4 Days Shangri-La Itinerary, Plan a 4-Day Trip in Shangri-La

If you plan to spend 4 days in Shangri-La, how would you arrange your itinerary? Are you traveling with family and kids, hoping for some child-friendly activities? Or are you an older traveler wanting a leisurely trip at your own pace? Perhaps you're a young person looking for an adventurous itinerary with activities like hiking, and cycling? Or maybe you want to include some local cultural experiences like Thangka painting lessons, Learning Tie-dyeing in your trip?

Everyone has different needs and plans, and with our extensive travel experience, we design and recommend various itineraries for different types of travelers to ensure you have the best possible travel experience.

Below are some suggested 4 days Shangri-La itineraries for inspiration.

Actually all the itinerary is flexible, just contact us, please.

We would be honored to customize a perfect, personalized itinerary specifically for you.

4 Days Itinerary in Shangri-La for Family with kids

Songzanlin Monastery

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration of Dukezong Ancient Town

Morning Arrive in Shangri-La and check into your family-friendly hotel.

Explore Dukezong Ancient Town. Stroll through the charming streets, and enjoy a light lunch at a local restaurant.

In the afternoon, visit Guishan Park and spin the Giant Prayer Wheel together for good luck,let the kids explore the open spaces while you take in the views of the old town.

In the evening, enjoy a family dinner at a traditional Tibetan restaurant, tasting local favorites like yak butter tea and momos.

Day 2: Adventure Tiger Leaping Gorge

Explore the Tiger Leaping Gorge, hiking Upper Tiger Leaping Gorge is suitable for families with children and beginners, allowing kids to experience the joy of hiking in a relatively easy environment while also enjoying the magnificent scenery of the gorge.

Day 3: Pudacuo (Potatso)National Park

In the morning, head to Pudacuo (Potatso) National Park for a family-friendly nature experience. Take an easy walk around Shudu Lake or Bita Lake, with the option to take a boat ride for fun.

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy in the park or dine at the park's restaurant.

Afternoon，Explore the Mlitang Pasture, where kids can see yaks grazing and run around in the wide-open spaces.

In the evening,return to town and relax with dinner, perhaps watching a cultural show to introduce the family to Tibetan music and dance.

Day 4: Visit Songzanlin Monastery and Napa Lake Nature Reserve

Morning, Visit the Songzanlin Monastery, Shangri-La’s largest Tibetan monastery. Take a guided tour to learn about Tibetan Buddhism and explore the monastery’s impressive architecture.

After lunch, head to Napa Lake Nature Reserve. Take a family-friendly bike ride or short walk around the lake, enjoying the natural beauty and watching for wildlife.

Return to Shangri-La for your final dinner before departure.

4 Days Shangri-La Itinerary for Seniors with Slow Travel Pace

Songzanlin Monastery

Day 1: Arrival and Easy Exploration of Dukezong Ancient Town

Upon arrival,then explore Dukezong Ancient Town at a leisurely pace. Visit the Giant Prayer Wheel in Guishan Park for a gentle walk and panoramic views of the town.

After Lunch, visit the local Thangka Painting Institute to see traditional Tibetan art and take in the cultural atmosphere without rushing.

Day 2: Songzanlin Monastery & Local Cultural Experiences

First visit to Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Take a guided tour to learn about Tibetan Buddhism while slowly walking around the peaceful grounds.

After Lunch, visit a nearby Tibetan village to experience local life. Enjoy traditional tea in a Tibetan family’s home and participate in a relaxed cultural activity like Tibetan incense making or black pottery.

In the evening,return to your hotel for a quiet evening and a light dinner.

Day 3: Pudacuo (Potatso) National Park

Take a relaxing trip to Pudacuo (Potatso) National Park. Enjoy a gentle walk along the boardwalks at Shudu Lake and Bita Lake, perfect for those who prefer a slower pace.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park or dine at the park’s restaurant, taking in the stunning natural scenery.

Afternoon, Spend more time at Mlitang Pasture. This is a perfect spot for a slow-paced, quiet afternoon in nature.

In the evening, after enjoying dinner, visit Sifang Street to pick up some souvenirs.

Day 4: Napa Lake and Relaxation

Visit Napa Lake Nature Reserve, take a slow, scenic drive around the lake, stopping for photos and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. You can take short walks or simply enjoy the views of the distant mountains and grazing animals.

End your trip with a relaxed farewell dinner at a traditional Tibetan restaurant, reflecting on the peaceful beauty of Shangri-La.

4 Days Shangri-La for Young Travelers

Tiger Leaping Gorge

Day 1: Arrived and Admire the Dukezong Ancient Town

Arrived and go ahead to the Dukezong Ancient Town, chiming the Guishan Mountain, see the temple and spin the Golden Giant Prayer Wheel for good luck.

Afternoon, visit the Thangka Painting Institute to witness local artisans crafting intricate Tibetan Thangka art.

