How to Travel from Lijiang to Shangri-La

Shangri-La is situated in the northwest of Lijiang, both in the northwestern part of Yunnan, with a crow-fly distance of about 120 kilometers and a driving distance of about 187 kilometers. Shangri-La is a small mountainous city with an average altitude of 3,280 m. Transportation options are limited here. At present, there are no direct flights or trains between the two cities. So the best and most convenient transferring way is to take a 4-hour long-distance bus.

How to Get to Shangri-La City from Lijiang?

By Train

At present, there is no railway to Shangri-La yet. The Lijiang–Shangri-La railway or Lixiang railway is a railroad under construction in Yunnan Province of Southwest China, due to be completed in 2020. By then, tourists can take the train from Lijiang to Shangrila.

Lijiang to Shangri-La Transportation Guide

Traveling from Lijiang to Shangri-La offers several options, each catering to different preferences for comfort, speed, and scenic experience. Here’s a detailed guide on how to make the journey between these two popular Yunnan destinations.

Distance and Overview

  • Distance: Approximately 170 kilometers (105 miles)
  • Travel Time: 3 to 4 hours by road, depending on traffic and road conditions

Note: Lijiang is at an altitude of 2,400 meters, while Shangri-La is at 3,300 meters. The altitude difference may cause mild altitude sickness. It is advisable to acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.

1. Private Car (Guided Tour)

Best for First-Timers and Custom Experiences

  • Options:
    1. Expressway Route: Direct and fast, taking about 2 hours. It’s a straightforward drive with fewer scenic stops.
    2. Scenic Route via National Highway 214: Allows for sightseeing and exploration along the way. This option takes about 5 hours and includes notable stops like Tiger Leaping Gorge and the First Bend of the Yangtze River.
  • Advantages:
    • Convenience: Door-to-door service from your hotel.
    • Flexibility: Customize your itinerary with scenic stops.
    • Comfort: Private space and relaxation.
    • Local Insight: Guides provide information on local culture, customs, and natural wonders.
  • Scenic Highlights:
    • First Bend of the Yangtze River: Panoramic views of the river’s dramatic turn.
    • Tiger Leaping Gorge: One of the world’s deepest gorges, known for its stunning views and powerful river.
    • Snow-Capped Mountains: Views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and Haba Snow Mountain.

2. High-Speed Train

Fastest Way

  • Duration: 1 to 1.5 hours
  • Frequency: 5 trains daily
  • Ticket Price: 49 to 170 yuan, depending on class
  • Stations:
    • Lijiang Railway Station to Shangri-La Railway Station
  • Advantages:
    • Speed: The quickest travel option.
    • Comfort: Modern trains with comfortable seating.
  • Limitations:
    • Limited Scenic Experience: The train journey does not offer the same level of scenic enjoyment as a road trip.

3. Bus

By Long-Distance Bus

It is the most convenient way and the most cheapest way getting to Shangrila from Lijiang. There are coaches respectively departing from Lijiang Bus Terminal, Shuhe Ancient Town, the South Gate and North Gate of Lijiang Ancient Town. The whole journey takes about 4 hours with the ticket fare ranging from CNY 46-68.

Shangri-La – Lijiang Schedules

Departure Station Arrival Station Departure Time
Lijiang Bus Terminal(丽江客运站) Shangri-La Bus Tus Terminal 07:30, 08:10, 08:50, 09:30, 10:00, 10:40, 11:00, 11:30, 12:00, 12:30,13:00, 13:30, 14:00, 14:30, 15:00, 15:30, 16:00, 17:10, 16:30
Shuhe Ancient Town(束河古镇) Dukezong Ancient Town 08:00
North Gate of Lijiang Ancient Town Dukezong Ancient Town 08:15
South Gate of Lijiang Ancient Town Dukezong Ancient Town 08:25

Budget-Friendly Option

  • Travel Time: Approximately 2.5 to 3 hours
  • Ticket Price: Around 80 to 90 yuan
  • Departure Points in Lijiang:
    • Lijiang Bus Terminal
      Add:       No. 25, Kangzhong Road, Gucheng District, Lijiang, Yunnan
      Transport:
      15 minutes to Lijiang Ancient Town;
      50 minutes to Jade Dragon Snow Mountain;
      25 minutes to Shuhe Ancient Town;
      40 minutes to Sanyi Airport.

      Shangri-La Bus Terminal
      Add: the junction of Xiangbala Avenue and Kangding Road, Shangri-La, Diqing
      Transport: 
      15 minutes to Ganden Sumtseling Monastery;
      40 minutes to Pudacuo National Park;
      15 minutes to Dukezong Ancient Town;
      15 minutes to Napa Nature Preserve;
      20 minutes to Shangri-La Airport.

  • Arrival Points in Shangri-La:
    • Dukezong Ancient Town East Gate
    • Shangri-La Bus Station
  • Advantages:
    • Cost-Effective: Lower cost compared to other options.
  • Limitations:
    • Comfort: Less comfortable compared to private cars and trains.
    • Inconvenience: May involve more time and less flexibility with schedules and stops.

How to Plan Your Trip

To make the most of your visit to Lijiang and Shangri-La:

  • Day 1-2: Explore Lijiang. Visit Lijiang Old Town, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, and Blue Moon Valley.
  • Day 3: Travel to Shangri-La, with stops at attractions like Tiger Leaping Gorge.
  • Day 4: Discover Shangri-La. Visit Pudacuo National Park, Ganden Sumtseling Monastery, and Dukezong Ancient Town.
  • Day 5: Return or continue your journey from Shangri-La.

Extended Itinerary:

  • Day 1-2: Kunming exploration.
  • Day 3-4: Dali sightseeing.
  • Day 5-6: Lijiang visit.
  • Day 7-8: Shangri-La adventure.

Booking with a local travel agency can enhance your experience, providing customized itineraries, comfortable transport options, and knowledgeable guides. For a personalized tour and additional assistance, feel free to get in touch with a travel agency based in Yunnan.

Transportation in Yunnan:

Yunnan Travel by Air

Rail Transport in Yunnan

Roads in Yunnan