How to get to Shangri-La

A journey to the legendary Shangri-La is an opportunity to touch the secrets of Tibetan culture and the grandeur of nature in Yunnan Province in southwest China. This high-altitude city attracts adventurers with its ancient monasteries, snow-capped peaks, and unique atmosphere. You can reach this destination in various ways: by using the local airport, the new railway line, or by taking a scenic drive along winding mountain roads.

The main air gateway to the region is Diqing Shangri-La Airport (DIG), which accepts flights from major cities across the country. The terminal is conveniently located relative to the city centre, allowing tourists to quickly begin their exploration of the highlands. Alternatively, travellers often choose to fly into neighbouring Lijiang or Daocheng, from where the journey continues by ground transport.

Thanks to the development of the transport network, reaching the city of Shangri-La is now possible by rail. A high-speed line connects the region with the popular tourist hub of Lijiang, turning the trip into a comfortable journey through picturesque mountain landscapes. Modern trains allow you to cover this distance quickly while enjoying the views from the window, making the region more accessible to travellers.

Bus services remain a popular way to get to Shangri-La, especially for those planning a route through Yunnan Province. Regular services depart from the city of Lijiang, allowing tourists to gradually adapt to the altitude gain during the trip. The route passes through impressive gorges and mountain passes, making the transfer itself a memorable part of the adventure.

Travelling by car offers freedom of movement and the opportunity to stop at unique observation decks. The most popular route leads from the city of Lijiang: covering a distance of about 187 km takes approximately 3.5 hours, allowing you to enjoy views of the famous Tiger Leaping Gorge. Another scenic but longer route comes from the direction of Daocheng (about 323 km), taking around 9 hours of driving through complex mountainous terrain.

A trip to Shangri-La requires careful preparation due to the altitude of over 3,000 metres and the cultural specifics of the region. Follow these recommendations to ensure your journey is comfortable and safe.

1. Clothing and Essentials. The mountain climate is changeable, and even in summer, nights can be cold. Be sure to bring a warm jacket, fleece clothing, and comfortable trekking shoes. Do not forget sunglasses and high SPF cream due to the strong UV radiation.
2. Transport. The historic centre is pleasant to explore on foot. For trips to distant nature parks, it is best to hire a taxi or rent a car with a driver, as public transport does not reach all locations.
3. Finances. The official currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). International cards are rarely accepted, so keep a supply of cash. For convenience, it is recommended to set up Alipay or WeChat Pay payment systems.
4. Health and Safety. Due to the high altitude, altitude sickness is possible. In the first few days, avoid physical exertion, drink plenty of water, and if necessary, purchase a portable oxygen canister at a local pharmacy.
5. Communication. English is not widely spoken here. To communicate with taxi drivers and in shops, install an offline translator from Chinese on your smartphone in advance.
6. Local Etiquette. Respect Buddhist traditions: remove hats and sunglasses in temples, and walk around stupas and shrines strictly clockwise. Always ask for permission before photographing local residents.
7. What to Avoid. Do not buy souvenirs made from wild animals or prohibited materials — this is illegal. It is also strongly advised not to drink raw tap water.
8. Additional Tip. Be sure to try traditional yak butter tea. This drink has a specific taste but warms you up perfectly and restores strength in the high-altitude climate.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid unnecessary hassle and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the "Lost Horizon".