Shangri-la Great Canyon Scenic Area

Shangri-la Great Canyon Scenic Area

Composed of Balagezong Canyon, Mulu Canyon and Birang Canyon, Shangri-la 
Great Canyon Scenic Area is totally 120 km long with the altitude ranging from 
5,545 to 2,000 meters above the sea level. Shangri-la Great Canyon is a rare 
V-shaped canyon in China. Gangqu River, a tributary of the Jinsha River, cuts
 through the Canyon to give birth to the landforms of alpine deep canyon.

The Canyon exhibits almost all the vertical eco forms and sights in the dry ravines
 and modern glacial zones in the "Three Parallel Rivers" Area-a world natural heritage
 site in Northwest Yunnan. Known for its primitive ecosystem, exotic natural 
sceneries and mysterious Tibetan culture, Shangri-la Great Canyon is deemed a
 wonder by explorers.   

(1)-Balagezong Canyon

In Tibetan, “Balagezong” means "an auspicious place".　With its highest peak
 being 5,545 meters above the sea level, Balagezong Snow Mountain is the 
highest mountain in Shangri-la County.

The Snow Mountain is surrounded by many a lofty peak and 18 plateau lakes. 
 These 18 lakes are said to be turned from the mirror of a fairy who broke it 
when dressing up. With the snow-capped mountains being around, they look 
quite attractive.

(2)-Bala Village

Situated at the mountainside, the village is made up of 60 families, all of whom 
are Tibetans. The villagers whose ancestors were from Batang Area have been
 living here for generations and left behind many historical sites. 

Each family has built a stony block-house, 3-4 meters high. The block-houses
 are arranged next to each other. In time of need, the message can be given
 to the entire village because the windows of the block-houses face to each other.

(3)-Naidang Pastureland

"Naidang" in Tibetan refers to "a place with houses". Being 3,500 meters above
 the sea level, Naidang Pastureland is deemed "summer resort" by Bala villagers
 and used for grazing in summertime.