The vast snow-capped mountains there carry mysterious power. It is said that it is the place where gods reincarnated, and it is also the place of eternal peace and tranquility among the mountains and mountains far away in the east as mentioned in the book.
Speaking of Shangri-La, everyone is familiar with it. Those travelers looking for peerless scenery always regard it as a hometown to purify their souls and are full of hope. When I set foot on the journey of Shangri-La alone, I suddenly had some inexplicable feelings. There are fireworks in the world that are completely different from other places, and they complement each other with the vast world, which is so fascinating. God's children all go to Tibet, and Shangri-La is the closest place to heaven.
Before leaving Diqing, I learned that there are roughly five routes to visit Shangri-La:
1. East Ring Road
Lijiang - Tiger Leaping Gorge - Pudacuo National Park - Shangri-La
2. West Loop Line
Shangri-La - Deqin - Weixi - Shangri-La
3. Hiking in Niru
Shudu Lake - Dijitang Ranch - Suigela - Niru Village - Colorful Huaquan Waterfall - Niru Village - Shangri-La
4. Walking in Balagezong
Dukezong Ancient City - Balagezong Scenic Area - Bala Village - Shambhala Pagoda - Huahai Pond - Guisuwang - Naidang Ranch - Dayong Pagoda
5. Yubeng on foot
Meili Snow Mountain—Xidang—Shang Yubeng—Xia Yubeng—God Waterfall—Shangri-La
Because considering that there is a young lady with me, we chose the more mature and relaxed East Ring Road. Pack your bags and go!
Itinerary: Day1 Tiger Leaping Gorge - Haba Snow Mountain - Baishuitai
On the first day, I set off from Lijiang to Tiger Leaping Gorge. Climbing high and looking into the distance is a human preference. Before I came, I was full of expectations for the canyon with the largest drop in the world. I heard that this is "one of the top ten classic hiking routes in the world". Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts like me who are always climbing up and down.
Tiger Leaping Gorge in early winter still maintains its beauty. Large rocks with sharp edges and corners are piled up into mountains, and layers of green grass are spread out to grow here. Part of the withered vegetation and snow make people feel a little bit of winter. the cold. The sky in Yunnan seems never to be polluted. No matter when you come here, as long as you encounter sunny days, you will definitely fall in love with this blue.
Tiger Leaping Gorge consists of three parts: upper, middle and lower. The canyon is 17 kilometers long. The main peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain on the south bank is 5,596 meters above sea level, and Zhonghaba Snow Mountain on the north bank is 5,396 meters above sea level. The river in the middle is only 30-60 meters wide. Walking to Zhonghutiao, you can see the rushing river from a distance, like a hanging silver ribbon, and I suddenly thought of the white Hada, which symbolizes purity and auspiciousness. The river water is very clear, and I actually prefer to watch it at close range, because the water mist that flows quickly is more fun, and there is a feeling of walking in the fairy palace with clouds and smoke. Of course, I dare not really put my feet in it haha . And the huge rock slanting across the river is the Tiger Leaping Stone, no matter how rough the river is, it will not move at all, just like a majestic and mighty tiger standing on the river, with the momentum of swallowing mountains and rivers, even the river water will touch it. To divert it.
Taking advantage of the sunshine, sitting by the river and enjoying the breeze, the beauty of Tiger Leaping Gorge is its majesty, and there are hidden surprises everywhere, waiting for people who pass by here to slowly discover and experience.
Haba Snow Mountain, which is across the Tiger Leaping Gorge from Yulong Mountain, is also one of the main scenic spots of the Tiger Leaping Gorge. It is the best season for climbing, but you must pay attention to high altitude and take protective measures and preparations for mountaineering.
Above 4,000 meters in the entire reserve are steep cliffs, snow peaks, rocky flowstone beaches and glaciers. Below 4,000 meters above sea level, the terrain is relatively gentle, and the landform is distributed in a stepped manner, with subtropical, temperate cold temperate, and frigid climate zones in sequence. The temperature difference between the foot of the mountain and the top of the mountain is as high as 22.8°C.
If you are a fan of mountaineering, then it is right to come here, because there are more rare animals and plants to enjoy in Haba Snow Mountain, and there are rare medicinal materials such as Chinese caterpillar fungus and snow lotus in the rumored rare protected areas. A kind of protected animal in the primeval forest, the Yunnan snub-nosed monkey, etc. Unfortunately, I missed them this time.
