Dreaming of Shangri-La: Yunnan’s Tibetan Valleys

About this Journey
Along the southeastern tip of the Tibetan Plateau lies a collection of humble villages that blend harmoniously into their surroundings. From mingling with shamans and monks to discovering ancient villages and verdant natural spaces, we’ll enjoy life at a slower pace; letting the trip leisurely unfold so the area’s atmosphere and nuances can truly be appreciated. Although the region’s landscapes consistently leave us slack-jawed, it’s the charm of the people you’ll meet along the way that make this journey unforgettable.

Itinerary
Day 1 - 2 Lijiang
Begin your journey in the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Lijiang • Rest up or explore the small paths and canals that weave through Lijiang Old Town • Set out across Wenhai Valley to a remote village where the ‘Bimo’, or village shaman, will share his perspective on local life and his ancient faith.
Day 3 Tacheng
Arrive in Tacheng, located in Yunnan’s most rugged and mountainous northwest region, by way of Lijiang • On the way, take to the tranquil streets of Shuhe Old Town, a peaceful village nestled in a forest bordering the mountainside • Barter with locals at the fresh produce market and look out for local delicacies such as wild honey and rainbow trout • Stroll through the villages and verdant fields near your Tibetan-style lodge.
Day 4 Tacheng
Rise early to visit one of China’s rarest and most adorable creatures, the snub nosed monkey • Stop in Kena village, a tiny town in Yunnan’s vast countryside and spend time with a local family, learning about life at altitude • Retrace an ancient Tibetan pilgrimage route to Dharma Cave or learn how to make soy milk and tofu with a local family in Hadda village.
Day 5 Tacheng - Shangri-La
Witness monks going about their daily routine and learn about their lives at Dongzhulin Temple, the second largest Tibetan Buddhist lamasery in Yunnan • On the way to Shangri-La, set out for the ephemeral Napahai Lake which recedes into green grassland during dry season, only to be revived by fresh snowmelt • Explore the winding lanes of Dukezong Old Town, filled with multicolored Tibetan prayer flags, outdoor markets and prayer halls.
Day 6 Shangri-La
Wander through the gilded pillars and incense-filled rooms of Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan lamasery in Yunnan • Duck into the foliage of Pudacuo National Park for a chance to escape the crowds as you wander deep into the heart of Shangri-la’s wilderness.
Day 7 Shangri-La
Say zaijian (goodbye) to your local hosts as you transfer to Shangri-La Airport • Your WanderEastern guide will help you check in for your departure flight and your WanderEastern journey will draw to a close. 

Recommended Hotels

ONGTSAM TACHENG LODGE Luxury Boutique

Each room at the Songtsam Tacheng features a large balcony for enjoying views of surrounding river valley.

SONGTSAM SHANGRI-LA Luxury Boutique

Located right next to the Songzanlin Monastery and housed in a traditional Tibetan dwelling, Songtsam Shangri-La has made world travelers at home for ten years.

Details

What’s Included

• All overland transfers with private chauffeur and in-transport refreshments
• All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary
• Meals as noted in the itinerary with complimentary drinking water
• Ground transportation, including airport transfers
• Services of an English-speaking WanderEastern guide
• Private chauffeur service to and from airport at start and end of your trip

What’s Excluded

• International and domestic flights, domestic trains, plus relevant taxes
• Chinese tourist visa, which is required for most foreign passport holders
• Travel and medical insurance
• Meals, apart from those included in the itinerary, and alcohol
• Expenses of a personal nature
• Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary
• Discretionary gratuities for guides and drivers

TRIP COST

$4480 USD per person 

Single Supplement $1180 USD per person