10 Days Best Yunnan Tour with Meili Snow Mountain & Sichuan Daocheng Yading

Nǐ hǎo! Welcome to Lijiang, the most popular destination in the Yunnan province! Upon your arrival at Lijiang's airport or train station, our local tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, greet you, and escort you to the Lijiang Old Town area. They will assist you in checking in at your hotel.

Lijiang Arrival Ideas (by Flight or High Speed Train):

(1) Lijiang Sanyi Airport offers direct flights to major cities in China, including Beijing, Xi'an, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Chongqing, Hangzhou, Nanjing, Changsha, Wuhan, and more. Additionally, high-speed trains are available to Lijiang Station from cities such as Kunming (3.5-4 hours), Dali (2-2.5 hours), Shangri-La (1-1.5 hours), and others. (2) Transfer to Lijiang Old Town: Lijiang Airport is approximately 28 km away from the old town, which is about a 45-minute drive. Lijiang Train Station is approximately 10 km away from the old town, and it takes about 26 minutes by car.

Lijiang (丽江), nestled under the breathtaking Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, forms a beautiful and peaceful link between Shangri-La to the north and Dali to the south. A UNESCO World Heritage site named "Old Town of Lijiang", it's not only a living ancient town complex, encompassing Dayan, Shuhe, and Baisha, but also the heartland of the Naxi ethnic group, with about 74% of the population being Naxi. A visit to Lijiang allows you to enjoy endless snow-capped mountain views, appreciate the charming old town, experience the rich Naxi culture, and unwind in its peaceful atmosphere.

This afternoon, you will have some time to explore Lijiang Old Town (丽江古城), also known as Dayan Old Town. With over 800 years of history, Lijiang Old Town was once a bustling hub for trade along the famous "Old Tea Horse Caravan Trail". The town resembles a labyrinth, characterized by its numerous cobbled streets, traditional wooden houses with upturned eaves, ancient bridges, and an intricate network of waterways. You'll visit the Mu Palace (木府), a sprawling complex located in the heart of Lijiang Old Town, often referred to as the “Forbidden City of the South”. It offers a captivating glimpse into the grandeur of Naxi royalty, showcasing rich Naxi culture and the fascinating history of the Mu family. You'll also discover why Lijiang Old Town, unlike the top three most famous ancient Chinese cities, has no city wall. Afterwards, walk to a higher vantage point to capture a breathtaking panoramic view of the sprawling old town, with snow-capped mountains forming a majestic backdrop in the distance. Take a short walk to Sifang Street (四方街), the most famous square. Here, you can explore Naxi handicrafts, souvenirs, and local specialties, and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of bustling bars with lively music spilling out onto the streets.

Afterward, let's head to Black Dragon Pond Park (黑龙潭公园), located at the northern edge of Lijiang Old Town. This picturesque location offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape, highlighted by the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. On clear days, the reflection of the snow-capped peak on the tranquil water of the Black Dragon Pool creates a breathtaking scene.

Further Exploration in the Evening (Optional, explore on your own):

Lijiang Old Town takes on a different ambiance in the evening, showcasing its unique charm. (1) Here are some recommended alleys for taking awesome photos: Xianwen Alley (现文巷, also known as Oil-paper Umbrella Street), Zhenxing Alley (振兴巷, Lantern Street), Nanmen Bridge (南门桥, Wind Chime Street), and Sakura Restaurant (樱花餐厅), among others. (2) For those seeking nightlife, bars, and local cuisine, the following alleys are recommended: Sifang Street (where you can witness a bonfire dance performed by the Naxi people around 19:00), Wuyi Street (五一街), Xinhua Street (新华街), Zhongyi Market (忠义市场), etc.

After breakfast, it's time to venture beyond Lijiang Old Town and explore the renowned Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山). This majestic mountain is famous for its towering peaks, stunning scenery, and abundant biodiversity. It was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2003. The mountain gets its name from its resemblance to a stainless jade dragon, especially during winter when its peaks are covered in thick snow.

