【2026 Silk Road Express】Tea & Timeless Landscapes

Silk Road Express

Tea & Timeless Landscapes

Spanning Kunming, Xishuangbanna and Dali, this journey weaves together tropical rainforest serenity and timeless Bai ethnic heritage. Highlights include guided treks through pristine rainforests, Bai artisan workshops in Xizhou Ancient Town and tranquil tea tastings at a secluded mountain tea house, paired with Michelin-caliber onboard dining.

Daily Itinerary

Manual

Kunming
Xishuangbanna
Dali
Kunming

Day 1

Kunming → Xishuangbanna
- - Afternoon
    Arrive at the railway station at least 40 minutes prior to departure, then board the Silk Road Express with valid identification to commence your bespoke Yunnan journey.
  - Early Evening
    Savor an exquisite welcome dinner crafted to Michelin-level culinary standards, paired with a curated assortment of fine wines and premium beverages, as rolling countryside vistas unfold beyond your window.
  - Evening
    Join our signature cocktail reception in the elegant lounge bar to enjoy handcrafted signature drinks. Alternatively, retreat to the panoramic observation car for a classic film screening, immersed in the timeless romance of luxury overnight rail travel.
- Dinner
Day 2

Xishuangbanna → Dali
- - Morning
    After a leisurely breakfast on board, take a scenic 1-hour transfer into Xishuangbanna's untouched tropical rainforest. Accompanied by an expert resident naturalist, follow shaded trails beneath ancient tree canopies to discover iconic rainforest flora including giant buttress roots, twisting lianas and primeval tree ferns, surrounded by the natural symphony of native wildlife.
  - Midday
    Indulge in a curated light lunch crafted with fresh local seasonal ingredients, served within the heart of the rainforest.
  - Afternoon
    Continue your immersive nature experience with a gentle stream walk, deepening your connection to one of China's most biodiverse landscapes in a serene, uncrowded setting, before returning to the train bound for Dali.
  - Evening
    Dine on a refined seasonal menu aboard the train as you glide through southern Yunnan's after-dark landscapes.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 3

Dali → Kunming
- - Morning
    Following breakfast on board, explore the historic town of Xizhou to delve into the rich cultural legacy of the Bai people. Visit a local cultural arts centre, where master artisans lead hands-on experiences including traditional printmaking, papermaking and clay sculpture, offering an intimate glimpse into centuries-old Bai craftsmanship.
  - Midday
    Savor a curated Bai ethnic specialty lunch showcasing authentic local flavors and heritage recipes.
  - Afternoon
    Journey into the mountain foothills to visit a secluded, nature-surrounded tea house. Unwind with a tasting of locally grown tea, soaking in the peaceful mountain atmosphere and the unhurried rhythm of highland life.
  - Evening
    Rejoin the Silk Road Express and savor a refined dinner service as the train travels onward toward Kunming.
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Day 4

Arrival in Kunming | Journey Concludes
- - Morning
    Enjoy a leisurely, chef-prepared breakfast aboard the train while taking in the evolving landscapes of central Yunnan. Upon arrival in Kunming, disembark the train, bringing your luxury Yunnan rail journey to a close. Guests may arrange their own onward travel.
- Breakfast