A holiday to China doesn’t always have to be all about big cities like Shanghai or Chongqing. If you’ve ever dreamt of snowcapped peaks, ancient towns, and the kind of scenery that makes you wonder if you’ve accidentally stepped into a painting, add this 7D6N Yunnan itinerary to your bucket list.
We’re talking Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La – where breathtaking views will quickly make you forget your emails even exist. We’ve even included all the transport info you need to navigate easily, from high-speed rail rides to chartered cars that take you on scenic road trips through the clouds.
The current exchange rate is RMB10 = ~S$1.79 as of 22nd April 2025.
Since Kunming Changshui International Airport is the only airport in Yunnan with a 4-hour direct flight from Singapore, your journey will begin there. As our itinerary kicks off in Dali, we recommend taking a high-speed train from Kunming South Railway Station.
Image credit: @拍制服的CC via RED
The journey takes about 2 hours, making it the perfect opportunity for a nap, especially since the seats are pretty comfy. Train tickets cost RMB145 and can be booked in advance via the 12306 China Railway app (App Store | Google Play), which has English translations.
To get from the airport to the train station, just book a DiDi (App Store | Google Play) – China’s equivalent to Grab, which will get you there in less than 30 minutes.
While you can also book high-speed trains to get you to Lijiang and Shangri-La, we suggest getting a chartered car to take you around the different provinces, as well as all the spots on your itinerary. The journey from province to province will take 2 to 3 hours each, but with all the picturesque spots and attractions along the way, you’ll hardly notice how long you’ve been on the road for.
You won’t need to lug your suitcases around, and drivers can double up as local guides, sharing food recs and snapping group pictures for you. Some even offer drone photography and videography services, capturing angles from a bird’s-eye view. A chartered car also means that you’ll get dropped off and picked up at any location you prefer, saving you the trouble of booking a DiDi every few hours.
When looking for reliable drivers in Yunnan, many people turn to recommendations on Rednote, otherwise known as 小红书, China’s version of Instagram-meets-TripAdvisor. On the app, you’ll be able to see reviews and suggestions from previous customers and choose a driver that is right for you. One of the recommended drivers we found who has brought Singaporeans around the 3 provinces is 云南（阿华）自由行包车别克商务车. Rates hover around RMB1,000/pax for an itinerary like ours.
Just be sure to have WeChat (App Store | Google Play) on hand as it’s the go-to for communicating with your driver and making payments.
From lakeside boutique B&Bs to inns with mountain views, accommodation in Yunnan can be a whole experience in itself. For a wider variety of accommodations, use the Ctrip (携程) app (App Store | Google Play) or website, which works just like Trip.com. Here are a few options worth considering:
Dali Xiaoqi·Rihe Seaview B&B (大理小栖·日和海景民宿) is one of those dreamy stays that makes you go “wah” the moment you enter. Located right by Erhai Lake, this aesthetic B&B checks all the boxes for a relaxing stay.
Image credit: Ctrip
From just RMB752/night, every room here comes with a bathtub, a projector, and a minimalist design that’ll have your IG stories looking like a Pinterest board. Their check-in counter doubles as a café by day and transforms into a bar at night – perfect for unwinding after a full day of sightseeing. And if you’re an animal lover, you’ll be happy to know that there are friendly resident cats and even a Samoyed roaming around.
Book a stay at Dali Xiaoqi·Rihe Seaview B&B.
Address: No. 109, 11th Community, Shiling Village Committee, Wanqiao Town, Dali City, China
Contact: +86-18608724126
Image credit: Ctrip
Nestled beside Baisha Ancient Town, Xueyu Qieman B&B Baisha (雪屿·且慢民宿) is the kind of peaceful escape that makes you want to put your phone on do not disturb. The rooms here start from RMB507/night and are super spacious, with heated floors and bathtubs for you to soak away all the aches from exploring. Bonus: request for a milk bath – we tried soaking our feet, and let’s just say it gave us baby-soft skin.
There are daily breakfasts and desserts provided at fixed timings, but if you’re heading out early to one of the sunrise spots, the staff can pack a simple meal for you to bring along. You might also spot the staff’s furry companions – their cats and dogs often hang out around the property during the day.
