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China – Yunnan & Shangri-La: In Search of Sacred Mountains and the Spirit of the Highlands

Tour No. 26CTKDL09⏱ 9 Days 7 Nights 🏁 Tour ends Yunnan✈ Flights not included🏆 Top Deals
Kunming Dali Shaxi Lijiang Shangri-La
Overview Itinerary OptionalsDates & Pricing Cost Description Cancellation & Privacy
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9D 7N
Travel Days
🏁
Yunnan
Tour ends
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English
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5 Spots
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HomeChina Tours › China – Yunnan & Shangri-La: In Search of Sacred Mountains and the Spirit of the Highlands
Tour ends
Yunnan
Flights
Not included quoted from your city
Duration
9 Days / 7 Nights
Route

Stopover Points

1Kunming
2Dali
3Shaxi
4Lijiang
5Shangri-La
Tour Overview

About This Tour

Discover the timeless beauty and cultural richness of Yunnan on an unforgettable journey through Dali, Lijiang, Shangri-La, and beyond. From ancient trading towns and majestic snow-capped mountains to breathtaking alpine landscapes and authentic ethnic cuisine, this immersive experience showcases some of China’s most spectacular scenery and heritage.

Wander through the charming streets of Xizhou Ancient Town, a picturesque village once praised by celebrated writer Lao She as the “Eastern Cambridge,” where traditional Bai architecture and a peaceful atmosphere preserve the elegance of old Yunnan. Explore two of the province’s most iconic historic destinations — Dali Ancient Town and the UNESCO-listed Lijiang Ancient Town — each filled with cobblestone alleys, vibrant local culture, and centuries of history. Step further back in time at Shaxi Ancient Town, a beautifully preserved stop along the legendary Ancient Tea Horse Road.

Experience the awe-inspiring natural wonders of Yunnan, beginning with the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, renowned for its dramatic peaks, glaciers, and stunning alpine scenery. Witness the spectacular outdoor performance “Impression Lijiang,” directed by acclaimed filmmaker Zhang Yimou, set against the breathtaking mountain backdrop. Continue to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest and most dramatic canyons in the world, where roaring waters carve through towering cliffs. In Shangri-La, explore the pristine beauty of Potatso National Park, often described as a true earthly paradise, along with the dreamlike scenery of Napa Lake, Sky Gate, and Highland Barley Avenue, where every view feels like a postcard.

The journey also offers moments of relaxation and cultural indulgence, including a Santorini-style afternoon tea experience overlooking Erhai Lake in a charming blue-and-white lakeside setting inspired by the Greek islands. Along the way, savor a variety of regional specialties such as clay pot fish, Yi ethnic cuisine, snow kitchen hotpot, and traditional Naxi dishes, showcasing the diverse flavors of Yunnan.

For maximum comfort, enjoy accommodations in carefully selected local five-star standard hotels throughout the tour. The experience is designed for a worry-free and high-quality journey, with no shopping stops, no compulsory optional activities, and complimentary mineral water provided daily

Watch

Discover the Destination

This video is general destination footage shown for inspiration and reference only. It is not specific to this tour, and the scenes shown may not be part of this itinerary.

Your First Group Tour to China: How to Prepare, What to Pack, and What to Expect
📖 Before You Go — Travel Guide Your First Group Tour to China: How to Prepare, What to Pack, and What to Expect Payments, internet access, packing, etiquette and day-to-day logistics — a practical preparation checklist for Canadians taking their first escorted group tour to China. Read the guide →
Tour Highlights

What Makes This Tour Special

Kunming- Old Street, Daguan Pavilion, Jinma Biji Archway and Nanping Food Street
Dali-Xizhou Ancient Town, Dali Ancient City and Foreigner Street
Shaxi Ancient Town (between Dali and Lijiang)- Sideng Street and Yujin Bridge
Lijiang- Lijiang Ancient City, Sifang Square, Black Dragon Pool Park, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley and Yushui Village
Shangri-La (Zhongdian)- Tiger Leaping Gorge, Dukezong Ancient Town, Potatso National Park, Songzanlin Monastery and Napahai Lake
Day by Day

9-Day Itinerary

Day
1

Day 01- Home-Kunming (IATA Code :KMG)

 Depart from your hometown on an international flight to Kunming.

