel Photography in Dali | 290 RMB per person

Embark on an unforgettable coastal journey along Erhai Lake’s iconic S Bend aboard an open-air sightseeing caravan filled with live music and highland vibes. Dressed in vibrant traditional ethnic attire, soak in breathtaking lake views as a local singer sets the soundtrack, step into a cheerful ethnic dance, and cool off with a refreshing glass of fruit juice – all while a professional photographer captures your best moments with stunning portraits and cinematic 30-second drone aerial footage to preserve your Dali memories forever.

Inclusions:
• Guided tour of Erhai Lake S Bend
• Live music performance on a sightseeing vehicle
• Ethnic costume dress-up experience
• Ethnic Dance experience
• Professional photographer, 3 high-res digital photos
• Professional photographer, a 30-second drone/aerial video
• 1 complimentary glass of fresh fruit juice

Day 3 Dali – Lijiang | Xizhou Old Town, Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, Black Dragon Pool

The morning opens with a leisurely exploration of Xizhou Old Town, renowned for its remarkably preserved Bai architecture, intricate wood carvings, and vibrant morning market. A short distance away, the journey continues along the scenic Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor, where a tranquil walk or ride along the lakeshore offers uninterrupted views of shimmering blue waters framed by the Cangshan Mountain range. Set off on a scenic three-hour drive to Lijiang. En route, an immersive cultural detour leads into an authentic Hui Muslim village for an intimate visit with a local family, offering a warm tea break and a hands-on experience making DIY Milk Fan (Rushan), a traditional local Muslim delicacy. Join local Hui Muslims for salat prayer at the village mosque. Upon arrival in Lijiang, stroll through Black Dragon Pool Park, where clear spring waters perfectly mirror the towering silhouette of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain alongside traditional pavilion architecture.

Salat Prayer: Local village mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Microtel by Wyndham or similar

Optional Experience: Lijiang Eternal Love Show | 290 RMB per person

Immerse yourself in Lijiang’s ultimate live theatrical production! Featuring cutting-edge visuals, acrobatic choreography, and grand stage effects, Lijiang Eternal Love weaves together the legendary tales of the Naxi people, the Ancient Tea Horse Road, and timeless alpine romances into a thrilling 60-minute visual feast.

Day 4 Lijiang | Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley, and More

The day begins with an ascent via the Glacier Park Cable Car up the dramatic, snow-dusted slopes of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, reaching high-altitude peaks that offer sweeping panoramas of glacial terrain. Descending to the mountain’s base, an electric buggy ride glides along the vivid turquoise waters and cascading limestone terraces of Blue Moon Valley. The afternoon features the Impression Lijiang show, a grand open-air theatrical production performed by local ethnic minorities against the majestic backdrop of the snow peaks. Finally, explore Lijiang Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its labyrinth of cobblestone streets, traditional timber Naxi architecture, and crystal-clear canals spanned by ancient stone bridges.

Salat Prayer: Lijiang Mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Microtel by Wyndham or similar

Altitude Sickness Notice: Taking the Glacier Cable Car rapidly ascends from ~3,350 meters to the Glacier Park platform at 4,506 meters (with boardwalks up to 4,680 meters), which can trigger mild altitude sickness due to swift elevation gain and reduced oxygen levels. To ensure a safe experience, walk slowly, stay warm in windproof layers, and carry portable oxygen canisters for quick relief when feeling winded. If you experience severe symptoms like intense dizziness, persistent nausea, or chest tightness, stop moving, use oxygen immediately, and descend via the cable car to lower altitudes.

Notice Regarding Glacier Park Cable Car Operations: Please be advised that the Glacier Park Cable Car at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is subject to unannounced maintenance or weather-related closures by mountain authorities. In the event of an unscheduled closure, the itinerary will automatically adjust to include alternative high-altitude scenic cableway experiences at either Yak Meadow or Spruce Meadow.

