3days Dali Lijiang highlights tour start from Kunming

Experience the Best of Yunnan in Just 3 Days

If you’re looking to pack a lot of stunning scenery and cultural highlights into a short trip, the 3-day Dali-Lijiang tour from Kunming offers an excellent balance of natural beauty and authentic local flavor. For around $700 per person, you’ll explore iconic sites like Erhai Lake, Dali Old Town, and the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, all with the comfort of private transportation and the insights of an English-speaking guide.

What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to cruise on Erhai Lake, a peaceful waterway flanked by mountains, and visit the Blue Moon Valley, famous for its vivid colors and breathtaking views. Plus, the tour’s flexibility, such as choosing your train class, allows you to tailor your experience to your budget and comfort preferences.

One potential consideration is that you will need to arrange your own hotels and train tickets, which adds a little extra planning but also offers the chance to pick accommodations that suit your style. This is perfect for travelers who enjoy customizing their trip and aren’t afraid of a bit of coordination.

This tour is ideal for those who want a quick yet immersive glance at Yunnan’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites—especially if you enjoy scenic lakes, mountain vistas, and charming old towns.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Lake Erhai, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and Blue Moon Valley offer unforgettable views.
• Cultural immersion: Walk through Dali and Lijiang old towns, experiencing traditional architecture and local markets.
• Flexible transportation: Choose your bullet train class for the journey between cities, balancing comfort and budget.
• Active but manageable: Cable car rides and walking tours keep the experience engaging without being overly strenuous.
• All-in-one: The tour covers major highlights in a short time, making it a great value for those with limited days.
• Guided experience: English-speaking guides ensure you get meaningful insights along the way.

A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Itinerary

This tour offers a well-crafted itinerary that balances guided visits and free time to soak in the atmosphere of each location. Starting from Kunming, you’ll spend your first day exploring the highlights of Dali, while days two and three focus on the scenic and cultural treasures of Lijiang and surrounds.

Day 1: Kunming to Dali

Your adventure begins with a transfer from your hotel in Kunming to the train station, where you’ll board a high-speed train to Dali. The journey itself is a scenic introduction to Yunnan’s diverse landscape. Once in Dali, the guide takes you to Xizhou Town, where you can admire Bai minority traditional buildings and perhaps browse the local markets—an excellent chance to see authentic local life.

Next, you’ll cruise across Erhai Lake, enjoying views of the surrounding mountains and fishing boats. The lake cruise is a highlight, offering a tranquil water experience that’s both scenic and relaxing. Afterward, a visit to the Three Pagodas offers insight into ancient architecture and spiritual history, while Dali Old Town provides a lively setting for wandering narrow streets, browsing shops, and soaking in local culture.

The day wraps up with an overnight stay in Dali, where you can choose accommodations suited to your preferences.

Day 2: Dali to Lijiang

Bright and early, you’ll meet your driver for the short train ride from Dali to Lijiang, a city famed for its ancient town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site. You’ll explore iconic spots such as Black Dragon Park, with its dragon-shaped lake and historic temples, and Mu Mansion, which offers a glimpse into Naxi culture.

Walking through Lijiang Old Town, you’ll appreciate the maze of cobbled streets, traditional wooden houses, and lively markets. The atmosphere is lively yet relaxed, perfect for photographers and culture lovers alike.

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Day 3: Lijiang’s Natural Wonders

The final day is dedicated to Lijiang’s stunning natural scenery. You’ll visit the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, where a cable car whisks you up to near the glacier zone, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks. If the Glacier Park cable cars are sold out during peak season, your guide will take you to Yark Meadow instead, which is equally breathtaking, especially when dotted with blooming yaks in summer.

Next, you’ll head to the Blue Moon Valley, famous for its mysterious colors and striking landscape that many say will stay with you for a lifetime. The Ganhaizi Meadow and Gorge Park add to the natural beauty, with walking paths that let you breathe in the crisp mountain air.

After a full day of sightseeing, your guide will assist in transferring you to Lijiang train station or airport for your onward journey.

What Travelers Can Expect

This tour is designed to showcase the most photogenic and culturally significant sites of Yunnan’s highlands. You’ll appreciate the balance of guided visits and free time, allowing you to explore at your own pace. The private transfer and guided service provide comfort and local insights, making sure you don’t miss the story behind each place.

While the itinerary is packed, it’s paced to avoid overwhelming you. The cable car rides at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Glacier Park are highlights, giving you access to vistas that are nearly impossible to reach on foot. You’ll also get a taste of Bai and Naxi cultures through visits to local towns and markets.

The tour’s flexibility in train class lets you choose your preferred level of comfort, which can impact your overall experience—first class is more spacious but costs more, while second class offers solid value.

Practical Tips for the Trip

Since hotels and train tickets are not included, travelers should plan ahead here. Booking your accommodations in Dali and Lijiang early is advisable, especially during peak seasons. The train tickets from Kunming to Dali and from Dali to Lijiang will need to be purchased separately, so it’s wise to coordinate with your guide or travel provider ahead of time.

The cost of $700 covers the core guided experiences, entrance fees, some meals, and private transportation, offering good value considering the scope of sites visited. Remember, dinners and your hotels are not included, so budget accordingly.

The tour is best suited for active travelers who don’t mind a busy schedule and are comfortable with short train rides, walking, and some altitude at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want a rundown of Yunnan’s scenic and cultural highlights in a short amount of time. It’s ideal for those who enjoy natural landscapes like lakes and snow mountains, as well as historic towns. The inclusion of private guides and flexible transport options makes it suitable for first-timers and seasoned travelers alike who value comfort and insight.

If you’re looking for a value-packed, well-organized trip that combines scenic beauty, cultural sights, and accessible adventure, this tour is a strong contender. Just remember, it’s a fast-paced itinerary, so those seeking a more relaxed or leisurely pace might prefer a longer trip.

FAQs

Do I need to book my own hotels?
Yes, hotel stays are not included in the tour price. You’ll need to book your accommodations in Dali and Lijiang separately, allowing you to choose options that suit your style.

Are train tickets included?
No, the tour price does not cover the train tickets between Kunming and Dali or Dali and Lijiang. You’ll need to purchase them separately, but the guide can assist you with booking if needed.

What is the cost of the bullet train class?
You can choose between 1st or 2nd class for your train rides, depending on your comfort preference and budget. The tour allows you to pick your option.

Is the tour suitable for all fitness levels?
For the most part, yes. Expect some walking through old towns and mild hikes at scenic sites. The cable car rides make access to high-altitude spots easier, but some walking at altitude might be needed.

What should I prepare for the altitude at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain?
Be mindful of altitude and take it easy if you’re sensitive. Bring water, hats, sunscreen, and layers for changing weather.

Are vegetarian/ special dietary needs accommodated?
The tour includes 3 lunches, but specifics about dietary accommodations aren’t listed. It’s best to communicate your needs with Sunny China Travel in advance.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Dali-Lijiang highlights tour provides a well-rounded glimpse of Yunnan’s most iconic sights, from tranquil lakes to snow-capped peaks and ancient towns. It’s a solid choice for travelers seeking an efficient, guided experience that covers natural beauty, culture, and history without sacrificing comfort.

While it requires some planning ahead—especially for hotels and train tickets—it offers great value for those eager to see the highlights of this fascinating region in a short time. You’ll leave with fantastic photos, memorable stories, and a deeper appreciation for Yunnan’s diverse landscapes and cultures.

Perfect for adventurers who enjoy scenic views and cultural exploration, this tour ensures you get a taste of Yunnan’s best without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Just pack your camera, some comfortable shoes, and an appetite for discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: