Pre-Trip Preparation and Tips for Avoiding Pitfalls in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang
When visiting Yunnan for the first time, many people start by searching for “What’s there to do in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?” But once they actually start planning their itinerary, they realize what they really need to know is:What should I keep in mind when traveling to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?
What should I wear depending on the weather? Is Lijiang at a high altitude? Is there a risk of altitude sickness on Yulong Snow Mountain? What’s the best way to plan the trip from Kunming to Dali and from Dali to Lijiang? What should I keep in mind when booking accommodations in the Old Town? What documents and payment methods do travelers from Taiwan need to prepare?
If this is your first time visiting Kunming, Dali, or Lijiang, this article “Travel Tips for Kunming-Dali-Lijiang"This guide covers everything from pre-trip preparations, what to wear based on the weather, elevation, transportation, attractions, and accommodations to things Taiwanese travelers should pay special attention to—all in one place."
Visiting Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang for the first time? Not sure what to wear, how to arrange transportation, or worried about altitude sickness? This pre-trip guide covers the weather, elevation, transportation, attractions, accommodations, and other practical information that travelers from Taiwan should know.
Pre-trip Preparations
Pre-trip Preparations
Precautions for High-Altitude Travel
Is this your first time visiting Kunming-Dali-Lijiang?
First, get these 10 things ready
Visiting Kunming-Dali-Lijiang for the First Time? Here Are 10 Things to Keep in Mind
If you don't have time to read the entire article, be sure to review the checklist below before you leave:
Things to Keep in Mind Before Departure
- In Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, the temperature difference between day and night can be quite significant, so it’s recommended to dress in layers.
- The Yunnan Plateau has strong UV rays, so don't forget your sunscreen, sunglasses, and hat.
- Lijiang City is located at an elevation of approximately 2,400 meters, so it’s best not to pack the itinerary too tightly right from the start.
- The elevation conditions at Yulong Snow Mountain and Lijiang Old Town are different; when climbing the snow mountain, you need to take physical fitness and acclimatization to high altitudes into account.
- Some parts of the old city are best explored on foot, so be sure to choose the right luggage and shoes.
- The Kunming→Dali→Lijiang route is best traveled using high-speed rail or other modes of transportation, but be sure to allow time for transfers.
- Ticket and reservation policies for popular attractions such as Yulong Snow Mountain may be subject to change; please check for the latest information before departure.
- During the rainy season, it’s a good idea to bring a lightweight raincoat; when the weather is unpredictable, don’t rely solely on the morning forecast.
- Travelers from Taiwan should confirm in advance whether their Taiwan Compatriot Permit, transportation tickets, and payment methods are functioning properly.
- Don't pack your daily itinerary too tightly just to "see a lot of places at once."
The most important thing to remember: Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang aren’t just three cities to check off a list.
Given the travel time between Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, as well as the varying elevations and walking distances at each scenic area, it’s usually more important to plan your itinerary at a reasonable pace than to cram in as many attractions as possible in a single day.
What's the weather like in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang? What kind of clothes should I pack?
One of the most common misconceptions about traveling to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang is assuming that, because Kunming is known as “spring all year round,” you only need to pack light clothing for the entire trip.
In fact, Yunnan is a plateau region,On the same day, there may be significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, as well as changes between sunny and rainy weather....and the environments in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang are not exactly the same.
The average elevation of downtown Kunming is approximately 1,891 meters, and it has a low-latitude plateau-mountain monsoon climate; Lijiang Old Town, meanwhile, is located in the Lijiang Basin at an elevation of approximately 2,416 meters.
What Should I Wear in Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?
| Location | Key Points to Note | Dress Code |
|---|---|---|
| Kunming | Day-to-night temperature fluctuations, ultraviolet radiation | T-shirt + light jacket |
| Dali | Breezes from Erhai Lake; strong sunlight | Long-sleeved shirt + windbreaker |
| Lijiang | It is at a higher elevation, so it tends to be cooler in the mornings and evenings. | Layered Outfits + Outerwear |
| Yulong Snow Mountain | High altitude, low temperatures, wind | Insulating Layer + Windbreaker |
Suggested Items to Pack in Your Suitcase
Lightweight long-sleeve T-shirt, light jacket, windbreaker, comfortable, non-slip shoes, sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lightweight rain gear, moisturizers
Don't pack just one heavy coat.