Book a stay at Xueyu Qieman B&B Baisha.
Address: No. 56, Group 3, Zhongyi Village, Baisha Village Committee, Yulong, China
Contact: +86-15687273116
Image credit: Ctrip
If you want to stay inside the charming Dukezong Ancient Town in Shangri-La, Xiaokou Chaifei Inn (小扣柴扉客栈) is your best bet. It’s nestled inside the town, giving you that old-world Tibetan vibe from the get-go.
Since cars can’t enter the ancient town, the owner will personally come fetch you and your luggage with a buggy – talk about top-tier hospitality. The inn itself has a warm, homely vibe, with rooms starting from just RMB252/night. And like the previous 2 stays, you’ll get to meet their adorable in-house cats and doggos.
Book a stay at Xiaokou Chaifei Inn.
Address: No. 3, Pijiangpo Yamen Corridor, Dukezong Ancient Town, Jiantang Town, Shangri-La, China
Contact: +86-19108878919
Image credit: @alisa918918 via RED
If you’re visiting the Feilai Temple Scenic Area near Deqin, Deqin View Paradise Hotel (德钦观景天堂大酒店) is the place to stay, and yes – it lives up to its name. Perched on one of the highest vantage points in the area, this hotel gives you front-row seats to the stunning Meili Snow Mountain that’s especially magical at sunrise when the peaks glow a golden hue.
You’ll want to make sure your alarm is set before sunrise, because this is one moment you won’t want to miss. Rooms go from RMB877/night, and while the hotel leans more traditional than trendy, the million-dollar views more than make up for it.
Book a stay at Deqin View Paradise Hotel.
Address: In Feilai Temple Scenic Area, Deqin, 674599, China
Contact: +86-887-8419999
Since you’ve just endured hours of travel, ease into your trip with a chill stroll through Dali Ancient Town (大理古城). This pedestrian-friendly area is filled with traditional Bai-style architecture, old temples, and lively alleys lined with shops, street food, and bubble tea stores – you’ll even spot some brands we don’t have in Singapore.
It’s a great spot to get those first few Instagram shots. Look out for landmarks like the South Gate, Wuhua Tower (五华楼), and even a quaint Catholic church (天主堂) tucked within the ancient walls. If you’re doing a full loop through the town, set aside about 4 hours.
Once you’ve grabbed a bite and checked into your stay, make your way to Xizhou Ancient Town (喜洲古镇), where you’ll be surrounded by old-school alleys with views of Cangshan Mountain (苍山) as your backdrop.
Snap a few pics at the Insta-famous tiled wall, then fuel up with stir-fried mushrooms and pork, a local favourite. If you’re souvenir hunting, look out for the Tile Cat (瓦猫) figurines, which are believed to bring good luck and ward off evil. Inclusive of dinner, you’ll likely spend around 3 hours here before heading back to rest.
The view of Erhai Lake from a B&B in Shiling Village.
Image credit: Ariel Soh
If you’re up for it, set your alarm for 7am to catch the sunrise over Erhai Lake (洱海). Shiling Village (石岭村) street is one of the best places to watch the sunrise from, and you can always head back for a quick nap after. But if you’re in the mood to keep the vibe going, rent a bicycle and pedal along the lakeside paths. The air is crisp, and the lake views are calming – there’s no better way to start your morning.
Image credit: @798449522 via RED
Your scenic road trip to Lijiang begins here. Shuanglang Ancient Town (双廊古镇) is a quieter alternative to Dali’s bustling old towns, with its laid-back charm that’s ideal for unwinding. Meander through cobblestone streets flanked by rustic Bai-style houses and cute souvenir stores. You’ll spot plenty of lakeside cafes where you can just chill and enjoy the view of Erhai Lake.
One of the must-visit cafes in the area for the ‘gram is Sun Palace (太阳宫). This aesthetic gem offers sweeping views of the lake that was once the residence of famous Chinese dancer Yang Liping. Entry is RMB128, which includes a beautifully curated dessert set. While you don’t get to pick what goes into your dessert platter, rest assured that they all taste as good as they look. A crowd favourite is the matcha-flavoured mountain-shaped cake.
