Destination · Yunnan
Songzanlin Monastery
A Tibetan Buddhist monastery of golden roofs on a hillside near Shangri-La.
- Where in China
- Yunnan, 430 km north-west of Kunming in a straight line
- Nearest town
- Shangri-La, 4 km south-east
- Entry
- $ (about USD 12 or less per adult)
Perched on a hillside near Shangri-La in Yunnan province, Songzanlin Monastery is a stunning Tibetan Buddhist monastery. Often called the 'Little Potala Palace,' its golden roofs and intricate architecture offer a glimpse into Tibetan culture. Visitors are drawn to its spiritual atmosphere, historical significance, and the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
What to see
Where it is
Open in Amap 
Open in Google Maps
Where to park
The exact spot, the entrance and the address are in the Dragon Roads app during your trip. Every stop opens in Amap, ready to navigate.
Road trips to Songzanlin Monastery
Songzanlin Monastery is a stop on five of our Yunnan road trips. Every route can be shortened, lengthened or started elsewhere.
Self-drive · 14 days · Lijiang loop
Shangri-La Heights
Day 8. Visit Songzanlin Monastery, drive to Balagezong, look out over snow-capped mountains and deep gorges.
Self-drive · 13 days · Lijiang loop
Shangri-La Heights from Lijiang
Day 7. Visit Songzanlin Monastery, drive to Balagezong, and look out over snow-capped mountains and deep gorges。
How Chinese travelers film it
Short clips from Douyin, the Chinese TikTok. They are in Chinese.
Nearby in Yunnan
Nearest first. Distances in a straight line.
