If you are planning a trip to Shangri La Yunnan, this post is just for you as it shares the top 10 tips for visiting the Shangri La Yunnan. The meaning of Shangri La is the sun and the moon. Ever since the British writer James Hilton released the book Lost Horizon where he described the Shangri La Yunnan to be a paradise Tibetan land with Tibetan monasteries, small lakes, grasslands, valleys, and snow mountains, people have been flocking to China to get a glimpse of a paradise. Many places competed for what the British writer described in his book but Zhongdian, Yunnan took the title. Tourists who are interested in photography continue to visit this part of the world hoping to find heaven-like beauty. The following tips will come in handy if you are visiting Shangri La Yunnan.
- Arrive or Depart from a Major City
One of the most important tips that you need to keep in mind if you plan to visit the Shangri La Yunnan is to arrive or depart from a major city. Since China is a huge country, it makes sense to start your travels from the right destination. It is advised that you start your travels from a major city such as Shanghai, Beijing, Kunming, or Guangzhou. When you begin the trip from a major city, you will have an easier time getting to the Shangri La Yunnan.
- Be Prepared
Before you depart on your trip, it is important that you go prepared. Make sure to pack a pair of sunglasses, anti-carsickness pills, snacks, moisturizing skincare products, and sunscreen cream. As you traveling to a part of China that is cut off from the world, it is crucial that you go prepared. Go through all the items you need to ensure that you do not forget to take something important. You will not be able to find what you are looking for once you reach your destination.
- Wear Suitable Clothing
The Shangri La Yunnan is located at an extremely high altitude. It tends to rain or snow a lot depending on what time of the year you visit. This is why you need to wear suitable clothing on your trip such as a jacket that is rain-proof and designed for a windbreak. If you do not wear the right clothes, you would end up getting sick. By wearing suitable clothing, you will be able to stay healthy and make the most of your travels.
- Avoid Strenuous Exercise
Since you will be going uphill, it is important that you avoid strenuous exercise before your travels and do not exercise during your trip as you would already be exercising going uphill. The mountainous terrain would put pressure on your body. Hence, you should be perfectly healthy when you travel and need to stay in your best health throughout the journey.
- Do Not Overeat
Most tourists to Shangri La Yunnan end up forgetting the most important tip which is to avoid overeating. As you will go through rough terrain, you cannot overeat as it would make it difficult for you to climb mountains and make your way along the valleys, mountains, and snow.
When you first travel towards the highland, you should not overeat during the journey. It would only make you feel sick. Besides, you should never overeat when you go on a long trip. The bumpy road will make you feel nauseous. At the same time, you should not sleep when the altitude starts to rise as you would get altitude sickness. However, even if you experience altitude sickness, you will be fine within just a few days as a high altitude requires some getting used to.
- Drink Plenty of Water
Another great tip that will keep you healthy during your trip to the Shangri La Yunnan is drinking plenty of water. To stay fit and active, you need to drink water. It will help you stay hydrated. The weather throughout the journey will be uncertain and that is why you cannot afford to feel dehydrated as it would prevent you from enjoying the journey. You will need more water as you the altitude increases.
- Travel by Bus
Even though it is possible to fly to Shangri La Yunnan, it is always a better idea to travel by bus as you would come across breathtaking views that will only make your trip more memorable. But, there is no train that travels to the top. The bus journey will take you about 4 to 5 hours and will pass the Tiger Leaping Gorge which is simply spectacular. Since many busses head from Lijang to Shangri La every day, you should have no trouble getting a bus.
- Try the Local Food
To make the most of your trip, it is important that you try the local food. Only eat Tibetan and Sichuan food. Ditch Western food or South Korean food and only eat local food as it is truly delicious and much more affordable. There are plenty of amazing restaurants and bakeries where you can eat along the way. Hence, you do not have to worry about bringing food along.
- Explore the Place by Bike
There is no better way to explore Shangri La Yunnan than by bike. For just a few Chinese Yuan, you can rent a bike. It will allow you to experience life just like the locals. The majority of outdoor stores, inns, and even guesthouses provide bikes. Thus, you will have no trouble finding a place to rent a bike. Your tour arrangement might already include biking.
- Respect the Local Culture
The Shangri La Yunnan has been cut off from the world for a long time. The locals follow their own customs and traditions. This is why you need to respect the local culture, especially when visiting ancient towns and monasteries.
Conclusion
When you follow the tips mentioned in this post, you will have the time of your life at the Shangri La Yunnan. Make sure to follow each tip.