The crown jewel of the region is the sight of 13 snow-capped peaks, with the highest peak named Shanzidou, reaching an impressive elevation of 5,596 meters (18,360 ft). To fully experience the mountain, it is recommended to take a 10-minute cable car ride up to Spruce Meadow (云杉坪), situated at 3,240 meters. The cable car ride itself is a remarkable experience, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Once you reach the top, you'll be greeted by awe-inspiring panoramic views and have the opportunity to explore meadows and pristine forests. After the tour, take cable down the mountain.

Afterward, take a sightseeing bus to Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷). The valley is a breathtaking sight, with its almost surreal turquoise blue water, reflecting the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the background. This valley boasts four lakes and a White Water Terrace. Each lake presents unique scenery, but the most beautiful one is the Jade Liquid Lake. The best time to admire the splendor of Blue Moon Valley is during a sunny midday when the lake's water, under the radiant sunlight, becomes as clear and blue as a mirror. You can capture many awesome photos here.

Optional Activity: Impression Lijiang" Show This Afternoon

If you're interested, you can choose to watch the Impression Lijiang show this afternoon at Ganhaizi (altitude: 3,100 meters). Directed by the renowned filmmaker Zhang Yimou, this magnificent open-air performance features singing and dancing that showcase the traditions and lifestyle of the local Naxi ethnic people. It lasts about one hour.

Leaving the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, you'll continue your journey to Baisha Village (白沙村), the birthplace of the Mu chieftaincy and the ancient capital of the Naxi ethnic group. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site "Old Town of Lijiang", Baisha Village offers a unique glimpse into the Naxi group’s rich history and culture. Here, you can visit the Baisha Murals (白沙壁画), showcasing a unique fusion of Buddhist, Taoist, and local Naxi religious elements, reflecting the diverse spiritual beliefs of the region. These murals are found within several temples, including the Dabaoji Palace, the Liuli Temple, and the Wenchang Palace.

Then, if your energy permits (optional), on the way back to Lijiang, you can make a stop at Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇). It is an important stop along the legendary Tea Horse Ancient Road. Unlike the bustling Lijiang Old Town, Shuhe offers a tranquil escape, with charming shops selling locally-made crafts lining the narrow cobbled streets. The gentle murmur of water flowing through canals and the aroma of Naxi cuisine wafting from cozy teahouses create a peaceful atmosphere where time seems to slow down. (Note: You can try local snacks like Chicken Bean Cold Noodles, Grilled Milk Fan, Fresh Flower Cake, Yunnan Ham Mooncake, and Jar-Roasted Rose Milk.)

After the tour, head back to Lijiang.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and whisk you away on a scenic journey from Lijiang to Shangri-La and explore breathtaking natural landscapes on the way.

Your first stop will be the First Bend of the Yangtze River (长江第一湾). Here, you will witness the majestic river making a dramatic 90-degree turn from south to east within a short distance of 1 kilometer. Ascend to the observation deck for views of the Yangtze River. Continue your drive to Shigu Town for a close view of the bend. Take a walk along the river and admire the historic Iron Chain Bridge. In the charming Shigu Old Town, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Red Army's Long March Memorial Monument.

Later, continue your drive to the Upper Section of Tiger Leaping Gorge (上虎跳, altitude: 1,800 meters). According to legend, the section got its name when a tiger, chased by a hunter, took a legendary leap across the narrowest point, cornered by the rushing Jinsha River (part of the Yangtze River) at the gorge's base. One of the deepest gorges in the world, Tiger Leaping Gorge offers a breathtaking view of the roaring Jinsha River, allowing you to feel the strong power of nature. As Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (5596m) and Haba Snow Mountain (5386m) stand on each side, you will immerse yourself in the beautiful and diverse landscapes. You will walk along the plankroad, both up and down. (Optional: If you want to save energy, you can use the lift, with an extra fee.)

