The Sacred Land Closest to the Sky - Shangri-La

On the second day, I joined Ctrip's self-operated 10-person two-day-one-night tour to Shangri-La. Departing from the hotel at 7:30 AM, we headed straight to Shangri-La City. Along National Highway 214, we stopped at a rest area to admire the breathtaking views of the upper reaches of the Jinsha River and the majestic Haba Snow Mountain in the distance. After lunch, we first visited the Songzanlin Monastery, often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace." Our guide, Yangcuo, explained the selection process for monks: senior monks visit local villages to recruit children aged 5-6, and only those who excel in moral, intellectual, and physical development are chosen to train in the monastery, with all expenses borne by their families. Having a monk in the family brings high local status. Tibetan family status is determined by the thickness of the house pillars and the number of flags on the roof—thick pillars and three flags signify high standing, and families with monks display three flags. Next, we explored Pudacuo National Park, experiencing unparalleled tranquility, serenity, and beauty. The three hours flew by in a flash. Dinner featured a traditional Tibetan Tusi banquet in a village, full of lively atmosphere. We arrived at the hotel around 10 PM, where oxygen machines were provided, and no one suffered from altitude sickness. The next morning, we visited the Shangri-La Tibetan Cultural Expo Center, where Zhuoma shared insights into Tibetan Buddhism, and we tried our hand at Thangka copying and scripture transcription. Then we headed to the Moonlight City—Dukezong Ancient Town—and turned the world's largest prayer wheel three times. After lunch, we descended to Tiger Leaping Gorge, where the roaring river was awe-inspiring. By 7 PM, we reached our hotel in Lijiang. The trip was compact and enriching, with pleasant temperatures—no need for down jackets. Shangri-La, a beautiful memory.