The place I am more interested in is Baishuitai, which can be said to be the Chinese version of Pamukkale, let me tell you about it. Baishuitai is located at the foot of Haba Snow Mountain, 103 kilometers away from Shangri-La County, with an altitude of 2380 meters. The wonders of nature are always amazing, the patchwork of milky white steps, each floor is filled with blue lake water, flowing unhurriedly to the lower part, quiet and elegant, showing itself beautifully and generously in the mountains and green trees among.
It is a natural wonder formed by the dissolution of calcium carbonate in spring water. The spring water containing calcium bicarbonate flows down slowly, and the carbonate gradually precipitates. Over the years, it forms a mantle, which looks like a terraced field. The two gods once taught the local Naxi people to artificially cultivate the land, which gave Baishuitai another name of "immortal legacy". Show how special it is.
Stepping on these milky white steps makes people feel a little unbearable, but they can't stand the temptation, because you can see different scenery from every angle. Walking on these crescent-shaped colored pools, it seems that you have been assimilated, and you can be in a beautiful mood. Happy handsome man, let me tell you quietly, it is said that Baishuitai used to be a makeup mirror for fairies, and I accidentally danced on it, I am so happy.
Looking into the distance, surrounded by mountains, the small village rooted at the bottom of the valley is peaceful. Maybe there really are gods who bless their happy life here where the sun rises and the sun sets. A fairyland on earth far away from the prosperity and pollution of the city should be cherished.
Baishuitai is still a niche scenic spot so far. It is very original. The ticket only costs 30 yuan, and there will be no crowding, because the bus is not allowed to pass, and the tour group will not come here under normal circumstances. Only me I chartered a car by myself. I heard from the driver that the government wants to continue to develop this place, and it may be closed for a period of time in the future. It is a natural place to take a look at. Don’t miss it. Hurry up and go.
Before leaving, I looked back at Baishuitai, and there happened to be a beam of light shining on the sculpture, as if a fairy descended from the earth, very dreamy.
Day2 Shika Snow Mountain - Pratso - Tianshengqiao Geothermal Park
After a night of rest, I revived and set off again. The place I am going today is Shika Snow Mountain, which is a beautiful place described in fairy tales. In Tibetan, "shika" means "mountain with red deer", and in Tibetan Buddhism, red deer are all living beings who are listening to the Buddha's preaching. Therefore, Shika Snow Mountain is the patron saint of Shangri-La in the hearts of Tibetans in Shangri-La.
We went up by cableway, 160 yuan including tickets, which is very cost-effective. Shika Snow Mountain has opened several cable car tour lines, such as ecological and cultural tourism lines with the theme of hiking and pilgrimage sightseeing. Going to take pictures, you can see 15 pillars on this half of the journey, and each pillar is 500 meters away in a straight line. The place where you stay is the Yala Qingbo Ranch. It is a different kind of scenery.
After climbing to the top, there is a stone monument and a corridor. I am also a man standing at an altitude of 4,500 meters. If I can’t exercise vigorously, I can always sit down and take pictures. The upper hand is huge! It is recommended to take precautions against the cold before coming here, put on a warm baby or rent a down coat, and there is a small log cabin next to the observation deck with a fire in which you can go in to keep warm.
Every July 15th, the traditional Tibetan Zhuanshan Festival, Tibetans will come to worship the Shika Mountain to pray for wealth and luck. When the prayer flags fluttered, I seemed to see those colorful dreams. The impression of the south of the colorful clouds suddenly became clear in my mind. The grassland beyond the horizon, the mountains in the distance, the winding plank road, the white Tent, just want to freeze the moment.
In fact, when the weather is good, you can still see the beauty of the Eight Great Mountains in Yunnan, Sichuan and Tibet. You can also see the Haba Snow Mountain that you visited yesterday. On a cloudless day, it’s not bad to see the snow on the top of the mountain. The whole person feels refreshed. January and February are indeed the best seasons to see the snow-capped mountains.
The wishing avenue should be a place where everyone will come. I don’t think I will miss any opportunity to make a wish. Let alone becoming a rich man, I still feel very at ease to pray for the safety, health and happiness of my family and friends. Human beings who are good at expressing emotions hahaha.
Bring Ctrip's small keepsake into a mirror, perfect!
