Chinese Name:昭阳区洒渔乡
English Name: Sayu Town of Zhaoyang District in Zhaotong
Chinese Name:昭阳区乐居乡
English Name: Leju Town of Zhaoyang District in Zhaotong
Chinese Name:昭阳区苏家院乡
English Name: Sujiayuan Town of Zhaoyang District in Zhaotong
Overview
Shangri-La City (香格里拉市) in Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture (迪庆藏族自治州), Yunnan Province, is renowned for its spectacular natural scenery and diverse ethnic cultures. Below is a comprehensive guide to its major attractions.
Main Attractions
Ganden Sumtseling Monastery (松赞林寺)
Address: No. 3, Niwang Road, Jiantang Town (建塘镇)
Highlights: Known as “Little Potala Palace”, modeled after Lhasa’s Potala Palace
Admission: ¥115
Opening Hours: 08:00-18:00
Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城)
Address: Kangzhu Avenue, Shangri-La
Highlights: Best-preserved Tibetan residential complex with 1,300 years of history
Admission: Free
Pudacuo National Park (普达措国家公园)
Address: Hongpo Village, Jiantang Town (建塘镇)
Highlights: Features Bitahai Lake and Shudu Lake, part of “Three Parallel Rivers”
Admission: ¥138 (includes shuttle)
Opening Hours: 08:30-16:00
Tiger Leaping Gorge (虎跳峡)
Address: Hutiaoxia Town (虎跳峡镇)
Highlights: One of world’s deepest canyons with three sections
Admission: ¥45 (Upper Gorge)
Opening Hours: 08:00-17:30
White Water Terraces (白水台)
Address: Baidi Village (白地村), Sanba Township (三坝乡)
Highlights: China’s largest travertine terraces, origin of Dongba culture
Admission: ¥30
Opening Hours: All day
Napa Lake (纳帕海)
Address: West of Xineihuan Road
Highlights: Alpine lake surrounded by grasslands, ideal for cycling
Admission: Free
Balagezong (巴拉格宗)
Address: Balashe, Nixi Township (尼西乡)
Highlights: Shangri-La’s hidden gem with diverse landscapes
Admission: Varies
Bigu Tianchi (碧沽天池)
Address: Lianhe Village, Xiaozhongdian Township (小中甸乡)
Highlights: Secluded alpine lake in pristine forest
Admission: Free
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit: May-November
- May-June: Rhododendron season
- September-November: Autumn foliage
Transportation:
- Diqing Shangri-La Airport available (no train station)
- Local buses and taxis for city transport
Accommodation: Stay in Dukezong Ancient Town (独克宗古城) for authentic Tibetan experience
Precautions:
- Acclimatize to high altitude (3,300m+)
- Bring sun protection and warm clothing
Shangri-La offers an unparalleled combination of natural wonders and cultural treasures, making it a must-visit destination in Yunnan.
Chinese Name:昭阳区北闸镇
English Name: Beizha Town of Zhaoyang District in Zhaotong
Chinese Name:昭阳区永丰镇
English Name: Yongfeng Town of Zhaoyang District in Zhaotong
Shilin Yi Autonomous County is located in the eastern part of Yunnan Province, bordering Luxi county and Mile City of Honghe Hani Yi Autonomous Prefecture in the east and south, Luliang County of Qujing in the north, and Yiliang County of Kunming in the west and northwest. The Shilin (Stone Forest), a set of remarkable karst formations, is part of the South China Karst, inscribed in 2007 on the UNESCO World Heritage List. It is just 110 km southeast of Kunming and only a 2-hour drive from Kunming downtown.
How to Travel to Shilin County from Kunming
By Train
Tourists can take a train to Shilin County at Kunming Train Station, which is located on No.1 Beijing Road, Guandu District, Kunming. There are more than ten trains running from Kunming Train Station or Kunming South Train Station to Shilin County.
