Shangri-La, formerly known as Zhongdian County, is one of the cities under the jurisdiction of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. In Tibetan, it is called "Jiantang," which means "Sun and Moon in the Heart".
Shangri-La is a Buddhist pilgrimage site, and the local Tibetan people are very kind and friendly. Therefore, when traveling to Tibetan areas, it is important to respect the local customs and religion, and avoid discussing political topics too much for your own safety.
Local customs and taboos before visiting Shangri-La
- The Mani stone piles are sacred road signs in the hearts of Tibetans. The Mani stone piles, inscribed with the six-syllabled mantra or Buddha images, are sacred objects for Tibetans. When traveling, if you encounter a temple, Mani stone piles, or chorten, you should pass or circumvent them from the left side, the clockwise direction in which the earth and the universe revolve. Do not pick up mani stones casually, and do not sit on a Mani stone pile.
- Do not step over ritual implements or fire basins, reverse prayer wheels.
- In the temple, it is forbidden to sing, scream loudly and whistle.
- Do not touch the heads of Tibetans or a child's head, no matter how cute they may appear, because it's considered disrespectful.
- Tibetans do not eat dog meat, monkey meat, horse meat, donkey meat, or fish.
- When visiting a Tibetan home and being offered tea or wine, if you really cannot drink it, you should politely decline.
- When receiving a Hada, you should extend both your hands out at arm’s length, with the palms facing upwards and your head slightly bowed in deference. If the other person puts it directly around your neck, just don’t throw it away or lose it.
- When taking close-up photos of people, especially monks and women, you must ask for their permission in advance to avoid unnecessary trouble. Many temples allow photography outside, but do not take photos or videos inside the temple halls. Some temples specify that you can only take photos after paying a fee.
- Do not use paper with Tibetan words on it to wipe anything or as toilet paper.
- As a religious site, travelers should dress modestly and behave with good manners when visiting Songzanlin Monastery. This means not wearing extremely revealing clothes, such as sleeveless shirts and tops.
