Secrets of Shangri-La
Overview
IN THE NEWS: The WildChina Collection is proud to announce...Secrets of Shangri-La circuit has been selected as one of
Travel + Leisure's "Trips of a Lifetime" & Luxist.com's Top Luxury Adventure of 2011!
Imagine waking up in a room facing the dramatic snow-capped peaks of the Holy Kawagebo Mountain; sipping a cup of freshly brewed coffee in a courtyard garden on the upper-reaches of Great Mekong River, or meditating with a Tibetan master surrounded by farmland and Buddhist temples. Alternatively, spend the day trekking along an ancient Tibetan pilgrimage route or driving through the barren majesty of the Baima National Reserve, before returning to an elegant and comfortable hotel room.
This trip takes you through stunning Himalayan valleys into up to the edge of the Tibetan Plateau – “the Roof of the World”. Travelers have long sought to unlock the secrets of Shangri-la, a semi-mythical paradise described by James Hilton in his book Lost Horizons. Now, you too can discover some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultures, and maybe even find your heaven on earth.
Trip Highlights
- Visit some of the most important Tibetan monasteries outside of Tibet and enjoy a private audience with a senior lama
- Marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Meili Snow Mountain and walk or ride horses across the Minyong Glaciers
- Visit traditional towns and villages, and learn how traditional handicrafts are made
- Hike across Shangri-la or watch sunrise at the holy mountain, Mt. Kawagebo
7 days, 6 nights
Upon Request
Upon Request
Shangri-La
Shangri-La
Evening Residence
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Perched on a high bluff overlooking the achingly beautiful glaciers of the holy Meili Snow Mountain in Tibet, the location of the Songtsam Meili Hotel will absolutely take your breath away. One can take a peaceful morning stroll in the nearby village, which is home to only five families, or sit on the balcony watching the sun set over the mountains.
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The Songtsam Retreat, a collection of 24 dry stone structures spread out over 21 acres of hillside, is surely one of the most spectacular hotels in the world. Designed to take you away to a lost world of timeless tranquility and endless silence, the Retreat is an ideal location for those seeking to escape.
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Immerse yourself in local Buddhist culture or silently contemplate the astonishing purity of the location. The focus of the lodge is spirituality, making it the ideal place for those wishing to find peace and enlightenment.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Shangri-la (3,200 m)
Transfer to hotel
You will be met by a WildChina guide at Diqing Shangri-La airport, where you will be transferred to Songtsam Retreat in a private vehicle.
Meals included: Dinner
Day 2 – Shangri-La
Songzanlin Monastery
Constructed in 1679 and full of precious artifacts, the Songzanlin Monastery or ‘the little Potala Palace’ is actually the biggest Buddhist monastery in Yunnan and is currently home to 700 monks. During our visit, we will add colorful prayer flags adorned with Buddhist sutras to the thousands placed by previous pilgrims and may then follow devotees on the kora or the sacred path around the monastery. We cap our visit with tea and a optional private audience with a senior lama in his chambers (Private audience are subject to schedule of lamas and can only be arranged for groups of over 6 persons.)
Shangri-La Old Town
Known as Gyalthang in Tibetan, Shangri-La was a gateway to the historic Tibetan province of Kham and an important station for trade caravans along the Ancient Tea and Horse Caravan Trail. Today, it remains an important center for Yunnan’s Tibetan community. We will stop by a teahouse to learn more about the town’s colorful history as a trading port. We will also explore local social enterprises, including a yak cheese producer, traditional Tibetan rugs, handicraft workshops, and also stop by a NGO to see the work being done to protect and promote the local culture.
Dinner with local Tibetan family
A local family will treat us to an authentic Tibetan meal in their home. Expect yak to feature on the menu, since savory yak-butter tea, stewed yak meat and yak cheese are all staples of the local diet, highlighting the importance of the hardy animal to the people of this remote region. For groups with over 4 persons, we’ll party Tibetan-style by singing, dancing and drinking to our trip to Shangri-La after our dinner!
