Behind every myth is at least a grain of truth a comforting
thought for someone in search of James Hilton's evasive Shangri-La.
In his acclaimed novel "Lost Horizon" Hilton masterfully
describes a distant and secluded hideaway of great beauty and
peacefulness, a remote paradise on earth hidden in a Tibetan valley
of snow-capped mountains, where harmony reigns, where the gods
walk among the people, and where man and nature embrace. A utopian
dream perhaps or surprisingly close to reality?
Banyan Tree Ringha opens in China's Yunnan province
in October 2005, a mountainous area that has been designated as
the official Shangri-La by the Chinese government and is part
of Greater Tibet, both historically and culturally. At 3,200 meters
above sea level, the setting is spectacular with day-trips and
overnight excursions taking you to divine mountain peaks touched
by the clouds, awe-inspiring ridges, deep canyons, torrential
rivers, mystical plateaus, endless valleys, crystal-clear streams
and the most tranquil of lakes.
In true Banyan Tree style, the resort architecture
reflects the local Tibetan culture. All lodges are 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 heavenly Banyan Tree
Spa.