After coming down from the snow mountain, we went to Pudacuo National Park, which is located in the center of the "Three Parallel Rivers" World Natural Heritage in Northwest Yunnan. It is mainly composed of Bitahai, Shudu Lake and Militang subalpine pasture. The protected area is an important part of the "Three Parallel Rivers" scenic spot and one of the main tourist attractions in Shangri-La. The car drove all the way to the gate, and I couldn't help but take a photo with it.
Parks with their own pastures like Pudacuo Country are rare, and the original ecological environment has hardly been destroyed. The first scenic spot, Shudu Lake, is one of the largest plateau lakes in the county, with an altitude of 3,705 meters and an area of accumulated water 15 square kilometers. The lake with different scenery in four seasons has a kind of pure blue in early winter, and the water waves are slightly rippling. Although most of the surrounding vegetation has dried up, this does not affect the beauty and uniqueness of Shudu Lake. I still choose to take pictures at this best check-in angle. a photo.
I have seen the vast green grassland, and I am also shocked by the withered yellowness of today. Looking around, I can see the bleak taste of winter. I don’t know how the "Shudu Schizothorax" that is abundant in Shudu Lake tastes. It must be extremely delicious.
Apart from admiring it from a distance, we can also walk on the bridge over the Shudu Lake. We met a yak by the lake, with pure white hair and two shiny horns. Needless to say, we know how good life it is, with a stable face, I touched it secretly.
Is it because the glass ball and the crescent boat have become the patents of Yunnan? Beautiful, travel must take more photos!
There is a park inside the park, and Tianshengqiao Geothermal Park is 600 meters away from the main road entering Pudacuo National Forest Park, Baishuitai, Xiahu Leaping Gorge and other key scenic spots. Don't look at its bad and slightly dilapidated gate, but this is a famous hot spring resort with the name of "Holy Water Hot Spring".
Legend has it that Master Lianhuasheng once bathed here, which made Tianshengqiao Hot Spring full of the unique color of Tibetan Buddhism in Tibetan areas. The simple and devout Tibetans will rush here to participate in the bathing party before and after the Tibetan New Year, and soak together for seven days and seven nights. Let's celebrate Bath Day.
The Dugang River, which flows from east to west in Tianshengqiao Hot Spring, passes through the underground cave to form a natural limestone bridge. The bridge is more than 60 meters high, 10 meters wide, and about 200 meters long. Because the shape is too neat, it is easy to be mistaken for artificial construction. Yes, in fact, it is quite thrilling to come to the bridge to see it. The cliffs on both sides are so sharp that people have to sigh that nature is really an excellent sculptor.
In addition to the comfortable hot springs, Tianshengqiao also has mysterious religious relics, the vast ancient tea-horse road, unique Tibetan bathing culture and passionate water rafting and other entertainment projects. It is proficient in sightseeing and entertainment.
Day3 Napa Lake - Songzanlin Temple - Dukezong Ancient City
Every day in Shangri-La was full of energy. Gao objected to me was relatively friendly. On the third day of the itinerary, we came to the relatively flat Napahai Nature Reserve. It is surrounded by mountains on three sides. There will be snow on the mountains in winter and summer. More than ten rivers, such as Naqu River and Naizi River, meander through the grassland and flow into Napa Sea. The total area is 31.25 square kilometers and the altitude is 3266 meters. The lake is full of water The area is 660 square kilometers.
Due to the humid climate in the protected area, the pastures in Napa Sea grow faster than similar areas, but they are all hibernating at this time, and you can also see sheep, cows, and horses on the grassland, and it seems that they are not so leisurely. The blue sky and white clouds, the vast grassland and the blue lake constitute a beautiful picture scroll, which is decorated with scattered tourists. The three snow-capped mountains of Shika, Yeka and Xinyala in the west are interpenetrated and intertwined. Here you can feel the human spirit. It is small, but it also has the pride of conquering nature. Facing such a beautiful scenery in northern Saibei, who can not be tempted?
Of course, I also remind everyone that when you come to ride a horse on the grassland, you must remember to bargain, choose stable herdsmen, and don’t rush to ride the horse. Safety comes first.
If Tibet is a holy place to purify people's hearts, the Shangri-La Panahai at this moment is a paradise-like enjoyment. The winter sun shines on the earth, and the white grass continues to extend into the lake. The wind spreads far, relaxation and freedom are here.
