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Distance between Kunming and Shangri-La
The distance between Kunming and Shangri-La is about 620 kilometers, and there are convenient transportation options available between the two cities.
By road: Traveling on the expressway, the journey takes around 7 hours without any stops.
By train: Taking the train, the travel time ranges from 4.5 to 6 hours.
By plane: Opting for a flight, the duration is about 1 to 1.5 hours.
These transportation options provide travelers with flexibility in choosing the most suitable mode of travel based on their preferences and time constraints.
How to Travel from Kunming to Shangri-La
Kunming to Shangri-La High-Speed Train - Best Way
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Kunming(昆明) - Shangri-La(香格里拉) 
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Overview about Kunming to Shangri-La Bullet Train
- Travel Time: 4.5 - 6 Hours
- Ticket Prices: High-speed train tickets range from CNY 245 (USD $35) for a second-class seat, CNY 390 (USD $54) for a first-class seat to CNY 763 (USD $110) for a business-class seat.
- Schedule: there are 4 daily bullet trains running from Kunming to Shangri-La, departing between 7:54 AM and 16:42 PM.
- Stations: Your journey will start at Kunming Railway Station and conclude at Shangri-La Railway Station.
Advantages of Taking the Shangri-La to Kunming High-Speed Train:
- Speed and Comfort: The high-speed train cuts down travel time significantly compared to buses (which can take over 10 hours). The comfortable ride with spacious seating and air conditioning makes the journey enjoyable.
- Scenic Views: The train route winds through Yunnan Province, offering breathtaking panoramas of mountains, valleys, and possibly even the iconic Tiger Leaping Gorge.
- Convenience: Multiple daily departures provide flexibility in planning your trip. No need to worry about limited bus schedules or car rental logistics.
- More Luggage Allowance: High-speed trains typically have more generous luggage allowances compared to airplanes. Pack your essentials and any travel souvenirs with peace of mind.
- Reliable Travel: While no travel method is entirely delay-proof, high-speed trains boast a much better record compared to buses or car travel, which can be impacted by unforeseen road conditions or traffic jams.
Kunming to Shangri-La Flight - Fast but Expensive
To travel from Kunming to Shangri-La, taking a flight is the fastest option available. However, it's worth noting that flights can be relatively expensive compared to other modes of transportation. Here's some information about the Kunming to Shangri-La flight route:
- Duration: Flights from Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG) to Diqing Shangri-La Airport (DIG) typically take around 1-1.5 hours, making it the quickest way to reach Shangri-La.
- Cost: Flights from Kunming to Shangri-La can be relatively expensive compared to other modes of transportation, such as buses or trains. Flight tickets range from CNY 800 to CNY 1,000 (USD $118 - $147) for a economy-class seat to CNY 1500 to 2000 (USD $210 - $280) for a business-class seat. It's recommended to buy ticket 1-3 months in advance and avoid Chinese's public holidays.
- Airport Transportation: Kunming Changshui International Airport is located about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) northeast of downtown Kunming. Diqing Shangri-La Airport is located about 5 kilometers (3 miles) northwest of Shangri-La town. Both airports are well-connected to their respective city centers by taxis, airport shuttles, and other transportation options.
Kunming to Shangri-La Bus - Considering Stopping at Dali and Lijiang
There is a direct bus service from Kunming to Shangri-La, which takes about 9 hours and costs around CNY 280. However, taking such a long bus journey may impact your travel experience. It is recommended to consider taking a segmented bus route by visiting Dali and Lijiang before heading to Shangri-La. Alternatively, you can explore tour packages that cover Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La, which offer a more comfortable and convenient experience.
It's important to note that the distance between Kunming and Dali is considerable. Considering the availability of high-speed trains, opting for train travel might be a more convenient option.
By planning your journey with stops at Dali and Lijiang or exploring tour packages, you can have a more enjoyable and well-rounded travel experience from Kunming to Shangri-La.
How to Get from Shangri-La to Kunming?
