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Where is Shangri-la Located in Yunnan,China
Shangri-La, often referred to as the hidden Himalayan utopia, has its origins in James Hilton's 1933 novel, Lost Horizon. Since the book's publication, numerous Himalayan regions have laid claim to being the real-life Shangri-La described in the story. However, in 2001, a city in northwestern Yunnan, China, was officially designated as Shangri-La, bringing an end to the dispute over its location.
Before the name change, Shangri-La was called Zhongdian (中甸), the capital city of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州), bordering the Tibet Autonomous Region. It is surrounded by stunning mountain landscapes, including the famous Meili Snow Mountain range. The city is known for its Tibetan culture, monasteries, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking a peaceful and scenic retreat in Yunnan.
Shangri-La Attractions: Lost in the Tibetan Paradise
Escape the ordinary and delve into the captivating realm of Shangri-La, a place where Tibetan culture thrives amidst breathtaking natural beauty. Here, ancient traditions intertwine with dramatic landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for every traveler.
Songzanlin Monastery (松赞林寺)
Songzanlin Monastery, also known as Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, is located only 6 kilometers away from Shangri-La central city. Nicknamed the "Little Potala Palace," this magnificent Tibetan Buddhist monastery is the largest outside of Tibet itself. Wander through its labyrinthine halls adorned with vibrant murals, listen to the melodious chanting of monks, and witness the serene beauty of Tibetan Buddhist practices.
Dukzong Ancient Town (独克宗古城)
Dukezong means Moonlight in Tibetan. This well-preserved gem boasts traditional Tibetan architecture, with houses adorned with colorful prayer flags. You can Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture by visiting the world's largest prayer wheel in Guishan Park, dancing Guozhuang with local Tibetans at Yueguang Plaza, savoring regional delicacies, and experiencing the warm hospitality of the Tibetan people.
Potatso National Park (普达措公园)
Adventure awaits in Potatso National Park, a wonderland of majestic snow-capped peaks, pristine glaciers, and diverse wildlife. Hike through alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, spot rare birds soaring through the skies, and challenge yourself with thrilling treks amidst stunning scenery.
Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡)
For the intrepid explorer, the Tiger Leaping Gorge offers a heart-pounding adventure. This world-famous gorge, carved by the Jinsha River, boasts dramatic cliff faces, cascading waterfalls, and breathtaking panoramas. Hike along the narrow trails, feeling the rush of adrenaline as you navigate this awe-inspiring natural wonder.
Napahai Lake (纳帕海)
Find serenity at Napahai Lake, a vast freshwater haven nestled amidst rolling hills and meadows. Glide across its tranquil waters on a boat ride, keeping an eye out for diverse birdlife. Unwind on the shores, letting the breathtaking scenery and fresh mountain air rejuvenate your spirit.
Meili Snow Mountain (梅里雪山)
Gaze upon the majestic peak of Meili Snow Mountain, a sacred place revered by Tibetans. This towering mountain, adorned with perpetual snow, offers stunning views and a sense of serenity. Whether you choose to trek at its base or simply admire its beauty from afar, Meili Snow Mountain leaves a lasting impression.
Check more details and activities of these attractions in Things to Do in Shangri-La >>
Shangri-La Yunnan Map with Tourist Attractions
This Shangri-La Yunnan Map shows the top attractions in Shangri-La City. You can check more in Maps of Yunnan.
How Many Days to Spend in Shangri-La City?
Generally, spending 2-3 full days in Shangri-La is recommended to explore the city and its main attractions comfortably. This allows you to visit Songzanlin Monastery, explore Dukezong Ancient Town, take a trip to Potatso National Park, and even venture to nearby natural wonders like Great Bend of Jinsha River if you want.
If you're an outdoor enthusiast or have a strong interest in Tibetan culture, consider a longer stay for 4-6 days. Shangri-La provides several world-class hiking routes with breathtaking landscape and culture experience. You can challenge yourself with a trek through the world-famous Tiger Leaping Gorge, or a trek in Yubeng Village, the base of Meili Snow Mountain, to experience the local way of life.
Check trekking itineraries in Yunnan Hiking Trails and Yunnan Hiking Tour Packages.
