Across the globe, our world is scattered with places that are globally recognized as outstanding and beautiful in so many ways. These places are called UNESCO World Heritage Sites and only the most culturally significant, breathtaking, and important places in the world get this designation. Today, there are 1,154 UNESCO World Heritage Sites around the world, each one ready to show us the power of human connection and innovation, take us through important historical moments, and showcase the beauty of this natural wonder we all call home – earth. 

Countries can submit for significant places to be recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site, but every submission goes through a rigorous application and review process. UNESCO has developed a list of 10 criteria with which these submissions are evaluated. The list is extensive but contains requirements such as “represent a masterpiece of human creative genius,” and “contain superlative natural phenomena.” These phrases are full and powerful, and they ensure that each UNESCO World Heritage Site offers a unique experience and showcases both natural beauty and human beauty. 

Tibet and Yunnan, with 3 and 5 sites respectively, have amazing natural and cultural wonders waiting for you. You can see every one of them and enjoy the comforts of a Songtsam Lodge. We have 7 incredible lodges in Yunnan and 4 in Tibet; we hope we can be a part of your journey to see the wonders of this world!

Stay with Songtsam to Explore the UNESCO Heritage Sites in Tibet

In Tibet, the capital city, Lhasa, is home to 3 different UNESCO World Heritage Sites, all of which bring in swaths of visitors to admire their natural beauty, learn more about their religious and historic contributions, and witness the ingenuity of architecture long ago. 

Historic Ensemble of the Potala Palace

In 1994, the Potala Palace in Lhasa was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its important role as a grand complex where heads of Tibetan Buddhism resided. You’ll be stunned by the castle-like architecture and intricate maze of staircases up to the palace. Not only does this ornate palace have spectacular exterior views, but it showcases a preserved look into some of the most critical parts of life in the 7^th century. Visitors nearly get transported back in time and will find themselves feeling as if they were a fly on the wall in this fascinating historic era.

In the summer months, you’ll notice the sunshine glistening off the golden roof that sits atop the palace, but it’s a breathtaking place to visit any time of year. With over 200,000 statues to view as you explore the inside of the palace walls, your eyes will never stop searching for the next jaw-dropping feature. If you can, try and join a guided tour of Potala Palace; the history will astonish you and there’s no better way to learn about the Potala Palace.

Potala Palace

Jokhang

This magnificent flat-roofed temple is centrally located in the heart of Lhasa’s old Tibetan town and houses a life-size image of Jowa Sakyamuni, which has come to be considered one of the most sacred Buddhas. Inside, you can marvel at colorful mandalas and gold-plated decorations, but the view from the roof is what you’ll fall in love with. When looking down from the roof, you’ll notice the hustle and bustle of Barkhor Square and the beauty of Potala Palace in the distance.

Jokhang Temple was built during the rule of King Songsten Gampo as a way to celebrate his marriage to a Buddhist Chinese princess and it is now seen as an embodiment of the changes to Tibetan Buddhism throughout history. The style of the Jokhang Temple was influenced by architecture from Tibet, Chinese, Nepal, and India, making it the perfect spot to pay homage to the influence these places have had on each other.

Golden Roof of Jokhang Temple

Norbulingka

Though it’s a bit outside the center of Lhasa, a visit to Norbulingka is well worth your time. Once a splendid summer palace, the garden-filled grounds of Norbulingka are now focused on the importance and prosperity of artistic expression. Not only does visiting Norbulingka support Tibetan artists, but your visit also helps this organization give over 300 jobs to local artists and people in need.

Each of these UNESCO World Heritage Sites will make you think about things differently, feel an appreciation for the shift from history to today, and understand more about the culture of local people. At the Songtsam Lhasa Linka, you can enjoy amazing views of Potala Palace and stay in a location that’s central to these World Heritage Sites. Our experienced staff can’t wait to make your trip seamless and memorable by ensuring your every need is met.

Garden view of Norbulingka

Songtsam Lodges Embrace the Beauty of Yunnan’s UNESCO Heritage Sites

Yunnan is known to be an incredible travel destination, and its 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites might just have something to do with that. With a multitude of Songtsam Lodges in Yunnan, it’s a breeze to find the perfect one for your visit to Yunnan. Once you’ve arrived at your luxury accommodations at a Songtsam Lodge, it’s time to explore the wonders of Yunnan.

