D1: Lijiang – Lijiang Ancient Town
Meal: Lunch
Your private guide and driver will meet you in Lijiang and take you to explore the charming Lijiang Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved historic towns in China.
Take a leisurely walk through the old town’s narrow stone-paved lanes, traditional Naxi-style houses, canals and historic bridges. Along the way, discover local shops, cafés and small courtyards while enjoying the distinctive atmosphere of this historic mountain town.
Your guide will introduce you to the history and culture of the Naxi people and explain how Lijiang developed as an important trading center in southwestern China.
After sightseeing, return to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight: Lijiang
D2: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain – Black Dragon Pool
Meal: Lunch
After breakfast, your private guide and driver will meet you at your hotel and travel to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, one of the most spectacular natural attractions near Lijiang.
Rising to 5,596 meters above sea level, the mountain is known for its snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows and forests. Depending on weather conditions and the day’s arrangements, enjoy the mountain scenery and explore the designated scenic areas with your guide.
In the afternoon, return to Lijiang and visit Black Dragon Pool Park, a scenic area famous for its traditional Chinese architecture, clear pools and beautiful views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Stroll around the ponds and gardens and enjoy the classic landscape of mountains, water, bridges and pavilions. The park has also been associated with Lijiang’s religious and cultural traditions throughout its history.
After the visit, return to your hotel in Lijiang.
Overnight: Lijiang
D3: Lijiang – Tiger Leaping Gorge – Shangri-La
Meal: Lunch
Today, leave Lijiang and travel towards Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the most spectacular river gorges in Yunnan.
Located along the Jinsha River, the gorge is surrounded by the dramatic peaks of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain. The narrow gorge, powerful river and towering mountains create an impressive landscape for hiking and sightseeing.
Enjoy a trek along a selected section of the Tiger Leaping Gorge trail. Your guide will choose a suitable route according to your fitness level, weather conditions and trail conditions.
After the hike, continue your journey toward Shangri-La, a highland city known for its Tibetan culture, mountain scenery and traditional villages.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax.
Overnight: Shangri-La
D4: Songzanlin Monastery – Pudacuo National Park
Meal: Lunch
After breakfast, visit Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery complex in Yunnan and one of the most important cultural landmarks in the Shangri-La region.
Built in the late 17th century, the monastery is closely associated with the Gelug school of Tibetan Buddhism. Its imposing buildings, golden roofs, murals and religious artwork create a striking architectural landscape against the surrounding mountains.
Explore the monastery complex with your guide and learn about Tibetan Buddhist traditions and the history of the region. Its grand architecture has earned it the popular nickname “Little Potala Palace.”
In the afternoon, continue to Pudacuo National Park, one of the best-known nature areas around Shangri-La. The park features alpine meadows, forests, lakes and wetlands, providing an opportunity to experience the highland ecosystem of northwest Yunnan.
Depending on seasonal conditions and park access, explore the scenic area around Bita Lake and enjoy a peaceful walk through the highland landscape.
After sightseeing, return to Shangri-La.
Overnight: Shangri-La
D5: Departure from Shangri-La
Meal: Lunch
After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Shangri-La or take a short walk around the city according to your departure schedule.
Your guide and driver will then transfer you to Shangri-La Airport or Shangri-La Railway Station for your onward journey.
Your 5-day Lijiang, Tiger Leaping Gorge and Shangri-La tour ends here.