[2025 Shangri-La Attraction] Travel Guide for Bitahai Lake (Updated May)

🎬 Shangri-La is located in northwestern Yunnan and is the perfect combination of Tibetan culture and natural scenery. The best time to visit is from May to October, when the climate is pleasant. Must-see attractions: 🌏🌏🌏 1. Songzanlin Monastery: The largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, known as the Little Potala Palace. It is recommended to go in the early morning to see the monks' morning classes and the golden roof in the morning mist. 2. Pudacuo National Park: Composed of alpine lakes, primeval forests, and meadows. Shudu Lake and Bita Lake are the highlights. 3. Dukezong Ancient City: A well-preserved Tibetan ancient city. The prayer wheel and Sifang Street are the highlights, and the night lights are beautiful. Food recommendations: 🥯🥯🥯 1. Yak meat hot pot: A local specialty with delicious meat, even better with wild mushrooms. 2. Butter tea: A daily drink in Tibetan areas. It is recommended to try a small amount for the first time. 3. Highland barley cake: A traditional staple food that can be eaten with honey or butter. Transportation tips: ✈️✈️✈️ - You can fly directly to Shangri-La Airport - It takes about 4 hours by bus from Lijiang - Taxis in the city do not use meters, so it is recommended to negotiate the price in advance Precautions: 🚨🚨🚨 1. The altitude is about 3,300m, so be careful to prevent altitude sickness 2. There is a large temperature difference between day and night, so you need to prepare warm clothes 3. Respect local religious customs and do not take pictures in temples Suggested itinerary: 3 days is enough to visit the main attractions. You can arrange 1 day for the ancient city + Songzanlin Monastery, 1 day for Pudacuo, and 1 day for Napa Hai or surrounding villages.

Shangri-La, which means "the sun and moon in the heart" in Tibetan, is the capital of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Yunnan. It is about 3,300m above sea level. The air is thin, but it is full of the power of faith and is known as the place closest to paradise. 🚘Transportation: Take a bus 🚎 from Lijiang for about 4 hours, or fly to Diqing Shangri-La Airport 🛬. Taxis 🚗 or buses 🚌 are convenient in the city. It is more flexible to charter a car to surrounding attractions. 🗺️Recommended route: Day 1: Dukezong Ancient City (prayer wheel, Tibetan architecture) → Songzanlin Monastery (Little Potala Palace) Day 2: Pudacuo National Park (Shudu Lake, Bita Lake) Day 3: Napa Sea (horse riding or hiking around the lake) → Visit Tibetan homes (experience butter tea and highland barley wine) 🥗Food: Yak meat hot pot 🍲 (hot Tibetan delicacy), butter tea 🍵 (salty or sweet), highland barley cake 🫓, Zanba 🍥, Tibetan fragrant pig 🐷. "Jing Jing De Ma Ni Shi" Tibetan Restaurant is recommended. 🌹Tips: Pay attention to sun protection and altitude sickness, slow down your movements, and prepare oxygen cylinders. The scenery in autumn and winter is gorgeous, but the temperature difference is large, so bring thick clothes. Respect Tibetan customs, and turn the prayer wheel clockwise.

| A paradise that never lacks faith. Shangri-La, which means "the sun and moon in the heart" in Tibetan, is the closest place to paradise in Yunnan. With its snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, and Tibetan customs, it is breathtakingly beautiful all year round. ❤️The best time to visit is from May to October, when the weather is comfortable and the grasslands are lush. Must-see attractions include the Songzanlin Monastery, Pudacuo National Park, and Dukezong Ancient City. The Songzanlin Monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, with its golden roof shining in the sun. Shudu Lake and Bita Lake in Pudacuo are like fairylands. Dukezong Ancient City has the world's largest prayer wheel, and it is said that spinning it three times to pray for blessings is very effective. ❤️For transportation, it is recommended to take a bus from Lijiang, which takes about 4 hours. For accommodations, it is recommended to stay near the ancient city, where there are both Tibetan-style inns and comfortable hotels. For food, be sure to try yak meat hot pot, butter tea, and highland barley cakes. Tibetan yogurt is also very special. ❤️Tips: The altitude is high (3,300m), so be careful to prevent altitude sickness. There is a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so bring a thick coat. Respect local religious customs and do not take photos in temples. Remember to bring sunscreen and sunglasses, as the ultraviolet rays on the plateau are very strong. ❤️The beauty of Shangri-La lies in its purity and mystery. Slow down and truly feel this pure land.