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 – Shangri-La to Benzilan (2,000m or 6,600ft)
Travel from Shangri-La to Benzilan
We take a 2-3 hour drive from Shangri-La town to Benzilan, another major trade center on the roads that link the Ancient Tea and Horse Caravan Road. As this journey progresses, the surroundings will turn increasingly alpine and sublime, with white summits shooting up into the sky to heights of up to 4,920 meters. Our eyes will also likely be drawn to wildlife and isolated villages. Winding roads and sightseeing stops mean that this 180 kilometer drive will take between five and seven hours.
Lunch in Kungzera on the Way to/from Deqin
We will stop for lunch in Kungzera, a Tibetan village that borders a nature reserve known for its diverse species of rhododendrons.
Handicraft towns
On the way, stop in towns and learn about the local crafts. Nixi town on the Yangtze River is best known for its black pottery. In another nearby town, we also attend a handicraft workshop at Gonjo painting traditional lacquer wooden box.
Evening visit to Tibetan families
In a small green valley sits Songtsam Benzilan Lodge. Amid barley and wheat fields, the lodge is surrounded by white-walled Tibetan houses and is close to the stupas. We spend the evening walking around the beautiful village of Benzilan and visiting local families.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 – Benzilan to Deqin (4,000m or 13,100ft)
Morning meditation
An optional morning meditation with a Tibetan master awaits us as we reveal the ‘Shangri-La’ deep in our soul.
Dongzhulin Monastery
The second largest Tibetan Buddhist lamasery in Yunnan, Dhondupling Monastery is a vibrant center of prayer and study where we will witness monks going about their daily business. The monastery has great views overlooking the Yangtze River, houses several Living Buddhas, and is thus particularly popular with local Tibetan residents.
Drive to Deqin
Drive to Meili Snow Mountain on a scenic highway via Baima National Reserve, a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site, home to almost all rhododendrons species, and where red pandas and snow leopards continue to roam freely. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and forested valleys, it is indeed Shangri-La. Our drive of 2 hours takes us to over 4,000 meters (13,100ft).
We arrive at the Songstam Meili Lodge, where all rooms have stunning views of the Meili Mountain Range.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 – Mt. Meili (The Holy Mountain)
Sunrise
Wake up early in the morning to seek the moment when Kawagebo, the highest peak in the Meili Mountains, is bathed in the golden light of sunrise. Every year, many Tibetans travel here to worship its Holiest Peak, Mt. Kawagebo.
Option 1: Hiking
Take a day hike to some of the most pristine corners of the area. The length of hike can be modified to best fit your physical condition. Appreciate the overwhelming beauty of the mysterious Meili Snow Mountain that has never been conquered by humans.
Option 2: Horse riding to mountain glaciers
We drive to Mingyong (1.5 hours), where we mount horses and ride to Mingyong Glaciers (1.5 hours), one of the lowest latitude glaciers in the world. We then walk back along a scenic route in the mountains (1.5 hours) before driving back to Deqin.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – Deqin to Shangri-La
The morning is free for you to enjoy the lodge and its surroundings. You are welcome to take another hike, relax in the spiritual setting surrounded by mountains, or enjoy a Tibetan massage. In the afternoon, we drive back to Shangri-La (5 hours drive along paved but winding roads through multiple passes of over 4,000 meters high (13,100ft), where a farewell dinner awaits us.
Farewell Dinner at Raven Hot Pot
Located in Shangri-La Old Town, Raven Hot Pot was a favorite of star chef Anthony Bourdain when he toured the area. A convivial experience, a hot pot meal centers on a pot of simmering stock into which ingredients are cooked fondue-style by the diners. Typical ingredients include thinly sliced meat, leafy vegetables, mushrooms, wonton, egg, dumplings and seafood.
Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 – Depart Shangri-La
Transfer to the Airport
Relax while we handle your luggage and arrange for transportation to the airport. For guests with time in the morning, you are free to explore the hotel amenities or ask our guides for optional activities.
