Understand

Deqin town itself may not impress you with its dirty, white-tiled, and soulless architecture, but don't let that discourage you. This town is the perfect base for hiking enthusiasts. The breathtaking views of Meilixue Shan, located on the border of Tibet, are worth the nail-biting six-hour bus ride from Shangri-la. Deqin prefecture is a treasure trove for adventure seekers, with its steep valleys, stunning vistas, remote monasteries, and top-notch trekking routes that cater to all levels of expertise. The best part? You can trek here all year round, and the winter months offer a unique experience as the rain turns into snow, providing you the opportunity to get snowed in. Despite its many wonders, Deqin remains relatively unknown due to the lack of information available about the area and limited transportation options. But don't let that deter you from exploring this hidden gem. Here are ten compelling reasons to visit Deqin:

• 1. Embark on an exhilarating trek up Mt. Kawakarpo & Mt. Miantsomo
• 2. Discover the beauty of the Mingyong Glacier
• 3. Explore the enchanting village of Yubeng through a trekking adventure
• 4. Follow the Mekong River as you traverse through breathtaking landscapes
• 5. Experience the unique charm of Reringkha village's Tashi's Mountain Lodge (currently closed)
• 6. Organize an epic road trip to Lhasa (please note that the land route to Tibet is closed for foreigners)
• 7. Enjoy a spectacular drive from Shangri-la to Deqin
• 8. Dance the night away at Deqin's Tibetan Disco (most are currently closed)
• 9. Immerse yourself in the local culture by sleeping in remote Tibetan villages
• 10. Indulge in a special ginger lemon tea that will surely delight your taste buds

Get in

Are you ready for an adventure? Hop on a bus from Shangri-la Zhongdian and get ready for an adrenaline-pumping journey through the breathtaking mountain roads. Brace yourself as the bus takes you on a wild ride, passing through multiple ecosystems and offering spectacular alpine scenery at every turn. Don't worry, though - the road has been upgraded with new tunnels and modern sections, making it less scary and much faster than before. Halfway through the journey, the bus makes a stop in the charming village of Benzilan. Here, you can indulge in the delicious local fruits sold by the women of the town. It's a perfect opportunity to taste the flavors of the region and take a break from the exhilarating ride. Benzilan itself is worth exploring, adding a nice touch to your journey. Once you reach Deqin, the bus drops you off at the bus station, only a few hundred meters away from the main road. If you're feeling adventurous, you might even continue your journey with the same bus to the magnificent Temple FelaiSi. Just ask the driver or find an English-speaking local to help you out. FelaiSi is a small but captivating destination located about 11 km outside of town, and it's definitely worth the visit. To reach FelaiSi from Deqin bus terminal, you can take a minivan taxi for just 40 Yuan. It's a convenient option to explore this hidden gem without any hassle. Plus, most of the tourist guesthouses are located in FelaiSi, ensuring a comfortable stay in this mesmerizing place. When it's time to head back to Zhongdian (Shangri-la), there are several bus options available throughout the day. Buses depart at 8:20 AM, 9:20 AM, 12:00 PM, and 14:20 PM, giving you flexibility in planning your journey. The ticket price is 68 Yuan, and some buses even make a lunch stop at a restaurant. Make sure to check the prices before ordering your meal to avoid any surprises. If you're feeling adventurous and want to explore even more, you might consider taking a bus from Deqin to Lhasa. The main bus terminal in Deqin serves as the starting point for this thrilling journey. Tickets cost 500 Yuan, and the ride takes approximately 3-4 days. Keep in mind that the bus may or may not make overnight stops at hotels along the way. Don't worry about having foreigners on the bus, as the soldiers at the military checkpoint don't seem to mind. However, during restaurant stops in towns, the drivers may restrict your movement, so be prepared for that. It's important to note that the land route from Shangri-la to Lhasa is currently closed for foreigners. Even if you possess the Tibet travel permit, you won't be able to purchase a ticket. But don't worry, as there are plenty of other exciting journeys awaiting you in this incredible region!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Dim Sum - A collection of small bite-sized portions of various Chinese dishes, which can include dumplings, spring rolls, barbecued pork buns, and egg tarts. These are often served as a brunch or pre-lunch meal, accompanied by tea.

Peking Duck - A whole roasted duck that is a specialty of Beijing, known for its thin, crisp skin, rich, tender meat, and flavorful fat. The duck is typically served with thin pancakes, scallions, and a sweet bean sauce.

Kung Pao Chicken - A stir-fried dish made with chicken, peanuts, vegetables (usually bell peppers and onions), and chili peppers, all coated in a spicy, savory sauce. It's a staple in Sichuanese and broader Chinese cuisine.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing