▲ his is a very popular and action-packed itinerary in Shangri-La, often considered the "Essential Highlights" route. While it covers a lot of ground, it allows you to see the most iconic natural and cultural landmarks in one day.
▲ 08:00 - 08:30 AM: Pickup The tour guide or driver will pick you up from your hotel in Shangri-La city or Dukezong Old Town. 09:30 - 12:30 PM: Pudacuo National Park After a drive (approx. 1 hour), you will arrive at Pudacuo, China's first national park to meet IUCN standards. Activity: The focus is usually on Shudu Lake. You will take the mandatory (scenic area) shuttle bus and then hike along the wooden plank road (approx. 3.3 km). This is a pristine alpine lake surrounded by virgin forests and meadows. 12:30 - 13:30 PM: Lunch Lunch is usually on your own. You can eat at the simple canteen inside Pudacuo or bring your own dry food (snacks/lunch). 14:00 - 16:00 PM: Songzanlin Temple After lunch, you will head to the Tibetan temple
▲ Songzanlin Temple What it is: The most famous and largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in the region. What you'll see: Majestic architecture that resembles the Potala Palace in Lhasa. You will see red-clad monks, grand assembly halls (Dazha Dian), and golden spires. It is a perfect place to learn about Tibetan Buddhism.