Shangri-La County Banyan Tree, CHINA
Airing Date: Jul 10th, 2006
Shangri-La is a fictional place described in the novel Lost Horizon by British writer James Hilton in 1933. In it, "Shangri-La" is a mystical, harmonious valley, gently guided from a lamasery, enclosed in the western end of the Himalaya.
Shangri-La has become synonymous with any earthly paradise but particularly a mythical Himalayan utopia - a permanently happy land, isolated from the outside world. The word also evokes the imagery of exoticism of the Orient.
The Tibetan region of China has much to explore and many fascinating cultural practices to discover. Tibetan festivals such as Losar, Xuedun, Linka and the Bathing Festival are deeply rooted in indigenous religion, and also contain foreign influences.
The Tibetan folk opera, known as Ache llhamo, which literally means "fairy", is a combination of dances, chants and songs.
The repertoire is drawn from Buddhist stories and Tibetan history.
Tibetan architecture contains Chinese and Indian influences, and reflects a deeply Buddhist approach. The Buddhist wheel, along with two dragons, can be seen on nearly every Gompa in Tibet.
The prayer flag is an integral part of Tibetan culture and folk ritual. In Tibetan language they are called Tharchoks. Sutra and mantras are printed in Tibetan script on the tharchoks with various coloured banners representing various purposes.
The Banyan Tree Ringha resort architecture reflects the local Tibetan culture. All 32 spacious lodges and suites are based on traditional Tibetan farmhouses with intricate woodcarvings, smoky 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 Banyan Tree Spa. Special spa treatments have been inspired by sacred Himalayan beliefs, Chinese Tui Na and the ancient Chinese Five Elements philosophy.
Banyan Tree Ringha was named "One of the World's Best New Hotels" by the Editors of Luxury Travel Magazine in the annual Luxury Travel Awards. A range of tours and treks are also available. These start from an easy village walk through to a challenging rough road mountainous terrain trek.
Treks are accompanied by an experienced guide, who will share his/her knowledge and love for Tibetan culture, religion, village life and the local flora and fauna with tour members.
FURTHER INFORMATION
Rooms $530 a night twin share. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Prices correct at 10/7/06.
www.banyantree.com/ringha
8 night Yunnan Explorer small group journey from $1762 a person including taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Includes visit to Zhongdian. Prices correct at 10/7/06.
Travel Indochina - Ph: 1300 365 355, Web: www.travelindochina.com.au
4 night package from $2024 a person including taxes. Subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Includes accommodation at Banyan Tree Ringha & sister property in Lijiang. Prices correct at 10/7/06.
Travel Indochina - Ph: 1300 365 355, Web: www.travelindochina.com.au
Qantas return to Shanghai from $1285 ex Melbourne, $1305 ex Sydney, $1389 ex Brisbane, $1399 ex Perth, $1412 ex Adelaide. Prices available online and include surcharges & taxes, subject to fluctuation. Conditions apply. Prices correct at 19/6/06. Qantas - Web: www.qantas.com
For Further Information on China: www.lonelyplanet.com.au
