Cycling itineraries for Yunnan

7-day cycling itinerary in Yunnan

Day 1: Kunming

Arrive in Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan, and spend the day exploring its sights and sounds. You can visit the Green Lake Park, the Yunnan Nationalities Village, or the Yuantong Temple.

Day 2: Kunming to Stone Forest (83 km)

Start your cycling adventure by heading to the Stone Forest, a natural wonder consisting of limestone formations. You can ride through the countryside and enjoy the scenery along the way. Spend the night in a hotel near the Stone Forest.

Day 3: Stone Forest to Shilin (50 km)

Cycle to the nearby town of Shilin and visit the Shilin Night Market, where you can try local delicacies like grilled skewers, rice noodles, and stinky tofu.

Day 4: Shilin to Dali (210 km)

Cycle to Dali, a charming ancient city located on the shores of Erhai Lake. Along the way, you can stop at the town of Chuxiong and visit the Chuxiong Museum to learn about the Yi ethnic group.

Day 5: Dali to Xizhou (20 km)

Cycle to Xizhou, a Bai minority village known for its traditional architecture and food. You can visit the local market and try snacks like Xizhou baba (a type of pancake) and rose cake.

Day 6: Xizhou to Lijiang (90 km)

Cycle to Lijiang, another ancient city with a rich cultural heritage. You can visit the Old Town, the Black Dragon Pool Park, or take a cable car to the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.

Day 7: Lijiang to Dali (160 km)

Take a high-speed train or flight back to Kunming, and end your cycling adventure. Spend the day relaxing or shopping for souvenirs before departing for your next destination.

This itinerary is just a suggestion and can be adjusted based on your interests, fitness level, and time constraints. Make sure to check weather conditions and road conditions before embarking on your cycling trip.

14-day cycling itinerary

Day 1: Kunming

Arrive in Kunming, the capital city of Yunnan. Spend the day exploring the city and getting used to the altitude.

Day 2-3: Dali

Take a bus or train to Dali, a charming town located on the shores of Erhai Lake. Spend two days cycling around the lake and exploring the surrounding villages, temples, and pagodas.

Day 4-5: Shaxi

Cycle from Dali to Shaxi, a small village that was once an important trading hub on the Tea Horse Road. Spend two days exploring the ancient architecture and learning about the village's history.

Day 6-7: Lijiang

Cycle from Shaxi to Lijiang, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its traditional architecture and canals. Spend two days exploring the old town, including the Mu Palace and Black Dragon Pool Park.

Day 8-9: Tiger Leaping Gorge

Cycle from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest canyons in the world. Spend two days hiking the gorge and taking in the stunning views of the Yangtze River.

Day 10-11: Shangri-La

Cycle from Tiger Leaping Gorge to Shangri-La, a Tibetan town located at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. Spend two days exploring the Tibetan culture and visiting the Songzanlin Monastery.

Day 12-13: Zhongdian

Cycle from Shangri-La to Zhongdian, another Tibetan town known for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Spend two days exploring the nearby Napa Lake and Ganden Sumtseling Monastery.

Day 14: Return to Kunming

Take a bus or train back to Kunming and spend the day exploring the city before departing.

This itinerary covers some of the most scenic and culturally rich areas of Yunnan. However, it can be adjusted based on your interests and time available. Make sure to bring proper gear and be prepared for changes in weather and altitude.