Yunnan Tibetan Buddhism Healing Retreat: 7-Day Spiritual Journey to Shangri-La

Length: 7 Days / 6 Nights

Max Group Size: 6 People

Start: Shangri-La

End: Shangri-La/Kunming/Other Cities

Features: Zen/Religion/Nature/Culture

Day 1: Arrival in Shangri-La

Arrive in Shangri-La, the mythical paradise long known as “heaven on earth.” Settle into your peaceful retreat and gather for a welcome dinner featuring local flavors. As the sun sets, take a quiet walk beneath fluttering prayer flags and begin to feel the shift into sacred land.

Day 2: Songzanlin Monastery, Blessing from a Lama, and Thangka Painting

Begin the day at Songzanlin Monastery, the spiritual heart of Tibetan Buddhism in Yunnan. You’ll have the rare opportunity to meet a Lama and receive personal blessings and insights from a Tibetan high monk. Afterward, craft your own traditional butter lamp at a nearby workshop.

In the afternoon, explore the ancient alleys of Dukezong Old Town. Visit a thangka art center to learn about this sacred practice and try painting your own symbolic image under expert guidance.

As the day winds down, enjoy a festive manor-style dinner at Zaya Tusi, complete with traditional song and dance. Later, spin a giant prayer wheel under the stars to send blessings and wishes into the world.

Day 3: Pudacuo National Park, Picnic and Meditation by the Lake, and Tofu-Making with a Tibetan Family

Spend the morning immersed in the natural beauty of Pudacuo National Park, where alpine lakes, highland meadows, and pine forests invite moments of stillness. Enjoy a picnic lunch and take time for meditation beside a tranquil lake.

In the afternoon, journey to the Tibetan village of Tacheng and learn the ancient craft of soy-based tofu making with a warm and welcoming local Tibetan family.

Day 4: Snub-Nosed Monkeys and Living Like a Local

In the early morning, visit the Yunnan Snub-Nosed Monkey National Park for a rare encounter with these endangered and elusive creatures, found in only a few places on Earth.

Continue on to a hidden Lisu ethnic village tucked deep in the mountains. Here, share tea and stories with villagers, observe their traditional customs, and absorb the rhythm of life untouched by time.

Then drive onward to Deqin and rest in a luxury mountain cabin surrounded by silence and stars.

Day 5: Meili Snow Mountain Sunrise, Feilai Temple, and Sound Meditation

Rise early to witness the golden glow of sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain, a sacred moment of awe and reverence. Begin your morning with a sound meditation session using Tibetan singing bowls, aligning mind and spirit with the mountain’s stillness.

After lunch, visit Feilai Temple, perched above vast valleys, and enjoy the afternoon at your own pace, whether hiking a nearby trail or simply resting in quiet reflection.

Day 6: Forest Walk and Sutra Writing in Niding Village

After breakfast, journey to Niding Village for a forest walk and guided walking meditation through peaceful highland terrain.

Pause for a home-cooked meal in a local Tibetan household, then head to Dongzhulin Monastery in the afternoon. Here, participate in the mindful practice of copying sutras with a Lama before making your way back to Shangri-La.

Day 7: Farewell from Shangri-La

Savor a relaxed breakfast and take time for quiet reflection before your private transfer to the airport or train station. If your journey continues, we are happy to help you explore other destinations such as Sichuan, Chongqing, Yunnan, or Yangzhou.

Immersion in Tibetan Buddhism: Experience the teachings and rituals of Tibetan Buddhism, along with elements of other Chinese spiritual traditions, from walking meditations to learning the art of thangka painting, all while surrounded by the serene beauty of sacred landscapes.

Exclusive Spiritual Journey: Experience rare moments such as writing sutras in ancient monasteries, meditating with Tibetan singing bowls as you witness the golden sunrise over Meili Snow Mountain, and receiving personal blessings from a Lama- each experience a profound opportunity for inner peace and enlightenment.

Unique Yunnan Cultural Encounters:Visit remote villages, including the Lisu village, where ancient customs and rituals still thrive, and share meals with Tibetan families, connecting with the timeless essence of their culture.

Sacred Connection with Nature:Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Yunnan, from the serene lakes and meadows of Pudacuo National Park to the majestic Meili Snow Mountain, where nature and spirituality harmonize to create a truly healing experience.

Luxurious Tranquil Stays:Rest in secluded mountain lodges and spiritual retreats that blend comfort with contemplation. Enjoy refined accommodations, sound baths, and moments of stillness designed to restore clarity and inner peace.

Shangri-La

Banyan Tree Ringha (subject to availability; if unavailable, we will substitute with similar five-star hotel or resort)

Deqin

Meili Podu Hotel  (subject to availability; if unavailable, we will substitute with similar luxury mountain resort)

Inclusions

• Luxury accommodation for six nights at five-star hotels and luxury boutique moutain stays

• Daily breakfast and gourmet meals, authentic Tibetan dining experiences, select beverages, and thoughtfully curated menus throughout the trip

• Private English-speaking guided tours

• Entrance fees for all site and national park admissions as listed in the itinerary

• Private transportation. Comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles provided for all ground travel as mentioned in itineary 

• 24/7 concierge support. Dedicated assistance throughout your journey to ensure a seamless experience.

• Dietary accommodations. All dietary needs and restrictions honored with advance notice.

• Basic travel insurance

Exclusions

• International and domestic flights to and from Shangri-La or other cities outside the listed itinerary

• Personal expenses such as spa treatments, souvenirs, and optional activities not specified in the program.

• Gratuities (optional)

• Visa fees

At Sino PathFinder, we’d like to offer you the most personalized experience, start from booking.

Please fill out the inquiry form below or email contact@sinopathfinder.com for booking. Our travel advisors will:

• Tailor the itinerary to your preferences

• Arrange private extensions (pre/post-trip) to other destinations 

• Ensure every detail meets your expectations and accommodate any dietary or mobility needs

A 20% deposit per person is required to confirm your booking. This will be applied to your final balance. You can pay your deposit on our website or we can send other easy payment options that work best for you.

Deposit Policy:

• Non-refundable once paid

• Flexible date changes (subject to availability)

• Full terms and conditions available here

Final Payment:
The remaining balance is due 30 days before departure. You'll be able to pay the final balance on the website or through other easy payment options.

Have Questions?
Our team is ready to assist at contact@sinopathfinder.com or via the form below. Feel free to reach out with any questions you may have.

Day 0 Service
If you’re arriving in a different city than where the tour begins, we can arrange a pickup as soon as you land in China and accompany you to your flight or train to the tour’s starting city.

Extended Itineraries
Customize your trip by adding destinations like Beijing, Shanghai, Yunnan, and more after your tour ends.

VIP Photography Package
Capture unforgettable moments with professional photos, drone footage, and cinematic videos—a lifetime of memories.

Contact our travel advisors for pricing and further details.