Yangtze River Upper Reaches Travel Guide

Below is a 5-day, 4-night travel guide for the source of the Yangtze River covering Qinghai, Yunnan, and Chongqing, with a budget of about 3,000 RMB. It includes major attractions, transportation, accommodation, and food recommendations to help you efficiently experience the magnificent scenery at the source of the Yangtze River. 5-Day, 4-Night Travel Guide for the Source of the Yangtze River in Qinghai, Yunnan, and Chongqing Trip Highlights Explore the magnificent plateau scenery at the source of the Yangtze River in Qinghai Experience the colorful ethnic culture and natural landscapes of Yunnan Enjoy the mountain city style and cuisine of Chongqing Itinerary Day 1: Qinghai (Xining/Geermu) — Source of the Yangtze River Transportation: Arrive in Xining or Geermu (it is recommended to arrange high-speed train or flight to Xining first, then transfer by car) Itinerary: Qinghai Lake (optional): If time permits, Qinghai Lake is a representative attraction of Qinghai and a short stop is recommended. Head to the Source of the Yangtze River: Depart from Geermu, take a chartered car or carpool to the source of the Yangtze River (about 3-4 hours by car, it is recommended to contact local drivers or travel agencies in advance). Accommodation: Tibetan guesthouse or simple inn near the source of the Yangtze River (budget: 100-200 RMB per night). Suggestion: Bring warm clothing as the temperature difference between morning and evening on the Qinghai Plateau is large. Day 2: Qinghai (Source of the Yangtze River) — Yunnan (Lijiang) Early morning: Enjoy the plateau sunrise and feel the grandeur of the Yangtze River source. Transportation: Return to Geermu or Xining in the morning, then take a flight or train to Lijiang (book tickets in advance, budget 200-400 RMB). Arrive in Lijiang: Visit Lijiang Old Town: Experience the ancient charm and night scenery of the old town (free or small entrance fee). Accommodation: Budget guesthouse inside or near Lijiang Old Town (about 150-200 RMB per night). Food: Try Lijiang’s specialty Naxi cuisine such as chicken bean jelly and butter tea. Day 3: Lijiang — Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (optional) — Dali Morning: Drive to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain (entrance fee about 150 RMB, cable car extra). If you prefer not to climb the mountain, you can choose to stroll around Blue Moon Valley, which has beautiful scenery. Afternoon: Drive to Dali (about 4 hours by car, transportation budget 50-100 RMB). Accommodation: Budget guesthouse in Dali Old Town or near Erhai Lake (150-200 RMB). Suggestion: Book in advance to enjoy a leisurely time by Erhai Lake. Day 4: Dali — Chongqing Morning: Free time in Dali, you can bike around Erhai Lake or stroll in the old town. Afternoon: Take a flight or train to Chongqing (budget 200-400 RMB, book tickets in advance). Arrive in Chongqing: Accommodation: Budget hotel near Jiefangbei or Ciqikou (150-200 RMB per night). Night tour: Walk around Jiefangbei pedestrian street or enjoy the night view of Hongya Cave to feel the charm of the mountain city. Day 5: Chongqing City — Return Morning: Take the Yangtze River Cableway to experience the river view of the mountain city (entrance fee about 20 RMB). Visit Ciqikou Ancient Town and taste Chongqing snacks such as skewers and hotpot (budget about 50 RMB). Afternoon: Head to the airport or train station according to your return schedule. Budget Control Suggestions: Transportation: about 1,000 RMB (including flights, trains, and local transport) Accommodation: about 700-1,000 RMB for 5 nights Tickets and attractions: about 200 RMB Meals: about 20-50 RMB per meal, approximately 500 RMB for 5 days Others (souvenirs, emergencies): about 300 RMB Budget Summary Item Budget (RMB) Transportation (flights/trains + local) 1,000-1,200 Accommodation (5 nights) 700-1,000 Tickets and attractions 200 Meals 500 Others (souvenirs, emergencies) 300 Total about 3,000 RMB Notes Book in advance: flights, train tickets, and accommodation to save budget. Bring gear: cold-weather clothing for the plateau, sunglasses, sunscreen. Health and safety: pay attention to altitude sickness, rest well, and drink plenty of water. Eco-friendly travel: protect the natural environment and respect local culture. If you need more detailed itinerary information or customized suggestions, feel free to ask! Wishing you a pleasant journey exploring the magnificent scenery at the source of the Yangtze River!