After that, continue your drive to Shangri-La (about 108km, 2-2.5 hours' driving). Welcome to Shangri-La (香格里拉)! Nestled in the northwestern part of Yunnan Province in Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Shangri-La was formerly known as Zhongdian. This charming paradise is considered the real Shangri-La on earth. Inspired by the mythical paradise described in James Hilton's novel "Lost Horizon", Shangri-La lives up to its name. Hidden among majestic mountains, it beckons you with a landscape shrouded in mystery and legend, a place where fairytale scenery awaits.

Upon arrival, our local guide will assist you with hotel check-in. Afterwards, we will visit Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城), with over 1,300 years history, which is the best-preserved and largest Tibetan residential cluster in China. It holds the distinction of being the oldest castle along the Tea Horse Road. The name "Dukezong" translates to "Moonlight Castle built on a Stone" and it is also known as the City of Moonlight. Here, you will discover a world of traditional Tibetan houses, ancient temples, beautiful pagodas, and narrow, winding alleyways, all adorned with iconic Tibetan prayer flags of various colors. Take a hike up Guishan Hill and join the locals in turning the world's largest prayer wheel for good luck and happiness. From this vantage point, you can capture a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire town. Afterwards, wander through the distinctive alleys and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Tibetan culture.

Optional Activities in the Evening:

In the evenings around 19:00, you'll often see local Tibetans gathering in Sifang Square for a chance to participate in some traditional Tibetan dancing. As the evening deepens (around 21:00), the entire ancient town transforms with a warm glow as the lights come on, creating a truly charming atmosphere.

This morning, our guide will take you to visit Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺, also known as Ganden Sumtsenling Monastery), a sprawling complex perched at an altitude of 3,380 meters. Founded in 1679 by the Fifth Dalai Lama, Songzanlin Monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan Province. Inspired by the Potala Palace in Lhasa, it's often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace".

The monastery's architecture is a fascinating fusion of Tibetan and Han Chinese styles. Currently, around 700 monks reside in its 200 associated houses. Ascend the steps and enter the monastery's three grand halls: Zhacang Hall (the central and highest hall), Jikang Hall (dedicated to Tsongkhapa), and Sakyamuni Hall (dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha). Here, you'll witness Tibetan monks chanting and meditating, enveloped in the monastery's solemn atmosphere. The climb will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire monastery complex and the beautiful Lamuyangcuo Lake.

This afternoon, take a 25km drive (about 30 minutes) to Pudacuo National Park (普达措, also known as Potatso National Park), the first national park in China. Situated on the vast Tibetan Plateau and forming an important part of the "Three Parallel Rivers" scenic spot, the park is renowned for its pristine landscapes. Encompassing scenic hills, meadows, lakes, diverse plant life, and abundant bird species, the park is also home to over 100 endangered animals including leopards, cranes, macaques, and lynxes.

Your journey begins with a sightseeing bus ride to Shudu Lake (altitude: 3,705 meters), the park's largest lake famed for its crystal-clear water and serene beauty. Take a leisurely hike around the well-maintained path suitable for most fitness levels. Afterwards, hop on a sightseeing bus to Bita Lake (altitude: 3,568 meters). A jewel nestled amidst the mountains and considered sacred by the local Tibetans, Bita Lake's turquoise waters and snow-capped backdrop create a picture-perfect scene. Take another short hike around the lake, a trail that leads you deeper into the heart of the park.

As you make your way back to the hotel, to wrap up your day with a cultural immersion, visit a local Tibetan family and sample some local snacks and yak butter tea.

After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Shangri-La.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will whisk you away on a scenic journey to Deqin, the gateway to Meili Snow Mountain. The drive takes approximately 4-5 hours, covering roughly 196 kilometers.

Prepare to be awestruck as we make our first stop at the Jinsha River Great Bend, also known as the Moon-shaped Bend or Moon Bay. This breathtaking natural wonder is located where the Pengzilan town of Deqin (Yunnan Province) meets Zigeng Township of Derong County (Sichuan Province). Imagine the mighty Jinsha River, carving its path through mountains and valleys. As it reaches this point, the gorge opens up, allowing the river to seemingly slow and pause, as if catching its breath after a long journey. Here, it gracefully traces a grand bend reminiscent of the Greek letter "Ω" around the pyramid-shaped Ricon Peak. This winding path stretches for kilometers, creating a truly remarkable spectacle.

