Shangri-La Tour

English author James Hilton first coined the name Shangri-La in his novel Lost Horizon in 1933. In this fictitious paradise, various religions and beliefs peacefully coexisted. It’s an ideal home for human beings with its pure air, towering snow-capped mountains, lush forests, vast gorges, idyllic lakes and gold mines.

You will follow the author’s route, visiting Shangri-la via Lijiang, and exploring the customs and cultures of Tibetans and Naxi. Also, enjoy the splendid natural beauty along the ancient Tea Route, indulging yourself in the “the last pure land on earth.”

Daily Itinerary

Day 1

Lijiang Ancient Town: Attend a welcome party with an introduction of the tour and local culture. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Day 2

Lijiang Ancient Town (Bus): At the beginning of the last century, an American came to Lijiang and lived there for 27 years. Since then, backpackers from all over the world have visited Lijiang. The charm of Lijiang lies in the first beam of sunlight cast on the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, in the ancient wisdom of Naxi ethnic people and in the old cobbled streets.

Day 3

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Yushui Village, Suhe Ancient Town (Bus): After breakfast, visit Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, known as the source of traditional medicines and the Museum of Glacers. Watch a performance of Impression of Lijiang directed by famous director Zhang Yimou. Follow with a visit to Yushui Village, a harmonious combination of Naxi Culture and natural beauty. In the evening, visit the Suhe which was an important courier station on theTea Route.

Day 4

Lijiang Tiger Leaping Gorge (Bus): Visit Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the most dramatic and deepest gorges in the world and enjoy the surrounding breathtaking scenery. Arrive Zhongdian (Shangri-La) in the evening and celebrate with traditional Tibetan food with local Tibetan families.

Day 5

Songzanlin Monastery, Potatso National Park (Bus): Visit the Songzanlin Monastery, known as the ‘small Potala Palace, built by the 5th Dalai Lama over 300 years ago. Then visit the Potatso National Park, which is mainly comprised of Shudu Lake, Militang Pasture and Bita Lake. It is a landscape filled with clear lakes, virgin forests, brooks, springs, rare fauna and flora.

Day 6

Small Zhongdian Lijiang (Bus)

Day 7

Departure