Shaxi, an old “Horse and Tea Trade Route” outpost that was more or less unknown to tourists years before backpackers fleeing the tourist boomtowns of Dali and Lijiang stumbled across it’s now the beneficiary of big-time development funds and the attentions of a Swiss-led team of historical restoration specialists. This tour plan is arranged to explore the old Chama town in deep and experience the original daily life of Bai minority.

Destinations: Shaxi

Day 01 Shaxi

Upon your arrival in Dali, you will meet up with our driver and tour guide in the airport (or train station). We will drive to Shaxi Town (about 4 hours), along the way, we will enjoy the beautiful mountains, lakes and minority farming villages. After checking in the hotel, you will enjoy the free time in the evening in Shaxi Ancient Town. 

Meals: no meals

Overnight: Traditional Bai Minority Guest House in Shaxi

Day 02 Shaxi

Today, you will explore the Shaxi Ancient Town on your own.

Suggested options (walking distance): Bai minority villages around; Tiny tucked-away villages around; Sideng Marketplace, which is located in the heart of the town; Xingjiao Temple; Yujin Bridge; Heihui River;

Meals: no meals

Overnight: Traditional Bai Minority Guest House in Shaxi

Day 03 Shaxi

Today, our guide and driver will bring you to Shibao Mountain Temple Complex, which is located in a rolling valley at the far end of Shaxi. Shibao Mountain is a scattering of spiritual sites, shrines and temples that has served as a place of worship and spirited, spiritual discussion for centuries. The buildings are in good shape and the complex is large enough to easily take up an entire day. Notable sites include statues of Indian sages along the climb up to the temple complex and a Yoni Shrine, a cleft in the Cliffside that bears a striking resemblance to the holiest of holies and enjoys a constant flow of cool mountain water. Drive back to Shaxi in the afternoon.

Meals: no meals

Overnight: Traditional Bai Minority Guest House in

Shaxi

Day 04 Shaxi, Dali

Today, you will hike with our tour guide and experience the old Horse and Tea Trade Route. You will hike along the village of Maping Guan, an extraordinary holdover from the old Horse and Trade period. This staunchly Bai village boasts a Confucian Temple, a shrine to the Guanyin Buddha as well as a traditional theater. During your hiking hours, our driver will bring your luggage in the car. In the afternoon, you will drive back to Dali (3-4 hours).

Meals: no meals