Kunming-Shilin Train Schedules
| Train Number | Departs | Departure Station | Arrives | Arrival Station | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7452 | 07:12 | Kunming Train Station | 10:44 | Shilin Train Station | 3h32m |
| 10:44 | 07:50 | Kunming Train Station | 09:26 | Shilin Train Station | 1h36m |
| D8612 | 07:54 | Kunming South Train Station | 08:14 | Shilin West Train Station | 20min |
| D3816 | 09:28 | Kunming South Train Station | 09:48 | Shilin West Train Station | 20min |
| D3968 | 10:36 | Kunming South Train Station | 11:22 | Shilin West Train Station | 46min |
| D3828 | 10:39 | Kunming South Train Station | 10:59 | Shilin West Train Station | 20min |
| K984 | 10:55 | Kunming Train Station | 12:34 | Shilin Train Station | 1h39m |
| D3840 | 12:16 | Kunming South Train Station | 12:36 | Shilin West Train Station | 20min |
| D3848 | 13:06 | Kunming South Train Station | 13:26 | Shilin West Train Station | 20min |
| D3852 | 13:35 | Kunming South Train Station | 14:20 | Shilin West Train Station | 45min |
| D3932 | 13:52 | Kunming South Train Station | 14:41 | Shilin West Train Station | 49min |
| D3914 | 17:10 | Kunming South Train Station | 17:30 | Shilin West Train Station | 30min |
| D8686 | 17:12 | Kunming South Train Station | 18:00 | Shilin West Train Station | 48min |
| D8614 | 19:10 | Kunming South Train Station | 19:30 | Shilin West Train Station | 20min |
Shilin Train Station:
Add: Luhu Street, Shilin County
Distance to Stone Forest: 5 km/10-min ride
Shilin West Train Station:
Add: Banqiao Town, Shilin County
Distance to Stone Forest: 24 km/33-min ride
By Bus
There are buses departing to Shilin at Kunming Eastern Bus Terminal every day. Kunming Eastern Bus Station is located between Hongqiao Flyover and Liangmiansi Flyover on East Third Ring Road, Panlong District. From 09:30 to 18:30, there are buses available with unfixed departure time. Once the bus is full, it will depart. Scheduled buses run at 07:30, 08:10, 08:50, 09:30, 10:10, 10:50, 11:30, 12:10, 12:50, 13:30, 14:10, 14:50, 15:30, 16:00, 16:10, 16:30, 16:50, 17:00, 17:30, 18:00, 18:30, 19:00, 19:30, 10:00.
Chinese Name:昭阳区旧圃镇
English Name: Jiupu Town of Zhaoyang District in Zhaotong
Geographical Location
Lanmijing Township (宁蒗县烂泥箐乡) is located in the southeastern part of Ninglang Yi Autonomous County (宁蒗彝族自治县), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province (云南省), and is at the junction of Ninglang County (宁蒗县) and Yanyuan County (盐源县) and Yanbian County (盐边县) in Sichuan Province (四川省). The total administrative area of the township is 438.08 square kilometers, and the township government is stationed in Xiacangchang (下仓厂), only 23 kilometers away from the county town of Ninglang (宁蒗县城). It is adjacent to Yanyuan County (盐源县) and Panzhihua City’s Yanbian County (盐边县) in Sichuan Province to the east, next to Chanzhanhe Township (蝉战河乡) to the south, leans on Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) to the west, and borders Daxing Town (大兴镇) to the north. The township features karst topography, with high mountains, steep slopes, and crisscrossing gullies. The terrain is high in the northwest and low in the southeast, with altitudes ranging from 2450 meters to 3900 meters.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills
Yi Ethnic Group (彝族)
The Yi ethnic group is the main ethnic group here and possesses many exquisite traditional skills. Yi embroidery is unique. Embroiderers shuttle colorful silk threads through the fabric to create exquisite patterns, which often contain elements of Yi history, legends, and religious beliefs, and are commonly seen on clothing and bags. The silverware making skill of the Yi ethnic group is also quite mature. Silversmiths create uniquely shaped silverware such as earrings, necklaces, and bracelets through processes like melting, forging, and carving. The patterns on the silverware are delicate and exquisite, showing the Yi people’s unique understanding of beauty.