### **I. Best Time to Visit** - **May-October**: Mild climate, lush green grasslands, wildflowers in bloom (rain gear needed for July-August rainy season). - **November-April**: Beautiful winter snow scenes, experience Tibetan New Year, but prepare for cold weather and altitude sickness. --- ### **II. Transportation Guide** **How to Reach Shangri-La?** 1. **By Air**: Direct flights from Kunming/Chengdu/Chongqing to Diqing Shangri-La Airport (about 1 hour), airport is 5km from downtown, taxi costs 15 yuan. 2. **By Bus**: - **Lijiang→Shangri-La**: About 4 hours, fare 80-100 yuan, passes through Tiger Leaping Gorge. - **Dali→Shangri-La**: About 6 hours, fare 150 yuan. 3. **Self-driving**: The Yunnan-Tibet route offers magnificent scenery, but drive cautiously on mountain roads. **Local Transportation** - **Charter/Shared Cars**: Ideal for distant attractions like Pudacuo and Meili Snow Mountain (charter costs about 300-500 yuan/day). - **Electric Vehicle Rental**: Available around the old town (about 60 yuan/day), perfect for circling Napa Lake. --- ### **III. Must-Visit Attractions** **1. Dukezong Ancient Town** - **Highlights**: World's largest prayer wheel (requires 10 people to turn), Tibetan architecture, Thangka experience center. - **Night Tour**: Tibetan dancing at Moonlight Square, night views from Turtle Mountain Park. **2. Songzanlin Monastery** - **Admission**: 90 yuan (includes shuttle bus) - **Tips**: Capture reflections of the "Little Potala Palace" at dawn or sunset, respect temple customs (clockwise circumambulation, no hats). **3. Pudacuo National Park** - **Admission**: 138 yuan (includes shuttle bus) - **Activities**: Shudu Lake hiking (3.3km wooden walkway), Bita Lake light hiking, chance encounters with squirrels and yaks. **4. Napa Hai Yila Grassland** - **Free Lake Circuit**: Rent an electric vehicle to circle the lake (about 40km), visit the water highway and bird watching tower. - **Avoid**: Don't fall for expensive horseback riding offers; summer grassland transforms into a lake in winter. **5. Meili Snow Mountain** - **Transportation**: Shangri-La→Deqin (3.5-hour bus), then shared car to Feilai Temple. - **Golden Mountain Sunrise**: Higher probability in winter, recommended stay at "Jixiashan" scenic hotels. --- ### **IV. Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences** - **Abujicuo Hiking**: Beginner-friendly route (11km total), alpine lakes and meadow scenery. - **Yubeng Village Trek**: Advanced hikers can choose "Sacred Waterfall Route" or "Glacial Lake Route," stay in Tibetan homestays. - **Baishuitai**: China's version of "Pamukkale," terraced calcium pools (3-hour drive from Shangri-La). --- ### **V. Food Recommendations** - **Yak Meat Hot Pot**: Regong Artist Hall, Jingji Mani Stone Tibetan Restaurant. - **Tibetan Snacks**: Butter tea (sweet or salty options), barley cakes, tsampa, yak yogurt. - **Special Restaurants**: Talo Tibetan Restaurant (yak pizza), Shunshun Snacks (yak buns). --- ### **VI. Accommodation Suggestions** - **Inside Dukezong Ancient Town**: Tibetan-style inns (150-400 yuan), recommended "Yanyi Inn" and "Shangri-La Heart Stay." - **Oxygen-Supplied Hotels**: "Shangri-La Hotel" for those sensitive to altitude sickness. - **Meili Snow Mountain**: Jixiashan·Meili (high-end with views), Suipian Wuxiang (good value). --- ### **VII. Important Notes** 1. **Altitude Sickness**: - Drink rhodiola tea one week before arrival, avoid bathing and strenuous exercise on first day. - Bring oxygen bottles (20 yuan/can) and glucose. 2. **Clothing Guide**: Large temperature differences between day and night, bring jackets even in summer, wear down jackets in winter. 3. **Respect Culture**: No photography inside temples, don't point at Buddha statues, turn prayer wheels clockwise. 4. **Environmental Protection**: Don't litter, protect the plateau ecosystem. --- ### **VIII. 3-Day Classic Itinerary** **Day 1**: Dukezong Ancient Town (prayer wheel + Tibetan costume experience) → Songzanlin Monastery → Night tour of Moonlight Square **Day 2**: Pudacuo National Park (hiking) → Napa Lake circuit → Tibetan family dinner **Day 3**: Charter car to Baishuitai or Shika Snow Mountain (seasonal attractions) → Return journey **For in-depth exploration, extend to 5 days** to include Meili Snow Mountain and Yubeng trekking. --- ### **IX. Useful Information** - **Quick Tibetan Phrases**: "Tashi Delek" (Good Fortune), "Tujichi" (Thank You)

🔥🌄Shangri-La:｜The closest place to heaven, a journey to the secret land of Tibet🌄**: Songzanlin Temple in the morning light, with the golden roof shining and prayer flags fluttering] “This is ‘the sun and moon in my heart’, the paradise described by James Hilton – Shangri-La!” **📍Popular must-see attractions** 1️⃣ **Songzanlin Temple** 🕌 The largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Yunnan, known as the "Little Potala Palace". Red walls, golden roofs, lamas chanting, every shot is a sacred blockbuster! 2️⃣ **Pudacuo National Park** 🌲 China's first national park, hike through the primeval forest, encounter yaks and squirrels, Bitahai and Shudu Lake are like two sapphires inlaid between the snow-capped mountains. 3️⃣ **Dukezong Ancient Town** 🛖 Walk into the thousand-year-old Tibetan ancient city, turn the world's largest prayer wheel to pray for blessings, and watch the Tibetans dance Guozhuang on Sifang Street at night, full of fireworks! 4️⃣ **Napahaila Grassland** 🐎 It is a lake in the rainy season and a grassland in the dry season. You can ride a horse around the lake, watch the black-necked cranes soaring, and feel the poetic feeling of "the wind blows the grass low and you can see cattle and sheep". 5️⃣ **Meili Snow Mountain in the Sunlight** 🏔️ The first of the eight sacred mountains in Tibet, the first ray of sunshine in the morning shines on Mount Kawagebo, shining brightly, bringing good luck for the whole year! [An old Tibetan woman shakes the prayer wheel and smiles at the snow-capped mountains] "Shangri-La, a place that makes the soul slow down, when will you leave?" 💡 **Travel Tips**: - Best season: May to October (green grassland, blooming flowers) - Must-do experiences: Wear Tibetan clothes and take photos, drink butter tea, and stay in a Tibetan-style homestay - Note: Be careful of altitude sickness at high altitudes, and the temperature difference between day and night is large

