It was the British writer James Hilton's novel, The Lost Horizon, some 50 years ago, that brought fame to an unknown and uncontaminated place- Shangri-La - a household name. The novel described in great detail the stunning scenery in the area: the azure sky, the breathtaking beauty and the hospitality of unsophisticated people who welcome weary travelers to their homeland.

In Tibetan, Shangri- La means a place of good fortune and luck. Located in the midst of three rivers; the torrential Jinsha, Langcang and Nujiang, Shangri-La is a sacred scenic region with distinguishing features. Scores of years have witnessed the failure of numerous efforts to seek out and pinpoint the exact location of this dreamland. A few years ago, after years of persistent searching and researching, the government of Yunnan Province finally declared the discovery of Shangri-La and the long lost horizon was recovered in Diqing, this stunning prefecture in Yunnan Province.

Climate

Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit Shangri-la when temperatures are moderate. The scenery is also gorgeous during these periods, with flowers blossoming and wildlife thriving in this pretty area.

Autumn in Diqing Plateau is also spectacular. 10 days after the Mid Autumn Festival, the leaves fall from the trees and the area takes on a picture postcard appearance.

Bear in mind however, that Shangri-la is very high, and temperatures can change fast here. It is not unusual too, to see some snow fall in the autumn months. What's more, the temperature can  vary greatly within the space of one day. Visitors to this region should come prepared- packing a variety of clothes and shoes. As usual in China, always carry your umbrella!