Day 1: Kunming and Western Hills

Begin your day by taking a morning drive to the Western Hills, a high vantage point offering panoramic views of Kunming city, Dianchi Lake, Longmen, and the Nie Er Memorial. Consider walking down from Longmen after descending from the hills. Continue to Haigeng Dam Park in the afternoon, where you can get up close to Dianchi Lake, known for its vibrant green waters. In winter, red-billed seagulls migrate to Kunming, providing excellent bird watching opportunities at Haigeng Dam.

In the afternoon, visit ethnic villages, Cuihu Park, the Military Academy, and Yunnan University. Later, drive to Kunming's iconic architecture, the Golden Horse and Jade Rooster Archway. Take a stroll to Nanping Street and savour a bowl of "Over the Bridge" rice noodles at Qiaoxiangyuan. If time permits, leisurely explore the Daguanlou (Grand View Pavilion), where you can feast your eyes on the lake and mountain scenery of Kunming while absorbing the city's millennia-old history. It’s a true taste of Yunnan's ancient flavours.

Day 2: Exploring Yunnan Stone Forest

Embark on a journey to appreciate the majestic, peculiar, dangerous, and tranquil landscapes of Yunnan Stone Forest. This unique karst landform, one of the world's most extraordinary, originated as a marsh approximately 300 million years ago. After extensive geological changes, it has evolved into the precious geological relic we see today. The vast area of the scenic spot encompasses various sections, including the Large and Small Stone Forests, Black Pine Stone Forest (Nai'gu Stone Forest), and Feilong Waterfall (Dadieshui) Scenic Area. Marvel at diverse formations such as stone columns, peaks, towers, bridges, and caves, creating an enchanting stone world.

Day 3: Maitreya in Mile

Mile is a tranquil town ideal for retirement, with a central open and free Lake Spring Ecological Park, perfect for evening strolls. Notable attractions in Mile include Dongfeng Yun, Jinping Mountain, and the Keyi Town, each with its distinct features.

Dongfeng Yun Scenic Area boasts beautiful photography spots, showcasing the unique architectural style of Yunnan artist Luo Xu. The Wanhua Kaleidoscope Art Manor, built with red bricks, provides an excellent backdrop for images.

Yinping Mountain Scenic Area features 1999 steps that visitors can ascend on foot or by tourist car. The area houses a massive golden Maitreya Buddha. Meditating in front of the Buddha, you can feel the congregation and dispersion of clouds, the bright and warm sunlight. It’s a truly pleasant experience.

Keyi Town is a must-visit destination for those driving to Mile. Nestled in the primitive forest, the town presents an array of colourful murals and offers lively performances of the Dai people's three-stringed musical instrument. Experience the genuine emotions transmitted between ethnic groups and savour the delightful flavors of authentic Yi cuisine.

Yiliang Jiuxiang Scenic Area

Jiuxiang Scenic Area is a comprehensive scenic spot centred around karst caves, combining natural landscapes, cultural attractions, and ethnic customs. Boasting a large number of caves, it is one of China's largest karst cave systems, often referred to as the "Hometown of Karst Caves." Yiliang Jiuxiang is a popular destination along the route for natural scenery and self-driving in northeastern Yunnan.

Jiaozi（Qiuzi） Snow Mountain

Jiaozi（Qiuzi） Snow Mountain is located in Luquan County, Kunming. With an elevation of 4247 meters, it resembles a flower sedan placed in a cluster of mountains, earning it the name " Jiaozi（Qiuzi） Snow Mountain." Known for high mountain lakes, snowy landscapes, azalea flower seas, a sea of clouds, sunrise, and Buddha's light, it presents a unique and ever-changing spectacle, representing a condensed version of Yunnan's plateau natural scenery and a popular destination for self-driving tours from Kunming.

Dongchuan Red Land

Dongchuan Red Land is situated in the Wumeng Mountainous Area. Due to a high concentration of iron and aluminum in the soil, it displays a dazzling red colour, earning the nickname "God's Palette Left on Earth." It is considered the most beautiful photography location in Kunming. The best times for photography are May to June and September to December, especially during autumn when rapeseed, potatoes, and wheat are being harvested, and the roadside trees and forests turn yellow, creating a picturesque view. Dongchuan Red Land is a paradise for photography enthusiasts and a popular destination on self-driving routes in northeastern Yunnan.

Tips: Surrounding Attractions of Kunming

These destinations offer a diverse range of experiences, from natural landscapes and ethnic villages to historical landmarks and cultural attractions. Whether exploring the wonders of Stone Forest, enjoying the tranquility of Mile, or capturing the vibrant hues of Dongchuan Red Land, Kunming and its surroundings provide a rich tapestry of experiences for visitors.