There is no exact address for this spot, but you can search for “杨丽萍太阳宫艺术空间” on the Amap app (App Store | Google Play) and follow the directions there.
Image credit: @baiyang24 via RED
Little Putuo (小普陀) is a tiny island temple on Erhai Lake that looks like something straight out of a fantasy film. There’s a small bridge-like path you can walk along to get a closer view and snap some pics. If you’re feeling extra, hop on a boat ride for RMB15 to get to the temple itself. Otherwise, you’ll be in and out of here in under 20 minutes.
Next up is Li Xiang Bang (理想邦), a Santorini-inspired town that looks like it was plucked straight from a travel brochure. Everywhere you look, you’ll see whitewashed walls, domed rooftops, and lots of boutique homestays overlooking the lake. It’s one of the most photogenic places on this itinerary, so be sure to be in your best fit.
You’ll have to climb lots of stairs here, so pace yourself. But once you’re done snapping pics and exploring, you’ve got a 2-hour car ride to Lijiang to catch a well-earned break.
Address: Lixiang Bang Small Town, Qichang Village, Haidong District, Dali, Yunnan, Dali, China
Once you’ve checked in to your next B&B in Lijiang, wind down with a feast at Jun Wang Fu (菌王府). Mushrooms are a big deal in Yunnan cuisine, and this place specialises in wild mushroom hotpot that’ll cost about RMB98 per person.
Don’t be surprised when they plonk a 30-minute hourglass on your table – it’s to ensure the Morchella and Collybia albuminosa mushrooms are fully cooked and safe to eat. You’ll also get rice, condiments, and sides to complete your meal.
This is one of those spots where you’ll want to take it slow, so sit back and savour your dinner before calling it a night.
Image credit: @JJLIN0930 via RED
If you’ve been dreaming of that epic sunrise over snow-capped peaks, this is your chance. Get up extra early and make your way to Gan Hai Zi (甘海子) before 7am. This is one of the best spots to catch the sun rising behind Yulong Snow Mountain. The glow hitting the icy summit is truly magical, especially when the sky shifts to soft hues of orange and pink.
Address: At the foot of Yulong Snow Mountain, Lijiang City, China
Image credit: @181555752 via RED
After the sunrise, it’s time to get up close with the iconic Yulong Snow Mountain (玉龙雪山). First, you’ll need to grab an entry ticket (RMB100/pax) to enter – this is usually paid to the ticketing staff who’ll approach your car as you arrive.
Then, to ride the cable car up and hike up the mountain, you’ll need another ticket for Glacier Park (冰川公园) that costs RMB140/pax. These tickets sell out fast, so you’ll have to snatch tickets online via the Lijiang Tourism Group’s WeChat page, which are released 7 days in advance at 8pm. Simply open up WeChat and type “丽江旅游集团” into the search bar to find their page.
Image credit: @1Ran via RED
As you’ll be climbing for 2 to 4 hours and ascending to an altitude of 4,680m, make sure to prepare some snacks as well as purchase 2 oxygen cans per person. The altitude can hit hard, so better to be safe than sorry. Once you’re up there, though, the views are unreal – jagged snowy peaks, endless landscapes, and clouds that look like they’re within arm’s reach.
After conquering the mountain, give your legs a break and catch the Impressions of Lijiang show (印象丽江) for RMB280/pax. This 1-hour outdoor performance is staged at the base of Yulong Snow Mountain, with the real snowy peaks as your natural backdrop – talk about next-level theatre.
The show is directed by Zhang Yimou, the renowned Chinese filmmaker behind the 2008 Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremony, and the brains behind visually stunning films like House of Flying Daggers and Hero. So you already know you’re in for a treat.
Expect over hundreds of performers, many from local tribes like the Naxi, Yi, and Bai communities. There are even dozens of live horses involved in the show, galloping dramatically across the stage while performers do stunts on top of them. The performance blends traditional music, tribal rituals, and powerful choreography to tell stories of love, war, and resilience. The heart-warming scenes are so moving, we even got teary-eyed by the end.
If you still have some energy left, make your way to Yun Shan Ping (云杉坪), another scenic area near the base of the mountain. This tranquil grassland is surrounded by dense forests and offers yet another stunning angle of Yulong Snow Mountain.
