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Is Lijiang truly one of China's most beautiful cities? At a height of 2,400 meters at the slopes of the Himalaya, it is certainly an inspiration and a refreshment. Regarded as the Venice of the Orient with its dizzying array of water canals, quaint bridges and cobble-stoned streets, Lijiang was declared an Unesco World Heritage Site in 1997. Lijiang was an important stop on the ancient caravan route to Tibet; it has an ancient history. |
This trip is just an example of what is possible in the province of Yunnan. To get more ideas about Lijiang, read the 'highlights'. |
Day 1: Dali / other city - Lijiang or start in Lijiang
The driver will pick you up in your hotel to start your 180 km drive through mountains, impressive valleys and you encounter many stone masonries. You will also pass the airport of Lijiang, which lies on the border of the Bai Prefecture and the Naxi area.
It will take around three hours to get from Dali to Lijiang. The driver will bring you directly to your hotel. Take it is easy, as you will soon experience the altitude of 2,400 meters.
In the afternoon you have plenty of time to discover the Old Town - car-free - of Lijiang. In the evenings, locals are often dancing and just relaxing at the town square. Take a look, don't miss it.
Channels, narrow streets, daily life and Naxi minority
Lijiang consist in an old and a new part. The old town is a maze of narrow streets along which channels flow. You will find a lot of souvenir shops, on the outside of the old town you will still find the old houses on.
In Lijiang you can find the Naxi minority, the major non-Chinese population. Their houses are decorated with carvings in panels, doors and window frames. Naxi women trade at the local markets in Lijiang.
Lively evenings in lampion-illuminated streets full of concerts
The Old Town is illuminated by red lampions in the evening. You might witness a Naxi concert, or at least other locals singing lirics on the streets; dancing, singing, yelling, drinking. Enjoy!
Day 2: Lijiang - Baisha - Tibettan monastery
After breakfast, the driver will pick you up for a full day touring. First we will visit the old town Baisha with it's old temples and palace with frescos. Maybe, you will meet the famous Dr. Ho. We walk through a typical Naxi-village.
If you have seen everything you like, we continue to a Tibettan monastery high on a mountain. A very rewarding walk will show you great views at Jade Dragon Mountain. 
Then, we drive back to Lijiang to visit the Black Dragon Pook Park. This very rewarding day will end in your hotel. Again you have time to enjoy the vibrant and colourful evening in Lijiang.
Day 3: Lijiang - a day to fill according to your whishes
A day to enjoy yourself!! Or, pick one of our suggestions:
* Around LashiHei Lake - Ride your bike: we will bring you with rented bikes to the lake. Click for more detailed information (LINK!!!).
* Visit the temple on top of Lion Hill
* Trekking through the Tiger Leaping Gorge: this is actually one of the excursions we offer. A two days trekking through a most impressive Gorge with steep mountains and deep valleys: The Tiger Leaping Gorge.
Day 4: Lijiang - Shangri-La / next destination
After enjoying your last breakfast in Lijiang, this module ends. You will be brought to Shangri-La. Or, let us know where you would like to go.
We can also bring you to the airport to fly to Kunming or Lhasa. If you want a flight from Shangri-La, we of course escort you there.
Tip: would you like to spend more time in/around Lijiang, take a look at our two days excursion to the Tiger Leaping Gorge. 