Songzanlin Temple, known as the Little Potala Palace, is the largest Tibetan Buddhist temple in Yunnan Province and one of the famous big temples in Kham. It is said that the site of the temple was determined by the Dalai Lama through divination and prayed to the gods. When visitors enter the temple, they will see that the clear spring does not dry up all year round, and a pair of golden sandpipers can often come and go in and out of the temple.
After buying the ticket (90 yuan), I stood on the small slope opposite and took a few photos. The Songzanlin Temple is built on the mountain, and it looks like an old castle, with a white base and colorful roofs. The crowds are crowded together, with some decorations on the corners, the scene is very spectacular in addition to being beautiful.
Take the free sightseeing car to the entrance of the scenic spot. There are two mighty stone lions standing at the brightly colored gate. The patterns on the eaves are complicated and cumbersome. Lamas in red robes, pious believers with folded hands, navy blue flags and rows of prayer wheels, everything here instantly pulled me into the exotic Buddhist cultural atmosphere.
There are not many tourists in this season. I walked alone under these high walls, and I became artistic. The Buddha statues enshrined in the temple are not allowed to take pictures. It is not bad to look at the magnificent decorations outside.
There is an oval city wall built around the temple, the main hall is gorgeous yet majestic, and the murals inside the hall are colorful and delicate, mainly to describe historical allusions and promote Buddhist teachings.
Find a place to sit and bask in the sun. It is rare to be quiet. In such a place, it is easy to think about life unconsciously. Perhaps those confused believers also count on gods and Buddhas to give them meaning.
After we came out of Songzanlin Temple, we went straight to the ancient city of Dukezong. This is the best preserved and largest Tibetan residential complex in China. Naturally, it is not so commercialized. Compared with the ancient city of Lijiang, I like the simplicity and joy here. Keep more of the original flavor. Moreover, the ancient city of Dukezong is the hub of the ancient tea-horse road. It was once a window for ethnic cultural exchanges between the snow-covered Tibetan village and the Yunnan region, and the economic and trade link of the Sichuan-Tibet-Yunnan region.
The ancient city with a history of more than 1,300 years has its unique way of living. Compared with other places, the infrastructure here is a bit behind. It is closer to the simple and simple daily life of the local people. It is difficult to enjoy some The convenience of the city.
Here you can see that most of the residents are still wearing their ethnic costumes and living their lives at their own pace. Rough stone roads, thick and cracked mud walls, everyone's face has traces of wind and frost and the simplest satisfaction and smile.
It is said that the environment affects people. This sentence is more obvious during the journey. When immersed in a completely unfamiliar urban culture, we will always subconsciously follow its rules and habits, and be infected by the people and customs that often live here. Of course, this is also true. The beauty of travel. When I met a few tourists in the ancient city, I suddenly looked at each other and laughed heartily, and was amused by the cute children who were traveling with me.
Find an inn to sit down, drink tea, and chat with different people. In this case, the friends I met will also be the protagonists in my memories in the future.
While it was still dark, we visited the Diqing Prefecture Red Army Long March Museum, which mainly introduces the moving stories of the Red Army’s Long March. It is divided into preface halls, the memory of snow-capped mountains and grasslands, interactive landscapes of climbing snow-capped mountains and grasslands, and red flags rolling up serfs Halberd, today's Long March Road, the new face of Diqing Plateau, etc.
The display in each exhibition hall is very careful, it looks clear at a glance, a lot of information has been collected, and the collection is very rich, so the museum with stories is more interesting, so you can learn more about it.
The ancient city at night is another scene.
Guishan Park is at the northernmost part of the ancient city of Dukezong. You can climb to the top of the mountain and overlook the entire county.
On the top of the mountain, there is the world's largest gold-plated pure copper prayer wheel, 21 meters high and 60 tons in total weight. To turn it requires the concerted efforts of more than a dozen adults. With Guishan Park as the final end, it is like a A microcosm of the trip to Shangri-La, meet again and be intoxicated again.
This is the end of the trip to Shangri-La. I have seen the lakes and mountains, climbed up the cliffs, climbed to the top of the mountain and then went down the mountain to leave. Every scenery I met on the road, and every pedestrian I greeted, made the trip even better. Rich and full. I hope that the strength I gain here can always support me to go to the next destination with enthusiasm.