4 Days Shangri-La Tour: Lost Horizon Land, Monasteries & Grand Canyon

Nǐ hǎo! Welcome to Shangri-La (香格里拉)! Nestled in the northwestern part of Yunnan Province in Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Shangri-La was formerly known as Zhongdian. This charming paradise is considered the real Shangri-La on earth. Inspired by the mythical paradise described in James Hilton's novel "Lost Horizon", Shangri-La lives up to its name. Hidden among majestic mountains, it beckons you with a landscape shrouded in mystery and legend, a place where fairytale scenery awaits.

Upon your arrival at Shangri-La's airport or train station, our local tour guide and driver will meet you at the exit, greet you, and escort you to the Dukezong Ancient Town area. Our local guide will assist you with hotel check-in.

Afterwards, we will visit Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城), with over 1,300 years history, which is the best-preserved and largest Tibetan residential cluster in China. It holds the distinction of being the oldest castle along the Tea Horse Road. The name "Dukezong" translates to "Moonlight Castle built on a Stone" and it is also known as the City of Moonlight. Here, you will discover a world of traditional Tibetan houses, ancient temples, beautiful pagodas, and narrow, winding alleyways, all adorned with iconic Tibetan prayer flags of various colors. Take a hike up Guishan Hill and join the locals in turning the world's largest prayer wheel for good luck and happiness. From this vantage point, you can capture a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire town. Afterwards, wander through the distinctive alleys and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Tibetan culture.

Optional Activities in the Evening:

In the evenings around 19:00, you'll often see local Tibetans gathering in Sifang Square for a chance to participate in some traditional Tibetan dancing. As the evening deepens (around 21:00), the entire ancient town transforms with a warm glow as the lights come on, creating a truly charming atmosphere.

This morning, our guide will take you to visit Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺, also known as Ganden Sumtsenling Monastery), a sprawling complex perched at an altitude of 3,380 meters. Founded in 1679 by the Fifth Dalai Lama, Songzanlin Monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan Province. Inspired by the Potala Palace in Lhasa, it's often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace".

The monastery's architecture is a fascinating fusion of Tibetan and Han Chinese styles. Currently, around 700 monks reside in its 200 associated houses. Ascend the steps and enter the monastery's three grand halls: Zhacang Hall (the central and highest hall), Jikang Hall (dedicated to Tsongkhapa), and Sakyamuni Hall (dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha). Here, you'll witness Tibetan monks chanting and meditating, enveloped in the monastery's solemn atmosphere. The climb will be rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the entire monastery complex and the beautiful Lamuyangcuo Lake.

This afternoon, take a 25km drive (about 30 minutes) to Pudacuo National Park (普达措, also known as Potatso National Park), the first national park in China. Situated on the vast Tibetan Plateau and forming an important part of the "Three Parallel Rivers" scenic spot, the park is renowned for its pristine landscapes. Encompassing scenic hills, meadows, lakes, diverse plant life, and abundant bird species, the park is also home to over 100 endangered animals including leopards, cranes, macaques, and lynxes.

Your journey begins with a sightseeing bus ride to Shudu Lake (altitude: 3,705 meters), the park's largest lake famed for its crystal-clear water and serene beauty. Take a leisurely hike around the well-maintained path suitable for most fitness levels. Afterwards, hop on a sightseeing bus to Bita Lake (altitude: 3,568 meters). A jewel nestled amidst the mountains and considered sacred by the local Tibetans, Bita Lake's turquoise waters and snow-capped backdrop create a picture-perfect scene. Take another short hike around the lake, a trail that leads you deeper into the heart of the park.

As you make your way back to the hotel, to wrap up your day with a cultural immersion, visit a local Tibetan family and sample some local snacks and yak butter tea.

After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Shangri-La.

After breakfast, your guide and driver will take you on a scenic 1.5-2 hour drive (approximately 84km) to Shangri-La Grand Canyon, also known as Balagezong. Located in the northwestern part of Shangri-La City, the Shangri-La Grand Canyon is part of the Three Parallel Rivers World Natural Heritage Area. The canyon is known for its dramatic scenery, including snow-capped mountains, deep valleys, lush forests, emerald lakes, meadows, pastures, rivers, and ancient villages. A true hidden gem, this pure land awaits your discovery, offering unique beauty and rich Tibetan culture.

Upon arrival, begin your exploration with a ride on the sightseeing bus to Echo Wall. There, take a 1.2-kilometer hike along the plank path and experience the fascinating echo effect. (Optional activity: Thrill-seekers can also take on the high-altitude glass plank path or embark on a zipline adventure.)

Next, immerse yourself in the religious atmosphere at Bala Dzong Monastery, dedicated to the Mother Goddess (an incarnation of Guanyin). Afterward, head to Bala Village. Tibetan scripture records that millions of years ago, a group of people sought an ideal place free from war and misery. Learn about the story of Senadub Tenzin and see the asphalt road he built for his hometown, as well as the ancient houses that still stand tall.

After visiting the village, go for a thrilling journey into the Shangri-La Grand Canyon. It is said that the Blue Moon Valley described in the book Lost Horizon is located within this scenic area. The U-shaped canyon, formerly called Birang Grand Canyon, boasts a distinctive vertical climate. Take a short, 2-kilometer hike along the plank path to appreciate the breathtaking gorge view. (Optional Activity: For a different perspective, enjoy rafting along the gorge.)

In-depth Visit to Shangri-La Stupa (Optional): To the northeast of the snow mountain stands the Shangri-La Stupa. This natural wonder is actually a mountain resembling a round-based stupa, flanked by two other mountains that appear like a Lama and an unfolding sutra. As the only natural stupa in the world, it holds great significance.

After the tour, return back to Shangri-La.

After breakfast, it is time to end your 4 Days Shangri-La tour. You will have some free time in Shangri-La and explore more on your own pace till your guide escorts you to the airport for your flight to next destination.

Departure Ideas: Diqing Shangri-La Airport (DIG) is a small airport. If you leave from Shangri-La, you can fly to several destinations within China, including Kunming, Chengdu, Chongqing, Lhasa, Guangzhou, Shanghai, and more cities.

Extension Ideas: If you wish to extend your trip and explore other highlighted parts of Yunnan, such as Kunming, Dali, Yuanyang Rice Terraces, Xishuangbanna, and more, we can help you with the arrangements.

Thank you for choosing Asia Odyssey Travel for your Yunnan tour, we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next trip to China/Asia. Safe journey!