Yunnan Road Trip Itinerary
The Yunnan Road Trip is an unforgettable journey through some of the most stunning landscapes and historical sites in China. Starting in Kunming, the journey takes you on a 1908 km route through Dali, Lijiang, Lugu Lake, Shangri-La, Meili Snow Mountain and Yunling, ending in Lijiang. The best time of year to drive this route is from April to October, when the weather is warmer and the roads are in good condition.
The journey is full of incredible experiences, from UNESCO Heritage sites such as the Old Town of Lijiang, to the stunning Lugu Lake, and the Meili Snow Mountain, the highest peak in Yunnan province. Along the route, you can also take time to explore the many smaller towns, each with its own unique culture and history.
The Yunnan Road Trip is suitable for all drivers, and can be managed on a reasonable budget. With 13 days to complete the journey, there is plenty of time to take in the incredible sights and sounds of this beautiful part of China, creating memories and experiences that will last a lifetime.
13
number of days
1,945 km
route length
moderate
budget
tourist
good for
on the right
traffic direction
moderate
accident level
Yunnan Mountains
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START
Kunming
Distance 1,945 km
Driving time 35.9 h
Pace: modest
505.6 kWh
Airports
KMG
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Kunming, situated in Yunnan province of China, is the perfect starting point for the "Yunnan Road Trip". It is rich in culture, history, and natural beauty and offers a plethora of sights to explore. Kunming is home to the Dianchi Lake, Stone Forest National Park, and Yuantong Temple, which are some of the most popular tourist spots. The city is also known for its beautiful gardens, such as the Green Lake Park and Cuihu Park.
For those traveling by air, Kunming Changshui International Airport (IATA: KMG) is the closest international airport. At the airport, there are several car rental companies offering cars for rent, making it easy to travel around the city and explore the region.
Kunming is a great place to start a road trip and explore the beauty of Yunnan province. From here, you can visit the incredible landscapes and ancient cities, as well as experience the unique culture of the province.
1
Kunming
- Dali
Distance 350 km
Driving time 4.1 h
Pace: fast
105.1 kWh
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Are you ready for a thrilling road trip from Kunming to Dali? This 345km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours and will allow you to explore some of the most interesting places in China!
Start your journey in Kunming, where you can visit the Green Lake Park, a beautiful park with a lake and a temple, and the Western Hills, a mountain range with stunning views of the city.
Then, drive to Dali, the old city of the Bai people. Here, you can explore the Three Pagodas, a group of ancient Buddhist pagodas, and the Erhai Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in China. You can also visit the Ancient City of Dali, a walled city with cobbled streets and traditional houses.
More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and let's hit the road!
Dali - China - Asia - Road Trip - Needpix.com
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2
Dali
- Shaxi
Distance 152 km
Driving time 2.9 h
Pace: modest
39.6 kWh
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Welcome to the amazing road trip from Dali to Shaxi! The 125 km journey will take you less than 3 hours and it is part of a bigger tour.
Start your journey in Dali, where you can explore the old town’s narrow lanes and visit the Three Pagodas. Then, you can drive to Xizhou, the home of the Bai people. Here you can explore the ancient town and visit the Xizhou Market, where you can buy traditional handicrafts and sample local snacks.
Finally, you will reach Shaxi, a charming village nestled in the mountains. Here you can explore the old theater and visit the Shibaoshan Grottoes.
For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please visit the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Shaxi - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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3
Shaxi
- Lijiang
Distance 101 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
30.2 kWh
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Embark on a 102 km journey from Shaxi to Lijiang, a drive that will take you fewer than two hours! This stage of your road trip will bring you to some of the most interesting places in China.
