Route Overview
About this Tour
Yunnan is China's most diverse province – home to 25 ethnic minorities, tropical forests in the south and Tibetan culture in the north. This route takes you from the 'Spring City' Kunming through the laid-back shores of Erhai Lake in Dali, past the ancient rooftops of Lijiang's Old Town, all the way to Shangri-La at 3,300 metres where Tibetan monasteries and yak-butter tea await. The roads are winding but well-maintained, and the scenery changes dramatically every few hours.
Your Journey in Detail
🏔️Kunming & Stone Forest
Kunming enjoys eternal spring weather – perfect for starting your journey. The Stone Forest (Shilin) is a UNESCO site with towering limestone formations. The city itself has excellent Yunnan cuisine – try 'crossing the bridge noodles.' Several RV rental companies operate from Kunming.
🌺Dali & Lijiang
Dali sits between mountains and the vast Erhai Lake – perfect for a day of cycling along the shore. The Bai minority culture is everywhere. Lijiang's Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with traditional Naxi architecture, canals, and the imposing Jade Dragon Snow Mountain as backdrop. Touristy but undeniably beautiful.
🐉Tiger Leaping Gorge & Shangri-La
Tiger Leaping Gorge is one of the deepest gorges in the world – the hiking trail along its rim is spectacular. Shangri-La (formerly Zhongdian) is where Han China meets Tibet: the Songzanlin Monastery, yak herds on alpine meadows, and Tibetan prayer flags fluttering in the mountain wind. The altitude requires adjustment.
💡Practical Tips
- ✓Altitude sickness is real above 3,000m – acclimatize gradually in Lijiang before going to Shangri-La.
- ✓Fuel stations are plentiful but accept local payment methods only – carry cash as backup.
- ✓Best season is March-May or September-November – summer is monsoon season.
At a Glance
Duration
10-14 Tage
Distance
1.200 km
Difficulty
Moderate
Highlights
- ⭐Dali & Erhai Lake
- ⭐Lijiang Old Town
- ⭐Shangri-La & Tiger Leaping Gorge
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