Best Things to Do in Yunnan: The Ultimate Guide for Travelers
Looking for the best things to do in Yunnan? Start your journey in this land of astounding diversity. From snow-capped mountains to tropical rainforests, ancient towns to vibrant minority cultures, this region offers countless unforgettable experiences and is packed with the best things to do in Yunnan for any traveler. This guide provides practical information to help you plan a deep and authentic adventure, ensuring you discover all the best things to do in Yunnan.
Why Visit Yunnan?
The appeal lies in its incredible variety, offering some of the best things to do in Yunnan for nature and culture lovers.
Experience dramatic landscapes: majestic mountains like Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, deep canyons like the incredible Tiger Leaping Gorge Yunnan China, highland lakes such as Erhai and Lugu, tropical rainforests in Xishuangbanna, and terraced fields in Yuanyang.
Immerse yourself in cultural richness. It’s home to 25 ethnic minority groups, each with unique languages, clothing, festivals, and traditions, adding layers to the best things to do in Yunnan.
Enjoy pleasant weather. Much of the province enjoys mild, spring-like weather year-round, while Xishuangbanna is a perfect warm winter escape.
Diving Into the Core Experiences
Dali — Romance of “Wind, Flowers, Snow, and Moon”
Dali is famous for its relaxed vibe and the stunning scenery of Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake. It’s ideal for slowing down and is a highlight for anyone listing the best things to do in Yunnan.
Erhai Lake Ecological Corridor Cycling
This is the best way to experience Erhai Lake. The car-free route from Yangnanxi to Panxi Village (the famous “S” Curve) and Haisee Park is safe and peaceful. Stop anytime for photos and feel the breeze.
Explore Ancient Towns
Wander through Dali Ancient Town’s Fuxing Road and People’s Road, then climb the city wall for mountain views. Xizhou Town is known for Bai-style architecture and delicious Xizhou Baba pastries. Shuanglang Town sits right by the lakeside with open views.
Try a Cultural Handicraft
Visit Zhoucheng to try the Bai tradition of tie-dye. Create your own piece of blue-dyed fabric.
Live Like a Local
Spend time gazing at clouds over Erhai, visit the Jizhao Nunnery (famous for succulents and vegetarian meals) at the foot of Cangshan, or simply read a book on your guesthouse balcony. Embrace the luxury of “wasting” time.
Food to Try: Bai-style sour and spicy fish, grilled rushan (milk fan), shengpi (a challenging raw pork dish), wild mushroom hotpot (in summer), and flower pastries.
Stay in: Dali Ancient Town (convenient), Caicun or Panxi Village (near the lake), Xizhou Town (rustic charm).
Lijiang — Where Ancient Town Meets Snow Mountain
Lijiang revolves around the majestic Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the UNESCO-listed Old Town. Figuring out what to do in Lijiang Yunnan is easy with its iconic sights.
Conquer Jade Dragon Snow Mountain
Book your real-name cable car ticket one day in advance! The Glacier Park cable car takes you close to the peaks. At the mountain’s base, Blue Moon Valley dazzles with turquoise water. Walking here is more rewarding than taking the sightseeing cars.
Discover Naxi Culture
Explore Lijiang Old Town (Dayan). Visit Mu Mansion, the former palace of the Naxi rulers. Experience the town’s charm early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds. For a more authentic feel, head to Baisha Old Town to see ancient frescoes with the snow mountain as a backdrop.
Enjoy a Naxi Ancient Music Show
It’s a wonderful way to learn about the ancient Dongba culture.
Food to Try: Spare rib hotpot, black goat hotpot, chickpea jelly, Naxi-style grilled fish.
Stay in: Dayan Old Town (lively and convenient), Shuhe Old Town (quieter), Baisha Old Town (most authentic).
Shangri-La — “Heaven on Earth” in Tibetan Plateau
Located on the high plateau of northwest Yunnan, Shangri-La is defined by strong Tibetan culture and pristine nature, securing its place among the best things to do in Yunnan for a transformative experience.
Visit Songzanlin Monastery
Known as the “Little Potala Palace,” this is Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Dress modestly and keep quiet while visiting.
Wander Through Pudacuo National Park
Stroll between alpine lakes (Shudu Lake, Bita Lake) and primeval forests. Breathe in the purest air.
Explore Dukezong Ancient Town
Spin the world’s largest prayer wheel for blessings. In the evening, warm up with a local yak meat hotpot inside the old town.
Experience Napahai Yila Grassland
This area transforms with the seasons—a lake in the rainy season and a grassland in the dry season. Cycle around it or try horseback riding (remember to bargain).
Note: Shangri-La’s altitude is around 3,300 meters. Avoid strenuous activity initially to prevent altitude sickness. Pack warm layers for significant day-night temperature swings.
Food to Try: Yak meat hotpot, butter tea, barley bread, tsampa.
Stay in: In or around Dukezong Ancient Town for the best access.
Xishuangbanna — Tropical Vibe & Dai Culture
In southernmost Yunnan, this region brims with Southeast Asian flair and offers warm winter weather, presenting a completely different set of best things to do in Yunnan.
