Where is Shangri-la

Shangrila County (formerly Zhongdian in Chinese, known as Gyalthang in Tibetan) is located in the northwest of Yunnan Province. The mileage from Lijiang to Shangri-la is about 187 kilometers. The town is split between Tibetan and ethnic Han residents, as well as a fair smattering of Naxi, Bai, Yi and Lisu, with the surrounding countryside entirely Tibetan. 

How to get to Shangri-la from Lijiang

By coach
Visitors can take coach at Lijiang Transport Service Center Bus Station (located at Changshui Road to the southwest corner of Lijiang Old Town) or Lijiang Passenger Station (located at 25 Kangzhoang Lu). The buses depart to Shangri-la every 40 minutes from 7:30 - 17:00 every day. And the journey takes about 4 hours. This is the most convenient way and the most cheapest way to get to there. The long-distance bus will take you to Shangri-la County, then you can explore around this wonderland by yourself. 

By renting a private car
Renting a private car with an experienced driver to get to Shangri-la from Lijiang is a great way too. By this way, you can ask the driver to stop at any site you like on the way to Shangri-la. So it is more flexible for visitors. There are a lot of famous scenic spots on the way, so renting a private car is a recommended way if you have enough people to share expense with the high rate. If there is less number of people in your group, the expense for per person will be very high. 

By the way, TopChinaTravel can offer this private transfer service from Lijiang to Shangri-la. We usually offer a private car with an experience driver and a English-speaking tour guide. 

Travel Guide
The best time to visit Shangri-la is from April to October in a year. 

Renting a bike is a great way to see Shangri-La, the old town and the surrounding attractions. And Dukesong Old Town, Songzanlin Monastery, Pudacuo (or Putacuo) National Park, Baiji Temple, Golden Temple, etc. are the highlights in Shangri-La. You can not miss them.