Start off in Shaxi, a small village in the foothills of the Himalayas. Here, you can explore some of China’s oldest temples and traditional markets. Then, make your way to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Ancient Town of Lijiang, where you can take a stroll through the cobbled streets and explore the old city walls. As you travel along the route, be sure to take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
End your journey in Lijiang, a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful ancient architecture, vibrant culture, and stunning natural scenery. Here, you can explore the Old Town, visit the Naxi Ancient Music Performance, and take a cable car up to the Tiger Leaping Gorge.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
Lijiang - China - Asia - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Lijiang
- Lijiang
Distance 38 km
Driving time 1.4 h
Pace: slow
8.7 kWh
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Embark on a breathtaking journey through the picturesque landscape of Lijiang and Yulong, which is only 40 km and takes less than two hours to drive. This stage of your road trip is a great chance to explore the UNESCO Heritage sites along the way. Start in Lijiang and make your way to Yulong, where you can find the Yulong Snow Mountain and the Baisha Mural. Admire the stunning views of the mountain range and the ancient murals. The Baisha Mural is a great example of the fusion of different cultures in the region. After your visit, head back to Lijiang, where you can explore the Old Town and the Naxi Dongba Culture Museum. The Old Town is a great place to experience the local culture and the museum is an excellent opportunity to learn about the Naxi people. There is more to explore along the route and you can find more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites in the Itinerary of this stage. So, get ready to explore the best of Lijiang and Yulong!
5
Lijiang
- Lugu Lake
Distance 189 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: modest
49.1 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Lijiang to Lugu Lake! This 189 km drive takes you through some of the most beautiful and captivating regions of China. Along the way, you will be able to visit some of the most interesting places, such as the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the Tiger Leaping Gorge, and the Lugu Lake.
The Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is a stunning natural wonder with a peak of over 5,500 meters. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape and is a great place to take a few pictures. The Tiger Leaping Gorge is a deep canyon carved by the Yangtze River and is known for its breathtaking views and its incredible geological formations. Finally, the Lugu Lake is a beautiful and secluded lake surrounded by lush forests and snow-capped mountains.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, so make sure to check out the "Itinerary" for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. With fewer than 4 hours of driving time, this road trip will be an unforgettable experience!
Lugu Lake - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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Lugu Lake
- Lugu Lake
Distance 50 km
Driving time 1.9 h
Pace: slow
11.5 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting at Lugu Lake, China and ending back at the same point after a 49 km drive. Along the way, you will get to explore the fascinating sites of Dazu, with its incredible rock carvings, some of which are UNESCO Heritage sites. This journey will take you less than two hours, but you will be able to take in the beauty of the area and enjoy a few stops along the way. From the picturesque landscapes of the lake to the historical sites of Dazu, you will be sure to have a memorable experience. Make sure to take time to admire the incredible rock carvings, as well as the amazing views of the lake. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your journey!
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Lugu Lake
- Lijiang
Distance 186 km
Driving time 3.4 h
Pace: modest
48.4 kWh
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Embark on a road trip through the beautiful Chinese countryside, starting at Lugu Lake and ending in Lijiang. This scenic journey takes you on a drive of 187km and takes less than 3 hours. Along the way, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the UNESCO Heritage sites, such as the Old Town of Lijiang and the Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas. As you drive, you will be surrounded by stunning landscapes, from lush forests to snow-capped mountains. Make sure to keep your eyes open for other historical sites and attractions that you may find along the way. Once you arrive in Lijiang, you will be able to enjoy the city's unique culture, cuisine, and architecture. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
8
Lijiang
- Shangri-La
Distance 193 km
Driving time 3.2 h
Pace: modest
50.1 kWh
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Lijiang to Shangri-La! This 191 km route takes you through one of the most stunning natural landscapes in China - the Tiger Leaping Gorge. This 3 hour journey is part of a larger tour, but you can also enjoy it as a stand-alone experience.
Start your journey in Lijiang and make sure to visit the Old Town, with its cobbled streets and traditional Naxi architecture. Then, hit the road and make your way to the Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Yangtze River and the snow-capped Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Finally, you will reach Shangri-La, a place of mythical beauty. Explore the old Tibetan town of Dukezong, with its colorful houses and ancient prayer wheels. Don't forget to visit the Songzanlin Monastery, one of the most important monasteries in Yunnan Province.
For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Shangri-La - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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9
Shangri-La
- Shangri-La
Distance 16 km
Driving time 0.9 h
Pace: slow
3.6 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip through Shangri-La, China, and its neighboring Songzanlin. Start your journey in Shangri-La, where you can explore the tranquil Pudacuo National Park and the iconic Songzanlin Monastery. Then, take a 12km drive to Songzanlin, where you can marvel at the magnificent architecture of the Dabaoji Palace. Afterward, take a short drive back to Shangri-La, where you can explore the historic Old Town and the majestic Napahai Lake.