Next, we'll continue our journey to Dongzhulin Monastery. Built in 1667, this historic monastery boasts a rich past. Originally following the Kagyu tradition, it later converted to the Gelug tradition, the same sect as the Potala Palace in Lhasa. Dongzhulin Monastery offers a fascinating glimpse into Tibetan Buddhist practices and architectural styles that have evolved over centuries.

As we continue our drive, keep your eyes peeled for the majestic Baima Snow Mountain. This impressive peak pierces the sky at a height of 5,430 meters and forms part of the larger Hengduan Mountains range.

Finally, our journey culminates at the Feilaisi Temple, nestled at the foot of the awe-inspiring Meili Snow Mountain range. Stay overnight in Feilaisi Temple.

Meili Snow Mountain is a stunning mountain range with 13 peaks, the highest being Kawagebo Peak at a staggering 6,740 meters. The snow-capped peaks are a sight to behold, especially at sunrise when they are bathed in golden light. Best Time to Visit: The drier months between October and March offer the clearest skies for viewing the mountains and the best conditions for trekking. However, keep in mind that even during these months, clouds can obscure the peaks.

Rise early in the morning to enjoy Meili Snow Mountain's magical sunrise from the observation deck of Feilaisi. After breakfast, drive about 32km to Mingyong Village. There, you'll walk for about 4km on trails to reach the Mingyong Glaciers of Meili Snow Mountain. An additional kilometer or so of walking will bring you to the Tibetan Taizi Monastery, another excellent spot to view the magnificent Mingyong Glaciers. (Optional: To save energy, you can choose to hire a horse for the climb to the glacier at your own expense.)

Following your visit to the Mingyong Glacier in Mingyong Village, you'll take a trek along the Lancang River Grand Canyon, passing through some Tibetan villages. Ideally, your trek will conclude back at Feilaisi, offering stunning views of Meili Snow Mountain and Baima Snow Mountain along the Lancang-Mekong River.

Stay at Feilaisi Temple.

This morning, seize the chance to witness the sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain and visit Feilai Temple. Steeped in Tibetan Buddhist tradition, Feilai Temple itself boasts a rich history, dating back to its construction in the Ming Dynasty (1614). It offers a glimpse into the religious beliefs of the local people.

After breakfast, hit the road for a scenic drive through Xiangcheng to Daocheng City, a journey of approximately 362 kilometers taking 7 to 8 hours.

As you leave Deqin and the majestic Meili Snow Mountain behind, you'll enter Benzilan Town. This charming Tibetan village is nestled amidst rolling hills and lush pastures. Here, you can immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Tibetan people. Witness colorful prayer flags fluttering in the breeze and traditional wooden houses that add to the village's charm.

The next leg of your adventure takes you on the Sichuan-Tibet Highway, one of the world's highest roads. Brace yourself for breathtaking vistas of snow-capped peaks, glistening glaciers, and deep valleys. Keep your eyes peeled, you might even spot some yaks grazing peacefully on the high plateau.

Finally, continue your drive to Shangri-La Town, where you'll spend the night and rest up for the next day's explorations.

Altitude: 2,800m-3,900m-4,120m

Today, you will go from Shangri-La Town to Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve, a distance of 41.5 km that will take approximately 1-1.5 hours. This reserve has been hailed as the "Last Pure Land on Earth", discovered by Joseph Rock in 1928, and widely regarded as the "Soul of Shangri-La", an enchanting wonderland.

You will explore the short route of Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve (Tourist Bus Terminus: Zhaguanbeng → Chonggu Monastery → Chonggu Grassland → Pearl Lake). The round trip for the short route is approximately 3 kilometers, taking around 2-3 hours.

