Active Family Adventure in Southwestern China: Kunming, Dali, Lijiang & Shangri-La - 9 Days

Highlights

• Rent a boat and take a family cruise along the shores of Kunming's Dianchi Lake
• Learn to make traditional Yunnan flower cakes at a kid-friendly baking class
• Take part in a tie-dyeing workshop and discover the secrets of this ancient folk craft
• Listen to the haunting chants of lamas at Songzanlin Lamasery

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Kunming, Capital of Yunnan Province

Welcome to China! Your flight lands in Kunming, the capital and largest city of the Yunnan province. Considered the region's transportation hub, this bustling locale is home to beautiful parks, temples, and a rich cultural history. Upon arrival, your private transfer will take you to your hotel, where you and the kids can unwind for a bit before heading out to see more of the city. 

Otherwise known as the "City of Eternal Spring," Kunming's temperate climate and wealth of outdoor activities make it the perfect spot to explore with active little ones. You can start at Dianchi Lake, located in the southwest part of the city and one of the biggest freshwater lakes in China. Stroll the lakeside promenade, feed the seagulls who winter here, or rent a boat for a ride on the water.

For expansive city views, head to the suburbs and visit Western Hills, or Xishan. Hike up scenic trails and through lush forests, or take a cable car ride for a different perspective. Stop by the Dragon Gate Grotto, where you'll find ancient statues and inscriptions, then return to town for a stroll and dinner at a local restaurant. 

Day 2: Discover Naigu Stone Forest, Train to Dali, Self-Guided Family Tour

Start the day with a visit to Naigu Stone Forest, located just outside the city. Encompassing 150 square miles (400 sq. km), this UNESCO World Heritage site attracts photographers, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers from all corners of the globe. Geologists theorize that the forest was formed over the course of 270 million years, from sedimentation, pressure, and erosion. Walk through the vast limestone formations that resemble a forest made of stone, and explore the labyrinths and passageways created by what is a truly breathtaking natural phenomenon. 

Afterward, you're off to your next destination, Dali, a Yunnan province city that was once an important trading center, dating back to the days of the ancient Silk Road. Make your way to the train station and hop aboard for the 2.5-hour ride, arriving in time to check in at your hotel and see some of the city on your own.

For a quick cultural immersion, visit Dali's Ancient Town, a charming, well-preserved district that dates back more than 1,300 years. Wander the cobblestone streets and take in their traditional Bai-style architecture, characterized by white walls, gray-tiled roofs, and intricate roof decorations. You can also venture to Chongsheng Pagoda, which sits about 12 miles (20 km) from the village. This ancient temple is surrounded by beautiful gardens, with views of nearby Erhai Lake and the Cangshan Mountains. Climb the pagodas for more expansive views, or stroll around the peaceful temple grounds. 

Day 3: Bike Ride Around Erhai Lake, Three Pagodas, Family Baking Class 

See more of Dali's natural beauty with a guided bike ride along Erhai Lake. This gorgeous body of water, which stretches nearly 25 miles (41 km), is home to quaint villages, rice paddies, and green fields. The bike paths are generally easy and suitable for younger or inexperienced riders, as there are no motor vehicles allowed and mostly paved trails. Cruise along the lake, connecting with nature and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere while the kids keep their eyes peeled for birds and other local wildlife. 

After your ride, stop by the Three Pagodas, an iconic local landmark and part of the Chongsheng Temple. The pagodas date back to the ninth and 10th centuries and are arranged to form an equilateral triangle. They were originally built not only as a testament to Buddhism but also to help manage the mythical beasts who villagers believed controlled the region's floodwaters.

This afternoon, visit one of the Yunnan province's flower farms, where you'll participate in a family baking class. Meet your hosts and learn more about the farm and daily life as you and the kids prepare flower cakes, a traditional Yunnan snack. Enjoy your delicious treats with fragrant flower tea, and spend some time letting the kids play in the garden area while you admire the Cangshan Mountains in the distance. Return to Dali in time for dinner and a sunset walk.

Day 4: Zhoucheng Village, Tie-Dye Workshop, Transfer to Lijiang

After breakfast, gather the kids and meet your guide for a visit to Zhoucheng, a historic village located approximately 14 miles (23 km) from Dali. Known for its architecture and famed Bai tie-dying, you'll have the opportunity to witness the Bai people's traditional way of life, strolling among the well-preserved buildings and lively morning markets. Take part in a tie-dyeing workshop and learn the secrets of this ancient folk craft, creating your own dyed handkerchief—the perfect souvenir of the day! Afterward, enjoy lunch with a local Bai family, sharing stories and discovering more about their traditions. 