Layered clothing is better suited for Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, because you can remove the outer layer when the sun is strong during the day and add layers in the morning and evening or when visiting high-altitude scenic areas.
Is there altitude sickness in the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang area? This is one of the most important issues to be aware of.
"Altitude sickness in the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang region" is a major concern for first-time visitors to Yunnan.
First, there’s one thing you need to understand:
Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Yulong Snow Mountain are not at the same elevation.
The center of Kunming is at an elevation of approximately 1,891 meters; the average elevation of Dali Prefecture is approximately 2,090 meters; and Lijiang Old Town is at approximately 2,416 meters. The upper station of the Yulong Snow Mountain Glacier Park cable car reaches an elevation of approximately 4,506 meters.
Therefore, don’t treat a trip to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang as exactly the same high-altitude experience as climbing the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain.
Will I experience altitude sickness in Kunming?
Kunming is already a high-altitude city, but for most travelers, there’s usually no need to get overly anxious just because of the name “Kunming.”
More importantly:
- Don't schedule too many activities on the first day.
- Get enough rest
- Avoid engaging in strenuous exercise immediately upon arrival
- Pay attention to how your body is feeling
Will I experience altitude sickness in Dali?
Dali has an average elevation of approximately 2,090 meters; how well travelers acclimate varies depending on factors such as their physical condition, sleep, and level of fatigue.
If you’ve already been on a long-haul flight and haven’t gotten enough sleep in the past few days, scheduling a lot of walking or hiking will put even more strain on your body.
Is Lijiang at a high elevation?
Lijiang Old Town is located in the Lijiang Basin at an elevation of approximately 2,416 meters.
Therefore, travelers visiting Lijiang for the first time—especially those coming directly from low-altitude areas—should prioritize getting a good night’s rest, staying hydrated, and pacing themselves the night before.
What else should I be aware of when visiting Yulong Snow Mountain?
This is a point that requires special attention throughout the entire Kunming-Dali-Lijiang itinerary.
The upper station of the Yulong Snow Mountain Glacier Park cable car is located at approximately 4,506 meters; visitors can reach an elevation of up to approximately 4,680 meters, making it a completely different experience from what you’d find in downtown Lijiang.
When traveling to Yulong Snow Mountain:
- Don't pack your itinerary too tightly.
- Determine the intensity of your activity based on your physical condition.
- Be sure to stay warm, protect yourself from the sun, and stay hydrated.
- If you experience obvious or persistent discomfort, do not push yourself to continue the activity.
- Individuals with chronic illnesses, those who are pregnant, or those with other specific health conditions should consult a healthcare professional before traveling.
Don't assume that "you're bound to get altitude sickness" is a fact, but don't dismiss altitude sickness entirely either.
How should you plan your transportation for the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang route? Don’t overlook the “connection times.”
The most common route for the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang trip is:
Kunming → Dali → Lijiang
The advantages of this route are that it flows in the right direction and transportation options between cities are relatively well-established.
The ticket purchasing rules for China Railway 12306 currently allow passengers to purchase train tickets using valid identification documents such as the "Taiwan Resident Travel Permit for Mainland China."
Kunming → Dali
If your itinerary focuses mainly on city sightseeing, you may want to consider taking the high-speed rail.
Please note:
- Don't just count the "driving time"
- You also need to factor in the time it takes to get to the station.
- Allow extra time for security screening and boarding
- When it comes to large pieces of luggage, you need to consider how to transport them.
Dali → Lijiang
Rail transport can also be used for connections.
For families traveling with elderly relatives, children, or a lot of luggage, you might want to compare the following options:
High-Speed Rail + Local Transfers VS Chartered Vehicle / Private Car
Which one fits better with the overall itinerary?
