For first-time travelers to Yunnan, most want to experience all the classic places and routes in one go! However, this is simply unrealistic. Yunnan boasts abundant tourism resources, numerous attractions, diverse ethnic groups, and a plethora of ethnic festivals. Each ethnic group has its unique customs and traditions, making it impossible to fully explore everything in a short time.
Even with two months, you might not be able to see everything. If you only have about a week, here's a suggested itinerary for the most worthwhile destinations:
You're right! Yunnan has four classic travel routes:
Northwest Line: Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Shangri-La - Lugu Lake
West Line: Kunming - Baoshan - Tengchong - Mangshi - Ruili - Myanmar
Southwest Line: Kunming - Yuxi - Pu'er - Xishuangbanna
Southeast Line: Kunming - Dongchuan Red Land - Lopu Rape Flower - Pu'er Black - Yuanyang Terraces
For first-time visitors to Yunnan, and arguably the most classic route, is: Dali - Lijiang - Lugu Lake - Shangri-La.
This route offers a fantastic blend of stunning scenery, rich culture, and unique experiences.
Here's a breakdown of why the Dali - Lijiang - Lugu Lake - Shangri-La route is recommended for first-time Yunnan travelers:
I. Reasons for Recommendation:
Densely Packed Attractions: This route boasts a string of famous attractions: Dali Ancient City, Cangshan Mountain, Erhai Lake, Shuanglang, Xizhou Ancient Town, Lijiang Ancient City, Bashi River Ancient Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley, Lugu Lake, Tiger Leaping Gorge, Pudacuo National Park, Dukezong Ancient City, Songzanlin Temple, Napa Sea, Meili Snow Mountain, Yubeng Village, and more. Travelers can customize their itinerary based on their time and interests.
Convenient Transportation: Dali, Lijiang, Lugu Lake, and Shangri-La all have airports with direct flights from many major cities. If direct flights aren't available, Kunming is a convenient hub with high-speed rail connections to Dali (2 hours) and Lijiang (3 hours).
Mature Tourism Infrastructure: Dali and Lijiang have the earliest and most developed tourism infrastructure in Yunnan.
Dining: A wide variety of cuisines, from Yunnan specialties to national dishes, are available.
Accommodation: Options range from characteristic guesthouses and homestays to budget-friendly hotels, luxury hotels, sea-view rooms, and hostels, catering to all budgets and preferences.
Experiences: This route offers the most diverse range of tourism activities: cycling around the lake, off-road jeep tours, horseback riding, boating, mountain climbing, hiking, bonfire parties, and various cultural performances.
Conclusion:
The Northwest Yunnan route is the most mature and offers the best tourism experience. Whether traveling in a group, by car, independently, or with a customized itinerary, this route is ideal for first-time visitors to Yunnan.
Here's a translation of the transportation details between Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, Lugu Lake, and Shangri-La:
II. Transportation Details: Kunming - Dali - Lijiang - Lugu Lake - Shangri-La
- Kunming Changshui Airport to Kunming Railway Station (Kunming Station)
(1) Airport Express Bus Line 919c, fare: 13 yuan
(2) Metro Line 6 - Dongbu Bus Station transfer - Line 3 - Dongfeng Square Station transfer - Line 2 - Huancheng South Road Station, estimated travel time: 1.6 hours
(3) Taxi, approximately 1 hour, around 120 yuan - Kunming to Dali
(1) Train: With the high-speed rail, the journey takes about 2 hours, with frequent departures from 7 am to 9 pm, second-class seat fare: 145 yuan.
(2) Bus: Most buses take about 5 hours, departing from Kunming's Western Bus Station to Dali, the entire journey is on the highway, fare: 80-140 yuan. - Dali to Lijiang
(1) Train: There is only one train from Dali to Lijiang daily, D8791 (20:31-21:52), second-class seat fare: 52 yuan; there are more frequent ordinary train services, hard seat fare: 34 yuan.
(2) Bus: Buses depart from Dali Bus Station and North Bus Station every 30 minutes between 7:10 am and 7:00 pm, fare: 50-80 yuan. - Lijiang to Lugu Lake
(1) Bus: There are two morning departures and one afternoon departure from Lijiang Passenger Transport Station to Lugu Lake Passenger Station (Daluo Shui) daily, the journey takes about 5 hours, fare: around 70 yuan.
