Secrets of Southwest China (Yunnan & Sichuan)

Grand Tour of Yunnan & Sichuan – 16 Days

Overview

Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and ancient heritage of Yunnan and Sichuan. This 16-day journey takes you through UNESCO-listed wonders, snow-capped mountains, ancient villages, and the famous Panda Conservation Centre. From the Stone Forest of Kunming to the majestic Grand Buddha of Leshan, discover the heart of southwest China.

What’s Included

✔ Accommodation – Hand-picked hotels throughout

✔ Meals – Breakfasts: 14, Lunches: 12, Dinners: 12

✔ Flights – International & domestic flights with current taxes

✔ Transport – Private transfers, comfortable coaches & scenic boat trips

✔ Guided Tours – Expert English-speaking local guides

✔ Entry Fees – Admission to all included attractions

✔ Cultural Experiences – Traditional teahouse visit, Sichuan opera & village tours

Tour Itinerary

Days 1-2: Fly to Kunming

• Overnight flight to Kunming, Yunnan’s vibrant capital.
• Upon arrival, enjoy time at leisure.

Day 3: Stone Forest

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Stone Forest, a unique limestone landscape.
• Sample Kunming’s local delicacy, Across the Bridge Noodles.
• Optional: Enjoy a traditional Yunnan cultural performance.

Day 4: Discover Dali

• Travel to Dali, an ancient city with stunning architecture.
• Explore the old town, lively market, and Three Pagodas.
• Evening stroll down Foreigners’ Street.

Day 5: Erhai Lake Cruise

• Take a scenic boat ride on Erhai Lake, surrounded by the Cang Mountains.
• Afternoon at leisure to explore Dali independently.

Day 6: Travel to Lijiang

• Visit Xizhou Village, home to the Naxi people and their traditional market.
• Arrive in Lijiang, a picturesque town at the base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
• Explore Black Dragon Pool Park for breathtaking mountain views.

Day 7: Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

• Take a cable car up Jade Dragon Snow Mountain for panoramic views.
• Visit Baisha Old Town to see ancient frescoes.
• Stop at the Embroidery School to see traditional craftsmanship.

Day 8: Tiger Leaping Gorge

• Travel to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world.
• Take in the breathtaking mountain scenery before returning to Lijiang.
• Explore the charming old town in the evening.

Day 9: Travel to Wulong

• Fly to Chongqing and transfer to Wulong, a UNESCO-listed geological wonder.
• Explore its limestone karsts, deep gorges, caves, and natural bridges.

Day 10: Three Bridges National Park & Longshuixia Fissure

• Visit the Three Natural Bridges, a rare karst geological wonder.
• Explore Longshuixia Fissure, a dramatic canyon carved by a river.

Day 11: Travel to Leshan

• Take a scenic drive to Leshan.
• Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 12: Grand Buddha of Leshan

• Visit the 71-metre-tall Grand Buddha, carved into the cliffs in 803 AD.
• Take a boat trip for a unique view of the Buddha from the water.
• Continue to Emeishan.

Day 13: Explore Mount Emei

• Take a cable car to the summit of Mount Emei, a sacred Buddhist site.
• Explore ancient temples and enjoy spectacular mountain scenery.

Day 14: Travel to Chengdu

• Journey to Chengdu, Sichuan’s bustling capital.
• Walk along Jinli Street, famous for local snacks and traditional teahouses.
• Optional: Watch a Sichuan Opera performance, famous for its face-changing acts.

Day 15: Panda Conservation Centre

• Visit the Chengdu Panda Conservation Centre to see giant pandas up close.
• Explore People’s Park, visit a teahouse, and witness Matchmaker’s Corner, where parents seek suitors for their children.
• Enjoy a Sichuan hotpot dinner.

Day 16: Fly to the UK

• Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.

Why Choose This Tour?

✅ UNESCO Heritage Sites – Stone Forest, Three Bridges National Park, Grand Buddha of Leshan

✅ Cultural Immersion – Visit traditional villages, watch Sichuan opera & explore Buddhist temples

✅ Scenic Beauty – Tiger Leaping Gorge, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain & Erhai Lake

✅ Unique Wildlife – Get up close with giant pandas at a conservation centre

✅ Hand-Picked Accommodations – Comfortable hotels in prime locations

This 16-day journey through Yunnan & Sichuan is a perfect blend of stunning landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture, offering a truly immersive experience in Southwest China.