🏔️ Must-See Attractions 1. Pudacuo National Park (Pearl of the Plateau) - Three Core Areas: 🌊 Shudu Lake (3.3 km boardwalk hike) 🌿 Bita Lake (plateau wetland ecosystem) 🌲 Mili Tang Grassland (wildflowers bloom in summer) - Best Seasons: 🌸 May-June (azalea blooms) 🍁 September-October (colorful foliage) 2. Songzanlin Monastery (Little Potala Palace) - Pilgrimage Guide: 🏯 Zhacang Main Hall (golden roof) 🔔 Clockwise circumambulation (odd number of laps) 🌅 Sunrise (fairyland-like morning mist) - Tips: 👗 Wear long pants/skirts (shorts are prohibited) 📷 Best photo spot: opposite viewing platform 3. Dukezong Ancient Town (City of Moonlight) - Must-Do: 🎡 World's largest prayer wheel (requires 10 people to turn) 🏮 Guozhuang dance in Sifang Street at night ☕ Tibetan cafes (recommended: "Pugu Cang") - Hidden Gem: 🖌️ Thangka painting experience (CNY 150/2 hours) 4. Napa Lake (seasonal wetland) - Activities: 🚴 Bicycle rental (CNY 50/day) 🐎 Horseback riding (bargain to CNY 100-150) 📸 Water highway (best from June to October) 🍵 Food Guide Tibetan Three Treasures 1. Yak hot pot (recommended: "Jingjing de Mani Shi") 2. Butter tea (salty or sweet) 3. Tsampa (best with yogurt) Budget-Friendly Restaurants - Inside the ancient town: 🍲 "Kamba Herdsman Tibetan Restaurant" (window view facing the prayer wheel) 🍢 "Ama Butter Tea" (CNY 5/cup) - Surrounding area: 🥘 "Tashi Delek Tibetan Restaurant" (local favorite) Special Snacks 🧀 Dried yogurt (with honey) 🍯 Zanba (try making it yourself) ☕ Sweet tea (Tibetan milk tea) 🏠 Accommodation Guide Ancient Town Guesthouses (CNY 150-300) 1. Near the prayer wheel: - "Shangri-La Heart House Yurt" (stargazing room) - "The Fifth Meteorite" (popular online) 2. Quiet area: - "Lotus Courtyard" (Tibetan courtyard) Budget Options - "Shangri-La International Youth Hostel" (dorm bed CNY 50) - "Yunman Hotel" (oxygenated rooms CNY 200+) 🚗 Transportation Guide Main Transportation - ✈️ Diqing Airport (5 km from the ancient town) - 🚌 Lijiang/Dali bus (4-5 hours) Local Transportation - 🚕 Taxi (within the town, under CNY 10) - 🚙 Chartered car (Napa Lake loop CNY 150/car) 💡 High-Altitude Survival Guide 1. Altitude Sickness Prevention: - Avoid showering/strenuous exercise on the first day - Prepare oral glucose solution - Choose hotels with oxygen supply 2. Clothing Guide: 🧥 Bring a jacket year-round (large temperature difference between day and night) 🕶️ Sunglasses + sunscreen (strong UV rays) 3. Things to Avoid: - Don't buy "wild herbs" from street vendors - Don't take photos casually in temples - Negotiate horseback riding prices beforehand 4. Hidden Gems: - Niru Village trek (hidden waterfall) - Baishuitai (China's Pamukkale) - Meili Snow Mountain sunrise (requires a 3-day trip) 📅 Classic Itinerary: Day 1: Songzanlin Monastery - Napa Lake - Ancient Town night tour Day 2: Pudacuo day trip Day 3: Balagezong/Baishuitai (optional) Shangri-La's charm lies in its purity and mystery. Circumambulating mountains, waters, and pagodas, every step is a spiritual practice. Slow down, enjoy butter tea, learn the six-syllable mantra, and wait for a sunset over the golden mountains in this ancient town at 3,300 meters above sea level, allowing your soul to catch up with your body.🌅 [Special Note] Bring rain gear during the rainy season (July-August), carry important documents with you (border defense permits required in some areas), and respect Tibetan customs (don't touch heads, don't step on thresholds)!

Here's the best travel guide for Shangri-La: Pudacuo National Park • Recommended visiting time: 1 day. • There are many scenic spots in the park, such as Shudu Lake, one of the largest lakes in Shangri-La City, with clear water and dense surrounding forests, where you can see various wild animals. There is also Bita Lake, a provincial nature reserve and an internationally important plateau freshwater lake wetland. You can choose to hike or take an eco-friendly bus to enjoy the rich natural landscape of plateau lakes, pastures, wetlands, and virgin forests. Dukezong Ancient Town • Recommended visiting time: Half a day. • This is the best-preserved and largest Tibetan residential community in China. Here you can stroll along the stone-paved roads and visit Guishan Park, which has the world's largest prayer wheel that requires several people to turn it together. You can also go to Moonlight Square to experience the local life, taste special foods such as butter tea and barley cakes, and buy ethnic handicrafts. Songzanlin Monastery • Recommended visiting time: Half a day. • Known as the "Little Potala Palace," it is an important temple of Tibetan Buddhism in Yunnan. The architecture is magnificent, and the temple houses many precious religious relics. You can follow a guide to learn about Tibetan Buddhist culture and the history of the temple, and admire the exquisite murals and Buddha statues. Napa Lake and Yila Grassland • Recommended visiting time: Half a day. • Yila Grassland is the largest grassland in Shangri-La City, and Napa Lake is a seasonal plateau lake. In summer, the water and grass are lush, and the grassland is full of wildflowers; in autumn and winter, a large number of migratory birds, such as black-necked cranes, come here to inhabit. You can ride horses here, enjoying the grassland scenery and the lake and mountain views. Balagezong Grand Canyon • Recommended visiting time: 1 day. • The scenery in the canyon is magnificent, with vertical mountains up to 1,000 meters high, dense virgin forests, and unique plateau lakes. You can also experience high-altitude zip lines and glass walkways, feeling the combination of excitement and beautiful scenery. Food Recommendations • Yak meat: Can be made into yak hot pot, braised yak meat, etc., the meat is tender and chewy. • Tibetan fragrant pig: Roasted Tibetan fragrant pig has crispy skin and fragrant meat, and it tastes delicious. • Dried milk curd: Can be eaten directly or made into milk curd buns, etc., sweet and sour. Accommodation Recommendations • There are many characteristic inns in Dukezong Ancient Town, where you can experience the rich ethnic customs; there are also various star-rated hotels and budget hotels in the city, which are convenient for travel and shopping. Precautions • Shangri-La has a high altitude, and you may experience altitude sickness when you first arrive. Prepare medicines for altitude sickness in advance, pay attention to rest, and avoid strenuous exercise. • Respect local religious beliefs and customs. • The ultraviolet rays are strong, so take sun protection measures.

