Yunnan Travel

Yunnan packs snow mountains, highland lakes, old towns and tropical rainforest into a single province. Heading west from Kunming, the altitude and the scenery change step by step — familiar Chinese old-town life alongside highland and minority cultures that feel entirely different.

Classic routes

Kunming–Dali–Lijiang–Shangri-La, 6–8 days: Stone Forest, Dali Old Town and Erhai Lake, Lijiang Old Town and Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, then Pudacuo National Park in Shangri-La — the classic highland loop in one trip.

Xishuangbanna, 4–5 days: tropical rainforest, Wild Elephant Valley and Dai villages — a warm-weather escape in winter that pairs easily with Kunming.

When to go

March to May and September to November are the most comfortable. June to August is the rainy season with short showers and cool evenings; December to February is cold in Lijiang and Shangri-La but ideal for snow views, while Xishuangbanna stays warm.

Getting around

Fly into Kunming Changshui International Airport. High-speed rail links Kunming, Dali and Lijiang; Shangri-La, Lugu Lake and Xishuangbanna are best explored by private car. Highland itineraries should not be rushed — allow at least six days. We arrange private vehicles, local guides and no-shopping tours throughout.