LIVING YOGA

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I have been enamoured by the idea of Shangri-La ever since I heard about it in James Hilton's book Lost Horizon, and I have wanted to visit his idea of paradise ever since. This is the inspiration behind this retreat to China, a destination that I must admit found me by surprise. Yet, in the way that life serendipitously falls into place, I met and connected with an amazing guide who very quickly crafted this dream itinerary when he heard my vision.

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Our adventure begins on Sun 13 October in Lijiang. Once the capital of a small kingdom, the town in southwest Yunnan is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will spend two relaxed nights here to acclimatise to its higher elevation (2,400 metres above sea level), strolling ancient markets and alleyways, consulting a famous Chinese herbalist, and visiting the former residence of the writer whose articles were believed to have inspired James Hilton's idea of the mythical Shangri-La.

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Once we have eased into the rhythm of our trip, we will hike a lesser known trail across picturesque hillsides to a dramatic gorge by the river, and spend time taking in the views and sitting in meditation by the gushing waters. That same evening, we will drive to the eastern edge of the Himalayas and into Shangri-La. Part of geographical Tibet, the area provides the perfect backdrop for an insight into Tibetan culture.

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In Shangri-La, we will try our hand at thangka painting, visit an artisan incense maker and 'Little Potala Palace, and head out to watch the monks chant at a lesser-known monastery. We will also take a pleasant hike into the forest to look for a sacred waterfall and hidden local temple, visit a local clinic run by a doctor who studied Traditional Tibetan Medicine in India, and visit a Tibetan brewery. We will end the retreat on a high, capping off our adventure by going glamping in a hidden valley on our final night!

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Our time together ends after lunch on Sat 19 Oct in Shangri-La. Transport will be arranged to take you back to Lijiang to catch your evening flight back to Singapore (lands Saturday morning).

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Our days will be bookended by daily morning Yoga practice and post-dinner satsang, where we will gather to chat and share insights and reflections from our travels in the day.

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Please note

• We will be staying in boutique, four-star properties that are safe and comfortable, with all modern amenities. This includes ensuite showers and toilets, towels, toiletries, a hair-dryer (220V only) and free Wi-Fi internet.

• Single occupancy is possible except for the last night. Glamping is strictly twin-share only, and bathroom facilities are shared. However, each fixed tent comes with a wash basin, with water that is heated by a gas stove.

• Accommodation and itinerary details will only be shared with retreat participants, about three months before the trip commences.

• We will be travelling in six-seater vans, each with a driver, who doubles up as our bilingual guide. Our guide(s) will be with us all the time, so you don't have to speak Mandarin to join this retreat.

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Retreat fee

SGD3,200 for twin-share; SGD 3,750 for single occupancy

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Inclusions​

• Daily accommodation

• All meals, except lunch on three free and easy afternoons

• Daily morning Yoga practice

• Airport pick-up and drop off, if you travel on recommended flights

• All planned excursion transfers during the retreat

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Exclusions​​

• Flight tickets

• China visa fees, if required

• Compulsory travel insurance

• Expenses incurred should you fall ill in China. Please make sure your travel insurance adequately covers this.

• Any necessary Covid tests, should regulations require them then

• Optional activities

• All personal expenses eg. laundry, shopping, extra food orders during group meals