Never Thought of Travelling to Kunming, China? These 6 Spots Might Change Your Mind

When thinking of a city to visit while in China, Kunming probably isn’t your first, or second choice. Then again, that’s probably because you don’t know how cool the place actually is. Well, we’re here to shed some light on this seemingly unpopular city and prove to you that there are in fact countless hidden gems and awesome activities to do here!

Get ready to be hit by instant case of wanderlust with some of these gorgeous spots in Kunming you never knew you’d love:

 

1. Stand in awe of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountains

Source: Instagram

Source: Instagram

Located at the southernmost glacier in the Northern Hemisphere, get ready to experience snow-capped mountains, beautiful natural scenery and much, much more. It’s also a great place to visit if you want to get away from the scorching hot Malaysian weather.

Things you can expect:

1. Be marveled by the 13 peaks – with the highest being Shanzidou peak, standing at an altitude of 5,600 metres
2. Go skiing, mountaineering or simply go around sightseeing
3. Check out the different types of glaciers found on the Jade Dragon Snow Mountains. The mountain is nicknamed the “Natural Glacier Museum” after all

It’s a pretty good place for a snowball fight too!

Location: Lijiang, Yunnan

 

2. Go back in time and visit the old town of Lijiang

Source: Instagram

The town of Lijiang, which dates back to more than 800 years ago, is known worldwide for its UNESCO Heritage Site. Infused with decades of culture and history, visiting this place will be like stepping back in time. Definitely the place to be if you wish to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

Things you can expect:

1. Be awestruck by their ancient architecture and orderly waterway systems that have been around for decades
2. Learn about the various ethnic groups such as the Han, Naxi, Bai and the Tibetans
3. Enjoy outdoor activities and spectacular scenery ranging from highland glacial lakes and snowy mountains to majestic canyons

Location: Northwest of the Yunnan Province

 

3. Become one with nature when you visit the Kunming Botanical Garden

Almost 100 acres big, this Botanical Garden was first created for the purpose of cultivating rare and precious flora including medicinal herbs, trees, flowers and even endangered species.

Things you can expect:

1. Over 4,000 species of flora in the garden
2. Many themed gardens in the park including the Camellia Garden consisting of over 15,000 Camellia trees; the Azalea Garden, which is home to nearly 10,000 Azalea trees; the Ferns Garden, boasting almost 400 types of ferns, and so many more
3. Take countless scenic photos here to share on Instagram!

Location: Kunming Botanical Garden, Kunming

 

4. Visit ‘The Stone Forest’ that’s like none other

Source: Instagram

It’s just like the Stonehenge, but in China! Sort of.

As the name suggests, the stone forest boasts a spectacular “forest” of limestones across its 10,000-acre landscapes.

Things you can expect:

1. To be awed by the natural stone masterpieces and be completely astounded by the unique and naturally formed stones
2. The stones come in shapes of cones, columns, mushrooms, plants, animals and even human figures! Let your imagination run wild and see what else you can spot!

Some locals there even say that if you visit Kunming without visiting the Stone Forest, you’ve wasted your time. So, you know what should be on your bucket list!

Location: Shilin Yi Nationality Autonomous County

 

5. Satisfy your hunger pangs by indulging in delicious, authentic food from Xiba Road food street

The best way to experience a country’s culture and eat real, authentic food is to visit their pasar malams! It can’t get anymore authentic than that!

Things you can expect:

1. Appetizing Guizhou flavours, which are basically “suan la” (sour and spicy) or “ma la” (numbingly spicy)
2. Some the most popular hotpot restaurants are located along this street as well
3. Other popular Chinese cuisines you can find here include Yunnan and Sichuan cuisines. Yum!

This place definitely sounds like the perfect Malaysian food paradise!

Location: Xiba Road, Kunming

 

6. Visit the Kundu Night Market for a fun night out

For all you night owls out there, if late night eating and partying is your thing, the Kundu Night Market is the place for you! Don’t let its name fool you though, because this place is known as the centre for nightlife in Kunming.

Things you can expect:

1. All sorts of bars, clubs as well as karaoke centres to cater to all your nightlife entertainment needs
2. Plenty of cafes, restaurants, snack shops and more, so you’ll be able to keep your tummies filled while you party!

Location: 78 Xinwen Road, Kunming

 

Well, that’s all for now! But these are just some of the many, many places you can visit for an exciting and memorable time in Kunming! Don’t let this seemingly unpopular destination fool you, because there are a great deal of activities to do and sites to visit here. Better than your usual mainstream places to visit too!

In fact, if you plan to visit Kunming anytime soon, you’re in luck because Air Asia is having some awesome deals!

What’s more, you can get cheaper fares to other attractive destinations around China too! Some of these places include Shantou, Xi’an, Hangzhou, Shenzen and even Shanghai!

Additionally, if you use your UnionPay card to purchase Air Asia flights, you’ll automatically get an additional 10 per cent discount!

Wah, time for my much needed getaway!

Find out more about Air Asia’s awesome deals here!