Travel in Yunnan

Yunnan is one of China's most diverse provinces β€” from tropical rainforests in Xishuangbanna to snow-capped mountains near Tibet. Kunming makes an excellent base for exploring it all.

Day Trips from Kunming

Stone Forest, Western Hills, Dianchi Lake, and more. What you can see in a day without leaving Kunming.

Coming Soon

Dali: The Backpacker Classic

3 hours from Kunming by train. Ancient town, Erhai Lake, Bai minority culture, and a thriving cafe scene.

Lijiang & Tiger Leaping Gorge

UNESCO old town, Naxi culture, and one of the world's most spectacular hikes through Tiger Leaping Gorge.

Xishuangbanna: Tropical Yunnan

Dai minority culture, rainforests, elephants, and a direct border crossing to Laos. Feels like Southeast Asia.

Shangri-La: Tibetan Highlands

Tibetan monasteries, alpine lakes, yak butter tea, and the gateway to Meili Snow Mountain. Where Yunnan meets Tibet.

Car Rental for Foreigners

How to get a Chinese Temporary Driving Permit, which companies operate in Yunnan, daily costs, and the best self-drive routes.

Getting Around Yunnan

Yunnan's high-speed rail network connects most major cities. Kunming to Dali is 2.5 hours, to Lijiang is 3.5 hours, and to Xishuangbanna is 4 hours. The Kunming-Vientiane Railway extends all the way to Laos.

For detailed transportation information, see our Kunming transport guide.