Impressions of Lijiang and Shangri-la
Lijiang, an idyllic epicentre cradled by the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain and the First Bend of the Yangtze River to the north; a landmark of great historical importance in trade and culture, from the Ancient Tea Horse Road to the Naxi ethnic group and their famed pictographic script 东巴文. No amount of reading can substitute a passionate local guide. To this end, I must credit Loren for making my first visit to Lijiang so memorable. Loren, an inquisitive youth with much fervour and drive, brought a little spark to each destination we visited with personal anecdotes. His attention to details is particularly commendable, a rare trait among young men these days. He entertained my challenge to summit 4680m of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain which gave me confidence to complete the hike. An oxygen canister is essential and attention to one’s health condition. High altitude can easily take down the fittest and must not be taken lightly! Impression Lijiang is a must watch. This is Zhang Yimou et al’s homage to the livelihood of Lijiang’s multiethnic communities with 玉龙雪山 as its backdrop, complimented by rich moving musical compositions and some incredible vocals from the outstanding cast of non-professional actors. Be prepared to brace erratic weather conditions for this outdoor spectacle…an umbrella and lots of UV protection. Amandayan, perched on the slopes of Lijiang old town offers a panoramic view of 大研古城. The property’s courtyard-style rustic elegance blends harmoniously with its surrounding. Rooms are well maintained with good amounts of natural lighting. Ms Marvel Wu leads an outstanding team equipped to provide a bespoke experience. For a curated F&B experience, Jessica is the Aman domain expert. Chef Wu’s hidden gem 山寻云飨, is tucked in the belly of the Baisha village. This serene location serves up delightful dishes and drinks using local ingredients. Seats are very limited and advanced booking is necessary. 40 hours in Lijiang left a vivid impression and a strong desire to return. My visit to Shangri-la was spiritually poignant. The first was when my guide Pema Tsering and I used every ounce of might to turn the world’s largest gold-plated prayer wheel at the Dukezong. The major highlight had to be the Songzanlin Lamasery, a 400 year old relic, where I had the pleasure to sit down with Geshela 确佩洛桑 and engage in an insightful discussion about Buddhism. I am so grateful to Pema for this arrangement and this visit is a nice prelude to my next stop, Lhasa. I had the gentlest soul of a driver, Mr Zhao, throughout my entire Yunnan travel from Dali to Shaxi to Lijiang then Shangri-la. Mr Zhao is engaging, patient, drives with great care and keep the vehicle impeccably clean.