🏨 Overnight on the flight
Day
2

Day 02-Arrival to Kunming Airport

Upon arrival at Kunming Changshui International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our local representative and transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to rest after your flight or begin exploring the vibrant city of Kunming at your own pace.

Hotel check-in is available after 3:00 PM. Complimentary airport pickup service is provided between 10:00 AM and 10:00

Accommodation: JEN Kunming Shagri La or Similar

Dinner included

Breakfast, lunch and dinner included

🏨 JEN Kunming Shangri-La or similar
Day
3

Day 03-Kunming-Dali

After breakfast, travel from Kunming to Dali aboard a comfortable high-speed train with included second-class seating, enjoying the scenic landscapes of Yunnan along the way.

Upon arrival, experience a relaxing afternoon tea in a charming Santorini-inspired setting overlooking the beautiful surroundings.

 Continue to Xizhou Ancient Town, renowned for its traditional Bai architecture, distinctive red walls, elegant corner towers, and peaceful rice-field scenery.

Later, discover the historic charm of Dali Ancient City, with its ancient gates, cobblestone streets, and rich cultural heritage, before enjoying a leisurely stroll along the lively Foreigner Street, lined with cafés, local boutiques, and traditional handicraft shops.

Accommodation: Lion Garden Lakeview Hotel or Similar

breakfast include:Hotel Breakfast Lunch include:Clay Pot Fish Dinner include:Nanjian Tiaocai Yi Cuisine
🍽 Breakfast,Lunch,Breakfast🏨 Lion Garden Lakeview Hotel or similar
Day
4

Day 04-Dali-Lijiang

Journey from Dali to Lijiang through the scenic landscapes of Yunnan, with a stop at the beautifully preserved Shaxi Ancient Town, once an important trading post along the Tea Horse Road. Explore historic Sideng Street, admire the traditional ancient stage, and cross the elegant Yujin Bridge, surrounded by timeless countryside scenery.

Continue to Lijiang and visit the picturesque Black Dragon Pool Park, famous for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Later, discover the enchanting Lijiang Ancient City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its maze of cobbled lanes, canals, and traditional Naxi architecture, before enjoying free time to stroll through the lively Sifang Square, the cultural heart of the old town.

Accommodation: Howard Johnson Jinlin Plaza Hotel or Similar

Breakfast and lunch included

🍽 Breakfast,Lunch🏨 Howard Johnson Jinlin Plaza Lijiang or similar
Day
5

Day 05-Lijiang

After breakfast, spend the day exploring the breathtaking natural beauty and cultural heritage surrounding Lijiang.

Begin with a visit to the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, where a round-trip cable car ride (included) takes you to the scenic Spruce Meadow, offering spectacular alpine views and fresh mountain air. Enjoy the renowned Impression Lijiang outdoor performance, directed by acclaimed filmmaker Zhang Yimou, showcasing the traditions and lifestyles of Yunnan’s ethnic minorities against the dramatic mountain backdrop.

Continue to the stunning Blue Moon Valley, known for its turquoise lakes and serene landscapes, explored conveniently by electric cart (included).

Later, visit the charming Yushui Village, where you can discover traditional Naxi culture, ancient water systems, and peaceful natural surroundings.

Accommodation: Howard Johnson Jinlin Plaza Hotel or Similar

Breakfast include:Hotel Breakfast Lunch include:Snow Kitchen Hot Pot Dinner include:Naxi Cuisine
🍽 Breakfast, Lunch,Dinner🏨 Howard Johnson Jinlin Plaza Lijiang or similar
Day
6

Day 06-Lijiang-Shangri La

 

After breakfast, travel from Lijiang to Shangri-La through one of Yunnan’s most dramatic landscapes, with a visit to the spectacular Tiger Leaping Gorge along the way. Admire the deep canyon carved by the Jinsha River, framed by towering snow-capped peaks, with time to take in the natural scenery at designated viewpoints (sightseeing elevators not included).