Here is the detailed itinerary:

Visit Chonggu Monastery, following the same route as Day 4, by taking the sightseeing bus and hiking. Take some time to appreciate the sacred Gelug Buddhist temple architecture in white, red, yellow, and black, and learn the interesting story behind the temple and Joseph Rock's visit. Capture excellent photos of the magnificent temple and the three pure white holy snow mountains. After a short walk, experience the beauty of Chonggu Grassland (4,020m), which can be compared to a fairyland on earth. Walk on the vast grassland resembling a soft, thick carpet in yellow and green, regardless of the season. Enjoy the enchanting chanting river, with its transparent water revealing countless little stones resembling grains of gold at the bottom. Don't miss the best viewpoint to admire the majestic Xianuoduoji snow mountain. Continue hiking for 30 minutes to reach Pearl Lake (4,120m), a captivating spot to admire the picturesque landscape of surrounding snow peaks, dense green and orange forests, shimmering prayer flags, and their reflection on the clear lake. It's also an ideal location to appreciate the sacred Xiannairi snow mountain.

After the sightseeing, you will return back to Yading Village for accommodation. If the weather is clear, you can enjoy the magnificent "Plateau Starry Sky" in the evening.

Important Notes:

(1) Today, we will transfer to a sightseeing vehicle to travel to the Yading Scenic Area. The vehicle and driver cannot enter the scenic area with the team members. We will stay overnight in Yading Village, where the weather can be unpredictable. It is recommended that team members keep their suitcases in the vehicle and bring a small backpack (containing necessary toiletries, warm clothing, valuable items, rain gear, etc.) into the scenic area.

(2) Accommodation in Yading Village is relatively basic and the facilities are quite primitive. The lodging facilities are converted from local houses and serve as tourist reception points. Please be mentally prepared for this and appreciate the simplicity and originality of the place. Seasonal water and power outages may occur, which are unavoidable. Please prepare a flashlight in advance.

(3) There are limited restaurants specifically operated within the Yading Scenic Area. Team members can dine at the accommodation or at the Luorong Cattle Farm Restaurant within the scenic area. However, since all supplies need to be transported from outside the area, it is advisable to make sufficient preparations in advance. During the National Day and autumn season, there may be traffic congestion or long waiting times within the scenic area. Arriving at the dining point may be delayed, so it is recommended to bring some snacks and chocolates to satisfy hunger.

(4) On the way to trek to Zhoma La Tso (Pearl Lake), there are many small animals. Please do not tease or play with them, as these animals can be harmful. There are no vaccines available, so please prioritize your safety.

(5) The itinerary for the day is as follows: Visitor Center ~ Scenic Area Sightseeing Vehicle ~ Yading Village ~ Scenic Area Shuttle/ Sightseeing Vehicle 3.4km ~ Zhaguanbeng ~ 0.5km trek ~ Chonggu Temple ~ 1.5km trek ~ Zhoma La Tso (Pearl Lake) ~ Xianairi Shen Mountain ~ Return to Yading Village along the same route.

Altitude: 2,800m-3,900m-4,120m-3,700m

After breakfast, you will first reach the tourist center from Yading Village. Then, board a sightseeing bus that will transport you to Zhaguanbeng in about 1-1.5 hours. From there, indulge in a 2-2.5 hours' hike to Luorong Pasture (4,150m), passing through Chonggu Monastery (3,900m). Alternatively, you can choose to walk for 20 minutes to Chonggu Monastery and then take a 0.5-hour battery car ride to Luorong Pasture if you prefer to conserve energy. At Luorong Pasture, take pleasure in leisurely strolling amidst the serene landscape, surrounded by carefree grazing cattle and goats, vibrant layers of alpine forest, and a crystal-clear winding stream. The scene is enhanced by the awe-inspiring presence of three sacred snow-capped mountains: Xiannairi (Mount Chianrezig), Yangmaiyong (Mount Jambeyang), and Xianuoduoji (Mount Chanadorje). Pay close attention to the majestic appearance of Xianuoduoji snow mountain, resembling a mighty figure.