The journey involves a scenic cable car ride (RMB60/pax including round trip) and a short nature walk where you might spot wild cows lazily grazing. Similar to Glacier Park, you’ll have to get tickets 7 days in advance, but this time, they’re released at 9pm.
Image credit: @反派月光 via RED
End your action-packed day at Blue Moon Valley (蓝月谷), named after its moon-shaped pools and turquoise waters. The river gets its vibrant blue hue from the white limestone deposits beneath, and trust us, it’s nothing like anything you’ll find in Singapore.
With wooden boardwalks winding around the water and mini waterfalls cascading down the cliffs, it’ll feel like you’ve stepped into an anime. Don’t forget to charge your phone, as you’ll want to capture every angle.
If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to live in a Miyazaki film, Wildland (荒野之国) is your answer. This quirky, fairytale-like space is filled with whimsical structures made from recycled materials. Think a house on wheels that gives off serious Howl’s Moving Castle vibes, mini villages, and funky hand-built vehicles you can actually drive for RMB50/10 minutes.
Image credit: @荒野之国 via RED
Admission is RMB80 per adult, and kids under 1.2m enter free. Be prepared for plenty of quirky photo ops, hilarious group shots, and moments of “wait, what is that?” energy throughout this unusual wonderland.
Address: North side of Snow Mountain Art Town, COART Village, Dongyang Road, Gucheng District, Lijiang City, China
Contact: +17-308886597
Next, head over to Zhongyi Market (忠义市场), a bustling food hub popular among locals. This is where you’ll really get a taste of everyday life in Lijiang. Try street food like BBQ skewers grilled to perfection, and don’t miss delicacies like yak milk tea and juicy yak meat buns.
Located at the foot of Yulong Snow Mountain, Yuhu Village (玉湖村) is a hidden gem that offers stunning views, peaceful vibes, and a glimpse into traditional Naxi culture.
The highlight of the village would be the scenic area near Dragon Maiden Lake (龙女湖), a lake known for its mirror-like reflections of the surrounding landscape. It’s not as crowded as Blue Moon Valley, so you’ll have space to soak it all in without fighting for photo ops.
We opted for the horse ride option to get there from the main entrance, which costs RMB168, inclusive of the admission fee.
The village itself serves up some spectacular views of the mountains, too. And one must-visit spot is Fangma Huotang Restaurant (放马火塘餐厅), a cosy firepit-style eatery where they are known for their chicken soup and barbequed yak meat.
Image credit: @祎璠 via RED
Round off your day with a visit to the iconic Lijiang Ancient Town (丽江古城) – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You could easily spend hours here just wandering, nomming on street food, shopping, and taking in the historic atmosphere.
Image adapted from: @旅游推荐官阿星 & @Felix via RED
While you’re here, don’t miss these iconic photo spots: the Giant Water Wheels (大水车) at the town’s north gate, the majestic Mufu Palace (木府), and the romantic Stone Bridge (大石桥) adorned with vibrant flowers. Just nearby, you’ll find an alley decorated with oil-paper umbrellas. Come golden hour, the soft lighting and lanterns bring out all the nostalgic vibes – it’s a picture-perfect way to end your day in Lijiang.
Compared to the action-packed days before, Day 5 is a little more laid-back – but that’s because you’ll be spending quite a bit of time on the road as you journey from Lijiang to Shangri-La. That said, the sights and activities along the way are anything but boring, especially at the first stop.
Time to swap cobblestones for cliffs. The legendary Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡) (RMB15/pax) is one of the world’s deepest gorges, and the hike here is not for the faint-hearted. Expect narrow, steep steps and the occasional splash from the roaring Jinsha River (金沙劈流).
Watching people pose for this IRL was hilarious.
Image credit: @Arrow0203 via RED
Watch your step as you make your way down to the famed Tiger Leaping Stone (虎跳石) – a large rock sitting in the middle of the rapids. It’s a popular photo spot, and if you want to get a shot of the “death pose,” you would have to hire the photographers there for the railings to be edited out of your pics. The hike back up is the real test, but you can take the shortcut up using ladders bolted into the cliff – it costs RMB10, but definitely worth it if your legs are screaming.