(2) Shared Ride: Price: 130-180 yuan per person, most guesthouses offer shared ride services, but it is recommended that solo travelers avoid sharing rides with strangers.
(3) Private Car: To hire a private car from Lijiang to Lugu Lake, you need to confirm the vehicle's operating qualifications. Prices vary depending on the car type: sedan 400-600 yuan, business car 600-800 yuan. - Lijiang to Shangri-La
(1) Bus: Buses depart every 45 minutes between 7:30 am and 5:10 pm, with additional services during peak season. Middle bus fare: 58 yuan, large bus fare: 63 yuan. Journey time: 4 hours.
(2) Private Car: To hire a private car from Lijiang to Shangri-La, you need to confirm the vehicle's operating qualifications. Prices vary depending on the car type: sedan 400-600 yuan, business car 600-800 yuan.
III. How to Arrange Your Itinerary
Recommended Duration: Spend 2 days in Dali, 1-2 days in Lijiang, 2 days at Lugu Lake, and 2 days in Shangri-La. You can start your trip in Kunming, Lijiang, or Dali, and the itinerary can be adjusted based on your time. We recommend these 5-9 day classic routes:
(1) 5-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Departure City - Kunming - Dali - Check into hotel
Day 2: Dali: Circle Erhai Lake (Haishi Park + Huayu Ranch + Zhoucheng Dyeing + Xizhou Ancient Town + Shuanglang + Wase)
Day 3: Dali to Lijiang (Dali Ancient City + Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas + Shaxi Ancient Town)
Day 4: Lijiang Day Trip (Jade Dragon Snow Mountain + Glacier Cable Car + Blue Moon Valley + Thousand Years Love Show)
Day 5: Free day in Lijiang, depart for home according to flight schedule
(2) 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Departure City - Lijiang - Check into hotel
Day 2: Lijiang - Dali (Erhai Lake Cruise + Nan Zhao Style Island + Three Tea Performances) or Circle Erhai Lake
Day 3: Dali to Lijiang (Dali Ancient City + Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas + Cangshan Mountain (Gantong Cable Car))
Day 4: Lijiang - Lugu Lake (Rige + Lover's Beach + Grass Sea + Bonfire Party)
Day 5: Lugu Lake - Lijiang (Mosuo Village - Pig trough boat to Dear Guest Inn)
Day 6: Lijiang Day Trip (Jade Dragon Snow Mountain + Glacier Park Cable Car + Blue Moon Valley)
Day 7: Free day in Lijiang, depart for home according to flight schedule
(3) 9-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Departure City - Dali - Check into hotel
Day 2: Dali Day Trip (Erhai Lake Cruise + Nan Zhao Style Island + Three Tea Performances) or Circle Erhai Lake
Day 3: Dali to Lijiang (Dali Ancient City + Chongsheng Temple Three Pagodas + Cangshan Mountain (Gantong Cable Car))
Day 4: Lijiang Day Trip (Jade Dragon Snow Mountain + Glacier Park Cable Car + Blue Moon Valley)
Day 5: Lijiang - Lugu Lake (Rige + Lover's Beach + Grass Sea + Bonfire Party)
Day 6: Lugu Lake - Lijiang (Mosuo Village - Pig trough boat to Dear Guest Inn)
Day 7: Lijiang - Shangri-La (First Bend of the Yangtze River + Tiger Leaping Gorge + Xiazhongdian Flower Sea + Pudacuo National Forest Park)
Day 8: Shangri-La - Lijiang (Dukezong Ancient City + Songzanlin Temple + Napa Sea + Yila Grassland)
Day 9: Lijiang Departure, end of trip
(4) Itinerary Including Xishuangbanna
Day 1: Fly directly to Xishuangbanna - Check into hotel
Day 2: Relaxing morning - Menglun Botanical Garden - Primitive Forest Park
Day 3: Explore Dai Villages - Wild Elephant Valley
Day 4: Xishuangbanna - Flight - Dali or Lijiang
After arriving in Dali or Lijiang, combine the above itineraries based on your time and preferences.
Note: Yunnan has many other classic destinations. If you're interested in other routes, please consult us, and we can create a customized itinerary for you.
