1 Day Shangri-La Songzanlin and Potatso National Park Tour

Shangri-La , China

1 Day Shangri-La Songzanlin and Potatso National Park Tour

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About this experience

Explore two of Shangri-La's top attractions on this tour. Begin with Songzanlin Monastery， the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan， known as the ‘Little Potala Palace’ for its striking resemblance to Lhasa’s Potala Palace. This 17th-century gem is home to over 700 monks and features a magnificent golden roof. Next， visit Potatso National Park， China’s first national park， famous for its lush forests， crystal-clear lakes， and wildlife like the black-necked crane and Tibetan antelope. A serene stop at Shudu Lake， surrounded by snow-capped mountains， caps off your adventure. Afterward， we'll transfer you back to Shangri-La.

Available options

1 Day Shangri-La Songzanlin and Potatso National Park Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Entrance tickets to the attractions listed in the itinerary

2 half-liter bottles of drinking water per person per day

Experienced private English-speaking tour guides

Transportation: Gas, tolls, parking fee and any additional pick-ups and drop-offs

Supplement for the tour guide and Driver (meals)

24/7 English-speaking customer services

Government taxes

Detailed itinerary

Your driver and guide will pick you up from your hotel in the heart of Shangri-La， kicking off today’s exciting adventure. The first stop is the Songzanlin Monastery， also known as the ‘Little Potala Palace’. This 17th-century Tibetan monastery， modeled after the iconic Potala Palace in Lhasa， is the largest Tibetan monastery in Yunnan， home to over 700 monks who practice Tibetan Buddhism. Its magnificent golden roof shines brightly， symbolizing spiritual devotion and attracting Buddhists from across Asia. Afterward， enjoy a unique opportunity to visit a local family and immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle of a herdsman in the high Tibetan plateau.

Next， embark on an exhilarating exploration of Potatso National Park， China’s first national park， covering over 1，300 square kilometers of breathtaking natural beauty. Known for its dramatic landscapes， the park features lush forests， crystal-clear lakes， and expansive meadows. As you wander through， you’ll encounter abundant wildlife， including rare species like the black-necked crane and Tibetan antelope. A highlight of the park is Shudu Lake， a serene high-altitude lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests. The park is a wildlife haven， offering scenic hiking trails that allow you to connect with the untouched splendor of Tibet’s natural environment.

After the tour， we will transfer you back to Shangri-La， where today's memorable journey concludes.

What's not included

Chinese visa

International and domestic flights and/or trains

Accommodation

Tips for drivers and guides (highly appreciated but not requested)

Personal Travel Accident Insurance.

Meals not listed in the program

Attractions not in the itinerary

Additional days caused by unexpected nature disasters. e.g. landslides etc.

Personal expenses

Anything not listed in inclusions

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants

Full payment will be collected in advance, including all admission fees, fuel, and equipment rental.

Important notes

• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

About Shangri-La

Shangri-La, nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, is a picturesque town known for its stunning natural beauty, rich Tibetan culture, and serene landscapes. It's a place where ancient traditions meet breathtaking scenery, offering travelers a unique and spiritual experience.

Top Attractions

Songzanlin Monastery

One of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Yunnan, Songzanlin Monastery is a must-visit for its spiritual significance and stunning architecture.

Religious 2-3 hours Free (donations welcome)

Napa Lake

A scenic wetland park known for its diverse birdlife and beautiful landscapes. The lake is a popular spot for birdwatching and photography.

Nature 1-2 hours ¥30 (entrance fee)

Dukezong Ancient Town

The historic old town of Shangri-La, Dukezong Ancient Town, is a reconstructed area that offers a glimpse into the town's rich history and Tibetan culture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Pugongling Park

A park dedicated to the memory of the famous Chinese writer and poet, Jiang Zilan, who was born in Shangri-La. The park features a museum and beautiful gardens.

Cultural 1 hour ¥20 (museum entrance fee)

Meili Snow Mountain

One of the most sacred mountains in Tibetan Buddhism, Meili Snow Mountain is known for its stunning peaks and spiritual significance.

Nature Full day ¥50 (entrance fee)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Yak Butter Tea

A traditional Tibetan drink made with butter, tea, and salt. It's a staple in Tibetan cuisine and provides energy in the cold climate.

Drink Contains dairy and caffeine

Thenthuk

A hearty Tibetan noodle soup with vegetables, meat, and sometimes hand-pulled noodles. It's a comforting and filling dish.

Lunch/Dinner Can be vegetarian or with meat

Balepkhek

A traditional Tibetan bread made from barley flour. It's often served with yak butter or jam.

Breakfast Vegetarian

Shanla Lajiao Fen

A spicy noodle soup made with chili oil, garlic, and sometimes minced pork or beef. It's a popular street food in Shangri-La.

Snack Can be vegetarian or with meat, contains spicy ingredients

Popular Activities

Hiking and trekking in Meili Snow Mountain Exploring Yubeng Village Mountain biking in the surrounding countryside Yak butter tea ceremonies Visiting local spas and hot springs Strolling through Dukezong Ancient Town Attending cultural performances and festivals Visiting Tibetan monasteries and temples

Best Time to Visit

April to October

This is the best time to visit Shangri-La as the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities. The landscapes are lush and vibrant, and the skies are clear.

10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F) 50°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Chinese, Tibetan
Widely spoken: Chinese (Mandarin), Tibetan
English: Limited

Currency

Chinese Yuan (CNY)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Shangri-La is generally safe for travelers, but it's essential to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, especially in remote areas.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of scams and overcharging
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings

Getting there

By air

Shangri-La Airport • 10 km (6 miles) from the city center

By train

Shangri-La Station

By bus

Shangri-La Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the most common and affordable way to get around Shangri-La. Buses connect major tourist sites and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Dukezong Ancient Town Gandainor Shangri-La New Town

Day trips

Lijiang

180 km (112 miles) • Full day

Lijiang is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its ancient towns, canals, and stunning natural scenery. It's a popular day trip from Shangri-La.

Deqin County

150 km (93 miles) • Full day

Deqin County is known for its stunning landscapes, including the famous Meili Snow Mountain and the Yubeng Village, a remote and picturesque Tibetan village.

Benchen Monastery

30 km (19 miles) • Half day

Benchen Monastery is one of the most important monasteries in the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. It's known for its stunning architecture and spiritual significance.

Festivals

Songzanlin Monastery Festival • May Shangri-La Cultural Tourism Festival • July Tibetan New Year (Losar) • February or March (lunar calendar)

Pro tips

Visit Songzanlin Monastery early in the morning to experience the morning prayer ceremonies and avoid crowds.
Try local Tibetan dishes like thenthuk, yak butter tea, and balepkhek for an authentic culinary experience.
Explore the local markets and night markets for unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and street food.
Hire a local guide for trekking and hiking in the surrounding mountains and villages.
Experience a Tibetan homestay for an immersive cultural experience and a chance to connect with the local community.