"Shangri-La" typically refers to Shangri-La City. Here's an introduction: Basic Overview - Location: Situated in northwestern Yunnan Province at the junction of Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet, in the heart of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It's a key point along the ancient Tea Horse Road. - Population and Ethnicity: Total population of 186,400, home to 25 ethnic groups, including 9 indigenous groups such as Tibetan, Naxi, and Han. - Name Origin: Formerly known as "Zhongdian" and called "Gyalthang" in Tibetan. "Shangri-La" comes from the Diqing Tibetan language, meaning "sun and moon in one's heart." Natural Environment - Topography: The terrain is higher in the northwest and lower in the southeast. The highest point is Balagezong at 5,545m, and the lowest point is Luojiji Valley at 1,503m. The landforms can be categorized into mountains, plateaus, basins, and river valleys. - Climate: Features a typical "vertical agricultural climate" with distinct vertical climate zones, including subtropical river valleys, warm temperate mountain zones, and temperate mountain zones across 6 climate zones, with distinct wet and dry seasons. - Natural Resources: Rich in hydropower potential, with 30 types of metallic and non-metallic minerals across 200+ deposits, including gold, silver, and copper. The region also boasts abundant biological resources, with 31 families and 196 species of algae, and 173 families, 877 genera, and 3,278 species of seed plants. Tourist Attractions - Pudacuo National Park: Features colorful dense forests, including attractions like Shudu Lake and Bita Lake, making it a paradise for photographers. - Dukezong Ancient Town: A Tibetan town along the Tea Horse Road with over 1,300 years of history. The town's layout resembles an eight-petal lotus and houses the world's largest prayer wheel. - Ga

Here's a brief travel guide to Shangri-La: ❤️❤️Basic Information Shangri-La is located in Tibet Autonomous Prefecture of Yunnan Province, at the junction of Yunnan, Sichuan, and Tibet. In Tibetan, it means "sun and moon in one's heart". The area features magnificent natural scenery and unique Tibetan culture. ❤️❤️Transportation Guide By Air: During peak season (May - October), there are direct flights to Shangri-La Airport from multiple cities. During off-peak season, transfer via Kunming is recommended. By Bus: Buses are available from Kunming, Lijiang, Dali, and other cities. The journey takes about 8 hours from Kunming to Shangri-La; 1.5 - 2 hours from Lijiang to Shangri-La. ❤️❤️Attractions ❤️Pudacuo National Park China's first national park features alpine lakes, pristine forests, and meadow pastures connected by hiking trails. In August, it transforms into a fairytale world with lush greenery and wildflowers. Hike around Bita Lake and Shudu Lake. Remember to bring your own food. ❤️Songzanlin Monastery Known as the "Little Potala Palace," it's the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Shangri-La. Visit early morning to witness monks chanting in this magnificent structure. Experience inner peace by turning prayer wheels and listening to Buddhist scriptures. ❤️Dukezong Ancient Town A crucial stop on the Ancient Tea Horse Road with over 1,300 years of history. Prayer wheels illuminate the night, and Guishan Park offers panoramic views of the ancient town, showcasing the depth of Tibetan culture. ❤️Meili Snow Mountain The foremost of Tibet's eight sacred mountains, famous for its golden sunrise views. Feilai Temple viewing platform offers the best photography spots, weather permitting. ❤️Napa Hai Grassland A seasonal wetland prairie - lush green in summer and a haven for migratory birds in winter. Cycle or horseback ride around the lake to experience the vast beauty of the highland pastures. ❤️❤️Food Recommendations ❤️Tibetan Butter Tea: A daily drink of Tibetan people, rich and delicious, offering a taste of Tibetan culture. ❤️Tibetan Roasted Lamb: Made from local free-range lamb, uniquely marinated and cooked, tender and flavorful. ❤️Tibetan Tsampa: Made mainly from barley flour mixed with butter and sugar. Best enjoyed during the August barley harvest. ❤️❤️Accommodation Suggestions ❤️Tibetan-style Guesthouses: Preserve traditional Tibetan architecture with elegant interiors, immersing you in Tibetan culture. ❤️Luxury Hotels: Well-equipped with excellent service, mostly located near the city center for convenient sightseeing. ❤️Camping Sites: Perfect for adventure enthusiasts, offering beautiful stargazing opportunities and natural experiences. ❤️❤️Itinerary Planning ❤️3-Day Classic Tour: Day 1: Dukezong Ancient Town + Songzanlin Monastery Day 2: Full day at Pudacuo Day 3: Napa Hai horseback riding + Tibetan cultural experience ❤️5-Day Hidden Gems Tour: Same as 3-day tour plus two days at Meili Snow Mountain. ❤️6-Day In-depth Tour: Day 1: Lijiang → Tiger Leaping Gorge → Yi Village → Dukezong Ancient Town (stay in Tibetan hotel) Day 2: Songzanlin Monastery → Napa Hai Lake Circuit → Pudacuo National Park Day 3: Baishuitai → Jinsha River First Bend → Benzilan Town Day 4: Meili Snow Mountain sunrise → Mingyong Glacier trek Day 5: Cizhong Church → Lisu Village experience Day 6: Return to Lijiang (complimentary Naxi farewell ceremony) ❤️❤️Important Notes Altitude Sickness: Avoid strenuous activity on the first day. Bring rhodiola oral liquid or oxygen bottles (available in old town pharmacies). Clothing and Sun Protection: Large temperature differences between day and night - bring windbreakers or down jackets; strong UV radiation - bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats. Respect Customs: Don't step on prayer flags or touch Buddha statue heads. When passing temples, mani stones, or stupas, always circle from left to right. Avoiding Scams: Decline low-price shopping tours, be cautious of expensive Tibetan medicine or silver items in the old town, ask prices before touching merchandise.