IV. Yunnan Tourist Attraction Ticket Prices
- Dali
Cangshan Cable Car: 120 yuan
Cangshan Wash Horse T - Lijiang
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Entrance Fee: 100 yuan
Glacier Cable Car: 120 yuan
Yunshan Cable Car: 55 yuan
Yak Ping Cable Car: 60 yuan
Blue Moon Valley Electric Car: 60 yuan
Oxygen + Down Jacket: 100 yuan
Lijiang Horse Riding: 160 yuan
Lijiang Wood House: 40 yuan
Lion Mountain Wan Gu Lou: 40 yuan
Thousand Years Love Show: 260 yuan
Impression Lijiang: 240 yuan
Yunnan Sound: 240 yuan - Lugu Lake
Lugu Lake Ticket: 100 yuan
Bonfire Party: 30 yuan
Pig Boat: 60 yuan
Dear Guest Inn: 100 yuan - Shangri-La
Tiger Leaping Gorge: 60 yuan
Pudacuo Park: 256 yuan
Songzanlin Temple: 110 yuan
Meili Snow Mountain Ticket: 230 yuan
Ba La: 30 yuan
VI. Yunnan Travel: DIY or Group Tour?
DIY Travel
Pure DIY travel is not entirely feasible. If you rely solely on public transportation and handle ticket purchases yourself at every attraction, it can be quite inconvenient and tiring, diminishing the overall travel experience.
Local Group Tours
Joining short-term group tours in the area is the most cost-effective option. It eliminates much of the hassle compared to DIY travel and allows for more free time. However, always book through reputable channels and avoid cheap deals that might involve excessive shopping or hidden fees. This option is suitable for those with tighter budgets.
Customized Private Car Tours
While the most expensive option, customized tours are actually incredibly value for money. Within your budget, you get personalized service, a tailored itinerary, the freedom to visit your desired attractions without wasting time on those you're not interested in, and the flexibility to travel at your own pace. This is a great choice for groups of 4 or more, especially families with children or seniors.
Tips: Need itinerary planning, budget calculations, or booking pure travel routes? Contact me, and I'll provide recommendations and design a suitable travel plan for you.
VII. What to Wear in Yunnan
"Four seasons in a day" accurately describes the weather in many regions of Yunnan. Walking down the street, it's difficult to tell the season based on people's clothing because the changing weather throughout the day necessitates layering clothing for all seasons. This is one of the "18 Strange Things of Yunnan".
Overall Clothing Recommendations for Yunnan Travel:
Summer: Dress + Long Pants + T-shirt + Cardigan + Jacket
Spring, Autumn, Winter: Long Pants + Thick Jacket + Down Jacket
Temperature Fluctuation: Always carry a jacket, regardless of the season, as Yunnan has significant temperature differences between day and night.
Xishuangbanna: Even in winter, around Chinese New Year, it's only cool at night. Long pants and long-sleeved shirts are sufficient. Otherwise, short sleeves and shorts will do.
Avoid: Shorts and short sleeves are not recommended. Yunnan has strong UV rays, easily leading to sunburn.
Tips:
If visiting attractions like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain or Pudacuo Park, you don't necessarily need to bring your own winter clothes. You can rent down jackets at the foot of the mountains for 50 yuan/piece. For those who don't mind the hassle and are willing to spend a little, renting is a convenient option.
Three Outfit Ideas
Mix and Match: For travel enthusiasts and outdoor lovers, a sporty mix-and-match outfit combines the softness and elasticity of athletic wear with the durability and abrasion resistance of denim. A jacket, athletic T-shirt, and jeans make for a comfortable and stylish trifecta.
Windbreaker (Waterproof): This is currently a popular outdoor garment globally. Made with waterproof and breathable fabrics, it provides excellent wind resistance and warmth. This high-tech garment prevents water from entering while allowing perspiration to escape. Windbreakers often feature bright contrasting colors and a loose-fitting, hooded short jacket style with adjustable waist for convenient and comfortable outdoor activities. Even in winter, wearing a long-sleeved shirt underneath can protect you from the cold night air.
