Quick Answer
A short, scenic Yunnan route from Lijiang's old town up to Shangri-La's monasteries and grasslands on the edge of the Tibetan plateau.
Why it matters
Start in Lijiang's UNESCO old town, climb past Tiger Leaping Gorge, and arrive in Shangri-La for the Songzanlin Monastery and big-sky grasslands. The altitude rises fast, so take the first afternoon gently.
TL;DR (Quick Answer)
- Route: Lijiang → Tiger Leaping Gorge → Shangri-La.
- Best for: a fast taste of Yunnan's highlands.
- Book it: Lijiang & Shangri-La 2 Days.
From Cobblestones to Grasslands
Start in Lijiang's UNESCO old town, climb past Tiger Leaping Gorge, and arrive in Shangri-La for the Songzanlin Monastery and big-sky grasslands. The altitude rises fast, so take the first afternoon gently.
Build a Bigger Yunnan Trip
Add Dali and a longer Lijiang stay — see our Yunnan tours guide.
Plan This Trip
See the full day-by-day plan, pricing and inclusions on the Lijiang & Shangri-La 2 Days page — every itinerary is fully customisable. Not sure it's the right fit? Take the 60-second trip quiz or message a trip designer to tailor the dates and pace.
FAQ
How far is Shangri-La from Lijiang?
About a half-day scenic drive, passing Tiger Leaping Gorge along the way.
Do I need to worry about altitude in Shangri-La?
Shangri-La sits around 3,200m, so ease into the first day and stay hydrated.
Can I extend this into a longer Yunnan trip?
Yes — it combines naturally with Dali and a longer Lijiang stay.
