Private Travel
China
Private
Private Tour
Kunming to Lijiang – 11 Days
Take an 11-day adventure through China's Yunnan province, a region renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich culture. Starting in Kunming, the City of Eternal Spring, you’ll journey through high-altitude vistas, visit ancient temples, and experience vibrant markets, sampling the region’s many cuisine. China is a vast country with diverse regions, and Yunnan province stands out for its unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. The journey from Kunming to Shangri-La takes in breathtaking scenery, including the Erhai Lake and the majestic Tiger Leaping Gorge, revealing the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this unique region.
In Shangri-La, you’ll experience the spiritual heart of the Tibetan Plateau, visiting ancient monasteries and traditional Tibetan homes. The trip ends in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Lijiang, where Naxi architecture and serene waterways transport you to another era. Throughout, you’ll stay in luxurious accommodations, ensuring comfort and style as you delve into the history, cuisine, and traditions shaped by China's many ethnic groups. Yunnan’s many ethnic communities, such as the Yi and Bai peoples, contribute to the province's rich cultural tapestry.
KUNMING MARKETS: Start your Yunnan adventure with a walk through Kunming’s markets. Full of fresh produce, spices and local snacks, these bustling spaces will give you a taste of local life and food, as well as the chance to interact with locals and sample traditional dishes. This experience sets you up for the cultural and agricultural diversity of the region.
ERHAI LAKE: Take a boat ride across the beautiful Erhai Lake surrounded by mountains and villages. Visit Golden Shuttle Island, ancient temples and enjoy lake fresh seafood. This peaceful day trip combines nature, history and local culture against the stunning backdrop of Dali.
SHANGRI-LA’S SACRED SITES: Get spiritual in Shangri-La where the prayer wheels spin in the mountain air. Visit Songzanlin Monastery and hike to temples in the hills. These experiences will give you a glimpse into Tibetan Buddhism and the soul of Yunnan.
LIJIANG OLD TOWN: Walk through the timelessness of Lijiang’s UNESCO listed Old Town with its Naxi architecture and canals. Visit Joseph Rock’s former home and enjoy a live Taoist music performance and get deeper into the cultural and historical heart of this charming city.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Private Travel
Moderate
Premium
Journey from Kunming’s markets to Shangri-La’s serenity and Lijiang’s ancient streets. This tour is one of the most comprehensive china holidays, covering top destinations and diverse regions within Yunnan. Experience culture, spirituality and natural beauty, stay in luxury accommodations and sample local cuisines on this 11 day trip through China’s most beautiful province.
Your Yunnan adventure begins in Kunming, the province’s capital. Nestled in the highlands, this city is a haven of natural beauty with mountains, lakes and forests. Its fertile land makes it a horticultural hub. Upon arrival you’ll be transferred to your hotel and then visit the local markets. While exploring the markets, you may encounter locals who speak various dialects, adding to the immersive experience. After discovering the vibrant city, consider exploring the surrounding countryside, where traditional villages and scenic landscapes await. The day ends with a welcome dinner at a local Muslim restaurant and then back to your hotel for a restful night.
After breakfast at your hotel, visit the picturesque Green Lake Park, a peaceful oasis with four interconnected lakes and traditional pavilions. Visitors from many places come to enjoy its tranquil beauty and observe the migrating birds that make it a sanctuary, offering a tranquil retreat for the city. Nearby is the Yuantong Temple, Kunming’s most famous Buddhist temple. Enjoy lunch at a Korean restaurant before heading to the Western Hills, where breathtaking panoramas of the city and lake unfold. Return back to your hotel.
Today, a short flight transports you to the charming city of Dali, one of the most culturally rich regions in Yunnan province, where ancient charm meets timeless beauty. Upon arrival check into the luxury Linden Centre, a restored mansion in the Old Town. This blend of history and modern comfort is your home for the next few days. Your introduction to Dali includes a stroll through its Old Town, adorned with classic Chinese architecture and cultural landmarks. Experience the vibrant flavors of traditional Bai cuisine, where you can sample signature dishes unique to this region, celebrated for their bold spices and unique tastes, marking a perfect end to your day.