Day 5 Lijiang – Shangri-La | Tiger Leaping Gorge, Napa Lake, Dukezong Old Town, 

Following a morning stop at the Burning Cream Center, embark on a breathtaking scenic drive toward the legendary highland realm of Shangri-La. Along the route, witness the raw power of Tiger Leaping Gorge —one of the world’s deepest canyons – enjoying effortless access with return escalators included. Arriving in Shangri-La, take in the serene beauty of Napa Lake, a high-altitude sanctuary famous for its mirror-like seasonal waters, vibrant wetlands, and roaming Tibetan livestock. Next, glide through Dukezong Old Town by sightseeing buggy to admire China’s best-preserved Tibetan settlement before finishing at Guishan Park, ascend 53 stone steps to spin the world’s largest prayer wheel while taking in panoramic views of the highland valley.

Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Silk Cirrus Hotel or similar

Altitude Advisory (Shangri-La – ~3,200m / 10,500ft): As you ascend from Lijiang to Shangri-La, the higher elevation makes gentle pacing, ample hydration, and avoiding strenuous exertion even more essential to help your body adapt smoothly and prevent acute mountain sickness (AMS). If you experience mild symptoms such as light headaches, fatigue, or dizziness, rest immediately, make use of oxygen canisters if needed, and notify your tour guide or hotel staff for prompt assistance.

Day 6 Shangri-La – Kunming | Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways

In the morning, set off on a picturesque drive to Dali, soaking in rolling highland pastures, emerald mountain passes, and traditional Bai ethnic villages along the way. After enjoying a delicious halal lunch in Dali, board a comfortable High-Speed Train for a swift, smooth journey back to Kunming. Upon arrival, take time for salat prayer at Yongning Mosque before exploring the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways, Kunming’s grandest historic emblems, celebrated for their exquisite classical arch architecture, centuries-old heritage, and lively illuminated plazas.

Salat Prayer: Kunming Yongning Mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Longway Hotel (Muslim-Friendly) or similar

Transport Notice: For tour groups with fewer than 6 passengers, the journey from Shangri-La to Kunming will be operated via a direct 2nd Class High-Speed Train ride, replacing the overland drive to Dali and connecting train transfer.

Notice Regarding Luggage Transfer (Dali – Kunming High-Speed Rail): For groups of 6 or more travelers, large luggage is transported separately via private bus transfer directly to Kunming for added comfort and convenience, allowing seamless train travel with hand baggage only.

Day 7 Kunming | Dounan Flower Market, Luosiwan Wholesale Market

Begin your morning immersed in a vibrant feast for the senses at the world-renowned Dounan Flower Market – Asia’s largest fresh cut flower trading hub – where thousands of colorful blooms fill the air with sweet fragrance, followed by a fascinating visit to a traditional Silk Store to discover China’s exquisite silk weaving craftsmanship. After a delightful local lunch and pausing for salat prayer at a mosque, devote your afternoon to exploring the legendary Luosiwan Wholesale Market, an endless shopping paradise boasting thousands of bustling stalls packed with clothing, handicrafts, and local treasures at irresistible bargain prices.

Salat Prayer: Local Mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodation: Local 4-star Longway Hotel (Muslim-Friendly) or similar

Day 8 Kunming | Kunming City Highlights, Depart Kunming

The morning commences with a visit to an Astaxanthin Factory to discover local biomedical and health innovations, followed by an exploration of Xinglin Stone Forest, where striking limestone karst formations rise dramatically from the landscape. After lunch, a special seasonal activity unfolds with an excursion for vibrant flower blooming appreciation or fresh seasonal fruit picking amidst Yunnan’s fertile countryside. Salat at the historic Shuncheng Mosque, after which a stroll leads to the iconic Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways. The evening comes alive with a rich culinary walk through the bustling Chongren Muslim Food Street and Nanqiang Night Market, offering a delightful immersion into regional Halal flavors and local night life before a smooth night transfer to Kunming airport for the midnight flight home.

Salat Prayer: Shuncheng Mosque
Meals Included: Hotel breakfast, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants

Seasonal Activity Note: Flower blooming and fruit picking experiences are subject to seasonal weather and climate conditions. If blooms are unavailable or crops are off-season during the visit, this activity will be smoothly substituted with an excursion to Kunming Waterfall Park, accompanied by a complimentary CHAGEE tea beverage for each traveler.