Continue to Shangri-La and explore Dukezong Ancient Town, a well-preserved Tibetan settlement known for its cobbled streets, traditional wooden architecture, and prayer wheels. Stroll through the historic quarter and experience the town’s peaceful atmosphere and rich Tibetan cultural heritage.

Accommodation: Tanshan Hotel or Similar

Breakfast include :Hotel Breakfast Lunch include:Chinese Cuisine Dinner include:Tibetan Cuisine
🍽 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner🏨 Tanshan Hotel or similar
Day
7

Day 07-Shangri La

 

Spend the day discovering the natural beauty and Tibetan cultural heritage of Shangri-La.

After breakfast, begin with a visit to Potatso National Park, China’s first national park of its kind, where pristine forests, alpine meadows, and clear lakes can be explored comfortably using an electric cart.

Continue to the impressive Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, reached via an eco-friendly shuttle, where you can observe its grand architecture and spiritual atmosphere.

The journey then takes you to Napahai Lake, a seasonal highland wetland known for its vast grasslands and migrating birds. Along the way, enjoy stops at the Sky Gate viewpoint and Highland Barley Avenue, offering sweeping panoramic views of the Tibetan plateau landscape and traditional rural scenery.

Accommodation: Tanshan Hotel or Similar

Breakfast include:Hotel Breakfast Lunch include:Chinese Cuisine Dinner include:Local Cuisine

 

🍽 Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner🏨 Tanshan Hotel or similar
Day
8

Day 08-Shangri La-Kunming

Travel from Shangri-La back to Kunming aboard a high-speed train with included second-class seating, enjoying a comfortable journey through the scenic landscapes of Yunnan.

Upon arrival, begin exploring Kunming’s cultural highlights with a visit to Daguan Pavilion, known for its beautiful lake views and historic long couplet inscription.

Continue to Kunming Old Street, where traditional architecture blends with lively local commerce.

Discover the iconic Jinma Biji Archway, a symbolic landmark of the city, before ending the day with a visit to Nanping Food Street, where you can experience Kunming’s vibrant culinary scene and sample a variety of local specialties.

Accommodation: JEN Kunming Shagri La or Similar

Breakfast include:Hotel Breakfast Lunch include:Chinese Cuisine  
🍽 Breakfast,lunch🏨 JEN Kunming Shangri-La or similar
Day
9

Day 09-Kuming -Home (IATA Code :KMG)

After breakfast, enjoy a scheduled transfer to Kunming Changshui International Airport at the designated time. This marks the conclusion of your journey through Yunnan. Complimentary airport drop-off services are available at 08:00 and 13:00, ensuring a smooth and convenient departure.

Breakfast included

🍽 Breakfast
Optional Add-Ons

Optional Experiences

Gratuities (per person)

⚠ Mandatory All Guests
Gratuities for your tour guide and driver for the whole trip. Charged per person (infants excluded).
Pricing (CAD per person)
Everyone CA$116
Dates & Pricing

Departure Schedule

Available Departures

FROM CAD $2,099
Sep 2026
* All prices in CAD · Click a highlighted date to see departure options · Limited seats available.
What's Included

Cost Description

Airport-hotel-airport transfers 
8 nights accommodation in 4-5 star hotels
Hotel taxes, fees & service charges 
Meals as per itinerary
Sightseeing as per itinerary

Second-class seats on the Kunming-Dali bullet train

Second-class seats on the Shangri La-Kunming bullet train

Transportation in modern air-conditioned motor coach
Entrance fees as per itinerary

English-speaking tour guide

NOT INCLUDED
Travel Insurance or any protection plans
Tips and gratuities: 80 USD per person
Personal expenses such as laundry service, souvenirs and telephone calls
International airfare from other cities
Any other items not mentioned in the inclusions

