Xiangbala Circuit | Must-visit places along the Sichuan-Yunnan Border Secret Journey (Part 1)

In Tibetan Buddhism, there is a Kingdom of Bliss called Shambhala. Whether the kingdom exists or not is still a matter of debate, but in reality, Shambhala does exist and is located at the junction of Sichuan, Yunnan, and Tibet. The Shambhala Ring not only includes diverse natural landscapes but also intertwines with unique and profound local customs. Come and discover the natural beauty of Shambhala!

In Lijiang Old Town, you can not only see well-preserved old stone alleys but also experience local customs and culture. The old town is located within the city, just a ten-minute drive away. There are 8 parking lots nearby, making parking very convenient.

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

Jade Dragon Snow Mountain is the southernmost snow mountain in China, with a total of 13 peaks. Visitors can take a cable car up the mountain. From a high vantage point, the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, with its snow-covered glaciers, is truly spectacular.
Every winter, Lashi Lake attracts a large number of water birds that come here to overwinter. From November to January each year is the period of bird migration. Thousands of migratory birds inhabit here for the winter, attracting many bird and photography enthusiasts to come and observe and take photos.
Compared to the bustling Lijiang Ancient Town, Shuhe Ancient Town has fewer tourists and is more tranquil, retaining the charm of the ancient Tea Horse Road. Shuhe Ancient Town is about 8 kilometers from Lijiang City, just a 26-minute drive. Shuhe Ancient Town is one of the birthplaces of the caravan culture during the Ming and Qing Dynasties and is also part of Lijiang Ancient Town.

Lugu Lake Scenic Area

Lugu Lake is located at the border of Ninglang County in Yunnan Province and Yanyuan County in Sichuan Province, belonging to the area jointly governed by Sichuan and Yunnan. With an altitude of 2690 meters, it is the highest lake in Yunnan. Here, the sky and the lake seem to be separated by only a thin line.

Zouhun Bridge

Located in Caohai, Zouhun Bridge is about a 25-minute drive from the viewing platform. In the past, local Mosuo men and women often met here, so this 300-meter-long wooden bridge is also known as the 'First Magpie Bridge in the World'.