Just returned from a week exploring China’s southwest. Here is my honest breakdown of the route, costs, and transport tips if you are landing in Kunming and heading up the mountain range.
Seven Days in Yunnan: A Real-World Guide from Kunming to Shangri-La
I recently spent a week sweeping through Yunnan. If you are meeting your trip here, expect to be wowed by the landscapes and need a solid plan for your time. This post is for you.
Where to Start and How to Get Around
This journey begins in Kunming, which acts as the main hub. Most flights land here. From the airport, checking travel routes online is key because ground transport options vary. By train, it’s a quick hop to Dali. I recommend booking train tickets early, especially during peak tourist seasons, as full trains are common.
Day 1: Arriving in the City
I stayed near Kunming Station while I could, but many people arrive via the airport and easy taxis connect to city hotels. For food, I went to a spot called ‘Chenxi Bean Curd Rice Noodles’. It was busy around 5:30 PM, and I recommend booking ahead or going early if it’s a weekday. Dinner was simple but filling.
After the meal, I wanted to see the famous Dianchi Lake. I took a taxi to Haigeng Park main gate. It was about a 30-minute to an hour walk along Huaifeng Wetlands. Seeing the sunset at 7 PM there is very healing for the soul.
Later, the trip concluded at the Dounan Flower Market around midnight. I bought flowers, and they usually mail them home within 2 to 3 days. It made the flowers feel part of the trip.
Day 2: Heading West to Dali
If you arrive by train, store your luggage at the station if you are leaving Dong the same day. Otherwise, check the ticket counter for station storage. The ride to Dayan Ancient City takes a bit of time. I booked a local scenic bus. It costs very little, typically around 3 or 5 RMB, depending on the line. I suggest checking current internet travel apps for the most up-to-date pricing.
If you are checking in to Dali, I recommend staying near the Ancient City. From the train station, guests often take the official shuttle bus. If you take the train from Kunming to Dali in the morning, the 3-hour ride lets you see the coastline of Erhai Lake from the side window.
On the afternoon side, I took the bus into Dali.
Day 3: Moving On to Lijiang and Beyond
I booked a local ‘small group’ tour starting from Lijiang up to Shangri-La. It’s essential to be careful when picking around. This route typically covers Tiger Leaping Gorge and the White Water Terraces.
The Gorge can be walked, but some locals recommend buying the slide for those with physical limitations. Just wander a short way to exit.
The White Water Terraces are visually stunning, though the path is a bit less formalized. The walk up is not short, and one needs to be careful of mountain guides on horseback trying to pull riders. I did not ride the horses because safety concerns were high. Take it slow when walking due to the altitude.
The tour concluded with a drive to Duokezong Ancient City East Gate. I made sure to book a room near the East Gate so I wouldn’t have to travel too far on the next leg.
“Fact Risks”: [Note: Prices denoted in RMB (CNY) based on past data and subject to change.] [Note: Altitude sickness response times vary by person up in mountains.] [Note: Horse riding parties may offer stronger incentives than they claim.]