Meals included: Breakfast
Rates
All WildChina Collection circuit programs are private tours, and departures are available everyday subject to guide and hotel availability. To book your WildChina Collection trip, a minimum of 2 guests is required. You are encouraged to book early to avoid disappointment. When you book a WildChina Collection trip, you can expect the following:
- Services of your WildChina guide
- Accommodation at a WildChina Collection or similar standard hotel
- Transportation during your program
- Scheduled meals, activities, and entertainment
- Close-up interactive experiences with local people
Rate Card - Secret of Shangri-La
| Rates per person Based on double occupancy |
Low Season Nov 1 to Mar 31 |
High Season Apr 1 to Oct 31 |
| 2 pax Based on twin sharing |
Upon Request | Upon Request |
| 4 to 6 pax |
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| 7 to 9 pax |
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| 10 plus |
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| Single Supplement |
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| Weekend Supplement per weekend night |
Single supplement apply for guests living in a single room.
Weekend nights include Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights.
All prices are in Chinese yuan or CNY. Your land package price will be confirmed when we respond to your enquiry. Prices are subject to change without notice. Prices for trips vary and depend on number of persons and time of booking and travel.
Guests under 12 at the time of travel are eligible for child rates when living with an adult in the same room. Child rates are 85% of adult rates. Extra beds may not be available in some hotels, and guests may have to share between 2 twin beds.
The quotation includes:
- All land costs, as noted in the itinerary.
- All accommodation, based on double-occupancy.
- All admission fees and activity expenses, as noted in the itinerary.
- All meals, featuring local cuisine, as noted in the itinerary. Drinking water and snacks are also included.
- Services of an English-speaking local guide.
The quotation excludes:
- Airfare to and from destination is not included
- Chinese Tourist Visa, which is required for most foreign passport holders.
- Travel and medical insurance
- Meals not included in the itinerary and alcohol.
- Expenses of a personal nature (e.g. mini bar, personal telecommunications, laundry, etc.)
- Excursions and activities not included in the itinerary.
- Full payment is due 30 days prior to departure. Payment details will be e-mailed to you upon program confirmation.
- Tour prices quoted on website are per person and based on double occupancy. Our travel consultants will email you the final quote upon receiving your inquiry. The final quote will depend on number of persons in group and time travelled.
Cancellation & Modification Policy
To modify or cancel your reservation, please e-mail us with specific instructions at collection@wildchina.com. Penalties for both modifications and cancellations are listed below and will be charged to the credit card provided.
- If reservation is modified or cancelled 31 days or more prior to trip departure, loss of deposit.
- If reservation is modified or cancelled 21 - 30 days prior to trip departure, 25% of total tour price will be forfeited.
- If reservation is modified or cancelled 14 - 20 days prior to trip departure, 50% of total tour price will be forfeited.
- In the event of no-show on the day of arrival, no refund will be issued, and the reservation will be cancelled.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I book this trip?
2. Do I need a visa to enter China?
3. What inoculations should I get before visiting China?
4. How do I get to the starting city? How do I return home?
5. How strenuous is this trip? What are the effects of high altitude?
6. What types of meals are served on this trip? Can you accommodate allergies and food preferences?
7. Who is the Tour Guide?
8. What types of vehicles are used and how much driving is involved? What are the roads like?
9. What do we need to carry ourselves? Is there luggage assistance?
10. Are tips included?
11. When is the best time to visit?
12. What if I would like to extend my stay in China?
13. What is included/excluded in the tour cost?
14. What is the deposit/payment deadline?
15. What kinds of emergency procedures are in place?
16. Do I need travel insurance?
17. What if WildChina cancels the trip prior to departure?
Please book the trip by clicking ‘Book Now’ on the web-site. The site will take you to an inquiry form where you will be required to fill in your preferred trip and personal information.
Before submission, please read and agree to our reservation and cancelation policy. It will normally take us 48 hours (2 working days) to process your inquiry. Departure is subject to guide and hotel availability. A WildChina travel consultant will contact you via email on availability and next steps.
If you have any questions, please contact us at collection@wildchina.com
2. How do I get a visa? What kind of visa should I get?
Nearly all foreign visitors to China require a tourist visa (L Visa).