Day 1 Itinerary✅ Pudacuo National Park (Youyou Trail-Shudu Lake-Bita Lake) "Pudacuo" is the Tibetan transliteration of Shudu Lake, meaning to help all beings reach the shore of happiness and enter paradise. After entering the scenic area, take the park shuttle bus to the first stop - Youyou Trail, a 2.2km wooden walkway hiking route. You can also choose the mountain biking + boat ride route. Though the riding path isn't very smooth, the scenery is absolutely stunning. The second stop is Shudu Lake, one of the largest alpine lakes in the Shangri-La region. Walk along the 3km wooden walkway by the lake to enjoy the beautiful lake and mountain views. There are many friendly squirrels at the entrance who love the nuts and pine seeds we bought earlier. The last stop is Bita Lake Scenic Area, about 40 minutes drive from the other two areas. It must be beautiful in summer with vast grasslands where you occasionally encounter grazing cattle and sheep. 💗Pudacuo National Park 📍Shuangqiao, Hongpo Village, Jiantang Town, Shangri-La ⏰Opening hours: 8:00-16:30 🎟️Entrance fee: CNY 138, Bike rental + boat ride: CNY 90/person Day 2 Itinerary✅ Itinerary: Songzanlin Monastery-Napa Lake-Dukezong Ancient Town Songzanlin Monastery is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, known as the "Little Potala Palace." Napa Lake is a seasonal lake on the plateau, appearing as vast grassland in summer and a lake in winter. Dukezong Ancient Town is a 1,300-year-old Tibetan town featuring the world's largest prayer wheel. All these spots are perfect for 📸. The ancient town has many Tibetan costume rental shops where you can choose your favorite style for a Tibetan-themed photo shoot. 💗Songzanlin Monastery 📍No. 3 Niwang Road, Shangri-La ⏰Opening hours: 7:00-20:00 🎟️Entrance fee: CNY 90 Day 3 Itinerary✅ Shangri-La-🚘-Kunming-✈️-Qingdao 🏨Hotel Recommendation: Ritz Man Yunyu (Dukezong Ancient Town) 📍Location: No. 258 Dalalang, Shangri-La 🌈Features: This boutique hotel is located in Dukezong Ancient Town. All rooms come with oxygen supply service. There's dedicated parking on the first floor with valet service. A five-minute walk to the right leads to Dukezong Ancient Town Gate, Moonlight Square, Guishan Park, and the Giant Prayer Wheel. 🏘️Room type: We booked a 2-night Cloud Joy Two-bedroom Two-bathroom Family Suite. One room has a 1.8m king bed, the other has a 1.5m double bed and a 1.35m single bed. Rooms are equipped with floor heating, air conditioning, humidifier, and medical oxygen supply system. 🧹Cleanliness: Room items are well-organized and clean. Timely housekeeping service for extended stay with prompt amenity replenishment and attention to detail. 🎯Facilities: There's a glass-roofed starry garden on the 2nd floor, perfect for relaxing tea time and photos 📸 💗Other tips: The butler service is very warm, helping with check in and luggage, recommending nearby attractions and local food 🤗 🥘Food recommendation: Zangxiang Yak Hot Pot, located opposite to the ancient town entrance. The yak hot pot set is good value for money, with fresh meat and great taste. Highly recommended - we ate there twice in 3 days. Our 15-day self-drive Yunnan family trip has come to an end. Looking forward to starting new adventures 🫶

## Shangri-La: The Closest Place to Heaven, and Also to Altitude Sickness Hello, friends! Welcome to Shangri-La, a place whose name alone evokes a sense of magic. Here, you'll find not only breathtaking scenery but also the potential for breathtaking altitude sickness. Don't worry, follow my guide, and I guarantee you'll have fun and breathe easy! ### 1. Recommended Attractions 1. **Songzanlin Monastery** - **Reason to visit**: Known as the "Little Potala Palace," its golden roof shimmers in the sunlight, as if saying, "Come take a picture of me!" - **Friendly reminder**: There are quite a few steps at the temple. Remember to take breaks while climbing so altitude sickness doesn't steal the show. - **Tickets**: CNY 90 - **Visit duration**: 2–3 hrs 2. **Potatso National Park** - **Reason to visit**: With lakes, grasslands, and forests, the scenery is as beautiful as a Windows desktop. Bita Lake and Shudu Lake are photography hotspots; every shot is a masterpiece. - **Friendly reminder**: The temperature in the park is relatively low, so remember to dress warmly. Don't freeze into an icicle for the sake of a beautiful photo. - **Tickets**: CNY 138 (including sightseeing bus) - **Visit duration**: 4–5 hrs 3. **Dukezong Ancient Town** - **Reason to visit**: The world's largest prayer wheel is here. Turning it once is said to bring good luck. However, before turning it, ask yourself if you have the strength, as altitude sickness is no joke. - **Friendly reminder**: There are many small shops in the ancient town selling Tibetan handicrafts. Remember to bargain; don't be scared off by the "high-altitude prices." - **Tickets**: Free - **Visit duration**: 2–3 hrs 4. **Napa Lake** - **Reason to visit**: A combination of grassland and lake, you can ride horses, take photos, or simply relax. - **Friendly reminder**: Ask about the price before riding a horse, so you don't get taken for a ride. - **Tickets**: Free (horse riding is extra) - **Visit duration**: 2–3 hrs ### 2. Recommended Food 1. **Yak Hot Pot** - **Reason to try**: Shangri-La's yak meat is tender, and the hot pot broth is rich. One bite will warm you to the core. - **Recommended restaurant**: "Yak Hot Pot Restaurant" in Dukezong Ancient Town offers reasonable prices and authentic flavors. 2. **Butter Tea** - **Reason to try**: A traditional Tibetan drink, it warms both body and soul. However, the taste might seem a bit strange at first. Don't worry; you'll get used to it after a few sips. - **Recommended place**: Find any Tibetan home, and the hospitable host will pour you a bowl. 3. **Tsampa Cakes** - **Reason to try**: Crispy and delicious, paired with butter tea, they're the perfect match on the plateau. - **Recommended place**: Small stalls in the ancient town make them fresh to order. They're best enjoyed hot. 4. **Tibetan Yogurt** - **Reason to try**: Sweet and sour, with a rich texture, it's a great way to refresh your palate and aid digestion after yak hot pot. - **Recommended restaurant**: "Tibetan Yogurt Shop" in the ancient town. The owner will even add some honey for extra flavor. ### 3. Recommended Accommodation 1. **Shangri-La Youth Hostel** - **Reason to stay**: Affordable, with a great atmosphere, it's perfect for backpackers. In the evening, you can chat with fellow travelers from around the world and share travel stories. - **Price**: CNY 50–100/night 2. **Dukezong Ancient Town Inn** - **Reason to stay**: Inns in the ancient town have a strong Tibetan style, moderate prices, and a convenient location. You can step right out the door and explore the ancient town. - **Price**: CNY 150–300/night 3. **Homestays near Potatso** - **Reason to stay**: If you want to get up early to watch the sunrise at Potatso, choose a homestay near the park for convenience and tranquility. - **Price**: CNY 200–400/night ### 4. Important Notes 1. **Altitude sickness**: Shangri-La has a high altitude, and newcomers may experience mild altitude sickness. It is recommended to prepare Rhodiola or oxygen tanks in advance, so altitude sickness doesn't ruin your trip. 2. **Weather changes**: The plateau weather is changeable, with large temperature differences between day and night. Remember to bring a thick coat so you don't catch a cold for the sake of a beautiful photo. 3. **Sun protection**: The plateau has strong ultraviolet rays. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are essential to avoid coming back with a "highland red" face. ### 5. Humorous Tips - **About altitude sickness**: If you feel short of breath, don't panic. First, ask the people around you if they feel the same. If they do, it might be altitude sickness; if they don't, it might be time to lose weight. - **About taking photos**: When taking photos in Potatso, remember to find a good angle so the snow-capped mountains behind you don't make you look like a dwarf. - **About horse riding**: Don't get too excited while riding. The horse won't run faster just because you yell "Giddy up." It will just think you're noisy. Alright, that's all for the guide. I hope you have fun in Shangri-La, take beautiful photos, eat your fill, and breathe easy! Remember, the most important thing about traveling is to have fun. Don't let altitude sickness or the weather affect your good mood. Shangri-La awaits your exploration!

