7 Days Shangri-La Exploration & Meili Snow Mountain Adventure

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Shangri-La

   Welcome to Shangri-La, which is famous for its rich natural beauty and profound minority culture. Upon arrival, the local guide and driver will transfer you to the hotel for check-in. For the rest of the day, you are free to relax at the hotel or explore the nearby streets on your own.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: Shangri-La

2. Day 2: Shangri-La Culture Tour
   Experience the Rich Tibetan Buddhism and Tibetan Culture

   After breakfast, start today’s Shangri-La culture tour. The first stop is Songzanlin Monastery, known as the “Museum of Tibetan Arts”. The temple is built on the mountain and looks like an ancient castle. There are many majestic Buddhist architecture, blending elements of ancient Chinese, Tibetan, and Indian cultures. The monastery boasts precious cultural relics such as Buddha statues, Pattra Buddhist scriptures, and thangkas. Also, witness religious ceremonies such as chanting and debating activities.

   

   In the afternoon, visit Dukezong Ancient Town, which has a history of more than 1,300 years. Admire the well-preserved Tibetan architecture and the White Pagoda on the square. Climb to Guishan Park to observe the world’s largest prayer wheel and overlook the ancient city. Stroll through the ancient streets to explore the exquisite Tibetan handicrafts and enjoy delicious Tibetan cuisine.

   Optional activity: Learn about the Tibetan art of thangka painting, and learn to make a traditional Tibetan Thangka from a local master.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: Shangri-La

    

   

3. Day 3: Shangri-La Pudacuo National Park Tour, Drive to Tacheng
   Appreciate the Diverse Natural Landscapes

   In the morning, continue your Shangri-La tour from Pudacuo National Park. There are two important lakes, namely Shudu Lake and Bita Lake. Stroll along the shores and immerse yourself in the vivid pictures of crystal lakes, magnificent mountains and lush forests. Also opt for a sightseeing bus or a boat ride to admire the pristine views of the area and observe the rare wildlife.

   

   In the afternoon, drive from Shangri-La to Tacheng, home of the Lisu and Naxi ethnic groups. Along the way, you can observe rolling hills, terraced fields and diverse ethnic villages.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: Tacheng

4. Day 4: Tacheng to Deqin Tour
   Observe Precious Wildlife and Explore the Unique Ethnic Cultures

   Today head to Yunnan Golden Monkey National Park, which is a great place to see rare animals. There are about 500 golden monkeys, which live in high-altitude forests and feed on lichens and mosses. You can follow the staff at the observation area to witness these precious animals and learn about their behaviors. Also enjoy magnificent natural landscapes such as forests and streams, as well as observe various wild plants and animals.

   Continue the journey alongside the Lancang River to Deqin, famous for its snowy mountain scenery and Tibetan culture.

   

   On the way, make a stop at Cizhong Village, a charming village with a blend of Tibetan and Catholic cultures. The village has a Catholic church built by French missionaries in the 19th century, with a blend of French and traditional Chinese architecture. Walk through the village, admire the traditional Tibetan dwellings and beautiful natural scenery. Besides, taste the local wine made from wild grapes.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: Deqin

5. Day 5: Meili Snow Mountain Tour
   Breathtaking Sunrise and Spectacular Glacier Views

   In the morning, embark on your Meili Snow Mountain adventure tour. Wake up early to watch the breathtaking sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain. You will marvel at the stunning view of the snow mountain turning golden in the sunlight.

   

   After breakfast, head to Mingyong Glacier, known as one of the most beautiful natural wonders in the world. This is one of the lowest glaciers in the world, stretching from Kawagebo to Mingyong Village at 2600 meters. Here, you can choose to reach the glacier by hiking or horseback riding to admire the magnificent ice walls and waterfalls. Also capture the picturesque scenery formed by the lush forests and the white glacier.

   After the visit, drive back to the hotel in Deqin for a rest.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: Deqin

   

6. Day 6: Deqin to Shangri-La Tour
   Enjoy the Natural Wonders and Learn about the Life of Tibetan People

   Before leaving Deqin, ascend to the Wunongding Viewing Platform for a panoramic view of the Meili Snow Mountain. Stand at the viewing platform to enjoy the thirteen magnificent peaks and the fantastic sea of clouds.

   Afterward, drive back to Shangri-La. On the way, stop at a viewpoint to overlook the great bend of the Jinsha River, the upper reaches of the Yangtze. The Jinsha River meanders through the Hengduan Mountains, creating a natural wonder.

   

   Our next stop is to visit the home of a Tibetan family. You can talk with the local residents and learn about their culture and customs. Experience the lively local life while tasting homemade butter tea and yak cheese. Also choose to take a walk in the nearby forest to breathe in the fresh air and immerse yourself in the serene nature.

   Meal: Breakfast

   Accommodation: Shangri-La

7. Day 7: Departure from Shangri-La

   The 7-day Shangri-La tour of Yunnan is over here. Your guide and driver will transfer you to the airport or train station to your next destination.

   Meal: N/A

   Accommodation: N/A