Tea Horse Road

Shangri-La

The northern terminus of the Tea Horse Road in Yunnan, a Tibetan-influenced town with the great Songzanlin Monastery.

History & Background

Shangri-La (Zhongdian) was the northern terminus of the Tea Horse Road in Yunnan. At 3,200m, it served as the last major stop before caravans crossed into Tibet. The town features Tibetan-influenced architecture and is home to Songzanlin Monastery, modeled after the Potala Palace. The name Shangri-La was adopted in 2001.

What to See & Do

Songzanlin Monastery, largest in Yunnan
Dukezong Old Town with Tibetan architecture
Pudacuo National Park with alpine scenery
Napa Lake wetland with migratory birds
Tibetan thangka painting workshops

Visitor Tips

1.Acclimatize for 1-2 days before activities
2.Visit Songzanlin Monastery in the morning
3.Try Tibetan butter tea and yak hotpot
4.Bring warm clothes for cold nights
5.Respect Tibetan customs at monasteries

Visit Shangri-La with QTour

Our private tours include this attraction with an expert guide, private vehicle, and flexible itinerary.

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Quick Info

Opening Hours

Attractions vary. Songzanlin: 8am-5pm.

Ticket Price

Songzanlin: CNY 115. Pudacuo: CNY 150.

Best Season

May-October

Suggested Duration

2-3 days

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Explore Tea Horse Road

The Tea Horse Road was an ancient trade route connecting Yunnan and Sichuan to Tibet, trading tea for horses for over a thousand years.

Tea Horse Road Guide