Northwest Yunnan: Tracing the Thousand-Year Footsteps
Small Group Journeys
Customizable
Suggested Length
6 days
€165 per person per day
Price From
Maximum group size 6 people
What We Love
This 6-day, 5-night journey through Northwest Yunnan takes you from Dali to Lijiang and Shangri-La, tracing the legendary Tea Horse Road where snow-capped mountains, shimmering lakes, and ancient towns reveal centuries of history and culture. Along the way, you’ll encounter the vibrant traditions of the Bai, Naxi, and Tibetan peoples.
In Dali, cycle along the tranquil shores of Erhai Lake beneath the snowy peaks of Cangshan, then step into Xizhou to savour the local flavours and try your hand at Bai tie-dye, an age-old craft. In Lijiang, stroll through cobbled lanes steeped in history, admire the timeless Baisha Murals, experience Dongba papermaking, and ascend Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, where glaciers and the turquoise waters of Blue Moon Valley offer breathtaking vistas.
Shangri-La reveals its splendour in striking contrasts: the thundering depths of Tiger Leaping Gorge, the golden rooftops of Songzanlin Monastery, and the vast wetlands of Napa Lake, dotted with yak herds and migratory birds. For those extending their adventure, Lugu Lake awaits—a hidden gem where the Moso people keep alive their unique matrilineal traditions and warm hospitality.
On this journey, you will cross ancient towns, snow-capped mountains, and serene lakes—embracing the grandeur of nature and the depth of human culture.
Explore Xizhou Ancient Town, taste traditional Bai cuisine, and join a hands-on tie-dye workshop, an intangible cultural heritage.
Stroll Dali Ancient Town, feeling the romance of “Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moon” with views of Cangshan and Erhai.
Cycle around Erhai Lake, weaving through lakeside villages and rice fields, and pause at the scenic S-Bend for breathtaking lake views.
Visiting Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the Jinsha River roars through the canyon.
Visit Songzanlin Monastery, become immersed in Tibetan Buddhist piety.
Ride or walk at Napa Lake Grassland, enjoying plateau pastoral beauty.
Highlights of the Journey
Cycle along Erhai Lake, passing villages and rice fields with Cangshan Mountain as your backdrop.
Create your own Bai tie-dye artwork in a centuries-old courtyard workshop.
Experience Naxi papermaking, crafting sheets by hand from local plants.
Spin the giant prayer wheel in Shangri-La, feeling the solemn rhythm of Tibetan devotion.
Join a lively bonfire night in Lijiang Old Town, dancing and singing with locals.
Ride horseback across the wide Napa Lake grasslands, with herds of yak and sheep nearby.
Map & Itinerary
DAY 1:
Arrival in Dali
Arrive in Dali, a historic town nestled between Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. Once a vital stop along the Ancient Tea Horse Road, Dali is famed for its poetic epithet “Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moon,” symbolising the gentle winds of Xiaguan, the blossoms of Shangguan, the snow of Cangshan, and the moon over Erhai. With its spring-like climate year-round, Dali offers the perfect place to begin your journey.
If you arrive early, you may stroll through the charming Dali Ancient Town, lined with traditional Bai architecture, boutique cafés, and craft shops. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy a steaming bowl of crossing-the-bridge rice noodles, Yunnan’s most iconic dish.
DAY 2:
Cycling by Erhai and Discovering Xizhou Culture
Begin the day cycling along the shores of Erhai Lake, where glassy waters reflect the snow-capped Cangshan Mountains. Pedal through rice fields and quiet Bai villages, pausing at the iconic S-Bend to take in one of the lake’s most picturesque views.
Step into Xizhou Ancient Town, alive with the scent of freshly baked Xizhou Baba and the sound of vendors calling from lively streets. Taste rushan (grilled milk cheese) with rose jam, then join a Bai tie-dye workshop to create your own indigo-dyed keepsake—an art form preserved for centuries.
As the sun sets, arrive in Shaxi Ancient Town, once a bustling caravan stop on the Tea Horse Road.
DAY 3:
Tracing Naxi Heritage in Baisha and Shuhe
Stroll through Baisha Ancient Town, home to the famous Baisha Murals that weave together Han, Tibetan, and Naxi artistry. Admire centuries-old paintings that vividly depict myths, religious tales, and scenes of daily life. Step into a Dongba papermaking workshop, where bark from local shrubs is transformed into handmade paper—an ancient craft you can try with your own hands.
Taste Naxi flavours over lunch, from refreshing chickpea jelly to other mountain delicacies, before heading into the cobbled streets of Shuhe Ancient Town. Cross the time-worn Qinglong Bridge, feel the charm of flowing canals and traditional courtyards, and pause for Yunnan’s small-bean coffee at a riverside café.