This afternoon, you're off to Lijiang, a city located in the northwest part of the Yunnan province. Surrounded by snowcapped mountains, tranquil lakes and endless hiking, Lijiang is considered a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, as well as having a rich cultural heritage. Meet your private transfer for the scenic, two-hour drive, and after you and the kids get checked into your accommodations, your family can step out to see Lijiang's timeless Ancient Town.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site enthralls visitors with its cobblestone streets, ancient architecture, and winding canals. Step back in time as you see the traditional houses of the Naxi people, taste local delicacies, and immerse yourselves in the historic ambience. End the day with dinner and downtime at your hotel. 

Day 5: Pilgrimage to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Naxi Shaman Cultural Visit

The day begins with a pilgrimage to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a peak considered sacred to the Naxi and said to guard the villages and bestow blessings on the residents. Meet your guide and start with a cable car ride, ascending more than 14,000 feet (4,500 m) to an observation platform that offers incredible views of the mountain. The kids will be in awe of the panoramas, and your guide will share the delightful legends and stories woven around this enchanting place. If you like, there's also a second platform higher up, sitting at more than 15,000 feet (4,680 m) and one of the highest in the world.

Take some time for photo ops and enjoy the natural beauty here. Then, descend back to terra firma and make your way to the nearby village, where your family will visit a shaman's house. Learn about the Naxi way of life, listen to Naxi music, and come away with a deep appreciation of their customs and connection to the land. Relax at your hotel this evening, or visit a local restaurant for regional cuisine. 

Day 6: Transfer to Shangri-La, Tiger Leaping Gorge & Hiking Haba Snow Mountain

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Depart Lijiang this morning for the mythically named Shangri-La, whose name comes from the 1933 novel, "Lost Horizon." The capital city of the Diqing Tibetan Autonomous prefecture, it's most known for its Tibetan culture, traditional villages, and natural beauty. 

Your driver will collect you after hotel checkout, making a few scenic stops along the way. Your first stop is Tiger Leaping Gorge, a scenic canyon on the Jinsha River, a tributary of the upper Yangtze. The trail here is considered one of the most popular in the world, with three different sections that offer different levels of difficulty. Hike through its towering mountains and glimpse cascading waterfalls and steep ravines as your guide engages the kids with the legend of a tiger who leaped across the river to avoid a hunter—hence the gorge's name! 

Continue to Haba Snow Mountain, located on the northwest side of Tiger Leaping Gorge and towering at an impressive 17,000 feet (5,396 m). Embark on a leisurely two-hour hike through alpine meadows, an easy trek for the kids that showcases the mountain and surrounding countryside. Connect with nature and embrace the solitude here, then continue to Shangri-La and get settled at your hotel. 

Day 7: Songzanlin Lamasery & Tibetan Blessing Ceremony, Explore Shangri-La Old Town 

Today starts with a visit to the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan province, Songzanlin Lamasery. Meet your guide and make your way from the city center to the monastery, ascending the entrance amid ancient architecture and a serene ambience. Walk the main hall and see the colossal Buddha statues and colorful murals, watching Tibetan pilgrims pray and listening to the chants of the lamas. You'll have the chance to participate in a blessing ceremony, and the kids can tie their personal prayer flags to the monastery's pagoda. 

This afternoon, spend some time in Shangri-La's Old Town, otherwise known as Dukezong Ancient Town. Wander through the winding streets and enjoy the convivial atmosphere, seeking out handcrafted souvenirs and sampling local foods. Your family will meet with a Tibetan artisan and learn the art of painting a thangka, a sacred tapestry, creating your own masterpiece to take home. Return to your hotel in the early evening, where the rest of your day is free. 

Day 8: Visit a Local Tibetan Family, Free Afternoon in Shangri-La

See the hardworking subsistence lifestyle of the Tibetan people with a visit to a local family. Together with your guide, you'll drive to a nearby village and meet the family, where you'll engage with their daily activities and learn more about them. Help with plowing and seeding, harvest barley or pick mushrooms, and let the kids collect firewood as you all gain firsthand experience of their daily lives and schedules. 

Your last afternoon in Shangri-La is your own. You can see some of the sights you may have missed earlier, such as the serene Dabao Lamasery, a temple that sits on a rugged hillside and is one of the region's earliest Tibetan Buddhist temples. You can also engage in a family photo session, donning traditional Tibetan attire and taking some social media-worthy pics. Tonight, enjoy a cozy bonfire by your lodgings as you revisit the highlights of your China tour with the kids, sharing top moments and plans for the next adventure.

Day 9: Depart Shangri-La

Your family journey through China comes to a close today. After breakfast, your private driver will transfer you to the airport for your flight home or on to your next destination. Safe travels! 

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