Perched on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, the 300-year-old Songzanlin Monastery is one of the most significant Lamaist monasteries outside Tibet. Home to approximately 600 monks, it towers over the outskirts of the frontier town of Shangri-La.
Recently, a new airport has opened, making this previously remote and stunning Tibetan region — also called ‘Shangri-La’ after James Hilton’s legendary mountain paradise — far more accessible.
Exploring Around Shangri-La
Further north in Deqen, yak-herding nomads tend their herds amid breathtaking limestone terraces and slow-moving glaciers. For the adventurous, an overland journey from here to Chengdu in Sichuan Province traverses the high Tibetan steppe, reaching altitudes above 4,500 meters. This challenging route passes through Litang, famous for its vibrant Tibetan horse festival held every August, and the majestic Mount Gonga.
Speak to someone who's been there
Our itineraries will give you suggestions for what is possible when you travel in Shangri-La, and they showcase routes we know work particularly well. Treat them as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
China ⟩ Shanghai
China ⟩ Zhaoxing
China ⟩ Tiger Leaping Gorge
China ⟩ Zhangjiajie
China ⟩ Yuanyang
China ⟩ Yangshuo
China ⟩ Xian
China ⟩ Xiamen
China ⟩ Xiahe
China ⟩ Suzhou
China ⟩ Shaxi
China ⟩ Shangri-La
Our expert guides to exploring Shangri-La
Written by our specialists from their own experiences of visiting Shangri-La, these guides will help you make the most of your time there. We share both our practical recommendations and the best ways to appreciate Shangri-La at its best.