Shangri-La to Kunming High-Speed Train - 4 Hours and Comfortable
Great news! Since November 2023, you can travel directly between Shangri-La and Kunming by high-speed train. This convenient option makes getting between these Yunnan gems a breeze.
Overview about Shangri-La to Kunming Bullet Train
- Travel Time: 4.5 to 5.5 hours.
- Ticket Prices: High-speed train tickets range from CNY 238 (USD $40) for a second-class seat, CNY 379 (USD $54) for a first-class seat to CNY 738 (USD $110) for a business-class seat.
- Schedule: there are 4 daily bullet trains running from Shangri-La to Kunming, departing between 7:20 AM and 18:45 PM.
- Stations: Your journey will start at Shangri-La Railway Station and conclude at Kunming Railway Station.
Benefits of Taking the Shangri-La to Kunming High-Speed Train:
- Speed and Comfort: This is definitely a highlight. High-speed trains cut down travel time significantly compared to other options like buses (which can take over 10 hours). The comfortable ride with spacious seating and air conditioning makes the journey enjoyable.
- Scenic Views: Turn your travel time into sightseeing! The high-speed rail winds through Yunnan Province, offering breathtaking sights of mountains, valleys, and possibly even the famous Tiger Leaping Gorge on the way to Lijiang.
- Convenience: Multiple departures throughout the day give you flexibility in planning your trip. You won't be stuck waiting for a single daily bus or dealing with tight car rental schedules.
- Pack Like a Pro: High-speed trains typically have more generous luggage allowances compared to airplanes. Pack your essentials and any travel souvenirs with peace of mind.
- Reliability on Rails: While no travel method is entirely delay-proof, high-speed trains boast a much better record compared to buses or car travel, which can be impacted by unforeseen road conditions or traffic jams.
Considerations When Taking Shangri-La to Kunming Train
- Plan Your Arrival Time: Arrive at the train station at least 30 minutes before the train departure time. Take into account the time required to reach the station and potential traffic congestion in the area.
- Book Tickets in Advance: Purchase your train tickets in advance, especially during peak seasons and Chinese public holidays, as train tickets are often in high demand and may be difficult to obtain.
Shangri-La to Kunming Flight - 1 Hour but Expensive
Overview about Shangri-La to Kunming Flight
- Travel Time: Flights are significantly the fastest way than any other option. The flight time is only one hour.
- Ticket Prices: Flight tickets range from CNY 800 to CNY 1,000 (USD $118 to USD $147) for a economy-class seat to CNY 2000 (USD $280) for a business-class seat. Buying in advance may get a lower discount.
- Schedule: Currently (June 2024), there are 4 daily flights from Kunming to Shangri-La, departing between 8:30 AM and 22:50 AM. There may be more flights during peak season.
- Airports: Your journey will start at Diqing Shangri-La Airport and conclude at Kunming Changshui Airport.
Who should Consider Flying?
- Travelers on a tight schedule who prioritize speed over cost.
- Those who dislike long train journeys.
- People who might have connecting flights out of Kunming and need to ensure they arrive on time.
Tips When Fly from Shangri-La to Kunming
- Airport Proximity: Shangri-La Airport is located only 5 kilometers away from the city center, about a 15-minute drive. Plan to arrive at the airport at least 1 hour in advance to allow enough time for check-in and security procedures.
- Advance Ticket Purchase: Consider purchasing your flight tickets in advance to secure lower fares and potential discounts. Booking early gives you a better chance of finding more affordable options.
Shangri-La to Kunming Long-Distance Bus - 9 Hours and not Recommended
When traveling from Shangri-La to Kunming, another option is to take a long-distance bus. The bus departs from Shangri-La Bus Station and arrives at Kunming West Bus Station, taking about 8-9 hours on the highway. The ticket price is around CNY 280 (USD 40), with two departures daily.
