Cover View of Songzanlin monastery with water reflection at sunset in Shangri-La, Yunnan, China (Photo: Getty Images)
View of Songzanlin monastery with water reflection at sunset in Shangri-La, Yunnan, China (Photo: Getty Images)
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From its stunning natural beauty to its rich cultural heritage, Shangri-La is emerging as China’s most coveted destination to visit —here's why
Nestled in the hills of China's Yunnan Province, Shangri-La is often overlooked by foreign travellers due to its remote location and limited international awareness compared to more popular cities such as Shanghai or Beijing.
Actually, the city, which used to be known as Zhongdian, is often associated with the fictional paradise described in James Hilton's novel Lost Horizon. While the real Shangri-La may not be a secluded utopia, it certainly offers a mesmerising charm that can feel like stepping into another world.
From its serene landscapes to its unique architecture and its emphasis on eco-tourism, Tatler explores why Shangri-La is emerging as China’s ultimate hidden gem.
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Shangri-La has a rich and diverse cultural heritage
Above Tibetan women seen going down the steps at the Tibetan Temple 'Guishan' at the Turtle Mountain Park in Shangri-La, China (Photo: Getty Images)
Tibetan women seen going down the steps at the Tibetan Temple 'Guishan' at the Turtle Mountain Park in Shangri-La, China (Photo: Getty Images)
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Shangri-La’s rich cultural heritage is a unique blend of Tibetan and traditional Chinese influences. Experience this at historic temples, such as Yunnan’s largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery, Songzanlin Monastery—also known as “Little Potala Palace”—and vibrant festivals.
The city’s annual Diqing Shangri-La Horse Racing Festival is a three-day horse racing event held in June, attract travellers from around the world.
Above Guishan Dafo Big Buddha temple with the giant Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel illuminated at night in Guishan Park, Shangri-La, Yunnan, China (Photo: Getty Images)
Guishan Dafo Big Buddha temple with the giant Tibetan Buddhist prayer wheel illuminated at night in Guishan Park, Shangri-La, Yunnan, China (Photo: Getty Images)
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The city’s architecture also blends traditional Tibetan architecture—notable for its vibrant colours, intricate wood carvings and prayer flags—with courtyard-style homes and Chinese temples.
Its old town and golden monasteries overlooking the city are a stunning vision that not only enhances the natural beauty of Shangri-La, but also embodies the historical and spiritual significance of the region's diverse cultural identity.
Shangri-La embraces its biodiversity and natural wonders through eco-tourism
Above Tiger Leaping Gorge is a gorge formed by river Jinsha, the upper reach of the Yangtze River—the longest river in China (Photo: Getty Images)
Tiger Leaping Gorge is a gorge formed by river Jinsha, the upper reach of the Yangtze River—the longest river in China (Photo: Getty Images)
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Shangri-La’s rich biodiversity is characterised by its rich natural landscapes. It is home to numerous protected nature reserves, including the scenic Pudacuo National Park to rolling hills, Yangtze River (China’s longest one), lush forests and breathtaking views of the Meili Snow Mountain range and of the Tiger Leaping Gorge County.
Shangri-La offers the perfect landing base for nature lovers and adventure seekers, with hiking, birdwatching and stunning lakes and forests easily accessible from the city. It’s the ideal opportunity for travellers to disconnect from the fast-paced modern world and reconnect with nature.
Above Meili Snow Mountain is the highest peak in Yunnan Province, China, with the highest peak at 6,740 metres above sea level (Photo: Getty Images)
Meili Snow Mountain is the highest peak in Yunnan Province, China, with the highest peak at 6,740 metres above sea level (Photo: Getty Images)
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To protect its natural wonders, Shangri-La promotes sustainable tourism, making it an attractive destination for environmentally conscious travellers. Not only do restaurants use local and organic products with the support of local farmers, but eco-lodges and accommodations in the area have been built to minimise environmental impact through renewable energy sources, water conservation efforts, and waste management systems.
Guided eco-tours led by local conservationists educate visitors about the region’s biodiversity and conservation efforts, while initiatives such as tree planting and habitat restoration projects encourage tourists to participate in preserving Shangri-La's natural landscape.
Tatler tip: Shangri-La is 3,160 metres above sea level, which can result in altitude sickness. To prevent this, ascend slowly and take it easy in the first days: don’t drink alcohol, and eat more vegetables and fruits. If you feel you need it, rent a small oxygen cylinder from your hotel in advance.
Shangri-La’s blend of cuisines offers a unique culinary adventure
Above Tibetan yak hotpot in Dukezong Ancient City, Shangri-la (Photo: Getty Images)
Tibetan yak hotpot in Dukezong Ancient City, Shangri-la (Photo: Getty Images)
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Yes, Shangri-La is a destination for food lovers too. The city has a delicious mix of cuisines, namely Tibetan dishes and Yunnan flavours which showcase the diverse culinary heritage and unique seasonal ingredients of the area.
Indulge in the region’s hearty dishes such as yak meat, butter tea and tangy tsampa (barley flour), as well as Yunnan flavours like fragrant mushrooms, spicy goat's cheese and the signature dishes of "crossing-the-bridge" noodles (guo qiao mi xian) and fish in sour broth (suan tang yu).
Shangri-La has improved its accessibility
Above A bus on its way up through the clouds in Yunnan province, China (Photo: Getty Images)
A bus on its way up through the clouds in Yunnan province, China (Photo: Getty Images)
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In terms of accessibility, Shangri-La has made significant improvements in recent years. With an airport that connects to major cities like Kunming and Chengdu, travellers can now reach this hidden gem more easily than ever before.
Once there, the local transportation system allows easy access to major attractions, making it convenient for visitors to explore.
Despite its many attractions, Shangri-La remains relatively undiscovered compared to more popular Chinese destinations, which allows visitors to enjoy a more tranquil experience.
Salomé Grouard was Digital Editor and Front & Female Content Lead at Tatler Hong Kong. Primarily focused on managing Tatler Hong Kong’s digital platform and content, she also covers gender equality, the music scene and sports through interviews with industry leaders, experts and trendsetters.
Interview highlights include renowned conservationist Dr Jane Goodall, Korean actor Park Seo Jun, singer Jorja Smith, Chinese TV host Yue-Sai Kan, YouTuber Kimono Mom, Japanese rapper Awich, and Brazilian jiu-jitsu fighter Mikey Musumeci.
She has also produced stories on revolutionising sexual wellness in Asia, activism within the surfing community, Asian trans musicians reclaiming their narratives through music and looked at the toxicity of gym culture through the lens of the plus-size community. She also covers music festivals, such as Hong Kong’s Clockenflap and Bali’s Suara.