Pumi Ethnic Group (普米族)
The Pumi ethnic group is good at traditional handicraft weaving. They use materials like hemp thread and wool to weave practical and beautiful items such as bamboo baskets and carrying baskets. The weaving patterns are rich in ethnic characteristics, reflecting the Pumi people’s life wisdom and cultural heritage.
Customs and Festivals
Yi Torch Festival (彝族火把节)
This is the most grand festival here, held on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month. On that day, Yi people dress in colorful traditional costumes, hold torches, and dance around the bonfire. They hold bullfighting, wrestling, horse racing and other competitive activities, and also conduct fire sacrifice ceremonies, praying for favorable weather and a good harvest in the coming year. The festival atmosphere is热烈欢快，充满了浓郁的民族风情。
Pumi Wuxi Festival (普米族吾昔节)
This is the New Year of the Pumi ethnic group. People slaughter pigs and sheep, prepare delicious food, visit relatives and friends, and exchange blessings. During the festival, Pumi families hold solemn ancestor-worshipping ceremonies to thank their ancestors for their protection. The young people dance the lively Guozhuang dance, and people of all ages are immersed in the joy of the festival.
Lisu Kuoshijie Festival (傈僳族阔时节)
Kuoshijie is the traditional New Year of the Lisu ethnic group, held on the fifth day of the twelfth lunar month and lasting for 12 days. During the festival, Lisu people dress in their finest clothes and hold grand sacrificial activities, praying for happiness and a good harvest in the coming year. They also engage in traditional sports activities such as crossbow shooting and swinging, which are very lively.
Ancient Architecture
Although Lanmijing Township (宁蒗县烂泥箐乡) is not famous for ancient architecture, some traditional dwellings of the Yi and Pumi ethnic groups are very unique. The Yi’s earth – palm houses are mostly made of earth and wood. The houses have flat roofs and thick walls, which can not only resist the cold in the mountainous area but also be used to dry crops on the roof. The Pumi’s log – cabin houses are mainly made of round logs. The houses have a well – arranged internal space and a simple appearance, reflecting the Pumi people’s concept of living in harmony with nature.
Historical Figures
At present, there are relatively few materials about local historical figures in Lanmijing Township (宁蒗县烂泥箐乡). However, Ninglang Yi Autonomous County (宁蒗彝族自治县) has produced many people who have had an important impact on local development. For example, in the field of national culture inheritance and development, there are Yi culture researchers who are committed to exploring, sorting out, and inheriting Yi traditional culture, so that the ancient Yi culture can continue and develop in the new era. Although these people are not unique to Lanmijing Township (宁蒗县烂泥箐乡), their contributions have radiated to the whole Ninglang County (宁蒗县), including Lanmijing Township (宁蒗县烂泥箐乡), and promoted the prosperity of local culture.
Tourist Attractions
Natural Scenery
The township is characterized by rolling mountains and vast alpine meadows. In spring and summer, the meadows are covered with blooming wildflowers and herds of cattle and sheep, creating a picturesque pastoral scene. At higher altitudes, visitors can enjoy magnificent mountain views. When clouds and mist swirl around, the peaks appear and disappear as if in a fairyland. In addition, the rich natural resources give birth to a variety of wild mushrooms. During the rainy season, the mountains become a paradise for mushroom pickers, with rare species such as matsutake and boletus emerging from the ground.
Special Industry Tourism
Nuomiaping Village (牦牛坪村) is well – known for its large – scale sheep farming and potato planting. Visitors can go there to learn about the modern animal husbandry and crop cultivation process and feel the vigorous development of rural industries.