As the sun sets, dine on Naxi-style grilled pork and check into your Lijiang accommodation, where the evening is filled with music and the warm glow of courtyard lights.
DAY 4:
Glaciers and Valleys of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Begin your day at the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. Ride the cableway up through shifting landscapes—from forested foothills to dazzling glaciers. Walk the wooden boardwalk to admire snowfields and rugged peaks under the vast blue sky, perfect for unforgettable photos.
After descending, enjoy a mountain-side lunch with local specialities, including freshwater vegetables from Erhai Lake. Then continue to the ethereal Blue Moon Valley, where lakes shimmer jade-blue and mirror the surrounding peaks. Wander along its shores and let the still waters frame your journey.
Take a small cableway up to Spruce Meadow (Yunshanping), the “meadow in the sky,” where yaks graze against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Breathe in the crisp highland air and capture the panorama of Jade Dragon’s towering peaks.
By evening, return to Lijiang. Check into a traditional inn and head to Sifang Square, where locals gather for dancing and music, the night alive with rhythm and laughter.
DAY 5:
Across Tiger Leaping Gorge into Shangri-La
Depart from Lijiang and drive to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the world’s deepest canyons. Stand at the Viewing Platform to watch the roaring Jinsha River surge through the gorge, then follow the trail down to see the legendary Tiger Leaping Rock up close.
Enjoy regional specialties such as Jinsha River fish and Old Granny’s Potatoes (Laonai Yangyu), creamy with a buttery aroma.
By afternoon, ascend to Shangri-La. Spin the Great Prayer Wheel in Dukezong Ancient Town, then step into the grandeur of Songzanlin Monastery, its golden roofs gleaming in the mountain light, its halls alive with butter-lamp glow and Tibetan chants.
In the evening, join locals in the town square for the spirited Guozhuang Dance.
Day 6:
Napa Lake and Farewell to Shangri-La
Begin the morning at Napa Lake, a vast wetland framed by snow-capped mountains. Whether cycling or walking, you’ll pass herds of yaks and wild horses, prayer flags fluttering in the wind, and nomadic tents scattered across the grasslands—like stepping into a living highland painting.
Warm up with a hearty yak meat hotpot, paired with tsampa barley cakes, simple yet soul-filling staples of Tibetan life.
Conclude your journey with a hands-on Thangka painting workshop. Under the guidance of a skilled teacher, learn about the art’s history and techniques, then create your own small thangka—a meaningful keepsake of your time in Yunnan.
Optional Day:
Lugu Lake · Immersion into Moso Culture
Known as the “people of the lake,” the Moso community preserves a unique matrilineal tradition amidst the serene beauty of Lugu Lake. Surrounded by clear waters and rolling mountains, this optional day offers both natural splendour and a rare glimpse into the cultural heart of the Moso people.
Moso Folk Museum: Gain insights into Moso history, religion, and daily life through curated exhibits.
Family Visit: Step into a traditional household, gather in the Grandmother’s Room, and share homemade sweet tea, local spirits, and stories passed down through generations.
Pig-Trough Boat Ride: Drift across Lugu Lake in a wooden boat once used by Moso villagers, with tranquil waters reflecting the surrounding peaks.
Bonfire Party: Join locals for lively songs and dances around the fire, feeling the warmth of Moso hospitality.
Handicraft Workshop: Learn weaving and handcraft techniques, creating your own keepsake infused with Moso artistry.
This day invites you to slow down, connect with the land, and experience a living culture where nature and tradition remain deeply intertwined.
Featured Stays
We’ve hand-selected a range of accommodations to suit different preferences, each offering a distinctive experience deeply connected to the local land and culture.
Boutique Stays in Dali & Lijiang
From Dali’s chic boutique hotels with mountain-and-lake views to Lijiang’s heritage residences with traditional Naxi courtyards, each stay offers a unique blend of comfort and culture—perfect places to unwind after a day’s journey.
What’s Included:
Accommodation
Private driver and vehicle for the duration of the trip
All activities, experiences, and necessary equipment as outlined in the itinerary
12/7 online concierge service for assistance during your journey
Emergency rescue team on standby for safety and security
Virtual guided sightseeing explanations to enhance your cultural experience
Daily medication and oxygen supply to ensure your well-being at high altitudes
Entrance fees for all attractions listed in the itinerary
What’s Excluded:
Daily meals (We will recommend the best local restaurants based on your personal preferences)
On-site translator (Our 12/7 online guide service is available if language assistance is needed)
Additional emergency rescue expenses caused by personal circumstances
Trip Costs:
Starting from €165 per person per day
Based on boutique accommodation and a group of 4 travelers.
Room upgrades
Add €40 per room, per night for each upgrade level.
Send us an inquiry
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