Not far from the ancient town stands another popular attraction, the Songzanlin Monastery, also known as Ganden Sumtseling Monastery. The largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Yunnan is often referred to as "Little Potala Palace" due to its architectural resemblance to the Potala Palace in Lhasa, Xizang autonomous region. It stands on a small mountain, and I enjoyed the beautiful architecture while climbing up to it.

In addition to the ancient town and architecture, the diverse highland scenery of Shangri-La is a magnet for countless hiking enthusiasts from both home and abroad.

Pressed for time, I embarked on a half-day journey through the enchanting Potatso National Park, a sanctuary celebrated for its pristine lakes, verdant pastures and ancient forests.

As I ventured on a two-hour hike, I was embraced by hillsides awash with vibrant pink rhododendrons. The forest was so quiet that the only sound was my own footsteps and the babbling streams. It felt like a dream.

The journey along the Ancient Tea Horse Road also felt like stepping into a dream — brimming with breathtaking landscapes waiting to be explored deeper in the future.

Li Yingqing contributed to this story.