The annual Torch Festival will be held from July 29 to August 1 in Shilin Yi Autonomous County, about 78 kilometers away from downtown Kunming.

An evening party will kick off at 8:00 pm on July 31. Many famous pop stars will take part in the party, such as: Dick and Cowboy, Julie, as well as local pop singers. After the party, a gala night will start at 22:00 and last until at 2:00 next day.

On July 30, Uygur tight-rope walker Aisikaier, known as 'Prince of the Air' and the holder of five Guinness world records, will try to challenge walking pass a 50-mm-diameter and 18-cm-long high wire between two floating hot air balloons.

From July 30 to August 4, visitors can choose to experience hot air ballooning over picturesque scenery at three scenic spots in Shilin, including Naigu stone forest, both large and small stone forests, and Changhu Lake.

How to get there: You can take a tourist bus to Stone Forest Scenic Area at Eastern Passenger transport Station in Kunming.

Accommodation: Tianqi Ashima Hotel and Stone Forest Hotel in the scenic area (price: 300 yuan or above.) Besides, there are many guesthouses (price: 100-300 yuan).

Admission of Stone Forest: 130 yuan (Naigu Stone Forest), 175 yuan (both large and small stone forests), 10 yuan (Changhu Lake).

Admission of the evening party is from 120 yuan to 480 yuan for different levels.

The price of hot air balloon is 100 yuan per person, with a 10- 50 minute flight option.

In addition, Chuxiong will host the Torch Festival of Yi Ethnic Group 2013 from July 30 to August 1. A series of activities themed with "Torch Festival" will also be held at Yunnan Nationalities Village from July 27 to August 4.

Torch Festival is a traditional festival celebrated among some ethnic groups in China, such as: Yi, Bai, Hani, Lisu, Naxi, Pumi and Lahu etc.