Day 2: Explore the Tiger Leaping Gorge

Morning, it is about 2 hours’ drive to the Tiger Leaping Gorge, one of the deepest gorges in the world. Take a day trip of Tiger Leaping Gorge.Your adventure in Tiger Leaping Gorge, hike the Upper Gorge, Enjoy the breathtaking views. Return to Shangri-La and have dinner in the town.

Day 3: Adventure Pudacuo (Potatso) National Park

It is about 2 hours drive to the Pudacuo (Potatso) National Park. Adventure at Potatso National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Hike through the stunning landscapes of Shudu Lake and Bita Lake, admire the beauty of the lakes, forests, and grasslands.

Day 4: Visit Songzanlin Monastery and Napahai Nature Reserve

Visit Songzanlin Monastery, it takes about 20 minutes by car from the town to Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan. Here, you can learn about the rich Tibetan culture and admire the monastery's stunning architecture.

Afternoon, Visit the Napa Lake Nature Reserve by bike. The ride will take you through beautiful countryside landscapes with yaks grazing on the grasslands.

4 Days Culture tour in Shangri-La

Songzanlin Monastery

Day 1: Exploration of Dukezong Ancient City

Arrive in Shangri-La, Visit Dukezong Ancient City, Stroll through its cobblestone streets, and learn about its 1,300-year history. Take a stroll around Moonlight Square and admire the iconic "Moonlight Pagoda."

Day 2: Songzanlin Monastery & Napa Lake Nature Reserve

In the Morning, Visit Songzanlin Monastery, the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan, often referred to as the "Little Potala Palace." Explore its impressive architecture and learn about Tibetan Buddhism from the monks.

Afternoon, Head to Napa Lake Nature Reserve for a relaxing afternoon of walking or biking through the grasslands. Spot yaks, sheep, and local wildlife in this serene, high-altitude environment.

Have a quiet evening, perhaps visiting a Tibetan tea house to experience Tibetan butter tea and yak cheese.

Day 3: Thangka Painting Workshop & Tibetan Culture

Participate in a Thangka painting workshop at the Shangri-La Thangka Institute. Learn the traditional techniques used to create these intricate Tibetan religious artworks.

In the Afternoon, visit a local Tibetan family to experience their daily life, including trying traditional Tibetan food and learning about local customs.

Evening, join a bonfire party with locals, where you can take part in traditional Tibetan circle dances.

Day 4: Pudacuo (Potatso) National Park

Morning, visit Pudacuo (Potatso) National Park, one of China's most beautiful natural parks. Explore its rich biodiversity, including Shudu Lake and Bita Lake. Enjoy a leisurely hike through forests and grasslands, taking in the stunning alpine views.

Afternoon, visit local Tibetan villages near the park, and explore the unique architecture and crafts. You can also shop for handmade Tibetan souvenirs.

In the evening, conclude your trip with a relaxing dinner, reflecting on the diverse cultural experiences of your journey.

Tips: When you enjoying the tour in Shangri-La, keep the following points in mind:

• 1. The high altitude means stronger UV rays, so make sure to protect your skin from the sun.
• 2. Upon arrival at the high plateau, allow yourself time to acclimate to the environment. Avoid intense exercise and alcohol. After climbing snow-capped mountains, avoid taking a shower immediately to prevent altitude sickness.
• 3. There is a significant temperature difference between morning and evening, so dress warmly.
• 4.As a religious site, it is important to dress modestly when visiting Songzanlin Monastery. This means avoiding shorts, sleeveless shirts, and clothing that exposes too much skin. It's also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, as there are many stairs and steep paths around the monastery.
• 5.When visiting Songzanlin Monastery, it's important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. This means refraining from taking photos or videos inside the temple halls, and avoiding loud or disruptive behavior. It's also a good idea to bring a small offering or donation to leave at one of the temple altars as a sign of respect.

Customize Your Unique Yunnan Tour

If you are interested in one of the Yunnan itineraries mentioned above, please contact us, and we will be happy to customize it and provide a quote tailored to your preferences.

Alternatively, if you would like to customize your Yunnan Tour, please visit our Yunnan Tour Customized Center. We assure you that you will receive a reply within 24 working hours.

Informative Articles for Your Shangri-La Trip

Pudacuo National Forest Park, Shangri La

• Travel Guide: attractions, seasons, hotels, food, itineraries, etc.
• Top destinations: places to visit in Shangri-La
• Travel itineraries: best itineraries for your reference
• Weather: the best time and seasons to visit Shangri-La
• Top attractions:well-selected top attractions in Shangri-La
• Shangri-La Culture: rich and unique
• Cultural immersions: hands-on activities to spotlight your trip
• Unique perspective: top different things to do
• Local food: what to eat while traveling in Shangri-La
• Luxury hotels: where to stay in Shangri-La
• Yunnan Tours: tailor-made Yunnan Tours for your reference