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Head off-the-beaten-track to discover beautiful landscapes, colourful
ethnic diversity and picturesque ancient towns, just some of the
many reasons why Yunnan makes for an unforgettable experience that
appeals in particular to those integrated in China’s more
remote regions.
DAY 1
Thai Airways overnight from Heathrow to Kunming via Bangkok (Cathay
Pacific via Hong Kong for those taking the Hong Kong extension)
and transfer to the hotel Kunming for two nights. The following
day commences
with a visit to the dramatic and beguiling Stone Forest. Known since
the Ming Dynasty as the ‘First Wonder of the World’,
the forest is an immense collection of limestone pillars shaped
by centuries of rain and wind into their peculiar form. On your
return to Kunming visit the Sani Tribe village of Qi Xin.
DAY 4
A short morning flight with China Eastern Airlines to Dali and transfer
to the Landscape hotel for two nights. After lunch visit Lake Erhai,
the seventh largest freshwater lake in China. With its shores fringed
by tiny Bai minority villages, enjoy a leisurely scenic cruise across
its calm jade waters. Return to the cobbled streets and traditional
stone architecture of Dali for a visit to the picturesque Old Town,
replete with original gates and renovated city walls.
DAY 5
Today begins with a leisurely morning tour of the world renowned
Song Dynasty Three Pagodas. Occupying a truly scenic location at
the foot of Mount Cangshan, framing the mirroring waters of Lake
Erhai, over 1,800 years of history are waiting to be uncovered.
Together they have stood the test of time, surviving numerous earthquakes
over the centuries and are today an unmissable part of any tour
of the Yunnan. Later visit the Caicun Bai village on the edge of
Lake Erhai before returning to Dali.
DAY 6
Depart Dali for a scenic journey to Lijiang, visiting en route an
ethnic Xizhou village and the picturesque Black Dragon Pool. Arrive
at the Jiannanchun Hotel for three nights, then a pleasurable stroll
around the charming Old Town of Lijiang follows – a well-preserved
UNESCO World Heritage listed town with a history stretching back
over 800 years. Explore the narrow lanes and free-flowing canals
and admire the colourful decorations that adorn the traditional
buildings. Discover also the poignant reason why Lijiang has never
had a defensive city wall.
DAY 7
A comprehensive and rewarding day of sightseeing. Begin with a visit
to the Yak Meadow of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the southernmost
glacier in the Northern Hemisphere. Ascend via a scenic 20 minute
chairlift and absorb panoramic views over the surrounding spectacular
valleys. Then descend to the simple YuHu Naxi minority village in
the foothills of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, where your day continues
with a visit to the picturesque village of Baisha. Enjoy the Liuli
Dian Temple with its ornate Ming Dynasty frescoes and nearby Yufeng
Temple.
DAY 8
A free day for you to relax, discover and explore Lijiang and its
surrounding area. Perhaps return to the Old Town and spend an hour
or two browsing the traditional handicraft shops, or rest in a canalside
café. At night, Lijiang is a hive of colourful activity,
traditionally dressed Naxi girls sing across the canals to each
other while lotus candles float majestically along the canals and
bright red lanterns sway in the wind.
DAY 9
After breakfast a visit to the first bend of the Yangtze, the mother
river of China. Take time to enjoy the vista of lush vegetation
and majestic mountains that rise up from its banks. Discover also
the 16th Century Stone Drum that commemorates a landmark victory
over an invading Tibetan army. Continue to the eponymous Tiger Leaping
Gorge where legend dictates a tiger narrowly avoided capture by
leaping from one side of the gorge to another, then after lunch
drive to Zhongdian for a three night stay at the Gyalthang Dzong.
DAY 10
An interesting and educating day tour begins with a visit to Songzhanlin
Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Built
in the 17th Century during the reign of the Great Fifth Dalai Lama
its impressive façade is a replica of the fabled Potala Palace
in Lhasa. Enjoy a revealing home visit to a local Tibetan family
to learn about their rustic way of life and experience traditional
Tibetan hospitality. Later tour the endearing Old Town of Zhongdian
with the evening at leisure.
DAY 11
A scenic day trip to the irrepressibly beautiful Bitahai Lake Nature
Reserve. Hidden within a blanket of dense thick oak and azalea trees,
the area surrounding this reflective freshwater lake is rich in
rare flora and fauna.
DAY 12
A morning flight with China Eastern Airlines to Kunming and a short
tour of the colourful flower market and Golden Palace. Later fly
Thai Airways to Heathrow via Bangkok, arriving the next day.
The Yunnan Explorer tour is accompanied from Day 2 to Day 12 by
an experienced English speaking guide.
The tour includes:
- Porterage of one suitcase per person
- Transport by coach or minibus and any internal flights
- Superior medium and first class accommodation
- Sightseeing as indicated and all entrance fees
MINIMUM NUMBERS: The Yunnan Explorer tour is subject to a minimum
number of passengers.
TOUR SUITABILITY: Due to the high altitude of some of the destinations
included, this tour is not suitable for those with walking or breathing
difficulties.
EXTENSIONS: Extend your tour with up to 3 nights or more in Bangkok
at the Holiday Inn Silom (Superior) up to 5 nights or more on the
beaches of Sanya at the Marriott Resort (Deluxe mountainview) or
Phuket at the Cape
Panwa (Standard). Pre tour nights in Kunming, Bangkok and Hong Kong
are also available. Extensions and pre tour nights are unescorted
however local assistance is available. |