Suggested Shangri-La Itinerary (from Lijiang)
Classic 3-Day Itinerary: Best and Most Popular
Day 1: Drive from Lijiang to Shangri-La, visit Tiger Leaping Gorge and the First Bend of the Yangtze River along the way. Upon arrival in Shangri-La, explore the Dukezong Ancient Town.
Day 2: Visit the Songzanlin Monastery and Potatso National Park.
Day 3: Departure from Shangri-La. You have the option to depart from Shangri-La Airport or take the high-speed train back to Kunming and depart from Kunming Airport.
4-Day Itinerary with Meili Snow Mountain
Day 1: Drive from Lijiang to Shangri-La, visit Tiger Leaping Gorge and the First Bend of the Yangtze River along the way. Upon arrival in Shangri-La, explore the Dukezong Ancient Town.
Day 2: Visit the Songzanlin Monastery and drive 4 hours to Meili Snow Mountain, visit the Fly Temple.
Day 3: Get up early for the Sunrise, after breakfast drive another 4 hours to Potatso National Park.
Day 4: Departure. You have the option to depart from Shangri-La Airport, Lijiang Airport or Kunming Airport. High-speed trains will take you to the departure city.
6-Day Itinerary with Yubeng Village Hiking
Day 1: Drive from Lijiang to Shangri-La, visit Tiger Leaping Gorge and the First Bend of the Yangtze River along the way. Upon arrival in Shangri-La, explore the Dukezong Ancient Town.
Day 2: Visit the Songzanlin Monastery and drive 4 hours to Meili Snow Mountain, visit the Fly Temple.
Day 3: Get up early for the Sunrise, then take a jeep ride to the Yubeng Village. Hike to the Scared Waterfall and return to Lower Yubeng Village within 5 hours.
Day 4: Take a round-trek trip to Ice Lake within 7 hours and stay overnight in Lower Yubeng Village.
Day 5: Trek from Lower Yubeng Village to Ninong Bridge within 4 hours. Then drive back to Shangri-La City directly with another 3.5 hours.
Day 6: Departure. You have the option to depart from Shangri-La Airport, Lijiang Airport or Kunming Airport. High-speed trains is available to take you to Lijiang (1.5 hours), Dali (4 hours) and Kunming(5-6 hours).
You can find more popular Yunnan itineraries in Shangri-La Tour Packages and Lijiang Shangri-La Tour Packages
Shangri-La Weather & Best Time to Visit: September to November
Shangri-La experiences a highland subtropical monsoon climate due to its high altitude. The weather can vary significantly throughout the year, so it's important to choose the best time to visit based on your preferences. Here's an overview of the weather in Shangri-La throughout the seasons:
- Spring (March to May): Spring in Shangri-La is cool and relatively dry. Temperatures gradually rise, but it can still be chilly, especially in March. The landscapes start to bloom with colorful flowers, making it a beautiful time to visit. It's great time to trek in Yubeng Village.
- Summer (June to August): Summer is the rainy season in Shangri-La, with frequent showers and occasional thunderstorms. The temperatures are mild to warm, ranging from 15°C to 23°C (59°F to 73°F). The lush greenery and blooming flowers during this time create a picturesque setting. Snow Mountains may hide behind clouds frequently.
- Autumn (September to November): Autumn is generally considered the best time to visit Shangri-La. The weather is cool and pleasant, with clear skies and less rainfall. The temperatures range between 10°C and 20°C (50°F to 68°F). The landscapes of Potatso National Park showcase vibrant autumn colors, especially in October. Trekking in Tiger Leaping Gorge is also recommended due to its roaring river after rainy season.
- Winter (December to February): Winter in Shangri-La is cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing. The average temperatures range from -7°C to 8°C (19°F to 46°F). However, the snow-covered landscapes and the festive atmosphere during Chinese New Year and Tibetan New Year make it an enchanting time to visit if you enjoy winter activities.
Considering the weather conditions, the best time to visit Shangri-La is during the autumn months of September to November when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are adorned with beautiful autumn colors. However, each season has its own unique charm, so you can choose the time that aligns with your preferences, whether it's enjoying spring blossoms, summer greenery, or winter snowscapes.
How to Get to Shangri-La, Flights or High-Speed Trains?