Image credit: @卡皮大宝 via RED
After roughly 2 to 3 hours on the road, you’ll arrive at Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城), officially in the heart of Shangri-La. This is where you’ll likely check into your next stay, so take a breather before heading out to explore. It’s one of the best-preserved Tibetan towns in China, complete with historical architecture, cobbled lanes, and souvenir shops.
Image credit: @Mamihlapinatapai via RED
Head up to the world’s largest prayer wheel that’s over 20 metres tall and so massive it takes a whole squad to get it turning. The tradition is to spin it 3 times to rack up those good vibes and blessings, so gather your travel crew and start pushing. Once the sun sets, the town comes alive with a warm glow. You’ll even catch large groups of people dancing away happily, with zero care in the world.
Today, you’ll be travelling to Feilai Si Town (飞来寺镇), the final spot you’ll be spending the night at.
Start your day with some spiritual grounding at Songzanlin Temple (松赞林寺), Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. The entrance fee is RMB90 and includes a short bus ride to the site. You’ll get to explore golden-roofed halls, intricate murals, and rows of fluttering prayer flags – all surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
There’s also a free monk-led tour, where you’ll learn about the temple’s history, the meaning behind certain Buddhist beliefs, and the lives of the hundreds of monks who live here.
Image credit: @100898668 via RED
Next up is a scenic pitstop. The First Bend of the Jinsha River (金沙江大拐弯) is exactly what it sounds like – a massive U-turn of the Yangtze River’s upper reaches as it snakes through the mountains. It’s a beautiful sight, especially from the high-altitude platform, where the contrast between the turquoise waters and brown canyon cliffs is absolutely stunning.
Finally, you’ll settle in for the night at Feilai Si Town (飞来寺镇), a peaceful village best known for its view of Meili Snow Mountain. The views here are nothing short of epic. If the weather’s clear, you might even spot Kawagebo Peak (卡瓦格博), Yunnan’s tallest mountain.
Image credit: @539592232 via RED
This is also one of the best sunrise-watching spots in the region – the golden glow hitting the snowy peaks is a sight to remember. At night, everything quiets down, and it’s the perfect setting for stargazing. With the high altitude and minimal light pollution, you’ll see a sky full of stars – a dreamy way to end your day.
Address: Xishan, Kunming, Yunnan, 650105, China
For the last day, you’ll be making your way down from Feilai Si Town and heading back towards the area around Dukezong Ancient Town, as it’s nearer to Shangri-La’s airport.
Swing by Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城) one last time, this time to glam up. The area is dotted with costume rental stalls offering full Tibetan traditional outfits complete with accessories and makeup. From RMB88, you’ll be kitted out in vibrant robes, shiny jewellery, and hairpieces.
Image credit: @程小绯 摄影师 via RED
Choose to fork out about RMB360 for a professional photographer who will guide you on poses, pick scenic backdrops, and even provide props for that perfect shot. We recommend heading to Napahai (纳帕海) nearby, where the wide open plains and mountainous backdrop make for a stunning photoshoot location.
Image credit: @泡芙肉丸和师师 via 小红书
Round off your Shangri-La trip with a bit of cultural immersion at the Heritage Experience Centre (古城非遗体验中心) that’s also located in Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城). Here, you’ll learn about Tibetan thangka (唐卡) painting – a traditional art form with spiritual significance. After the staff explains the meanings behind the different designs, you can pick one that resonates with you and paint it yourself.
There’s also a quick intro to edible Tibetan incense and how the taste of it reflects on your health. Best part is it’s free to join, and you can pay RMB10 to seal your thangka as a keepsake.
That’s right, Yunnan has way more to offer than you might expect – from ancient towns steeped in history to snow-capped mountains and picture-perfect lakeside villages. Whether you’re in it for the scenic hikes, IG-worthy cafes, or unique local experiences like thangka painting and Tibetan costume shoots, this 7D6N Yunnan itinerary has it all mapped out for you.
Use it as your trusty guide for an epic China trip or mix and match the stops to suit your travel style. Either way, you’ll leave with pictures worth framing and memories worth reliving.
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Cover image adapted from: @nisi66 via RED
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