Travelers must apply for a tourist visa in person at any Chinese Embassy or Consulate. If the traveler cannot go in person, a traveler’s representative must visit the embassy on behalf of the traveler to submit the application; in some countries such as the United States, this can include representatives from third party visa service companies, such as Zierer Visa Service, http://www.zvs.com/home.aspx?login=57381 (applications and instructions can be downloaded online using this link, or call toll free at 1-866-788-1100 and mention WildChina account #57381 for preferred pricing.)
Typically, it takes about 5-7 business days to process the visa. Please note that the requirements change from time to time without notice and requirements may differ depending on nationality.
Please visit your country’s Chinese Embassy website for visa forms and specific requirements for tourist visa applications. Visa applications should usually be submitted at least 60 days prior to departure. Visas are valid for 1 to 3 months of travel.
3. What inoculations should I get before visiting China?
In general, no vaccinations are required. You are advised to consult www.cdc.gov. Please also contact your local international travel clinic for information regarding inoculations and other relevant health-related information.
4. How do I get to the starting city? How do I return home?
Shangri-La has regular flights connecting to Kunming, which offers daily flights to major international gateway cities, such as Beijing, Shanghai and Hong Kong.
| Airport Code | Arrival/Departure Time | |
| Arrival | Diqing Airport (DIG) | Anytime |
| Departure |
Diqing Airport (DIG) | Anytime |
This journey is considered moderate touring with some moderate walking. Our itinerary includes full days of activities, starting early in the morning and ending in the evening. We take hikes of up to 3-4 hours at altitudes of up to 4,000 meters and our longest drive is 3-4 hour long on mountainous, winding paved roads. The full range of activities in this journey requires a moderate amount of stamina in order to get the most out of your vacation.
For guests with physical difficulties, many places in Shangri-La are not fully accessible. It is strongly recommended that persons requiring assistance be accompanied by a companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing assistance. Neither WildChina nor its suppliers may physically lift or assist Guests onto transportation vehicles.
The altitude in Shangri-la is 3,200 meters (10,500 feet) above sea level. In our journey, we may reach heights of up to 4,000 meters. At approximately 2,400 meters (8,000 feet), people usually start to feel the effects of altitude sickness, though some people may experience effects at lower or higher altitudes. Each person can respond to a change in altitude differently, with symptoms such as headache, nausea, fatigue, breathlessness, limited capacity for physical exertion, and loss of appetite.
The best way to avoid altitude sickness is to pace yourself carefully (especially when climbing), drink plenty of water, eat light, high-carbohydrate meals and snacks, and avoid alcohol, smoking and heavy foods. If the symptoms are mild, the treatment is rest, painkillers (preferably aspirin-based) for headache, and anti-sickness pills for vomiting. You may wish to bring along Diamox, which can be used as a preventative. (It is not necessary to take it beforehand - keep it on hand in case you experience altitude sickness). Check with your physician before using Diamox for dosage and side effect information. WildChina will prepare oxygen bottles in vehicles.
For more information, please consult your doctor.
6. What types of meals are included? Can you accommodate allergies and food preferences?
Typically, breakfast consist of a buffet with Western and Chinese options.
Lunch and dinner are usually at local restaurants which showcase local cuisine. Lunches and dinners usually include entrées, meat, vegetables, rice, and fruit. In Shangri-la, we will enjoy Tibetan cuisine, which includes a good amount of barley flour-based items, such as dumplings and noodles, as well as red meats including yak and mutton.
In order to offer you and your family and friends the chance to choose restaurants and eat amongst yourselves, there are a few meals that are not included in the itinerary when in large gateway cities. Please see itineraries for details.
While some of our meals may be somewhat different from that which many guests are accustomed to, WildChina believes in offering the opportunity to experience this vital aspect of ethnic minority culture. Western meals can be arranged in Lijiang, The Linden Centre, and Songtsam Retreat upon request when booking this trip.
WildChina provides ample bottled water, tea and snacks throughout the journey.
WildChina provides vegetarian options at every meal. WildChina will make a reasonable effort to accommodate special dietary needs at an additional charge where necessary. Unfortunately, we may not be able to accommodate all special dietary needs requested, including a guarantee that food is prepared in a nut-free environment. Please consult our travel consultants in advance of your departure to advise us of your needs.
