In The Heart of the Himalayas 

You arrived at the luxury resort of Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa to find a copy of Lost Horizon by James Hilton in your elegant room. This is the legendary story of Shangri-La, a paradise for travelers high among the Himalayas – and the inspiration for the hotel's brand.

On the cool patio of the Lodgers Lounge, overlooking the city and mountains, you enjoy a cup of tea while reading the book. Afterwards, you adjust to Lhasa's altitude with a visit to the hotel's unique oxygen lounge and reflexology pavilion.

Your first day begins at the nearby Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site and traditional residence of the Dalai Lamas.

From Lhasa, you can travel by car to each of Tibet's magnificent holy lakes, which the concierge is delighted to arrange. Returning to the hotel for dinner, you meet friends at Shambala for a taste of local barley wine and authentic Tibetan-Yunnan tapas.

The following morning, your breakfast is prepared in the open kitchens at Altitude, which offers delicious international fare throughout the day. In the evening, you will enjoy a relaxing massage in a private treatment room at Chi, The Spa before retiring to the comfort of your room to enjoy spectacular views of the Potala Palace and surrounding Himalayas.

As the temperature drops in the peaceful night, you marvel at your experience in Lhasa so far. You have found your way to the original Shangri-La.