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South by SouthwestThe large Southwestern province of Yunnan is perhaps one of Asia's most diverse and worthwhile destinations. In a nation that is home to 55 ethnic minorities, spectacular scenery and exotic wildlife, much of that is to be found here. Visitors will discover soaring mountain ranges and Tibetan descendants in the north with lush rain forests and South East Asian tribes in the south. Yunnan offers unrivaled hiking with the Tiger Leaping Gorge representing the ultimate hiking spot of the Southwest. A destination in its own right, Yunnan is an explorer's dream come true and a must for anyone craving a cultural and scenic experience.
Lijiang - Zhongdian - Tiger Leaping Gorge - Dali
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Pre-tour
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Getting to Yunnan
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While it is possible to connect directly to Yunnan from your international flight, you will probably want to take in some of the mainstream sights in China before exploring Yunnan. As such this tour idea was created to be used as part of a longer tour in China or an add-on trip to tours of Laos, Cambodia or Vietnam. Flights to Kunming arrive from many Chinese cities as well as several South East Asian cities. Overland border crossings between Laos are also an option though long drives are involved. Several new flight routes to Dali, Lijiang, Zhongdian and Jinghong are opening up creating more options for alternative routes. |
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Days 1 to 3 - Lijiang
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Stay at the Zen Garden Hotel or stay at the Banyan Tree Resort
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Start the tour in the ancient town of Lijiang. You will either stay in a lovely courtyard hotel in the historical Old Town or luxuriate at the deluxe Banyan Tree private villas just outside the city. On the program in Lijiang are visits to the Jade Snow Mountain, a bicycle ride to the nearby towns of Baisha, Suhe and the Black Dragon Pool. You will also attend a musical concert by local Naxi ethnic group performers. Spend your free time enjoying the joyful atmosphere of the Old Town and explore its maze of backstreets with little shops and restaurants tucked away in unexpected places. |
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Days 4 to 6 - Zhongdian
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Stay at the Gyalthan Dzong Hotel or stay at the Banyan Tree Resort
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Set out on a scenic half day drive to the Tibetan town of Zhongdian (also known as Shangri-La), home to a large Tibetan monastery and surrounded by stunning scenery. The next (early) morning attend the chanting and rituals at Songzanlin Monastery followed by a visit to a Tibetan family where you can socialize and try the (in)famous yak butter tea. You can also go on a hike to a nearby monastery to see a large prayer wheel and take in the panoramic views of the town. (optionally a two day add-on excursion to the holy Meili Mountain can be arranged) |
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(Days 7 to 10 - Tiger Leaping Gorge)
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Stay at the best available guesthouses
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(The next 3 days are optional and should be undertaken only by keen hikers with a good fitness level) Leave Zhongdian and set out by car to the Tiger Leaping Gorge for the start of a three day hike along the Yangtze River. You will hike for about 5-8 hours per day with frequent photo opportunities along one of the world's deepest gorges. Accommodation is in small, simple and friendly guesthouses along the gorge. The bulk of your luggage will be transferred to Lijiang and you should prepare a compact pack for these three days. Stay in Lijiang for one night after the hike to relax and recover before moving on. |
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Days 11 to 13 - Dali
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Stay at the Regent Hotel
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You will drive for two hours to the town of Dali, an ancient town by Erhai Lake. A full day will be free to relax and wander around this small, walled town with its little cafes, markets and diverse population. Optionally you can rent a bike and explore the lake area and cycle through the endless rice fields. The second day you will visit the Cang Shan Mountains with an optional hike to a nearby monastery and a visit to the famous three Zhongsheng Pagodas. From Dali make your way to the next destination in China, South East Asia or beyond. For more places to visit in Yunnan please refer to the 'SIGHTS' section. |