Nearby Famous Attractions
Not far from Lanmijing Township (宁蒗县烂泥箐乡) is the famous Lugu Lake (泸沽湖). The lake water is clear and blue, and the lake scenery is beautiful. There are three famous islands in the lake: Heiwa Wu Island (黑洼吾岛), Liwubi Island (里务比岛), and Lig Island (里格岛), known as the “three islands of Lugu Lake (泸沽湖)”. Renting an electric vehicle to tour around the lake is a popular way to enjoy the scenery. The Mosuo villages along the lake preserve the original matrilineal family system and the custom of “walking marriage”. Visitors can delve into the unique Mosuo culture. There is also Lig Village (里格村), which attracts many tourists with its beautiful bay and unique folk customs.
Transportation
External Transportation
If you depart from Lijiang City (丽江市), you can first take a bus to Ninglang County (宁蒗县) at Lijiang Passenger Transport Station (丽江客运站). The journey takes about 2 – 3 hours. After arriving in Ninglang County (宁蒗县), transfer to a rural passenger bus to Lanmijing Township (宁蒗县烂泥箐乡). The rural passenger buses have relatively few schedules, so it is recommended to find out the departure times in advance.
Internal Transportation
The total mileage of roads in Lanmijing Township (宁蒗县烂泥箐乡) is nearly 300 kilometers. The highway from the county town to Yanyuan County (盐源县) in Sichuan Province passes through Da’erdì (大二地) and Shuicaoba Village Committees (水草坝村委会). However, some roads are earthen and in average condition. If you drive there by yourself, you should pay attention to driving safety. For sightseeing within the township, you can choose to rent a local motorcycle or negotiate with villagers for a chartered vehicle to freely visit various attractions.
Geographic Location
Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) is located in the southern part of Ninglang Yi Autonomous County (宁蒗彝族自治县), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is only 20 kilometers away from the county town and has an average altitude of 2,600 meters. The township covers a total administrative area of 223.71 square kilometers. To the east, it is connected to Lan Nijing Township (烂泥箐乡), and to the west, it is adjacent to Xibuhe Township (西布河乡). Situated in the Xiaoliangshan area (小凉山区域), the terrain is mostly hilly, with undulating mountains presenting a unique mountainous landscape. The diverse topography and landforms have created a wealth of natural scenery and ecological environments.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills
Yi Ethnic Group (彝族)
The Yi ethnic group is one of the main ethnic groups in Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡), with a relatively large population proportion. The traditional skills of the Yi people are dazzling. Among them, embroidery is particularly outstanding. Yi embroidery artists use colorful silk threads to carefully outline exquisite patterns on fabric, which contain Yi history, legends, and religious beliefs. These patterns are commonly seen on Yi clothing, bags, and other daily items, possessing both practicality and high artistic value. The silverware-making craftsmanship of the Yi people is also exquisite. Silversmiths go through a series of processes, such as melting, forging, and carving, to create uniquely shaped silver accessories like earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. The intricate patterns on the silverware reflect the Yi people’s unique pursuit of beauty.
Pumi Ethnic Group (普米族)
There are also some Pumi people living in Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡). Niwozi Village Group (牛窝子村民小组) is the largest Pumi settlement in the country. The Pumi people are skilled in traditional handicraft weaving. They cleverly use materials like hemp thread and wool to weave practical and beautiful daily items such as baskets and carrying baskets. The weaving patterns contain cultural elements and life wisdom of the Pumi people, carrying on the inheritance of their national culture. In addition, the Pumi people’s hearth culture is unique. The hearth is not only a place for heating and cooking but also the core place for family gatherings and emotional exchanges. Many traditional customs and etiquette have been derived around the hearth.
Other Ethnic Groups
There are also a small number of Han people and Mosuo people living here. The Mosuo people have preserved a unique matrilineal clan culture. Their traditional handicraft-making skills, such as making exquisite wooden bowls and weaving special fabrics, show the unique creativity and aesthetic of life of the Mosuo people.