Lijiang → Yulong Snow Mountain
Yulong Snow Mountain is a separate scenic area, so don’t assume that “staying in Lijiang Old Town” means “you’ll reach the snow mountain as soon as you step outside the old town.”
You should confirm transportation to the scenic area, reservations, and cable car arrangements in advance.
According to official tourism information from Yulong Snow Mountain, the Glacier Park is located at a high altitude, and the scenic area also includes various attractions such as Spruce Meadow, Yak Meadow, and Blue Moon Valley; therefore, do not try to cram in an unlimited number of activities in a single day.
What are some often-overlooked precautions to keep in mind when visiting attractions along the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang route?
We're not going to talk about "which places are beautiful" here; we're just going to talk aboutThe most common practical problems you'll encounter once you get there。
Yulong Snow Mountain: Don’t Just Plan to “See the Snow”
The most distinctive feature of Yulong Snow Mountain is its high altitude.
The Glacier Park cable car reaches an altitude of approximately 4,506 meters, and visitors can go as high as approximately 4,680 meters.
Therefore:
- Be sure to stay warm
- Protect Yourself from the Sun
- Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes
- Don't plan a snow mountain hike on a day when you're extremely tired after a long trip.
- Tourist Attraction Ticket and Reservation Policies: Please Double-Check Before Departure
Dali Old Town: There's More Walking Than You'd Think
Dali's Old Town is perfect for a leisurely stroll, but exploring the Old Town often involves a lot of walking.
Therefore:
- It is not recommended to wear new shoes.
- Don't pack too much luggage.
- If you're staying within the Old Town, check in advance to see if it's easy to get there by car.
- When traveling with older family members, consider walking distances and rest stops.
Erhai Lake: Don't Just Look at the Temperature on the Weather Forecast
The area around Erhai Lake is open and spacious, so the actual experience may differ from that of an urban neighborhood.
When cycling, hiking around a lake, or engaging in outdoor activities, in addition to the temperature, you should also consider:
- Sunlight
- 風
- 雨
- Sun Protection
- Physical Strength
If you're traveling with older family members or children, there's no need to cram the entire day just to "go around the lake."
Stone Forest: Be mindful of how much you walk
Shilin isn't the kind of place where you just "get out of the car, take a picture, and leave."
Visiting the scenic area involves a fair amount of walking, so when planning your itinerary, you should:
- Wear comfortable shoes
- Allow time for sightseeing
- Avoid scheduling activities that are too physically demanding the day before
What are some things to keep in mind regarding lodging, dining, and spending in the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang area?
Accommodations: Don't just look for places “inside the Old City”
Many travelers only look at the following when booking a room:
"Is it in the old town?"
But when I actually checked in, I discovered:
- It's difficult for vehicles to enter and exit
- The luggage needs to be carried a short distance.
- It's livelier in the evening
- Room soundproofing may not always meet expectations based on its actual location
Therefore, when making a reservation, it is best to confirm the following at the same time:
Location + Transportation + Luggage Handling + Accommodations
Rather than focusing solely on the words “Ancient City.”
Food: If it’s your first time trying Yunnan cuisine, don’t eat too much at once.
Yunnan cuisine has its own regional characteristics, but everyone’s eating habits are different.
When trying a local specialty for the first time, you can:
- A few attempts
- Be mindful of your digestive health
- Don’t plan too many specialty meals at once just because you think, “When you’re in Yunnan, you have to try them all.”
If you want to try seasonal ingredients such as wild mushrooms, you should choose reputable restaurants and prepare them according to the restaurant’s recommendations.
Consumption: A low price doesn't necessarily mean it's a good deal
When choosing a tour group or private car service, don't just compare the "total price."
A comparison should be made:
- Accommodation Category
- Does it include admission to the scenic area?
- Transportation Options
- Should we arrange for some shopping?
- Are there any out-of-pocket expenses?
- Tour Guide/Driver Services
- Is the itinerary too packed?
