Just returned from Shangri-La, Yunnan | This is a must-visit place in your lifetime!!!
|This is a must-visit place in your lifetime!!! In a mysterious corner of Yunnan, there is a pure land treasured by time - Shangri-La. Here, you will find not only magnificent mountains and lakes but also unique cultural customs. Every scene seems to be a masterpiece jointly created by nature and history, attracting countless travelers to this magical land.
1. Must-visit attractions
1. Dukezong Ancient Town and the Giant Prayer Wheel: Strolling through Dukezong Ancient Town is like opening an ancient Tibetan history book. The streets and buildings here bear the marks of time, simple and tranquil. As you walk slowly up the steps of Moonlight Square towards the giant prayer wheel, you will feel a sense of awe for the faith of this land. In the ancient town, you can wander freely through every corner without a ticket, experiencing the unique charm of Tibetan architecture and the local lifestyle.
2. Songzanlin Monastery: Known as the "Little Potala Palace," this monastery is a treasure of Tibetan Buddhist art. Although ticket prices vary, you can appreciate its magnificent architectural style and profound religious culture regardless of how you enter. The golden roof of the monastery shines brightly, and the colorful murals on the walls are dazzling. Every Buddha statue and mural tells an ancient story, making it a must-visit photography spot for enthusiasts.
3. Napa Lake Grassland: Napa Lake is like a dazzling pearl, open to tourists for free. You can take a taxi or rent an electric bike and head towards the direction of the Alpine Botanical Garden, where the viewing platform offers a panoramic view of the grassland and lake. On the grassland, yaks and horses graze leisurely, and clouds float in the sky, reflecting in the lake, creating a dreamlike scene that is refreshing and delightful.
4. Meili Snow Mountain: Visiting Meili Snow Mountain is a journey to pursue the sacred and magnificent. Departing from the bus station, you can purchase tickets online or at the window through the Diqing Transportation platform and take a long-distance bus to the Feilai Temple viewing platform, where the scenery along the way is breathtaking. When you finally stand on the viewing platform and witness the majestic Meili Snow Mountain, especially when the golden peaks pierce through the clouds in the morning sunlight, you will be amazed by the wonders of nature and feel a sense of tranquility and awe.
5. Pudacuo National Park: The park's package includes a sightseeing bus and tickets, allowing you to experience the beauty of alpine meadows, snow-capped mountains, and lakes. In summer, the park is lush and vibrant, while in winter, it is covered in snow, offering a unique charm. Walking along the boardwalk, breathing in the fresh air, and admiring the mysterious primeval forest and the clear Shudu Lake, you will feel like you are in a fairyland.
6. Tiger Leaping Gorge: As one of the world's top ten classic hiking routes, Tiger Leaping Gorge attracts countless adventurers with its steep terrain and majestic momentum. In the scenic area, you can choose to take a sightseeing bus to easily enjoy the magnificent scenery of the gorge or challenge yourself by embarking on a hiking journey to experience the thrilling excitement of the rushing river and steep cliffs, appreciating the wonders of nature.
7. Shangri-La Prayer Flags and White Pagoda: These two adjacent attractions are filled with a strong religious atmosphere. The colorful prayer flags flutter in the wind, and the white pagoda is as white as snow, standing out against the blue sky. Standing on this sacred land, listening to the sound of the wind passing through the prayer flags, you will feel the blessings from afar, cleansing your soul, making it an excellent place for taking photos.
8. Balagezong: After purchasing tickets, take a sightseeing bus to enter Balagezong, and you will feel like you have entered an isolated paradise. Here, you will find deep gorges, dense forests, and ancient villages, each scene filled with mystery. You can walk along the boardwalk, admiring the beautiful scenery along the way, or delve into the villages to learn about the lifestyle and customs of the local Tibetan people, experiencing their simplicity and enthusiasm.
9. Bottomless Cave: For travelers who enjoy niche routes, the Bottomless Cave is a place full of surprises. Although you need to carpool from the ancient town, the scenery along the way is definitely worth it. Here, you can hike to explore unknown beauty or take photos by the lake, enjoying the tranquility and serenity of nature, feeling the pleasure of being away from the hustle and bustle.
10. Laoyao Mountain: Located between Lijiang and Shangri-La, Laoyao Mountain is a place with beautiful alpine meadow scenery. During the carpool journey, you can admire the magnificent mountains along the way. Upon reaching the top of the mountain, the vast meadows, blue sky, and white clouds create a stunning picture, allowing you to immerse yourself in it and forget all your worries.
2. Culinary delights in Shangri-La
1. Tibetan Fragrance Restaurant: The signature Tibetan barbecue at this restaurant is a must-try, especially the special roasted lamb leg, with its golden crispy skin and tender, juicy interior, paired with unique Tibetan spices, leaving a lingering taste. In addition, their barley cakes are also very popular, with a crispy texture and a rich wheat aroma, making it a great place to taste Tibetan flavors.
2. Sunshine Tibetan Restaurant: Here, you must try their stone pot yak meat, which is perfectly stewed, melting in your mouth, with a rich and mellow broth, making it a delicious dish to accompany rice. The restaurant's environment is elegant and comfortable, with attentive and enthusiastic service, allowing you to enjoy the warmth of home while savoring the delicious food.
3. Tashi Delek Tibetan Restaurant: Their butter tea and Tibetan yogurt are highly recommended. The butter tea has a rich taste, with a perfect blend of milk and tea aroma, warming the body and replenishing energy. The Tibetan yogurt is sweet and sour, rich in probiotics, and beneficial for the stomach. Paired with a portion of tsampa, you can experience an authentic Tibetan breakfast and start a day full of energy.
3. Cozy accommodation recommendations
1. Shangri-La Star Inn: Located on the edge of the ancient town, the inn offers convenient transportation and a tranquil environment. The rooms are warmly and comfortably decorated, full of Tibetan style, and each room has a private balcony, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the ancient town and distant mountains. The inn also provides free breakfast and thoughtful butler service, making you feel the warmth of home during your journey.
2. Shambhala Dream Hotel: This hotel features a unique design, perfectly blending modern elements with Tibetan style. The hotel's lobby is spacious and bright, with exquisite decorations, and the rooms are well-equipped and comfortable. The hotel also has a gym, restaurant, and meeting room to meet the needs of different guests. In addition, the hotel's garden offers a pleasant view, making it a great place for a leisurely walk.
3. Songtsam Green Valley Lodge: Located near Songzanlin Monastery, the lodge boasts a unique geographical location and beautiful natural environment. The rooms use a large amount of wood materials, creating a warm and natural atmosphere. From the room's window, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Songzanlin Monastery, allowing you to appreciate the unique charm of this monastery in the morning and evening. The hotel also offers a rich breakfast and afternoon tea, allowing you to relax while enjoying delicious food.
Shangri-La, this charming land, awaits your exploration, discovery, and experience. Here, you will have an unforgettable travel experience and leave with precious memories for a lifetime. Come and embark on your Shangri-La journey on this pure land!