Customs and Festivals
Yi Torch Festival (彝族火把节)
The Yi Torch Festival is the grandest traditional festival of the Yi people, held on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month every year. On the festival day, Yi people dress in their colorful traditional costumes, holding torches and dancing around the bonfire. During the festival, there will be exciting competitive activities such as bullfighting, wrestling, and horse racing. At the same time, a solemn fire sacrifice ceremony will be held to pray for favorable weather, abundant harvests, and good fortune in the coming year. The whole festival is full of enthusiasm and rich ethnic characteristics.
Pumi Wuxi Festival (普米族吾昔节)
The Pumi Wuxi Festival is equivalent to the New Year of the Pumi people. People will slaughter pigs and sheep, prepare sumptuous food, visit relatives and friends, and exchange greetings. During the festival, Pumi families will hold grand ancestor-worshipping ceremonies to express gratitude for the protection of their ancestors. Young people will dance the lively Guozhuang dance, and people of all ages will be immersed in the joy of the festival.
Apple Harvest Festival
Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) is known as the “Apple Hometown” of Ninglang County (宁蒗县). In recent years, an Apple Harvest Festival has been held around the apple industry development. During the festival, visitors can participate in apple-picking activities and experience the joy of harvest. There will also be various agricultural product exhibitions and sales, as well as cultural performances, to showcase the local characteristic agriculture and folk culture.
Ancient Architecture
Although Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) does not have any world-famous large ancient buildings, the traditional dwellings of the Yi and Pumi people are unique. The Yi people’s earth-palm houses are mostly made of earth and wood. The houses have flat roofs and thick walls, which can effectively resist the cold in the mountainous areas and are also convenient for drying crops on the roof. The Pumi people’s log cabins are mainly made of round wood and have a well-shaped structure. The appearance is simple and natural, and the internal space layout is reasonable, reflecting the Pumi people’s concept of living in harmony with nature. In Niwozi Village Group (牛窝子村民小组), after the renovation of the dwellings, the houses in the Pumi settlement have integrated more national cultural elements and exude a strong national flavor.
Tourism Resources
Natural Scenery
Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) is located in the mountainous area and has magnificent mountain views. In spring and summer, wildflowers in the mountains bloom in competition, forming a colorful sea of flowers; in autumn, the golden leaves and ripe apples complement each other, creating a beautiful picture of a bountiful rural landscape; in winter, in high-altitude areas, you can sometimes enjoy the snow-covered scenery. In addition, there are some clear streams and tranquil lakes in the township, such as the Wogao River (窝稿大河). After management, it has not only eliminated safety hazards but also become a unique scenic spot in the countryside.
Special Agricultural Tourism
Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) is known as the “Apple Hometown” of Lijiang City (丽江市), with apple planting areas accounting for 85% of the county’s total. The township has a suitable altitude, large diurnal temperature difference, fertile soil, and long sunshine duration. The apples grown here are plump, high in sugar content, juicy, crispy, and sweet without being greasy, known as “honey core apples.” Visitors can visit apple orchards to learn about the planting and management processes, participate in apple-picking activities, and taste fresh apples. During the apple harvest season every year, the mountains and fields are covered with red apples, presenting a very spectacular scene.
National Cultural Experience
Deep into the villages of local ethnic groups such as the Yi and Pumi people to experience unique national cultures. Appreciate traditional skills such as Yi embroidery and silverware making, participate in Pumi hearth gatherings, and taste Yi “guest-sending dishes” and Pumi special foods. During specific festivals such as the Yi Torch Festival and the Pumi Wuxi Festival, you can also personally feel the lively festival atmosphere and dance with local villagers.
Transportation
External Transportation
If you start from Lijiang City (丽江市), you can first take a bus to Ninglang County (宁蒗县) at Lijiang Passenger Transport Station (丽江汽车客运站). The journey takes about 2 – 3 hours. After arriving in Ninglang County (宁蒗县), you can choose to take a rural passenger bus to Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) or share a car with others. Sharing a car is relatively more convenient and flexible.