Flights to Shangri-La: Fastest Way from Mainland China
Diqing Shangri-La Airport (DIG) is the only airport in Shangri-La city. You can take direct flights to reach Shangri-La from Chengdu (1.5 hours), Kunming (1.5 hours), Guangzhou (3 hours), and Lhasa (2 hours).
Shangri-La Airport to City Downtown
Shangri-La Airport is situated 3,287 meters above sea level and is only 8 kilometers from the city center. There is no airport bus service available. To reach the city center, you can opt for a taxi or private car, which takes about 20 minutes.
High-Speed Trains to Shangri-La: Most Convenient Way from Kunming, Dali, Lijiang
Surprise! You can take a high-speed train from Kunming, Dali, and Lijiang to Shangri-La now. Here is the facts and tickets:
| Departure City | Duration | Second-class | First-class | Business-calss | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kunming | 4.5 - 6.5 hours | 230 - 245 | 367 - 390 | 714 - 763 | 4 Times per Day |
| Dali | 4 hours 12 minutes | 135 | 214 | 434 | Once a Day |
| Lijiang | 1 - 1.5hour | 49 - 63 | 78 - 100 | 170 - 219 | 5 Times per Day |
Shangri-La Railway Station to City Downtown
Shangri-La Railway Station is located 7 kilometers away from the city centre. You can take bus No.1 to the Dukezong Ancient Town (Downtown area) and Bus No.16 to Songzanlin Monastery. Alternatively, you can take taxi or private car to city centre or popular destinations.
How to Get around Shangri-La
- Walking: Shangri-La's city center, including Dukezong Ancient Town, is relatively compact and can be easily explored on foot.
- Private Cars or Taxis: If you prefer more convenience or have specific destinations to visit outside the city center, you can hire a private car or taxi to take you to specific attractions or explore the surrounding areas of Shangri-La.
- Organized Tour: If you plan to visit remote attractions such as Tiger Leaping Gorge or Meili Snow Mountain, you can rent a car with a local guide or join an Organized tour.
Where to Stay & Comfortable Hotels in Shangri-La Yunnan
When visiting Shangri-La, many travelers prefer to stay in the Dukezong Ancient Town area. This area is favored for its convenient transportation, well-established businesses, and a higher concentration of people, providing a safer and more convenient experience for exploring Dukezong Ancient Town. The Shangri-La Old Town area offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and boutique resorts, catering to the diverse preferences of visitors. You can find Shangri-La Resort, Hotel Indigo, Shangri-La Lux and more boutique resorts in this area. Most of them offer oxygen supply rooms to convince a more comfortable experience.
Tourists visiting Meili Snow Mountain often choose to stay overnight in the Feilai Temple area, renowned for its breathtaking sunrise views. This location offers the best vantage point to witness the magnificent sunrise over the mountain.
What to Eat & Unique Tibetan Cuisine You Can Try in Shangri-La
Shangri-La offers a variety of culinary delights, including unique Tibetan cuisine. Here are some dishes and food items you can try in Shangri-La to experience the local flavors:
- Yak Meat Dishes: These dishes feature tender pieces of yak meat cooked with vegetables and flavorful spices.
- Tibetan Noodle Soup (Thukpa): Thukpa is a comforting noodle soup that typically contains hand-pulled noodles, vegetables, and your choice of meat or tofu.
- Momos: Momos are dumplings filled with meat or vegetables. They are often steamed or fried and served with a spicy sauce. You can find it in all Himalaya areas.
- Tibetan Butter Tea: Butter tea is a unique Tibetan beverage made by combining tea leaves, yak butter, and salt. You can try it to experience the traditional flavors, but note that it has a strong taste.
- Tibetan Yogurt: It's a creamy and slightly sour yogurt that can be enjoyed as a refreshing snack or dessert.
- Tibetan Cheese: If you come across Tibetan cheese, give it a try. It has a distinct flavor and can be sampled on its own or used in various dishes.