#favouriteitinerary Bitahai Lake is not fully developed, but it does feature a wooden boardwalk for an easy 1 km walk. Despite the short distance, the scenery is stunning. Known as the "sacred mountain and holy water" in Tibetan culture, the lake is exceptionally beautiful. Personal Opinion: In my opinion, Bitahai Lake's untouched charm and cultural significance make it a must-visit destination. The serene and picturesque environment offers a peaceful retreat for nature enthusiasts.

Although the grass and trees are withered and yellow, when the weather is clear, the lake water is crystal blue and you can watch cows and horses grazing, ducks floating on the water, and even yaks and squirrels at a very close distance. It is quite interesting! Here are the strategies: Travel: ① Use the online mini program "Lijiao Travel Life" - "WeChat Ticket Purchase" to order the "Shangri-La-Pudacuo National Park" ticket (see Figure 17). You can choose to get on the bus at Shangri-La Bus Station or the East Gate of the Ancient City. It costs 15r/person, plus a 3r service fee; ② Or choose the route "Shangri-La-Pudacuo" from the mini program "Diqing Transportation" - "Worry-free Travel" - "Scenic Area Direct Bus", which is also 15r/person, plus a 3r service fee; Notice! ! These two mini-programs actually book the same train, so you can choose one of them. ③ No service fee for offline purchases! ! But after reading a lot of guides, none of them mentioned where to buy it. This is how I practiced: First, on the day of travel, open any mini program to check the bus schedule and remaining tickets (it is recommended to use Lijiao Travel Inquiry); Then, choose a time when there are more tickets left to go to the east gate of the ancient city (in front of the court), and find a parked bus with "Diqing Transportation" on the body and "Shangri-La-Pudacuo" on the back. At this time, the driver is asking passengers to buy return tickets (also 15r) and issue a boarding card; After getting on the bus, confirm your destination with the driver and express your intention to buy a ticket on the spot. Generally, you will be allowed to sit if there are seats available (that's why you need to confirm the remaining tickets in advance). Scan the driver's QR code on the bus and pay 30r (round trip). The return bus runs between 13:00 and 16:00 and will leave when it is full. The driver will indicate the return boarding point on the outbound journey, so please pay attention. 2 Tickets: ① General: Ticket 68r + sightseeing bus 70r = 138r; ② Recent activities: Free tickets for tourists whose birthdays are in February, only the sightseeing bus fee needs to be paid. 3 Route: It is divided into three stops. ① The first stop is Youyou Trail. It was not open when I went there. There is only one ice and snow project. If you don’t want to experience it, follow the instructions and take the next sightseeing bus. ② The second stop is Shudu Lake, the trail is 3.3 kilometers long, and the most beautiful scenery is here, recommended; ③ The third stop is Bitahai. You need to go back to the entrance of the scenic area first. If you want to continue the tour, you can take a sightseeing bus, which takes about 10 minutes. At present, only a small section is open. You need to return to the end and take the bus. Friends who have extra energy can take a look. Tips: 1. You can prepare oxygen cylinders (15r/bottle) in the ancient city in advance. The driver will sell you 35r/bottle, and 80r/bottle in the scenic area; 2. Do not step on the meadows, walk on the official plank roads, and protect the natural ecological environment; 3. The chef will sell his homemade yak jerky on his way back, and you can choose and buy as needed.

Spent the whole day at—Pudacuo National Park, the weather was amazing (heard it hailed the day before), walking was very comfortable, no sheep missing 🐏, and no discomfort. Morning: Took the early bus for 15 yuan to the park, and of course, it was the first bus to enter the park. The weather was a bit cloudy. The first stop was the bus to the first scenic spot for hiking. The meadows and cows and horses that appeared from time to time were like a painting, making me very excited about this trip. Luck was with me, as I met a young lady on the way, and we decided to walk together. She was a companion who could discover the beauty of nature, and we strolled along the path together. On one side was the sound of flowing water, and on the other side, the beautiful scenery was enhanced by the sudden appearance of sunlight from the clouds, which gave me a great surprise. We searched for mushrooms together, and every time we found one, we were both very happy. We found many kinds of mushrooms and also saw many kinds of plants and Chinese herbs. We encountered a very vigorous Yunnan poplar, whose green leaves became my favorite. We came across a family of horses 🐴 and a family of cows grazing on the fresh, tender green grass. On one side, the large stream flowed with the momentum of 'a thousand horses galloping'. On the two-kilometer gravel road, 'little cutie' was delighted to discover fifteen kinds of flowers she had never seen before, and after checking on Baidu, we found that many of them were Chinese medicinal herbs. Afternoon: At 1 PM, we took the second stop of the park bus to the Bitahai wooden walkway. This section is very exquisite, with options for boating and cycling. Personally, I suggest walking, as it allows you to discover more beautiful scenery, just for reference. Large patches of water meadows, dotted with small flowers, and grazing cows and horses added to the picturesque scene, full of vitality and leisure. We hiked for more than two hours to the end. The third section, Shudu Lake, with its meadows and mooing 🐮🐮🐮 and neighing 🐴🐴🐴, is a great place to daze off. At 5 PM, we finished our stroll. Took the bus back to the city. Evening: Finally, finally enjoyed yak meat mushroom soup hotpot at Sifang Street in Dukezong Ancient Town. Shared the meal with the young lady I walked with today. Unexpectedly, the window seat allowed us to enjoy a live Tibetan dance performance. Since we encountered it, participation was a must. Feeling the charm of Tibetan dance, starting from uncoordinated hands and feet 😊, I began to let myself go... Other tips ❤️: Picked up some litter in the park, just hoping that every friend who visits the park can protect the environment and not litter. There are many trash bins in the park. Such pristine beauty is becoming rarer, so let's take better care of it and leave more scenery for future visitors. If you find mushrooms that you don't recognize or even if you do, please leave them in place and let future visitors discover them! This trip was a self-guided tour, not with a group, focusing on relaxation without rushing, with no specific plans. It was my first time in a high-altitude area, so I adapted slowly. The general direction was Kunming/Dali/Lijiang/Shangri-La. For safety, I mainly stayed in chain hotels, traveled mainly by bus/shared bike, with occasional use of private cars. Nighttime activities were moderate, not staying out too late. As a result, my body felt great, perfect for traveling .