What we really need to avoid isn't "spending money," but ratherI didn't check what was included in the price before leaving.。
Taiwanese Travelers Visiting Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang: Things You Should Prepare in Advance
Unlike typical "Yunnan Travel Guides," this section provides a pre-trip checklist that Taiwanese travelers really need to review in advance.
1. Taiwan Compatriot Permit
Before traveling to mainland China, check the validity and status of your Taiwan Compatriot Travel Permit.
Don't wait until you get to the airport to discover a problem with your documents.
2. Purchasing High-Speed Rail Tickets
According to the current regulations of China Railway 12306, the Taiwan Resident Travel Permit for Mainland China is one of the valid forms of identification accepted for ticket purchases.
If you're purchasing tickets through 12306, we recommend completing the necessary identity verification in advance and not waiting until the last day to handle all your travel tickets.
3. Payment Methods
We recommend that you do not rely solely on a single payment method.
You can prepare these in advance:
- Alipay
- WeChat Pay
- Credit Card
- A small amount of RMB cash
Be sure to test your account, link your card, and verify your payment settings before you leave.
4. Mobile Internet
Things to Check Before Departure:
- Roaming
- eSIM / SIM
- Wi-Fi
- Does the cell phone support the local network?
Be sure to download the necessary maps, transportation information, and translation tools in advance.
5. Portable Power Bank
If the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang itinerary includes domestic flights within mainland China,Special attention should be paid to the latest aviation regulations regarding power banks.。
Effective June 28, 2025, the Civil Aviation Administration of China prohibits passengers from carrying power banks on domestic flights that lack a 3C mark, have an illegible 3C mark, or belong to recalled models or batches.
So don't wait until you get to the airport security checkpoint to check.
How should I plan a 5-day, 6–7-day, or 8–10-day trip to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?
The most common mistake on the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang itinerary is:
Every day, I want to visit more places.
In fact, the quality of a trip usually depends on whether there is a good balance between travel time, time spent at attractions, and rest periods.
5 Days: Classic Express Edition
Kunming → Dali → Lijiang
Ideal for first-time visitors and travelers on shorter vacations.
Focus on:
- Iconic Attractions in Kunming
- Dali Old Town / Erhai Lake
- Lijiang Old Town
- Yulong Snow Mountain
Don't try to cram in too many distant attractions.
Days 6–7: Most Balanced
The following can be arranged:
Kunming → Dali → Lijiang
And ensure that each city has a reasonably sufficient amount of time for visitors to stay.
This itinerary is best suited for first-time visitors to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, and it’s also easier to manage:
- City Sightseeing
- Old City
- Natural Landscapes
- Yulong Snow Mountain
- Break Time
Days 8–10: In-Depth Edition
If you have a longer vacation, you can add other destinations in addition to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang.
For example:
Kunming → Dali → Lijiang → Shangri-La
But at this point, it’s even more important to consider:
- Changes in Elevation
- Travel Distance
- Luggage
- Physical Adaptation
- Weather
Don't let the extra three days turn your itinerary into a "different city every day" kind of trip.
Kunming-Dali-Lijiang: Independent Travel or a Group Tour/Customized Tour?
There is no definitive answer to this question.
Better suited for independent travel
If you:
- I like to research transportation on my own
- I don't mind taking the time to book tickets
- High demand for itinerary flexibility
- Small group
- Be familiar with payment and transportation apps in mainland China
Independent travel offers a high degree of autonomy.
Better suited for customized tours
If you:
- My First Trip to Yunnan
- Bring your parents or children
- I don't want to figure out high-speed rail, transfers, and transportation to tourist attractions on my own
- I hope to minimize the number of times I have to switch cars and carry my luggage.
- I hope to plan my trip at my own pace
- I want to skip the shopping part of the itinerary
So, “Customized Itineraries + Local Transportation/Transfers"It's often less of a hassle."