The true face and heroes of WildChina, our guides have been rigorously selected for their combination of client servicing, local knowledge, and likeable personalities.
Our guides and drivers are paid fairly and are not allowed to engage in activities that involve kick-backs. Hence, we do not take guests to shops or choose tourist restaurants.
8. What types of vehicles are used and how much driving is involved? What are the roads like?
Depending on group size, we travel in well-maintained, air-conditioned sedans or vans. All vehicles are driven by experienced local drivers and are air-conditioned. Our journey includes a drive of approximately 2-3 hours from Shangri-La to Benzilan, 2-3 hours from Benzilan to Deqin, and 5-6 hours from Deqin to Shangri-La on paved, winding roads. Some roads, particularly those leading to village visits, may be unpaved and bumpy.
9. What do we need to carry ourselves? Is there luggage assistance?
Luggage assistance is included for all parts of this journey. For all hikes, we recommend guests bring a small daypack to carry one bottle of water and personal items (e.g. camera, extra layer or two of clothing, parka, hat, sunglasses, extra pair of socks, sunscreen, etc.). WildChina staff will supply additional water.
We realize that tipping is a sensitive subject for all travelers. While tips are widely accepted, we would like to stress that this is at your own personal discretion.
While everyone is recommended to tip based on services rendered, our clients often ask we provide some basic guidelines. The main guide may often receive the following discretionary tip of 20-30 USD per day per group, if services are rendered timely and professionally. Tips can be paid in USD, RMB or your local currency.
Some outstanding guides receive twice or three times as much depending on service quality and also the size of the group.
The driver may sometimes receive a tip of around 50% to 70% of what the guide receives.
11. When is the best time to visit?
The best times to take this journey are autumn and spring when the climate is most comfortable. Summer is the rainy season in Yunnan, which results in muddy roads and longer drives.
The winter months are cold with the temperature in Shangri-la falling to -15°C (5°F) in the winter. However, the area is less touristed, and most local festivals occur over winter.
12. What if I would like to extend my stay in China?
Trips of the WildChina Collection are non-customized. However, if you would like to extend your stay, please feel free to contact us and we will refer you to our consultants, who can assist in booking additional nights at the hotel or developing a customized trip.
13. What is included / excluded in the tour cost?
A detailed outline of price inclusions and exclusions can be found on the Dates and Rates tab.
14. What is the payment deadline?
Please see the Dates and Rates tab.
15. What kind of emergency procedures are in place?
All WildChina travelers must purchase through WildChina an International SOS (an AEA company) Service Plan, which provides for emergency evacuation to the nearest medical facility of international standards. The plan costs US$30, which will be added to your final payment. This is mandatory unless travelers can proof their current insurance covers SOS international evacuation insurance. Please note: this is NOT medical insurance.
All WildChina travelers are also required to provide a copy of their medical insurance card prior to trip departure.
In the event of a medical emergency, WildChina’s first call of action would be to contact the International SOS 24-hour center, where doctors would instruct our staff on appropriate next steps, which may include rest, a visit to a SOS-recommended hospital, or, in extreme cases, evacuation.
16. Do I need travel insurance?
We highly encourage travelers to purchase travel insurance, including coverage of trip cancellation.
17. What if WildChina Collection cancels the trip prior to departure?
WildChina Collection reserves the right to cancel a trip at any time prior to its commencement for any reason, including, when in our opinion, the safety and the quality of the trip would be compromised. If we cancel the trip prior to its commencement, we will attempt to re-book you on a separate date, or refund in full your land package price. If you did not book airfare through us, we will reimburse you for reasonable airline cancellation charges (subject to proof), provided you have exercised best efforts to mitigate such charges / fees.
For additional information, please contact us at collection@wildchina.com.
Travel Tips
Preparing for Your Trip
Recommended Reading
Discover more about this destination. The Amazon Book store offers great books and maps to help you get the most of your travel. For a selection of reading recommendations to enhance your WildChina Collection Vacation, please click here.
Required Travel Documentation
Nearly all foreign visitors to China require a tourist visa.
