Yunnan Travel Guide: Kunming, Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La

Yunnan, in China's southwest, is where the country opens up: old towns, snow mountains, lakes, tea hills and more than 25 ethnic groups, all with a mild climate most of the year. It's a favourite for second trips to China, and a wonderful first one for travellers who prefer nature to big cities. See our Yunnan page.

The classic route

Each stop climbs higher, from the "Spring City" up towards the Tibetan plateau.

• Kunming (1,900 m): the gateway, with flower markets, Green Lake and the Stone Forest nearby.
• Dali (2,000 m): an old walled town between Erhai Lake and the Cangshan mountains. Cycle the lake shore and visit Bai villages.
• Lijiang (2,400 m): a UNESCO-listed old town of canals and Naxi wooden houses, under Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
• Shangri-La (3,300 m): Tibetan monasteries, high meadows and a slower, cooler world.

Getting around

High-speed and fast trains link the route: Kunming to Dali is about 2 hours, Dali to Lijiang about 1.5 hours, and Lijiang to Shangri-La about 1.5 hours. A private car between stops lets you pause at viewpoints and villages on the way.

How many days?

• 6–7 days: Kunming, Dali and Lijiang at a relaxed pace.
• 8–10 days: add Shangri-La and a day at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Best time to visit

• March to May: blossoms and clear skies.
• September to November: golden light and harvest colours.
• Winter is sunny and dry; high areas are cold but spectacular.
• June to August brings green hills and afternoon rain.

Altitude tips

Go up gradually, as the route naturally does. Drink water, take it easy on the first day in Shangri-La, and bring warm layers for the evenings.

How we help

We plan the route around your pace, with a private car between towns, hotels with lake or mountain views, and a guide who knows the villages behind the famous spots. Ask us on WhatsApp.

← All travel guides