Next, prepare yourself for a challenging 5km hike that will take approximately 3-3.5 hours to reach the magnificent Milk Lake (4,600m). If desired, horse riding is available to Milk Lake for an additional fee. Marvel at the enchanting allure of this sacred lake, akin to a precious blue gem capable of evoking tears. Then, continue your journey by walking for another 0.5 hour to visit the Five Color Lake (4,500m), located just 0.3 km away. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery, featuring majestic snow-capped mountains adorned in shades of white, grey, silver, and chocolate, alongside the mesmerizing blue and green waters, diverse alpine plant life, and a backdrop of clear skies. This sight is reminiscent of a world-class oil painting.

After your sightseeing in Yading Nature Reserve, you will board a sightseeing vehicle and depart the scenic area. Continue to Daocheng County for your overnight stay (approximately 117 km, a 2-2.5 hour drive).

Important Travel Tips:

• Chonggu Monasteryto Luorong Pasture: There are five stations in total: starting point (Chonggu Monastery Station), Station 1 (Qianfo Mountain Station), Station 2 (Shengshui Lake Station), Station 3 (Yangmai Yong Station), and end point (Luorong Cattle Farm Station). The round-trip ticket for the shuttle bus is 70 yuan, and the one-way ticket is 40 yuan. The interval ticket for each station is 10 yuan (hiking is optional, and guests can choose to do it at their own expense).
• Disclaimer: The attractions of Five-color Lake andMilk Lake are not included in the regular itinerary of the travel agency. If you want to visit these two attractions, the expenses and safety will be your own responsibility, and you assume the risks.
• There are two ways to get from Luorong Cattle Farm to Milk Lakeand Five Color Lake. One way is to hike on the horse path, which takes about 5-6 hours round trip and covers a distance of 10 kilometers. The other way is to ride a horse, which takes about 3 hours uphill (horse riding fee is self-funded, 300 yuan per person for one way, the horse caravan operates for a total of 3.5 kilometers from Luorong Pasture to the destination). When riding a horse, please pay attention to safety and ensure that the horse is led by the horseman. From the horse caravan's destination to Milk Lake (4,600 meters) and Five Color Lake (4,700 meters), there is a 1.8-kilometer trekking section that is quite rugged. It requires a higher level of physical fitness from visitors. Additionally, the altitude is high, temperatures are lower, and there are strong mountain winds, so bring sufficient clothing.
• The itinerary for the day is as follows: Yading Village ~ Scenic Area Shuttle/ Sightseeing Vehicle 3.4km ~ Zhaguanbeng ~ 0.5km trek ~ Chonggu Temple ~ 6.7km by shuttle bus ~ Luorong Cattle Farm (Sanhu Main Snow Mountain) ~ Horse riding/ trekking 3.5km ~ Horse caravan's destination ~ Trek to Nai Nai Hai and Wuse Hai ~ Return to Yading Village to collect luggage ~ Take a sightseeing vehicle out of the scenic area.
• Regarding visitor flow control in the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area:To avoid excessive crowds, the maximum capacity of the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area is 16,850 people, with a visitor capacity of 3,900 people in the Milk Lake and Five Color Lake We will make advance reservations for your entrance tickets. If there are too many reservations during peak seasons and you are unable to visit Milk Lake and Five Color Lake, we will adjust the itinerary accordingly based on the actual situation.

After breakfast, it is time to end your 10 Days Lijiang Shangri-La Daocheng Yading Overland Tour. Your tour guide will pick you up from your hotel in Daocheng County and accompany you to the airport for your flight to your next destination.

Departure Ideas: Diqing Shangri-La Airport (DIG) is a small airport. If you leave from Shangri-La, you can fly to several destinations within China, including Kunming, Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and more cities.

Extension Ideas: If you wish to extend your trip and explore other highlighted parts of Yunnan, such as Kunming, Dali, Yuanyang Rice Terraces, Xishuangbanna, and more, we can help you with the arrangements.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Yunnan tour, we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!