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS OR EVENTS NOT INCLUDED AS PER ITINERARY

Traveller Reviews

What Our Travellers Say

“We had a great time on our trip to China. Great thanks to Karen who organized all our papers and documents, flight, train schedule and tickets with super duper efficiency and patience. Karen always returned our calls and answered…”

Kummy Wu
China escorted tour
View this Google review →

“We joined two tours with Ali Travel — Jiangnan and Jiuzhaigou in March and April. The tours were amazing and the tour guides knowledgeable and caring, with good arrangements. The scenery was beautiful and the hotels were nice. We…”

Sylvia Leung
Jiangnan & Jiuzhaigou tours, China
View this Google review →

“Ali Travel's service is excellent, and the advisors at every store are professional. We are two seniors and have travelled with them to Cuba, Yellowknife, the Dominican Republic, Cancún and China — every experience was fantastic.…”

Hanqiang Lin
Repeat guests · seniors · translated from Chinese
View this Google review →

Verbatim excerpts from public Google reviews of Ali Travel’s five GTA stores — 4.4–4.7★ across 281 reviews as of August 2026. These are reviews of our service, not of this specific departure. Read all reviews on Google →

Peace of Mind

Book with Confidence

TICO LicensedRetailer #50025124 · Wholesaler #50026847
CAD $300 DepositPay online right away to secure your seats
Secure PaymentProcessed by Moneris — card never stored
Dedicated ConsultantOne named person, booking to return
What you pay, and when

Reserve online and pay the CAD $300 per-person deposit right away (unless a different amount is stated for this tour) — that secures your booking. We then confirm availability, usually within 24 hours, and update your booking status — if we cannot confirm your reservation, your deposit is refunded in full. The balance is due 30 days before departure. The deposit option applies to bookings made more than 60 days before departure — within 60 days of departure, full payment is required at booking.

Price adjustments (Travel Industry Act, 2002 — O. Reg. 26/05): increases resulting from retail sales or federal tax changes excepted, if the total price rises by more than 7% you may cancel for a full refund — and no price increase is permitted after you have paid in full.

Card details are entered directly into Moneris, Canada’s largest payment processor — your card number never reaches our servers.

If you cancel

Cancellation charges, from the date we receive written notice:

  • 60 days or more before departure — the CAD $300 per-person deposit is forfeited.
  • 30–59 days before departure — 50% of the total price plus taxes.
  • Less than 30 days before departure — 100% of the total price plus taxes.

Once airline tickets have been issued, the air portion is non-refundable regardless of the schedule above.

How your money is protected

Ali Travel Inc. is registered with the Travel Industry Council of Ontario as a travel retailer (#50025124) and wholesaler (#50026847) — both checkable on TICO’s public register. Ontario’s Travel Industry Compensation Fund may reimburse you if we, or an end supplier such as an airline, become insolvent and the travel is not provided.

The Fund has a per-person limit, exclusions and a claim deadline — TICO’s page sets out what it covers.

Who looks after your booking

One named consultant stays with your booking from confirmation to your return — the same person for documents, seat and room requests, changes, and anything that comes up while you are away. Call (416) 560-5888 or visit any of our five stores across the Greater Toronto Area.

Passport names and dates of birth are needed because flights are ticketed in your legal name; we never sell your personal information, and it is shared only with the suppliers delivering this trip. Privacy Policy →

Booking Agreement

Terms & Conditions

From
CAD $2,099 CAD / Person

Land package $1,983 + Gratuities $116 (mandatory, per person)

Per person · double occupancy · departures 11 Sep–11 Dec 2026

Adults
12+ years
2
Children
2–11 years
0
Infants
Under 2 years
0
Pick a departure date above.

Price notes

Price includes Gratuities $116 per person (mandatory). Room rates above are land only.

International flights not included — quoted from your city.

Deposit today, balance later. A CAD $300/person deposit secures your booking; we confirm availability within 24 hours. All prices in CAD.