Wedged between Tibet and the exotic lands of Southeast Asia, Yunnan Province is one of the least known and most beguiling regions of China. A mountainous wonderland, it is home to 24 diverse, colorful ethnic cultures. With a name meaning `South of the Clouds`, Yunnan boasts sparkling blue skies, red earth, and green forests. The picturesque capital of Yunnan, Kunming - `the City of Eternal Spring` - lies near a serene, mile-high lake. Other natural marvels, such as the haunting Stone Forest and lush tropical Xishuangbanna, make Yunnan a microcosm of China at its very best.

Remarks

+ A botanical wonderland, containing the richest temperate flora in the world

+ China`s Shangri La

+ Adventure travel

+ Astonishing early Bronze-Age culture

+ World Heritage Sites, including the historic Naxi town of Lijiang, the `Three Rivers` and the holy mountain Kawakarpo on the border with Tibet

+ The largest concentration of minority nationalities in China