China · Highlands · 8–12 days
Yunnan
云南
Yunnan is a chain of distinct landscapes and cultures. A first route can follow Kunming, Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La, gradually moving from lake basins into the Tibetan plateau.
云南是一连串截然不同的地貌与文化。经典首次路线可从昆明出发，经大理、丽江抵达香格里拉，从湖泊盆地逐渐进入高原。
Plan around the season
When to go 什么时候去
Spring / 春季
Comfortable in many lowland areas, with flowers and clear walking weather.
Summer / 夏季
Green landscapes, but June to September is rainy in the northwest. Keep hiking days flexible.
Autumn / 秋季
Clearer skies and strong mountain visibility often suit the northwest route.
Winter / 冬季
Dry and bright in many places, with large day–night temperature swings.
Suggested itinerary 推荐行程
Kunming / 昆明
Settle in, explore local food and lakeside neighborhoods, and organize the onward train.
Dali / 大理
Divide time between Dali Old Town, villages around Erhai and the Cangshan foothills.
Lijiang & Shuhe / 丽江与束河
See Lijiang early, then slow down in Shuhe or nearby Naxi communities.
Shangri-La / 香格里拉
Ascend gradually, keep the first day light, then explore Dukezong, Songzanlin and one nature day.
Practical notes 实用信息
- Shangri-La is around 3,200 metres. Ascend gradually and seek medical advice for serious symptoms.
- Rail links the core cities; a local driver is useful for village loops and mountain corridors.
- Ask before photographing people, religious spaces, ceremonies, or private homes.