Internal Transportation
The road conditions in Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) are generally acceptable, but some sections are relatively rugged. When traveling within the township, you can rent local motorcycles for convenient and free access to various scenic spots. If you are traveling with a larger group, you may also consider chartering a car, which can save time and better arrange the itinerary. It is important to note that when driving or riding a motorcycle, you must wear a safety helmet to ensure travel safety.
Geographic Location
Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡) is located in the southern part of Ninglang Yi Autonomous County (宁蒗彝族自治县), Lijiang City (丽江市), Yunnan Province (云南省). It is situated at the junction of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, in the middle of the Hengduan Mountains in northwestern Yunnan. It is bordered by Lan Nijing Township (烂泥箐乡) to the east, Paoma Ping Township (跑马坪乡) to the south, Ningli Township (宁利乡) to the west, and Xinyingpan Township (新营盘乡) to the north. The township government is about 50 kilometers away from the county town of Ninglang and approximately 105 kilometers by road from Lijiang city center. The total area of the township is 297.15 square kilometers. The terrain is generally higher in the northwest and lower in the southeast, with an average altitude of around 2,800 meters. It is a typical mountainous area with crisscrossing mountains and deep, quiet valleys. The unique geographical features have created a rich variety of natural landscapes and ecological environments.
Ethnic Groups and Traditional Skills
Yi Ethnic Group (彝族)
The Yi ethnic group is one of the main ethnic groups in Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡). They have thrived on this land, preserving their unique culture and skills. Yi embroidery is renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship. The embroiderers use colorful silk threads to carefully create beautiful patterns on fabric, which reflect Yi history, legends, religious beliefs, and daily life scenes. These patterns are widely used on Yi clothing, bags, and handkerchiefs, serving both practical and cultural purposes. The silverware-making skill of the Yi people is equally impressive. Silversmiths go through multiple processes, such as melting, forging, and carving, to produce unique and delicate silver accessories like earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Each piece highlights the Yi people’s unique pursuit of beauty and excellent craftsmanship.
Other Ethnic Groups
In addition to the Yi ethnic group, there are also small populations of Pumi and Lisu ethnic groups living here. The Pumi people are skilled in traditional handicraft weaving. They use materials like hemp thread and wool to weave practical and beautiful items such as baskets, carrying baskets, and blankets. The weaving patterns contain cultural elements and wisdom of the Pumi people, carrying on their national cultural heritage. The Lisu people have unique skills in traditional bamboo weaving and wood carving. Their bamboo products and wooden handicrafts are simple yet elegant in design, combining practicality with artistry.
Customs and Festivals
Yi Torch Festival (彝族火把节)
The Yi Torch Festival is the grandest and most solemn traditional festival of the Yi people, held on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month every year. On the festival day, Yi people dress in their colorful traditional costumes, holding torches and dancing around the bonfire. There are exciting competitive activities such as bullfighting, wrestling, and horse racing. A solemn and mysterious fire sacrifice ceremony is also held, where people pray for the protection of the fire god, hoping for favorable weather, abundant harvests, and prosperity in the coming year. The festival is filled with enthusiasm and rich ethnic characteristics.
Yi New Year (彝族年)
The Yi New Year is the traditional New Year of the Yi people, usually held on an auspicious day between October and November in the lunar calendar, lasting for 3 – 5 days. During the festival, families slaughter pigs and sheep to prepare sumptuous food. People dress in their finest clothes, visit relatives and friends, and exchange greetings. Yi families hold ancestor-worshipping ceremonies to honor their ancestors and express gratitude. There are also song and dance performances, traditional sports competitions, and other activities, creating a joyful and harmonious atmosphere.
Ear-Boring Sacrifice (打耳祭)
Although the Ear-Boring Sacrifice is mainly an important ceremony of the Bunun people in Taiwan, some ethnic minorities in Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡) have similar customs of praying for a good harvest and passing on skills through sacrificial and competitive activities. At specific times, people hold ceremonies to worship nature spirits and ancestors. They also showcase archery and hunting skills, expressing their respect for nature and passing on traditional hunting techniques to the younger generation.