While the road conditions are generally good, it is important to consider that long-distance bus journeys can be uncomfortable due to limited legroom and the extended travel time. Moreover, during peak holiday periods, the highways may have congestion, further affecting the travel experience. Therefore, choosing the long-distance bus option from Shangri-La to Kunming is not recommended if comfort and convenience are a priority.
How to Plan a Trip from Kunming to Shangri-La
Considering the higher elevation of Shangri-La, we recommend starting your trip with 1-2 days in Kunming. After exploring Kunming, take a 2-hour high-speed train ride to Dali, where you can spend another 1-2 days. From Dali, it's a 2-hour road trip to reach Lijiang, where you can enjoy 1-2 days of exploration. Finally, choose a road trip through Tiger Leaping Gorge to reach Shangri-La.
By properly planning your time and itinerary, you can visit four of the most popular destinations in Yunnan within an 8-day timeframe. Here is a detailed itinerary for your trip:
- Day 1: Arrive in Dali and settle in.
- Day 2: Take a day trip to Kunming to explore the Stone Forest, Yuantong Temple, and Green Lake.
- Day 3: Travel by high-speed train back to Dali in the morning. Visit the Three Pagodas, cycle along Erhai Lake, and immerse yourself in Dali Ancient City in the evening.
- Day 4: Explore the rich culture of Xizhou Ancient Town, learn traditional tie-dyeing, and then drive to Lijiang in the afternoon. Afterward, wander through Lijiang Ancient City and Black Dragon Pool Park.
- Day 5: Journey to the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain in the morning. In the afternoon, experience Naxi culture and murals at Baisha Ancient Town.
- Day 6: Embark on a scenic drive to Shangri-La, passing by the First Bend of the Yangtze River and the awe-inspiring Tiger Leaping Gorge. Upon arrival, discover Dukezong Ancient Town.
- Day 7: Delve into the beauty of Songzanlin Monastery and explore the wonders of Pudacuo National Park.
- Day 8: Depart from Shangri-La by your chosen mode of transport (flight or train).
This itinerary allows you to explore the highlights of each destination, including Dali, Kunming, Lijiang, and Shangri-La, within an 8-day timeframe. Enjoy your trip and make sure to adjust the schedule according to your preferences and available time.
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) to Explore Yunnan
Embark on a breathtaking journey to Yunnan with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) and discover the province's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. As a trusted travel partner with over a decade of experience in the region, AOT offers a wide range of customizable Yunnan tour packages tailored to meet the diverse interests of every traveler. Whether you're seeking a family adventure, a romantic escape, or an in-depth exploration of Yunnan's ethnic diversity and natural wonders, AOT has the expertise to craft the perfect itinerary for you.
Popular Destinations:
- Kunming: The "Spring City" known for its pleasant climate and vibrant flowers.
- Lijiang: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a well-preserved ancient town.
- Dali: Famous for its beautiful Erhai Lake and the ancient Bai culture.
- Shangri-La: A gateway to Tibetan culture and stunning highland scenery.
- Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Renowned for its spectacular rice terraces.
- Xishuangbanna: Experience the tropical climate, rich biodiversity, and the unique Dai culture, including attractions like the Wild Elephant Valley and tropical rainforests.
- Tiger Leaping Gorge: One of the deepest gorges in the world, offering breathtaking views and thrilling hiking trails along the Jinsha River.
- Jianshui: A historic town known for its ancient architecture, including the well-preserved Jianshui Confucian Temple and the beautiful Zhu Family Garden.
Tour Packages:
- Comprehensive Yunnan Tours: Kunming Lijiang Tour, Kunming Dali Tour, Lijiang Shangri-La Tours
- Yunnan Theme Tours: Yunnan High Speed Train Tours, Adventure, Hiking, Nature, Family, Winter, Photography, Ancient Town, Ethnic Group
- Combined Tours with Nearby Regions: Yunnan and Tibet Tour
Start planning your dream vacation today with Asia Odyssey Travel and experience the beauty, culture, and warm hospitality of Yunnan. Contact us to begin your journey.
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