Travel Photogenic: Long skirts + Short skirts + Local Traditional or Ethnic Style Clothing - These are great for taking photos and achieving that blockbuster feel. Color-wise, go for light colors for a minimalist look: white, light blue, or light-colored stripes or plaid, or even small floral patterns. If you want to emphasize the subject or add a touch of sexiness, opt for red or yellow. For a more artistic vibe, choose plain cotton linen: white, blue, or yellow. Avoid: black, high-saturation blue, green, fuchsia, and purple.
Footwear Recommendations for Yunnan Travel:
Shoe choice is crucial for Yunnan travel. It's best to wear flat travel shoes for comfort and ease of walking. Many fashionable ladies might prefer not to wear only travel shoes, so it's good to bring a pair of stylish shoes for photo ops or evening outings. When purchasing shoes, ensure the toe and heel have moderate strength and feature anti-slip grooves. Try them on before buying and ensure your toes can move freely. Long periods of walking can cause swelling, so make sure your travel shoes are one size larger than your usual size.
VIII. Pre-Trip Preparations
Clothing: Yunnan experiences significant temperature fluctuations between day and night. Even though weather forecasts are helpful, they're not always accurate. Pack both visually appealing and warm clothes. Be sure to bring a pair of sneakers.
Cosmetics: Sunscreen is a must! UV rays are very strong, and even if you don't feel hot or sunburned, your skin is probably already darkening. Fashionable ladies should be prepared with sunscreen essentials (sunglasses, sun hats, sunscreen, and an umbrella).
Cash: Most places in Yunnan accept WeChat Pay and Alipay, even street vendors selling grilled potatoes. However, it's still a good idea to carry some cash for peace of mind. Around 500 yuan should be sufficient.
Accommodation: Yunnan has many homestays. Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La are home to different ethnic groups, and their guesthouses and homestays are full of local character. Booking these guesthouses and homestays is a must-do in Yunnan. You can book on various platforms, but be sure to check their location. Some guesthouses are far from the ancient towns, making them inconvenient.
Altitude Sickness: Dali and Lijiang have an altitude of around 2000 meters, so altitude sickness is usually not a problem. However, Shangri-La has an altitude of 3000+ meters, and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain reaches 4000+ meters. It's best to bring an oxygen tank if visiting these places. In a pinch, it could save your life! Relax and avoid strenuous activities when traveling at higher altitudes.
IX. Yunnan Travel Precautions
Beware of Low-Price Traps: Don't be tempted by cheap deals. You get what you pay for. In this world, there's always a price for value. Online travel coupons and low-price tours are often scams. No matter how well-packaged the tour, don't believe it if it includes airfare, accommodation, tickets, transportation, and meals for a few hundred yuan. It's simply not enough to cover the costs. Don't trust claims like "XX subsidies." Airfare, hotel, and ticket prices are transparent nowadays. Calculate the cost before your trip. If the price is significantly lower than the actual cost, there must be something fishy. We travel to enjoy ourselves and avoid being scammed, we shouldn't spend money blindly, but we also shouldn't try to take advantage of cheap deals. Those who seek to take advantage often end up losing out.
Book Through Legitimate Platforms: Whether it's group tours, tickets, car rentals, or airfare, always book through legitimate platforms. Merchants on these platforms have travel agency qualifications and complete documentation, not only ensuring financial security but also responsible for safety. If you have any issues that can't be resolved with the merchant, the platform can intervene. If you join a non-qualified "black tour" or hire a black car, make sure to take photos of the organizer and license plate number as a precaution. Single women should be even more cautious when participating in such tours.
Be Wary of "Fellow Villagers": Be especially cautious of "fellow villagers" who target "people from the same hometown." Many tourists have experienced this. When shopping in some jewelry stores, the shopkeeper will strike up a conversation and say, "We're from the same hometown. My ancestors were also from here." The shopkeeper will make the conversation seem more personal and even offer you something as a gift. Tourists immediately feel a sense of kinship with their "compatriots," so they buy things they didn't intend to buy, ignoring quality and even price negotiations, believing in their "fellow villager" wholeheartedly. However, the shopkeeper is not only inflating prices but also selling you fake goods.
X. In Conclusion
This is a Yunnan DIY travel guide. Feel free to leave any questions in the comments. Need itinerary planning, customized small group tours, budget calculations, or pure travel route bookings? I can offer you reasonable suggestions and design a travel plan tailored to your needs.