Located 22km east of Shangri-La, Potatso is the first national park in mainland China. In Tibetan language, Patatso means reaching the opposite side of the lake by boat under the help of deity. Bitahai Lake and Shuduhu Lake are two major parts of the park. Besides these two lakes, forest, marsh, valley, alpine meadow and so on can be seen in the park. All major spots are connected by walkable plank which offers a closer distance for travelers to experience the natural environment.                      [Photo by Wang Meng/Chinadaily.com.cn]

The mention of Shangri-La conjures conceptions of a paradise shrouded in mist and beyond human reach.   [Photo by Wang Meng/Chinadaily.com.cn]

Songzanlin is the largest Tibetan Buddhism monastery in Yunnan province. Covering an area of 30 hectares, it looks like a mini Kumbum (Ta Er) Monastery. It is located on a mountain slope 5km from the county town of Shangri-La.[Photo by Wang Meng/Chinadaily.com.cn]

Visual impressions of Tibet

Old Stone Man Beach in China's Qingdao