A truly great Kunming-Dali-Lijiang itinerary isn’t about cramming in as many attractions as possible in a single day, but rather aboutTransportation, Accommodations, Attractions, Stamina, and Travel PaceLet's think about it together.
Kunming-Dali-Lijiang Travel Tips FAQ
Do I need to be concerned about altitude sickness when traveling to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?
Please be aware of this, but there is no need to panic. There are significant differences in elevation between Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Yulong Snow Mountain—especially at the Yulong Snow Mountain Glacier Park, which reaches an altitude of approximately 4,506 meters. Plan your itinerary gradually and pay attention to your physical condition.
When is the best time to visit Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?
There is no single right answer. The best way to travel varies by season. When choosing your travel dates, you should consider the weather, rainfall, temperature, scenery, and the activities you want to enjoy.
What clothes should I pack for a trip to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?
We recommend "layering" your clothing by packing short-sleeved shirts, long-sleeved shirts, light jackets, and windproof, warm clothing, and adjusting your attire based on the month of your trip. For high-altitude attractions such as Yulong Snow Mountain, you’ll need to bring additional warm clothing.
Is Lijiang at a high elevation?
Lijiang Old Town is located at an elevation of approximately 2,416 meters, so first-time visitors should avoid scheduling an overly packed itinerary immediately upon arrival.
Is it necessary to bring oxygen when climbing Yulong Snow Mountain?
It’s not possible to simply say, “Everyone needs it” or “It’s not necessary at all.” Since the elevation of the Yulong Snow Mountain tour is significantly higher than that of downtown Lijiang, whether additional preparation is needed should be determined based on your personal health, previous experience at high altitudes, and how you’re feeling on the day of the tour.
How do I get from Kunming to Dali?
High-speed rail is one of the most common options. When purchasing tickets, be sure to check the latest schedule and allow enough time to get to the station, go through security, and enter the station.
How do I get from Dali to Lijiang?
You can consider taking the train, or arrange a private car based on the number of passengers, the amount of luggage, and the itinerary. If you're traveling with elderly family members or children, don't just compare travel times; also consider the overall convenience of transfers.
Is the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang route suitable for traveling with older family members?
This is suitable, but the itinerary should reduce the intensity of walking and the frequency of transitions. Especially in high-altitude scenic areas such as Yulong Snow Mountain, the activities should be tailored to the physical condition of the elderly.
Is the Kunming-Dali-Lijiang route suitable for independent travel?
Suitable for travelers who have some experience planning their own trips. If this is your first time visiting Yunnan, if you’re traveling with elderly family members or children, or if you’d prefer not to handle transportation and attraction reservations on your own, a customized itinerary will give you greater peace of mind.
What are the most important things to keep in mind when traveling to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?
If you can only remember a few things, they can be summarized as follows:
Be mindful of elevation, weather, transportation connections, and the amount of walking involved; check the park rules in advance; and don’t pack your itinerary too full.
Conclusion: When traveling through Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, you don’t have to pack your itinerary to the brim to have a great time.
「Travel Tips for Kunming-Dali-Lijiang"The real goal isn't to make you memorize a bunch of rules, but to help you know before you leave what you should prepare in advance."
Kunming is a good starting point for your trip, Dali is a great place to slow down, and Lijiang is an ideal stop to explore the ancient city and Mount Yulong.
If this is your first trip to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang, we recommend prioritizing:
Transportation → Accommodations → Elevation → Attraction Reservations → Pace of the Itinerary
Once you've sorted out these five things, then decide how many attractions to include.
If you're unsure how to plan your Kunming-Dali-Lijiang trip, you can also consult a local travel advisor familiar with Yunnan to help you plan based on the number of days you'll be traveling, the number of people in your group, your budget, and your preferences.
Want to plan your own trip to Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang?
Contact us to start planning your Kunming-Dali-Lijiang trip →
Information Reminder: Transportation schedules, attraction ticketing, reservation methods, and travel regulations are subject to change at any time. In particular, regarding the Yulong Snow Mountain Scenic Area and transportation within mainland China, we recommend that you double-check the latest official information before your actual departure.
