11 Days Shanghai to Chongqing China Nature Expedition

Your adventure begins with a flight to Guilin, a city where jagged karst peaks rise like nature’s skyscrapers. Check into your boutique hotel and refresh before visiting the Elephant Trunk Hill, a limestone formation resembling an elephant sipping from the Li River. As dusk falls, step into the Reed Flute Cave, illuminated by rainbow-colored lights dancing across ancient stalactites.

Awaken to the sun-kissed Yulong River(about 3-4h), where water buffalo graze along the banks and fishermen cast their nets. Watch fishermen cast their nets and cormorants dive for fish, their shadows rippling on the water. Glide on a bamboo raft past water buffalo, ancient stone bridges, and misty peaks—it’s like floating through a Chinese ink painting! Arrive in Yangshuo, a town nestled among emerald rice paddies and misty peaks. Check into a rustic inn and spend the evening wandering West Street, where lanterns glow above cafes and street performers.

Journey to the Longji Rice Terraces(about 3-4h), a golden tapestry carved into mountainsides by generations of Zhuang and Yao farmers. Nicknamed "Dragon’s Backbone" , Longji's terraces like a masterpiece where Zhuang and Yao farmers carved "stairways to the sky" across misty mountains. Each season paints them anew—spring's mirror-like water, summer's emerald waves, autumn's golden ribbons, and winter's frosty lace. Hike through Ping'an Village, where wooden stilt houses cling to slopes, and breathe in the crisp air as clouds drift over the layered fields.

Return to Guilin and board a scenic train to Kunming, the “City of Eternal Spring.” This 2,400-year-old capital charms with: Dianchi Lake: A sparkling "plateau pearl" where seagulls escape winter cold. Stone Forest: A UNESCO-listed karst wonder—like walking through a giant stone maze. Old Streets: Sip crossing-the-bridge noodles amid Bai-style courtyards and vibrant flower markets. Arrive in the evening and unwind at a courtyard hotel, where blooming flowers scent the air.

As the sun dips behind Kunming’s skyscrapers, venture to the Stone Forest, a maze of razor-edged limestone pillars that seem to defy gravity. Walk through maze-like paths to spot rocks shaped like elephants, warriors, and even Ashima—a legendary Yi maiden turned to stone, you can enjoy your stay for about 3-4h. Then wander paths shaded by towering rocks to the Jiuxiang Cave, where underground rivers and waterfalls echo in vast caverns. Walk through misty canyons like Yincui Gorge, marvel at the towering Male and Female Waterfalls, and explore the Lion Hall—a cave so big it could fit 10,000 people!

Drive through rolling hills to Dongchuan's Red Land, a photographer's paradise. Today you will have the chance to see the palette of the Earth. Enjoy the beauty of Yuepuao(Music Hollow), its terraced fields curve like flowing musical staves across the landscape, painted in bold stripes of red soil, golden crops, and lush greens. After 3-4h experience in the afternoon, leave for Luoxiagou (Sunset Valley), watching the terraced fields blaze in hues of crimson and gold as the sun dips below the horizon. Spend the night in a cozy homestay surrounded by quiet farmland.

Wake early to catch the sunrise at Damakan Village(3-4h), where morning light paints the red soil in soft pinks. Then Climb the viewing platform for panoramic vistas at Jinxiuyuan(Embroidery Garden), where sunlight and clouds paint the land in ever-changing hues, spend your another 3-4h in this wonderful land. Because its perfect for photo lovers, especially magical at sunrise or sunset. Return to Kunming and stroll around Dian Lake, its waters reflecting the city’s skyline as locals dance to folk music in the lakeside park.

Fly to Chengdu, the laid-back capital of Sichuan. Dive into the city’s soul at Kuanzhai Alley, a blend of Qing Dynasty courtyards and trendy boutiques. This 300-year-old Qing Dynasty gem blends history with hip vibes. Stroll through three charming lanes: Kuan Alley (Wide): Sip gaiwan tea in courtyards where Qing soldiers once lived—now packed with Sichuan eateries and opera shows. Zhai Alley (Narrow): A mashup of East-meets-West—bookshops, galleries, and jazz bars tucked in grey-tiled houses. Jing Alley (Well): Snack paradise! Try dan dan noodles under neon lights beside a 400-meter brick mural of old Chengdu. Sip jasmine tea in a century-old teahouse while watching a face-changing opera performance. 

Good Morning! Dear Travellers! It's time to meet Chengdu’s star residents at the Panda Breeding Center, where fluffy cubs tumble in bamboo groves. You'd be happy to spend your 3-4h at here, this world-famous research and breeding center is home to 215+ giant pandas—the largest captive population on Earth! Located just 10km from downtown Chengdu, it’s where you’ll meet fluffy cubs, lazy bamboo-munchers. Then lose yourself in Jinli Pedestrian Street, this 2,000-year-old street is a vibrant mix of ancient charm and modern buzz, you can snacking on spicy rabbit heads and admiring silk lanterns swaying above cobblestones.

Board a high-speed train to Chongqing, a city where skyscrapers pierce the fog. After a quick stop at the Liberation Monument, drive to Wulong’s Three Natural Bridges Scenic Area, a colossal limestone sinkhole where waterfalls plunge into emerald pools and vines drape over mossy cliffs. This UNESCO-listed wonder wows with jaw-dropping karst formations shaped over millions of years.Walk beneath these colossal limestone arches, where waterfalls cascade into emerald pools and moss carpets ancient pathways. The 4h experience won't waste your time drive here.

Return to Chongqing, where the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers embrace the city’s steep hills. Explore Hongya Cave, a glowing cliffside maze of shops and eateries, then bid farewell over a fiery hotpot feast as the city’s neon lights twinkle below. Your journey ends here, but the memories of misty mountains, red earth, and pandas will linger long after.