Along the way, you can take advantage of the many attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites. To get the most out of your trip, make sure to check out the itinerary of this stage for more information.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip through Shangri-La and Songzanlin. With fewer than 1 hours of driving time, you can explore some of the most beautiful places in China.
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Shangri-La
- Meili Snow Mountain
Distance 202 km
Driving time 3.9 h
Pace: modest
52.5 kWh
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If you’re looking for an unforgettable road trip, Shangri-La to Meili Snow Mountain is the perfect stage for you. This 198 km journey will take you less than 4 hours and will show you some of the most beautiful places in China. Start your journey in Shangri-La, a paradise on earth, where you can visit the Pudacuo National Park and take a cruise on the tranquil Bita Lake. As you drive through the stunning countryside, you will arrive at the Meili Snow Mountain, home to the Kawagebo Peak. Here you can take a cable car up to the mountain and explore the ancient monasteries and temples. You can also take a hike through the forest and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t forget to take a dip in the nearby hot springs. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an amazing road trip!
Meili Snow Mountain - China - Asia - Road Trip - Pikrepo
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11
Meili Snow Mountain
- Yunling
Distance 27 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: modest
7.0 kWh
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Embark on a captivating journey from Meili Snow Mountain to Yunling! This 27 km stretch will take you less than an hour to complete, so you can take your time to explore the most interesting places. Start your trip in Meili Snow Mountain, one of the most sacred mountains in China, and take in its breathtaking views. Then, make your way to the stunning Yubeng Village, the starting point of the famous Meili Snow Mountain Trek.
Continue your journey to Feilai Temple, a place full of cultural significance, and marvel at its intricate architecture. After that, make your way to the picturesque and serene Napahai Lake, where you can take in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Then, make a stop at the enchanting Yuhu Village, a traditional Tibetan settlement.
Finally, end your trip in Yunling, a small town surrounded by breathtaking landscapes. Here you can take a stroll around the town and explore the local culture.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your trip!
Yunling - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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12
Yunling
- Tacheng
Distance 244 km
Driving time 5.2 h
Pace: modest
63.3 kWh
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Yunling, China, and explore the stunning landscapes and culture of Cizhong, Weixi, and Tacheng. The journey, spanning 243km and taking less than 5 hours to complete, is a must-do for travelers looking to experience the unique beauty of these three places.
Begin your journey in Yunling, where you can enjoy the mesmerizing views of the Yangtze River, the longest river in China. Then, make your way to Cizhong, a small town with a rich history and culture. Here, you can marvel at the ancient churches, explore the local markets, and take in the breathtaking views of the nearby mountains.
Next, head to Weixi, a place of stunning beauty and rich culture. Here, you can explore the traditional Tibetan villages and enjoy the breathtaking views of the Mekong River. Finally, end your journey in Tacheng, a small town known for its vibrant culture and stunning nature. Take in the views of the nearby mountains and enjoy the local cuisine.
This is just one of the stages of a larger tour. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Start your journey and explore the unique beauty of Yunling, Cizhong, Weixi, and Tacheng!
Tacheng - China - Asia - Road Trip - Wikimedia Commons
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13
Tacheng
- Lijiang
Distance 198 km
Driving time 3.7 h
Pace: modest
51.5 kWh
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Embark on an amazing road trip stage starting in Tacheng, China and ending in Lijiang, just 200 kilometers away. You can reach your destination in less than 3 hours, so make sure you don't miss any of the beautiful places along the way. Start by visiting the Tacheng National Nature Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can spot rare and endangered species of birds and animals. As you drive through the stunning countryside, you'll come across the stunning Tiger Leaping Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can take in the incredible views of the Yangtze River. You'll also pass by the picturesque Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Finally, you'll arrive in Lijiang, a charming city with a rich cultural heritage. Here, you can explore the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and take in the stunning architecture and traditional Chinese culture. Make sure to check out the nearby Black Dragon Pool and the Naxi Ancient Music Show for a truly unique experience. With so much to explore, you won't want to miss a single stop along the way. For more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage.
Lijiang
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Lijiang, the end of the Yunnan Road Trip, is a beautiful, picturesque city in the Chinese province of Yunnan. Nestled in the foothills of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, the old city of Lijiang has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique architecture, cobbled streets and canals. Its cobblestone streets, canals, and bridges have earned it the nickname “Venice of the Orient”.