Our destination today is the majestic Erhai Lake, a massive alpine lake surrounded by nature. Visit Golden Shuttle Island, famous for its fresh lake seafood and royal history. Explore the fishing village and the ornate Three Star Temple. The afternoon is dedicated to a Bai Tea Ceremony, a glimpse into local customs. This ceremony has historical roots connected to the ancient Tea Horse Road, which played a significant role in regional trade and culture. Free time to explore Dali’s downtown before back to the luxury of your boutique hotel to relax.
Take the cable car to the Zhonghe Temple in the Cangshan Mountains for breathtaking views of Dali’s Old Town and the dramatic limestone peaks that characterize the landscape. Lunch in the mountains and then hike through the green trails, exploring the unique scenery. In the afternoon visit the Guanyin Temple, a beautiful temple dedicated to the Goddess of Mercy. Back to Dali’s Old Town for dinner and spend the night at your Dali hotel.
From Dali, a 6-hour drive takes you through southwest China to Shangri-La, located in the Yangtze River valley on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau. The journey is scenic and ends at Shibaoshan, or Stone Treasure Mountain Grottoes, in a pine forest. As you ascend to over 10,800 feet, the landscape changes, shaped by the dramatic course of the Yangtze River, and you arrive in the vibrant heart of Shangri-La. In Zhongdian Old City you’ll find many preserved temples, fluttering prayer flags and rustic homes. Check into the luxurious Banyan Tree Ringha for an evening of cultural immersion and hot-pot dinner in the historic town.
Today explore Shangri-La's Old Town, famous for its architecture. Hike to Baiji Si, or 100-Chicken Temple, a 45-minute ascent for tranquillity and Himalayan views. The hike is lined with colourful prayer flags and ends in peace. Visit the grand Songzanlin Monastery, the largest in the province, with ceremonial pavilions and golden prayer wheels. End the day with a traditional Tibetan dinner and Lhasa cuisine.
Take a leisurely hike in the hills of Shangri-La and visit a secluded Kagyu School of Buddhism monastery. The afternoon is free to visit a nearby village, local markets and enjoy a Tibetan coffee. Dinner introduces more Tibetan cuisine and the unique experience of yak butter tea. Back to your Shangri-La hotel to reflect on the day.
Drive to Lijiang, a 4-hour drive and visit to the Tiger Leaping Gorge, a natural wonder. Upon arrival in Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, you'll be welcomed by the exquisite Naxi-style architecture of the Banyan Tree Lijiang. The evening invites exploration of the Old Town's ambient alleys and lantern-lit canals, offering a magical introduction to this ancient city.
After breakfast, visit the Naxi village of Yuhu, where the famous botanist Joseph Rock used to live. Discover his legacy before visiting the spiritual Yufeng Temple and Baisha Village, the Naxi Kingdom's ancient capital. The day ends with a special performance of Chinese Taoist music performance, providing a harmonious end to your exploration. Spend your last night in Lijiang, and reflect on your journey of China's many cultures and breathtaking landscapes.
Today marks the end of your journey. After checking out from your hotel, you'll be transferred to the airport, ready to embark on your onward travels with a heart full of unforgettable experiences and a deep appreciation for the rich tapestry of Yunnan's heritage and natural beauty.
Inspired by Yunnan’s unparalleled beauty and rich cultural tapestry, we designed this luxury tour to immerse travellers in the province’s diverse landscapes and heritage. Yunnan is one of the most diverse regions in the country, offering a microcosm of China's broader cultural and natural diversity.
From the vibrant city of Kunming to the ancient streets of Lijiang, each destination was chosen for its unique charm and historical significance.
The journey into Tibetan Shangri-La deepens the experience, offering insights into a mystical culture amidst breathtaking natural splendour.
This tour is crafted for those drawn to adventure, culture, and the natural world, providing a comprehensive exploration of Yunnan’s most captivating sights.
This luxurious Yunnan journey, offers stays in historic hotels, guided tours of ancient towns, and serene landscapes. Experience tea ceremonies, local cuisine, and deep cultural insights with personalized itineraries, private transfers, and expert guides ensuring a seamless and memorable adventure through Yunnan's diverse cultural and natural beauty.
ACCOMMODATION: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience. Should you have any special requests or require specific arrangements, please let us know at any time—our team is happy to arrange additional services or activities upon request.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests. We can also arrange private transfers or alternative transport options upon request.
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
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The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