Ancient Architecture
Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡) does not have any widely known large ancient buildings, but the traditional dwellings of the Yi and Pumi people are distinctive. The Yi people’s earth-palm houses are mostly made of earth and wood, with flat roofs and thick walls. This architectural style can effectively resist the cold climate of the mountainous area and is also convenient for drying crops on the roof. The Pumi people’s log cabins are mainly made of round wood and have a well-shaped structure. They look simple and natural, and the internal space is well-arranged, reflecting the Pumi people’s concept of living in harmony with nature. These traditional dwellings are not only shelters but also important symbols of national culture.
Tourism Resources
Natural Scenery
Mountains and Meadows
Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡) is located in a mountainous area with magnificent mountain views. In spring and summer, wildflowers in the mountains bloom in competition, creating a colorful sea of flowers like a beautiful painting. In autumn, the golden leaves and ripe crops complement each other, forming a picturesque harvest scene. In winter, in high-altitude areas, you can sometimes enjoy the snow-covered scenery. In addition, there are large areas of alpine meadows in the township. In spring and summer, the meadows are dotted with cattle and sheep, resembling a pastoral idyll.
Rich Flora and Fauna
The township is home to more than 50 species of wild animals and over 120 species of wild plants. The area for medicinal herb cultivation has reached 8,000 acres. Here, you have the chance to encounter rare wild animals such as the Yunnan golden monkey and the black-necked crane (although the probability is low, adding to the excitement of exploration). You can also enjoy a variety of wild plants and experience the magic and beauty of nature.
Special Agricultural Tourism
Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡) is mainly agricultural, with staple crops including potatoes, corn, and oats. In recent years, with the development of special agriculture, some areas have planted large areas of cash crops such as Sichuan pepper and green plums. Visitors can visit the fields to learn about the planting process of crops and participate in agricultural activities such as sowing and harvesting, experiencing the fun of rural life. During the harvest season, you can also taste fresh agricultural products and feel the gifts of nature.
Cultural Attractions
Deep into the villages of local ethnic groups such as the Yi and Pumi people to experience unique national cultures. Appreciate traditional skills such as Yi embroidery and silverware making. Participate in Pumi hearth gatherings and taste Yi specialties like Tuo Tuo meat and sour soup, as well as Pumi delicacies like pipa meat and Suli Ma wine. During specific festivals such as the Yi Torch Festival and Yi New Year, you can also personally feel the lively festival atmosphere and dance with local villagers, deeply experiencing the folk customs of ethnic minorities.
Transportation
External Transportation
Public Transport
If you start from Lijiang city center, you can first take a bus to Ninglang County at Lijiang Passenger Transport Station (丽江汽车客运站). The journey takes about 2 – 3 hours. After arriving in Ninglang County, you can transfer to a rural passenger bus to Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡). However, the rural buses have relatively few schedules, so it is recommended to check the departure times in advance and allow enough waiting time.
Self-Driving
If you choose to drive yourself, start from Lijiang city center and follow the Lijiang-Ninglang Highway to Ninglang County, and then navigate to Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡). The overall road conditions are acceptable, but some mountain roads have many bends, so drive carefully.
Internal Transportation
The roads within Chan Zhanhe Township (蝉战河乡) are mainly rural highways and dirt roads, with some sections being relatively rugged. When traveling within the township, you can rent local motorcycles for convenient and free access to various scenic spots. If you are traveling with a larger group, you may also consider chartering a car, which can save time and better arrange the itinerary. It is important to note that when driving or riding a motorcycle, you must wear a safety helmet to ensure travel safety.
Located in the northwest of Yunnan Province, Shangri-la is 720 km away from the provincial capital Kunming. It borders Daocheng and Muli of Sichuan Province to the east, and connected Deqin County to the north. At an average altitude of more than 3,000 meters, Shangri-La is very difficult to reach with limited transportation options. Without railways leading there, the main means of transportation is flight and bus.