Travelers must apply for a tourist visa in person at the Chinese Embassy or Consulate in their jurisdiction. If the traveler cannot go in person, someone else must visit the embassy on behalf of the traveler to submit the application; in some countries, this can include representatives from third party visa service companies, such as Zierer Visa Service, http://www.zvs.com/home.aspx?login=57381 (applications and instructions can be downloaded online using this link, or call toll free at 1-866-788-1100 and mention WildChina account #57381 for preferred pricing.)
Typically, it takes about 5-7 business days to process the visa. Please note that the requirements might change from time to time without notice and that the requirements may differ depending on nationality.
Visa applications should usually be submitted at least 30 days prior to departure.
What to Pack
Please limit your baggage to one piece of luggage per person plus one carry-on. Chinese airports are strict in enforcing excess baggage fees.
Since a majority of our programs take place outdoors, attire should be casual and comfortable. As temperatures fluctuate quite a bit in this region, we recommend you to dress in layers. The following is a list of clothing and other items you may want to bring. Please note that many of these items are available in China, but you may not find your favorite brands.
| Clothing |
Miscellaneous |
| T-shirts (short and long-sleeved) | Passport |
| Collared shirts |
Medication |
| Sweater/coat | Camera/video camera |
| Jeans or long pants | Sunglasses |
| Casual Dress/Skirt (optional) |
Sunscreen |
| Shorts | Umbrella |
| Lightweight rain jacket |
Toiletries |
| Hat | Insect repellent |
| Close-toed/Walking shoes |
Electric plug adapter |
Weather conditions
Shangri-La
Daily temperature variation is large, averaging up to 20°C. Layered clothing is highly recommended for all seasons, including summer when occasional snowfalls do occur.
- Heaviest rain in summer (June to September). Rainfall occurs year-round, and we recommend rain proofs all the time.
- Winter temperatures: - 4°C to 5 °C
- Autumn/Spring Temperatures: 3°C to 13°C
- Summer Temperatures: 12°C to 20°C
Health
While in Shangri-La and Deqin, we reach heights of up to 3,400 meters (10,500 feet) above sea level. At approximately 2,400 meters (8,000 feet), people usually start to feel the effects of altitude sickness, though some people may experience effects at lower or higher altitudes. Each person can respond to a change in altitude differently, with symptoms such as headache, nausea, fatigue, breathlessness, limited capacity for physical exertion, and loss of appetite.
Sun radiation is very strong all year around due to the high altitude, and sun bock is required to protect you from sun-burn.
Arrival and Departure
Upon arriving at Diqing Shangri-La Airport, you will be met outside the customs/exit area by your WildChina guide, who will escort you to your hotel. At the conclusion of your program, you will be escorted to the Zhongdian Airport for your return flight home.
| Airport Code | Arrival/Departure Time | |
| Arrival | Diqing Airport (DIG) | Anytime |
| Departure |
Diqing Airport (DIG) | Anytime |
During Your Trip
Currency
Currency in China is called the renminbi (RMB) or the Chinese yuan (CNY). The largest denomination of the CNY is the 100 yuan. The current exchange rate is approximately US $1 = CNY 6.6.
Only CNY is accepted for payment in China. In general, cash is the major medium of exchange. Using your debit card in local ATMs – available at the airports and the city center – is the most efficient way to obtain cash in China. Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted in hotels and high-class restaurants and department stores, but cash is still the medium for smaller shops and markets. Hotels, banks, and credit card companies typically impose a 3% to 5% fee for currency exchange transactions.
Tipping
We realize that tipping is a sensitive subject for all travelers. While tips are widely accepted, we would like to stress that this is at your own personal discretion.
While everyone is recommended to tip based on services rendered, our clients often ask we provide some basic guidelines. The main guide may often receive the following discretionary tip of 20-30 USD per day per group, if services are rendered timely and professionally. Tips can be paid in USD, CNY or your local currency.
Some outstanding guides receive twice or three times as much depending on service quality and also the size of the group.
The driver may sometimes receive a tip of around 50% to 70% of what the guide receives.
Language
Mandarin is the official language in China. However, in Shangri-la where many minorities live, you will encounter people speaking Tibetan or other local dialects, many with no etymological link with Mandarin.