Shangri-La Travel Tips (Altitude & Packing List)
Altitude
Shangri-La is located at a high alttude, ranging from 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) to over 4,000 meters (13,000 feet). It's essential to acclimate gradually to the altitude to prevent altitude sickness. Take it easy upon arrival, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities for the first couple of days.
| Attraction | Altitude | Attraction | Altitude |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shangri-La Airport | 3,287 | Napahai Lake | 3,266 |
| Shangri-La Railway Station | 3,270 | Potatso National Park | 2,347 - 4,670 |
| Dukezong Ancient Town | 3,300 | Songzanlin Monastery | 3,300 |
| Tiger Leaping Gorge | 1,800 | Meili Snow Mountain (Fly Temple) | 3,439 |
| First Bend of Yangtze River | 2,000 | Yubeng Village | 3,050 |
Packing List
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Warm clothing: Even in summer, temperatures can drop significantly, so pack warm layers, including a jacket, sweaters, and long-sleeved shirts.
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Comfortable walking shoes: Shangri-La is a walkable city, so bring comfortable shoes suitable for exploring.
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Sun protection: The high altitude means stronger UV rays, so pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
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Medications: If you have any specific medications or altitude sickness prevention pills, bring them along.
Extend Your Shangri-La Trip
Combine Shangri-La with nearby Lijiang
Shangri-La and Lijiang are two neighboring popular destinations in Yunnan. Why not combine Lijiang with Shangri-La when visiting northwest Yunnan.
Lijiang is considered a holy land of the Naxi ethnic culture. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lijiang Ancient Town, Shuhe Ancient Town, and Baisha Village are must-visit attractions in Lijiang. Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, standing majestically on the edge of the city, is the sacred mountain that has been guarding the Naxi people for generations. It is also a must-see sight when exploring Lijiang. To acclimate better to the high altitude of Shangri-La, it is recommended to spend 2-3 days exploring Lijiang before heading to Shangri-La.
Combine Shangri-La with Other Destinations in Yunnan
Apart from Lijiang and Shangri-La, Yunnan offers a multitude of captivating destinations. Dali, a romantic city, boasts scenic attractions like Cangshan Mountain and Erhai Lake, along with historical sites from the ancient Nanzhao Kingdom. Kunming, known as the "City of Eternal Spring," features Dianchi Lake and the intriguing Stone Forest. Xishuangbanna, a tropical region, immerses visitors in the vibrant ambiance and flavors of Southeast Asia. The Yuanyang Rice Terraces showcase the unique landscape shaped by the Hani ethnic group's farming culture. Yunnan, with its diverse ethnic groups and rich cultural heritage, is a top-tier destination worth exploring for around 7-10 days.
Extend Shangri-la Trip to Tibet by Overland
Starting from Shangri-La, you can travel north along the Yunnan Tibet Highway (G214) until you reach Mangkang, where it intersects with the southern Sichuan Tibet Highway (G318). From there, you have two options. One option is to continue westward along the G318 National Highway, passing through Zogang, Basu, Ranwu, Bomi, and Nyingchi, until you reach Lhasa. The other option is to continue heading north, passing through Chaya, and reaching Chamdo, where you can begin the magnificent adventure along the northern Sichuan Tibet Highway (G317).
Both of the routes will take approximately one week to reach Lhasa, offering breathtaking landscapes of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, where you'll encounter primitive Tibetan villages and pristine plateau scenery.
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) to Explore Shangri-La, Yunnan
Travel to Shangri-La with Asia Odyssey Travel (AOT) and indulge yourself in the enchanting beauty and vibrant culture of Yunnan. With over a decade of experience in the region, AOT is a trusted travel partner that provides a variety of customizable Shangri-La tour packages, catering to the preferences of every traveler. Whether you're looking for a scenic explore, a snow mountain adventure, or a cultural exploration of Shangri-la and its Tibetan minority heritage, AOT has the expertise to curate the perfect itinerary for your needs. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Shangri-La with AOT and create unforgettable memories in this captivating destination.
Popular Attractions: Tiger Leaping Gorge, Songzanling Monastery, Pudacuo National Park, Dukezong Ancient Town, Meili Snow Mountain
Tour Packages: Shangri-La Tours, Lijiang Shangri-La Tours, Tiger Leaping Gorge Tours
Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Asia Odyssey Travel and explore the beauty, culture, and warm hospitality of Shangri-La. Contact us today to start planning your dream vacation.
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