The city’s most famous attraction is the Lion Hill. It is a popular spot to take in the views of the town, mountains and the nearby Black Dragon Pool. Other attractions include the nearby Baisha Village, a centuries-old village that is home to many of Lijiang’s ethnic minority residents, the Dongba Culture Museum, where visitors can learn about the ancient Naxi culture, and the Old Town of Lijiang, a well-preserved old city that is a delight to explore.
For those taking the Yunnan Road Trip, the nearest international airport is Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG). From there, you can take a bus or taxi to Lijiang. The journey takes approximately four hours.
Lijiang is a city of immense beauty, with its cobbled streets, canals, bridges, and stunning mountain views. It is a great place to end your Yunnan Road Trip, and a must-see destination for anyone traveling to China.
Yunnan Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Kunming
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End:
Lijiang
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Distance:
1,945 km
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Stay:
13 days
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Getting there:
Kunming Changshui International Airport (KMG)
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When to drive:
May, June, July, August, September
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on an awe-inspiring 1908 km journey through the Yunnan province, a region often celebrated as the most culturally and geographically diverse in China. Your Road Trip starts in the vibrant city of Kunming and takes you through a tapestry of stunning landscapes and millennia-old history. You'll explore the charming towns of Dali and Lijiang, encounter the serene Lugu Lake, immerse yourself in the mystical ambiance of Shangri-La, marvel at the towering Meili Snow Mountain, and traverse the rugged terrain of Yunling. The adventure concludes in Lijiang, leaving you with a treasure trove of memories.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Kunming: Often referred to as the 'City of Eternal Spring' for its pleasant climate, Kunming is the multicultural capital of Yunnan, famed for the Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage site of natural limestone formations over 270 million years old.
- Dali: Home to the majestic Cangshan Mountains and the vast Erhai Lake, Dali captivates with its rich cultural heritage, including the well-preserved Chongsheng Temple complex and the iconic Three Pagodas dating back to the 9th century.
- Lijiang: A UNESCO World Heritage site, Lijiang's Old Town is a maze of cobbled streets, traditional Nakhi architecture, and bustling markets, all set against the backdrop of the magnificent Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, which offers breathtaking views and outdoor activities.
- Lugu Lake: Nestled at an altitude of 2,685 meters, Lugu Lake is celebrated for its pristine waters and the fascinating matriarchal society of the Mosuo people, who practice a form of communal living and maintain ancient cultural traditions.
- Shangri-La: This mystical high-altitude town is home to the Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, an important Tibetan Buddhist temple complex known as the 'Little Potala Palace,' featuring stunning architecture and precious Buddhist artworks.
- Meili Snow Mountain: With peaks soaring over 6,000 meters, including the sacred Kawagebo, Meili Snow Mountain is revered by Tibetan Buddhists and offers some of the most dramatic trekking and photographic opportunities in Yunnan.
- Yunling: Explore the lesser-known Yunling region within the Three Parallel Rivers National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where the majestic mountains of the Lesser Himalayas converge with the Yangtze, Mekong, and Salween rivers, creating a biodiversity hotspot.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time to embark on the Yunnan Road Trip is from April to October, when the weather is milder and the Roads are more navigable. During this period, the province's flora is in full bloom and traditional festivals often take place, providing a colorful glimpse into local customs.
Potential Risks:
While the Yunnan Road Trip offers a thrilling experience, it's important to consider the risks of Road closures due to landslides in the rainy season (May to early October) and altitude sickness at high-altitude destinations like Shangri-La (3,200 meters) and Meili Snow Mountain. It is crucial for travelers to monitor weather reports and acclimatize properly.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- To fully appreciate each destination's allure without rushing, a 13-day itinerary is recommended.
- The route is suitable for drivers of all skill levels and offers a range of accommodation and dining options to suit different budgets.
- The journey provides an immersive experience into Yunnan's unique cultural tapestry, including the traditions of the Bai, Nakhi, Tibetan, and Mosuo communities.
- Due to Yunnan's varied climate zones, pack for diverse weather conditions, including warm layers for the mountains and lighter clothing for lower altitudes.
A good choice for:
The Yunnan Road Trip is a remarkable voyage that promises a fusion of spectacular natural wonders, profound cultural encounters, and a journey through history. It's an unmissable adventure for those eager to delve into the heart of one of China's most magical and lesser-explored regions.
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