#Forest #100 Ways to Travel #trip Pudacuo Forest Park is located in Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is China's first national park with rich natural resources and magnificent scenery. The original ecological environment here is well preserved, attracting many tourists to explore and appreciate it. Environmental Features 🔆Lakes and Wetlands: There are two main lakes in the park - Shudu Lake and Bitahai. Shudu Lake has picturesque scenery in all four seasons: rhododendrons bloom in spring, the lake water is cool in summer, the forest is colorful in autumn, and the lake is covered with snow in winter. Bita Lake is famous for its clear water and the surrounding sea of ​​rhododendrons. Whenever the petals of azaleas fall on the lake, the spectacle of "rhododendrons intoxicating fish" is formed. 🔆Forest meadow: Pudacuo Forest Park has vast forests and meadows, where the vegetation is mainly long-bract fir, spruce, red birch, etc. In summer, the meadow is covered with various wild flowers, forming a magnificent sea of ​​flowers, which is called the "Five-Flower Meadow". 🔆Rare animals and plants: The park is home to many rare animals and plants, such as musk deer, bears, leopards, golden cats, etc. The ecological environment here provides good living conditions for various animals and plants and is a treasure trove of biodiversity. 🔆Alpine Landscape: The park has an altitude ranging from 3,500 meters to 4,159 meters, with magnificent alpine landscapes. Militang Subalpine Pasture is a famous pasture in the history of Shangri-La. It is full of flowers in summer and becomes a wintering habitat for migratory birds such as black-necked cranes in winter. Pudacuo Forest Park is a nature reserve integrating lakes, forests, meadows and alpine landscapes. The pristine ecological environment and rich natural resources here make people linger. Whether you are a tourist who loves natural scenery or someone who is interested in ecological protection, you can find fun here. It is recommended that you choose to go there in spring and autumn, so that you can better experience the beauty of Pudacuo. 📍Address: Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province

📍 Location: Bitahai, Yunnan Recently I came to Bitahai in Yunnan, a place known as the world's first wonder. Next, I want to share my experience with you. 💫 Day 1: On the first day, I arrived at Bitahai. As soon as I entered the scenic area, I was shocked by the azure blue lake and lush green mountains. We took a boat tour on the lake. The water was so clear that you could see the bottom. The mountains in the distance were reflected on the lake, making us feel like we were in a fairyland on earth. 🌸 Day 2: On the second day, I visited the flower sea of ​​Bitahai. Walking among the flowers, the colorful flowers exude fragrance and butterflies fly among the flowers. I lingered there and took many beautiful photos. 🌅 Day 3: On the last day, I decided to climb to the top of a nearby mountain to watch the sunrise. In the early morning, we began to climb the steep mountain road. Although it was tiring, it was fun. As the sun slowly rose, we stood on the top of the mountain, admiring the misty Bita Lake and the surrounding mountains. The magnificent scene was breathtaking. ✨ Bitahai in Yunnan is an intoxicating place. If you are interested in the beautiful scenery of lakes and sea of ​​flowers, you might as well take a trip to Bitahai. I believe you will not be disappointed. 🏞️ Share your travel experiences every day, follow me and explore the world with you. 📱 I recommend an app that I have been using to record my travel footprints - Jiyi. It records travels like posting to Moments and automatically generates a footprint map. I will never forget where I have been~

The scenery of Pudacuo Forest Park this season Touring Pudacuo (Bita Lake, Shudu Lake) 🅰️ Shudu Lake, touring methods: 1. Boat tour 65 RMB/person 2. Walking on the boardwalk 3.3 kilometers Choose according to your own situation (altitude around 3300-3800 meters) 🅱️ Bita Lake touring method: round-trip walking about 2 kilometers

🧳Pre-travel Preparation: - Clothing: Pudacuo is located on the plateau with changeable weather, it is recommended to prepare thin long-sleeved clothing and sunscreen. In winter, sufficient clothing is needed, including down jackets, warm and waterproof shoes. - Food and Water: The restaurants in the park are expensive and have limited choices, it is advisable to bring your own dry food and drinking water. 🚉Transportation Tips: - External Transportation: You can take a flight to Shangri-La Airport and then transfer to local transportation; you can also choose to drive yourself along the G214 national highway, but be aware of plateau road conditions and weather changes. - Internal Transportation: There are sightseeing car services within the park, it is recommended to take them to save energy. The sightseeing cars will stop at various attractions, and tourists can get off at designated stops to visit. ✅Must Experience: Pudacuo National Park - Shudu Lake: The lake water is clear, and the lakeside is a continuous plateau pasture. You can choose to walk, take a boat, or cycle to visit, and along the way, you can also enjoy the primitive forests and snow-capped mountain scenery. - Bita Lake: In Tibetan, it means 'a sea with dense oak trees'. The lakeside is dense with oak trees, and in May-June, the rhododendron petals fall into the water, and the fish come to the surface, forming a unique scenery. You can take a boat tour of the lake to deeply experience the charm of the plateau lake. - Leisurely Trail: This is an easy hiking route, where you can enjoy the primitive forests and snow-capped mountain scenery along the way. 🍽Dining Recommendations: - Dining: There are simple restaurants and snack stalls in the park, but the prices are high and the choices are limited, so it is recommended to bring your own dry food and drinking water. - Accommodation: There are a variety of accommodation options in Shangri-La city, ranging from budget to high-end hotels. If you want to get closer to nature, you can choose homestays or camping sites near the park. 🌟Highlights: There is the emerald Shudu Lake, the water is like a mirror, reflecting the blue sky, white clouds, and the continuous mountains. As you stroll along the lakeside, it's like walking into a beautiful painting, with every step filled with poetry. There is also the mysterious Bita Lake, lying there quietly, exuding a tranquil and distant aura. Here, time seems to stop, and you can fully feel the charm of nature. Pudacuo, it is a gift from the earth, a paradise on earth. Coming here, you will find that there really is such a place in the world that can give your soul unprecedented peace and satisfaction. Let's step into Pudacuo together and pursue the beauty that belongs to us!

Potatso blesses all beings, leading them to the other shore. Who on earth says Potatso is not fun!! I am the first to object! Potatso is really so beautiful. 🎫Ticket price 138 (Sightseeing car 70 + Entrance fee 68) Remember to bring your student ID for free admission, and those born in the Year of the Dragon also get free admission. The weather was particularly good when I went, and it even snowed a few times❄️ In winter, only two scenic spots in Potatso are open, Shudu Lake and Bita Lake. It is recommended to reserve a whole day for the visit. After entering the park, take the park bus, which takes about 20min to reach the first scenic spot, Shudu Lake. After getting off, walk along the plank road to tour Shudu Lake (the whole journey is 3.3 kilometers, about 1.5 hours), and the scenery along the way is really super beautiful! You can stroll slowly and enjoy the beautiful scenery. At the end of Shudu Lake, there will be a park bus to take you back to the visitor center. At this time, you can choose: 1. Go to the next scenic spot, Bita Lake, or 2. End the trip. There's not much to do at Bita Lake in winter. We walked in for about 20min, and there was a small wooden gate locked in front, not allowing entry. It was already sealed inside, so we just returned the same way. The whole hiking journey is basically flat, with no slopes to climb, so I don't think it's necessary to buy oxygen. You can bring some small bread to replenish your energy, and if you encounter little squirrels on the road, you can feed them. Transportation to Potatso 🚗 Use the mini-program 'Shangri-La Leisure Life' to buy bus tickets, from the East Gate of the Old Town to Potatso, the ticket price is 15r. The boarding place is opposite the East Gate at the entrance of the People's Court (red bus stop sign). After boarding, the driver will sell return tickets, also for 15r. After payment, the driver will issue a boarding pass, which you will use to board the bus on the return trip. The return time is not fixed, usually, there is a bus every hour.

Yunnan-Tibet Trip 72 On 2023.09.24, the Yunnan-Tibet trip arrived at Shangri-La Potatso National Park at 13:30. This is the second visit since 2021.03.22. Due to the vast size of the park, we did not make the effort to tour it again. Potatso is located in the center of the 'Three Parallel Rivers' World Natural Heritage in Northwest Yunnan, consisting of the internationally important wetland Bitahai Nature Reserve and the Haba section of the 'Three Parallel Rivers' World Heritage site, which includes Shudu Lake. The main components are Bitahai, Shudu Lake, and the Milarepa subalpine pasture, which are also one of the main attractions of Shangri-La tourism. The altitude ranges from 3,500 meters to 4,159 meters, belonging to the provincial-level nature reserve, and is an important part of the 'Three Parallel Rivers' scenic area. Potatso National Park has geological features, lakes and wetlands, forests and meadows, river valleys and streams, rare animals and plants, and the original ecological environment is well preserved. Boating on Shudu Lake and looking around at the beautiful lake and mountain scenery under the blue sky and white clouds is truly refreshing...

On the first day of self-driving to Shangri-La, Shangri-La is 3,459 meters above sea level and has a slight altitude sickness. Do not exercise vigorously. Stay at Shangri-La Hotel in the evening, drive for about half an hour the next day to Pudacuo National Park, take a scenic area car to Bitahai, and then walk along the lakeside plank road. There are many cute little squirrels on the roadside. They are not afraid of people and will come to grab cookies from your hand. I brought nut cookies that the little squirrels especially like to eat. There are also many small birds that will fly to you for food. The second night stay in Dukezong Ancient City, a Tibetan-style homestay. Go around the ancient city in the morning and evening. As the oldest castle on the Ancient Tea Horse Road, it is full of vicissitudes. There is Turtle Mountain Park in the center of the ancient city, which has the largest and heaviest prayer wheel in the world. The prayer wheel is the best viewing platform for overlooking the city and the ancient city. After the fire in 2014, it was rebuilt in its original form, and you can see the clear boundary between the old and new roofs from the viewing platform. On the third day, drive for about twenty minutes to Ganden Sumtseling Monastery. Ganden Sumtseling Monastery was built in 1679 and completed in 1681. It was named by the Fifth Dalai Lama. Built against the mountain, it is quite majestic and spectacular. It is the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan and is known as the 'Little Potala Palace'. Looking up from the bottom, there are three main halls, which are traditional Tibetan buildings. The highest in the middle is the Zha Cang Hall, which is mainly for monks to study and research classics and doctrines. The one on the left is the Tsongkhapa Hall, and the one on the right is the Sakyamuni Hall. From left to right, they also represent Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. Opposite the monastery is the celestial burial platform. It is said that celestial burial is the highest funeral of the Tibetans.

Pudacuo Forest Park is located in Shangri-La, Diqing Prefecture, Yunnan Province. It is the first national forest park with a total area of ​​about 300 square kilometers and an average altitude of 3,700 meters. · Every scene here comes from its beauty. It is Shangri-La✨ that makes people believe that there is such a pure place in the world. It is really natural and even breathing is so refreshing and pleasant🥰 · 👉Pudacuo National Park is divided into three scenic spots: Shudu Lake, Grassland Observation Deck and Bitahai. There are three ways to view Shudu Lake: the first is to follow the bus 🚍 for a general view; the second is to walk on the bridge over the lake, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes; the third is to go forward about 500 meters and take a cruise to view the scenery. · You can see a lot of wild animals along the way. The spruce and fir trees in the forest are as high as the sky. The king of fir trees is 30 meters high, which is really a giant tree that blocks out the sky. The beautiful lakes on the snowy plateau, the primeval forests, the interweaving of ice and water here are not inferior to the forest fairy tale world in Switzerland. It is well worth a visit!