How to Get to Shangri-La from Kunming?
By Air
Diqing Shangrila Airport is the only airport in the city, with direct daily flights to Kunming. Taking flights only needs around 1~1.5 hours to reach Shangrila. It’s recommended to take the morning or night flight to Shangri-la and then you can have more time to explore this city.
It is about 5 km (3 mile) to downtown Shangri-la. At present, there is no airport shuttle bus. Tourists can take the taxi to Shangrila downtown which will cost about RMB 30.
Kunming-Shangrila Airline Timetable
| Flight Number | Airlines | Departs | Arrives |
| MU5931 | China Eastern Airlines | 08:20 | 09:40 |
| MU5939 | China Eastern Airlines | 08:30 | 09:55 |
| MU5935 | China Eastern Airlines | 14:25 | 15:45 |
By Long-distance Bus
In Shangri-La, coach is the most important vehicle. Tourists can travel by coach between Shangri-la Long-distance Bus Station and Kunming West Bus Station, which takes about 10 hours. It is a long way between the two cities. So it’s better to get to Shangrila by flight from Kunming. The departure time is 09:30(duration: 9.5h), 14:00(duration: 9.5h), 19:00(duration: 15.5h), 20:00(duration: 15.5h), 20:30(duration: 15.5h).
Kunming West Bus Station:
Add: No.18, Yining Road, Xishan District, Kunming city, Yunnan province
How to Get: Take Metro Line 3 or taxi
Shangri-la Long-distance Bus Station:
Add: Zhongshan Road, Diqin Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan
By Train
At present, there is no train connecting the two cities of Kunming and Shangrila. The Lijiang–Shangri-La railway or Lixiang railway is a railroad under construction in Yunnan Province of Southwest China, due to be completed in 2020. After the completion of Lixiang railway, it will be connected with the existing Kunming-Lijiang railway, linking the tourist resorts of Dali, Lijiang and Shangri-La in Yunnan. By then, tourists can take the train to Shangrila from Kunming.
Transportation in Yunnan:
- Airlines in Yunnan
- Flights to Yunnan
- Airport Transfer
- International Flights to Yunnan
- Airports in Yunnan
- High-speed Rail in Yunnan
- Railway Stations in Yunnan
- Railways in Yunnan
- Trains to Yunnan
- Trans Asia Railway
- Metro in Yunnan
- Bridges in Yunnan
- Freeways in Yunnan
- Highways in Yunnan
- Roads to Yunnan
- Trans-Asia Roads
- National Roads in Yunnan
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Tips Before Travel
Bring copies of your passport
Don't assume you're restricted to the main hubs of Beijing and Shanghai, our tours can start from any city.
Register with your embassy
For your safety, please register with the Embassy.
Always have local cash
Exchange some local currency for your trip
Our Team
Fenggu Yingshan Tea House and Tea Culture Learning Lijiang
Charlie Lee-General Manager of Yaso Travel and Xilinshan Tea Company
Leon Liu-Network Engineer of Trans Asia Discovery
Vincent Zhao-French Market and the Founder of VoyagesYunnan.com
Gary Elliot-Shareholder of Trans Asia Discovery
Michael Huang-Excellent French and English-speaking Tour Guide in Yunnan
Stephane-Volunteer of Yaso Travel
David Yao-Lijiang Tour Operator of Yunnan Exploration
Cindy Cao-Yunnan Tour Operator
Xilinshan Tea House (Kunming, Yunnan)
Rachel Nan-China Tour Operator
Lydia Li-The Founder of Yunnan Exploration
Anna Chen-Yunnan Tour Operator
Kelly Yu-Yunnan Travel Consultant
Cloudy Fu-Website Editor of Yunnan Exploration
Cuiyuan Yang
Skye Zhang-website editor of Yunnan Exploration
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