Arrive in Shangrila

Shangrila

Meeting the 4WDs in the morning, the trip really kicks off, with an early start and a full day’s drive that climbs 1000 metres via , Haba Mountain (Yunnan’s 3rd highest at 5396m) and skirting Zhongdian (now optimistically renamed Shangri-La) on the way to a small Tibetan hamlet, on the border of Yunnan and Sichuan provinces. By now the trail is already in deep country, after heading up almost 1500m from Kunming. 
4WD, Homestay

An 8-day trek north through the eastern Himalayas, culminating at the apex of the three sacred peaks. The trekking is hard, and depending somewhat on the route (which can vary slightly), fairly fast paced, in terms of the distances that need to be covered. The scenery is spectacular, as is what might be termed the ‘religious’ or ‘cultural’ geography. Pack horses will lighten the load, the food (as always) is good and gear (equipment) superb. The trekking ends at Chonggu Temple; from here it's a 1500m descent by jeep along a very high and exhilarating road to Riwa, a bustling town which even has wireless these days. 
Trek (3)/4WD, Camp & Hotel

 Geza to Yading trek

 Geza to Yading trek

 Geza to Yading trek

 Geza to Yading trek

 Geza to Yading trek

 Geza to Yading trek

A slow morning drive up the valley that leads to Daocheng, along the way passing some of the most picturesque Tibetan villages, as well as Gonggalangjing gompa, its perimeter lined with prayer wheels. Time providing, can also make a detour to Dabpa Yangtang gompa, the most important of Daocheng’s 13 monasteries. Notable in this area is the intricate stonework that’s used to build the almost castle like houses in this region, some of which can take up to 7 years to finish. Daocheng provides a few creature comforts as well as a nearby hot spring, a good place to relax and adjust your head to the upcoming change in style and pace.

Departure from Daocheng