Departing from Shangri-La, the journey leads to the idyllic Bala Village within the Balagezong Scenic Area. Immerse in the area's breathtaking alpine vistas and pay homage to the sacred Shambhala Pagoda, its magnificent white stupa rising elegantly above billowing clouds.

Then, the excursion moves to Benzilan town, where you witness the Tibetan art of crafting traditional wooden bowls. Subsequently, Dongzhulin Temple, with its understated but reverent design radiating spiritual ambiance, comes into view, before a stop to admire the scenic bay of the First Bend of Jinsha River.

In the afternoon, the picturesque day concludes in Deqin.

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Wake early to catch the majestic sunrise over the Meili Snow Mountains. Once you have marveled at the splendid hues of daybreak, take a 1.5-hour drive to Cizhong Church, a place deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. Happening to be here during a worship service, you can listen to the Bible being recited in Tibetan.

Next is the renowned scenic area of Nanji Luo, known as "God's Tears". Nestled high in the mountains, its emerald lakes shine like tears amid the lush forests and rugged peaks. Then visit Tongle Village, renowned for its traditional Lisu ethnic villages dramatically clinging to cliffs. End the day in Tacheng, exploring its charming old town and learning about ancient Tibetan customs still practiced today.

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Enter the Golden Monkey National Park to search for rare Yunnan snub-nosed monkeys in their natural habitat. If lucky enough, you may spot furry family groups of 5-10 playing and frolicking nimbly through tall trees.

Venturing deep into the nature reserve, you have chances to admire numerous nationally protected rare plants and animals on the mountain slopes, such as Yunnan redwood, jade dragon fern, Chinese yew, spruce, and oil wheatgrass. Then, return to Shangri-la, with a scenic 2.5-hour drive offering sweeping valley views.