Behind every myth is at least a grain of truth – a comforting thought for someone in search of James Hilton’s elusive Shangri-La. In his acclaimed novel “Lost Horizon” Hilton masterfully describes a distant and secluded hideaway of great beauty and peacefulness, a remote paradise on earth hidden in a Tibetan valley of snow-capped mountains, where harmony reigns, where the gods walk among the people, and where man and nature embrace. A utopian dream perhaps so surprisingly close to reality?
Banyan Tree Ringha is found in China’s Yunnan province, a mountainous area that has been designated as the official Shangri-La by the Chinese government and is part of Greater Tibet, both historically and culturally. At 3,200 meters above sea level, the setting is spectacular with day-trips and overnight excursions taking you to divine mountain peaks touched by the clouds, awe-inspiring ridges, deep canyons, torrential rivers, mystical plateaus, endless valleys, crystal-clear streams and the most tranquil of lakes.
In true Banyan Tree style, the resort architecture reflects the local Tibetan culture. All lodges are constructed in the style of traditional Tibetan farmhouses with intricate woodcarvings, wood-burning fireplaces and wooden balconies that have valley or river views. Impressive pine pillars add enormous character to both the interior and exterior of each house.
And of course, there is the heavenly Banyan Tree Spa!.
Itinerary
This package is based on Silkair return airfare from Singapore to Kunming
Day 01 / Singapore – Kunming
Early morning departure from Singapore for Kunming. Meet & greet by our guide on arrival in Kunming, Yunnan’s capital “City of Eternal Spring” and early check-in (subject to availability) to the 5* Green Lake Hotel or similar. The rest of the day is free for us to relax or go on one of our optional half-day tours. Overnight in Kunming.
Day 02 / Kunming – Shangri-La – Banyan Tree Ringha
Morning flight from Kunming to Shangri-La. Upon arrival in Shangri-La Airport, we transfer to the Banyan Tree Ringha Resort. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the Resort and her environs. (B/-/-)
Day 03 / Banyan Tree Ringha
This morning we can embark on any of the Resort’s optional tours or trekking adventures which are accomplished either on foot or on horseback. All treks are led by an experienced guide who will share with you his knowledge of and love for Tibetan culture, religion, village life and the local flora & fauna. (B/-/-)
Day 04 / Banyan Tree Ringha
After a leisurely breakfast in the peace and tranquility of Banyan Tree Ringha we are free to explore the environs of Ringha. One option is to visit the sacred Da Bao Shi, also known as Ringha’s Temple of the 5 Wisdom Buddhas. Built on top of a hill wrapped about with serene pine forests, this 700 year-old temple is an important pilgrimage site for Tibetan Buddhists praying for good health and fertility. (B/-/-)
Day 05 / Shangri-La – Singapore via Kunming
Early morning transfer to the airport for our domestic flight to Kunming where we connect our international flight for Singapore. (B)
Tour Cost
Prices are for per person and in SGD $
- SGD $2,117 Twin
- SGD $3.117 Single
- SGD $ 600 Per Extension Night
- SGD $2,695 Twin
- SGD $4,274 Single
- SGD $ 986 Per Extension Night
- SGD $2,695 Twin
- SGD $4,274 Single
- SGD $ 986 Per Extension Night
- Please check with us for availability and cost
Package Validity
- Apr 01 – Oct 31, 2009
Tour Cost Includes
- Return international economy airfare on Silkair ‘Q’ Class: SIN/KMG/SIN
- Return domestic economy airfare on China Eastern Airlines ‘K’ Class: KMG/DIG/KMG
- Return airport transfers
- 01 night in 5* Green Lake Hotel or similar in Kunming
- 03 nights in Banyan Tree Ringha
- Daily breakfast
- RMB 300 Spa credits per guest applicable for all Spa treatments (except beauty services or other promotion) at Banyan Tree Spa Ringha
- Daily replenished welcome fruit & Banyan Tree Gift upon turndown service
- Complimentary Banyan Tree Toiletries Bag / Cosmetic pouch per person
Tour Cost Excludes
- China Visa, where applicable
- All airport & other taxes
- Silkair Single Traveller Surcharge of S$120 for ‘E’ Class ticket
- Insurance
- Drinks & beverages
- Tips & gratuities
- Personal expenses like laundry, phone bills, spa treatments, etc.
- Resort & airline peak season surcharges, etc.
Banyan Tree Resort High Season Surcharge @ SGD $90 Per Suite/Villa Per Night
- Apr 30 – May 03, 2009
- Sep 30 – Oct 06
- Dec 24, 2009 – Jan 03, 2010
- Feb 14 – 20, 2010
Silkair High Season Surcharge @ SGD $80 Per Person for ‘Q’ Class airfare
- Jun 01 – 21, 2009
- Aug 06 – 09, 2009
- Sep 05 – 06, 2009
- Sep 17 – 20, 2009
- Nov 19 – 30, 2009
- Dec 01 – 25, 2009
- Dec 31, 2009
Package Validity
- Valid for travel up to Oct 31, 2009
Fauna around Shangri-La