8-Day Kunming Odyssey Tour Including Dali, Lijiang & Shangri-La

Day 1 Arrive Kunming

Destination: Kunming
Meals Included: Dinner at a halal restaurant
Accommodations: 4-star Kunming Jinjiang Hotel or similar

Upon arrival at the airport/train station, your friendly Muslim expert guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 2 Kunming City Highlights

Destination: Kunming
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Local mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Kunming Jinjiang Hotel or similar

Embark on a scenic drive to the Stone Forest (approx. 80 km, about 1.5 hours), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a geological marvel. Walk through labyrinthine paths flanked by majestic stone pillars, sculpted by millions of years of erosion into shapes that resemble ancient trees, mythical creatures, and even human figures. After savoring a delicious Halal lunch, delve into the heart of Kunming at the picturesque Green Lake. Embark on a leisurely stroll along the lake’s perimeter, witness the “emerald of Kunming” reflecting the surrounding scenery. Unleash your senses at the bustling Jingxing Bird & Flower Market. Immerse yourself in a riot of colors and sounds as you explore stalls overflowing with exotic flowers, chirping birds, and unique local crafts. As the day winds down, take in the iconic sight of Kunming, the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archways.

Day 3 Bullet Train to Dali, Dali Old Town

Destination: Dali
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Nanmen Mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Landscape Hotel Dali or similar

Take a bullet train to Dali (approximately 2.5 hours). 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, immerse yourself in the enduring allure and history of Dali Old Town, nestled between the serene Erhai Lake and the majestic Cangshan Mountains. Wander in the old town, taking in the city gates, ancient towers, old streets, temples, museums, and shops. The cobbled streets of Dali Old Town echo stories of bygone dynasties, while the vibrant Bai architecture offers a glimpse into the present.

Destination: Dali, Lijiang
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Local village mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Lijiang Tianyu Culture and Art Hotel or similar

Morning visit to the historic town of Xizhou, once a bustling hub on the Tea Horse Road. Delve into the unique Bai architecture of Xizhou, marked by intricate gateways and honeycomb designs. Discover the art of crafting Rushan, a local cheese, from the Bai community. Next, make a delightful stop at a charming Muslim Village. Proceed along the Ancient Tea and Horse Road to reach the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lijiang. Upon reaching, take a leisurely walk around the picturesque Black Dragon Pool. Here, you are greeted with breathtaking panoramic views of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, its snowy peaks beautifully reflected in the pristine water. Navigate through the narrow lanes and canals that crisscross Lijiang Old Town, known for its ancient cobblestone streets, stone bridges, and canals powered by water wheels adorned with flowers. Ascend the slopes of Lion Hill for a sweeping view of the old town and the surrounding mountains.

Day 5 Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Impression Lijiang Show, Blue Moon Valley

Destination: Lijiang
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Salat Prayer: Lijiang Mosque
Accommodations: 4-star Lijiang Tianyu Culture and Art Hotel or similar

Set off on an unforgettable journey to the towering Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a sacred haven standing tall at an elevation of 5596 meters, majestically piercing the sky. Begin your adventure with a thrilling cable car ride that takes you to the Glacier Park at an elevation of 4506 meters. From there, challenge yourself with a trek to the elevation of 4680 meters. As you ascend, take in the awe-inspiring vistas of the snow-capped peaks. Next, dive into the local culture with a live performance of ‘Impression Lijiang’. This spectacular show, set against the backdrop of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, is a vibrant display of the region’s traditions and folklore. Wander along the enchanting Blue Moon Valley. Tucked away in the foothills of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, this valley is a hidden gem with its tranquil blue lakes and lush greenery. Take a bullet train to Kunming (approximately 3.5 hours).

Day 6 Bullet Train to Shangri-La, Rest at Hotel, Dukezong Old Town

Destination: Lijiang, Shangri-La
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Shangri-La Maoyuan Hotel or similar

Take a bullet train to Shangri-La (approx. 1.5 hours). a mystical Tibetan paradise where snow-capped peaks kiss the clouds, prayer flags flutter in the breeze, and ancient monasteries whisper tales of lost horizons. Rest at hotel to acclimate to the high altitude of 3200 meters. Before dinner, lose yourself in the labyrinthine alleys of Dukezong Old Town. Sun-bleached Tibetan houses adorned with colorful prayer flags line the narrow lanes, while the scent of yak butter tea hangs in the air. Shop for local handicrafts, sip on a steaming cup of tea in a traditional teahouse, and soak in the timeless charm of the town.

Day 7 Shangri-La, Sumtsaling Monastery, Potatso National Park, Bullet Train to Kunming

Destination: Shangri-La, Kunming
Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants.
Accommodations: 4-star Kunming Jinjiang Hotel or similar

Morning visit to Sumtsaling Monastery, perched on a hilltop overlooking the town. Witness Tibetan monks in their crimson robes chanting prayers, the rhythmic hum filling the air. Soak in the panoramic views of the surrounding valley and the golden prayer wheels glinting in the sunlight. Head to Potatso National Park, a paradise of turquoise lakes, lush meadows, and snow-capped mountains. Hike around the serene Napa Lake, its reflection mirroring the snow-capped peaks above. Breathe in the crisp mountain air and let the tranquility wash over you. Take a bullet train to Kunming (approx. 5 hours).

Day 8 Depart Kunming

Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel

A private transfer to the airport or train station will be provided for your departure. If you would like to extend your stay, please let us know and we would be delighted to assist you in customizing your itinerary. Have a wonderful trip!