Get Lost in the Xishuangbanna Tropical Botanical Garden
Discover incredible flora and giant water lilies at this massive garden in Menglun. The electric sightseeing car is recommended to cover the vast area.
Visit Manting Park & Total Buddhist Temple
Once the royal garden of the Dai king, it features beautiful architecture and connects to the important Total Buddhist Temple, showcasing Theravada Buddhist culture.
Stroll the Jinghong Starlight Night Market
Located in Gaozhuang, this huge market comes alive at night. Sample Dai-style barbecue, pineapple rice, and paoluda dessert. It’s also great for souvenir shopping.
Experience a Dai Village
Visit traditional villages like Manyuan to see Dai life and try local crafts like pottery making.
Food to Try: Dai barbecue (lemongrass grilled fish), pineapple rice, papaya chicken salad, and a huge variety of tropical fruits.
Stay in: Gaozhuang Xijing (near the night market, bustling), downtown Jinghong (good value).
Lugu Lake — The Mysterious “Kingdom of Women”
Straddling Yunnan and Sichuan, this lake is famed for its crystal-clear water and the unique matriarchal Mosuo culture, offering some of the most unique best things to do in Yunnan.
Take a Lake Loop Tour
Rent an e-bike or hire a car to circle the lake (about 68 km). Must-stop points include Lige Peninsula (heart-shaped bay) and Goddess Bay (for sunset).
Paddle on a Pig-Trough Boat
Glide across the transparent water in a traditional dugout canoe, especially magical in the early morning.
Learn About Mosuo Culture
Visit the Mosuo Museum or a local family to understand their matriarchal family structure and “walking marriage” customs.
Getting There: The bus ride from Lijiang takes about 4 hours on winding mountain roads.
Food to Try: Pork preserved in salt, sulima wine, lake fish.
Stay in: Luoshui Village (well-developed), Lige Village (best views).
More Highlight Destinations
Kunming: As the gateway, visit Dianchi Lake Haigeng Dam (with seagulls in winter), the incredible Yunnan Stone Forest China UNESCO site, and Dounan Flower Market (Asia’s largest, liveliest at night).
Tengchong: Known for volcanoes and geothermal activity. Soak in hot springs at Rehai Scenic Area and explore Heshun Ancient Town.
Honghe Prefecture: See the Yuanyang Rice Terraces (best from Dec-Apr when flooded), ride a mini-train in Jianshui Old Town, and taste the original cross-bridge rice noodles in Mengzi.
Planning Your Trip Itinerary
Wondering how long to spend in Yunnan? Here are popular routes to consider for experiencing the best things to do in Yunnan:
Classic 7-10 Days (First-Time Visitors):
Kunming (1-2 days) -> Dali (2-3 days) -> Lijiang (2-3 days) -> Shangri-La (2 days).
Travel between cities by high-speed rail (Kunming-Dali-Lijiang) and bus/private car (Lijiang-Shangri-La).
Tropical Adventure 6-8 Days:
Kunming (1 day) -> Xishuangbanna (4-5 days). Consider adding Pu’er (2 days) for tea culture and forest parks.
Deep & Lesser-Known 7-9 Days (Budget-Friendly, Fewer Crowds):
Kunming -> Mile (Dongfengyun) -> Jianshui (old town, pottery) -> Yuanyang (terraces). Connect via high-speed rail and short buses.
Short & Sweet 5-6 Days:
Fly directly into Dali. Deeply explore Dali and Erhai Lake (3 days), then travel to Lijiang for Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the old town (2-3 days).
Essential Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: March to May and September to November offer the most comfortable weather for most regions. Winter (Dec-Feb) is perfect for escaping to Xishuangbanna, and it’s also the season for Yuanyang’s flooded terraces and seagulls at Dianchi Lake.
Getting Around: High-speed rail is convenient between major cities (Kunming, Dali, Lijiang). For Shangri-La, Xishuangbanna, or Lugu Lake, consider flights or long-distance buses. Renting a car/e-bike or hiring a private driver offers the most freedom around Erhai and Lugu Lake.
Accommodation: Travel during the off-season (avoid Chinese public holidays) for better prices and a quieter experience. Choose chain hotels for consistent quality or reputable guesthouses in old towns for local flavor.
Book in Advance: You must book your real-name Jade Dragon Snow Mountain cable car ticket via the official mini-program one day prior. Book flights, trains, and popular hotels well ahead for peak seasons.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (avoid shorts and sleeveless tops) when entering temples. Photography is often prohibited inside halls. Respect local minority customs.
Altitude & Sun Protection: In Shangri-La and at Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, take it easy to avoid altitude sickness. Yunnan’s UV rays are strong—pack high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
What to Wear: Temperature changes drastically between day and night, especially at high elevations. Bring a warm, windproof jacket even in summer.
Your journey through Yunnan is about immersion, not just sightseeing. Let yourself be captivated by a snow mountain vista, lose track of time in an ancient alleyway, or share a smile with a local artisan. The memories will linger long after you’ve left. Start planning, pack your bags, and get ready to discover your own favorite things to do in Yunnan China.