Old Town of Lijiang

One of the four best-preserved ancient cities in China is the Old Town of Lijiang. This town is a lively illustration of Naxi culture and has become famous for its intricate system of waterways with bridges throughout the town. To see how ancient culture plays out in a modern world, a visit to the Old Town of Lijiang is a must.

Old Town of Lijiang

Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas

Three rivers run parallel in the northwest of Yunnan; these three rivers are the Yangtze, Lancang, and Nujiang Rivers, and, when next to each other, they form a sight that is a natural wonder. In fact, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was Yunnan’s first natural World Heritage Site. With a backdrop of natural beauty, these areas are rich with human diversity and cultural importance as well. 

In this area, the Songtsam Tacheng Lodge, envelopes guests in tranquil rice fields as they experience life next to the Yangtze River, where both Tibetan and Naxi people flourish. The tasteful rooms almost all have views of the terraced rice fields and guests are given the opportunity to participate in activities where they will connect even further with the culture around them. Join in on the 8-night tour of this area to get the full experience. Explore other Songtsam Lodges in the area, such as the Songtsam Meili Lodge, the Songtsam Shangri-la Lodge, or the Songtsam Lvgu Lodge to see multiple areas of the Three Parallel Rivers.

If you can’t get enough of the majestic mountains surrounding this area, we don’t blame you. We have curated an incredible tour to show you the beauty of this oasis up close. Discover the true magic of Tibet with the Shangri-La China Tour through Songtsam.

Three Parallel Rivers of Yunnan Protected Areas

South China Karst

Here, massive rock formations jut through the treetops and stun all those who look on. The South China Karst is one of the most spectacular showings of Karst rock formations and became another Natural World Heritage Site in 2007. These rocks resemble man-made skyscrapers without windows, but they’re completely natural. As you crane your neck looking upward to view these monstrous rock towers, you’ll be left to wonder just how these came to be. The stark contrast between the gray of these Karst rock formations and the lush greenery surrounding them is well worth a visit.

Chengjiang Fossil Site

This site, at Maotianshan Hill, has some of the best-preserved fossils of organisms and traces. Whether you’re an archaeology buff or not, you’ll be shocked at how perfectly preserved these organisms are. Visiting the Chengjiang Fossil Site will remind you that history is always around us, but so is the future.

Honghe Hani Rice Terraces

If you want to breathe in the best sunrise or sunset of your life, visit the Honghe Hani Rice Terraces between November to February when they are filled with water and act like thousands of small mirrors reflecting the deep colors of the sky. These complicated labyrinths of rice fields are beautiful year-round but witnessing a sunrise or sunset here is a near-sacred experience.

Our Songtsam Lodges in Yunnan are meant to complement the astounding sights you’ll see here. Instead of creating an atmosphere that matches the energy of the outside, we have built 7 lodges in Yunnan that will welcome you in and be your oasis. Our Songtsam Lijiang Lodge is removed from the chaos of Old Town Lijiang and tucked away in Ciman, a nearby village where you can experience the traditional way of living and enjoy the timeless luxury of Songtsam.

Views of the terraced rice fields from Songtsam Tacheng Lodge

While in Tibet, Get a Taste of its Cultural Heritage

The UNESCO World Heritage Sites are guaranteed to be amazing, but Tibet is home to many other experiences and places that will enchant you. During your visit, make sure you take the time to stop at some of the top Tibetan highlights that are on UNESCO’s list of Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites.

UNESCO describes Intangible Cultural Heritage as the expressions, traditions, and skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural heritage. Often, cultural heritage is showcased through oral language, written word, art forms such as dance, or even food. By spending time at its Intangible Heritage Sites, you are getting an inside view as to what makes Tibet stand out from a cultural perspective.

Tibetan Opera

Called “Lhamo” or “Ace Lhamo” in Tibetan language, the Tibetan Opera uses songs, dances, chants, and stories to showcase beautiful illustrations of Tibetan culture. This is the oldest and most popular traditional opera of minority ethnic groups in China, and it usually becomes a favorite for visitors as well. With colorful costumes and energetic performers, seeing the Tibetan Opera should be a top priority. If you visit during the right time of year, you can even see one of these shows during important festivals like the Shoton Festival during Tibetan New Year.

For the best experience at the Tibetan Opera, stay at the Songtsam Lhasa Lodge where you can enjoy uninterrupted views of Potala Palace and, if you visit during July, experience the Shoton Festival. This festival is important in Tibetan culture and an experience you won’t forget. Be entranced by the Tibetan Operas and follow it up with an even more special experience picnicking with local residents. During the picnic, make sure you try a taste of the pure yogurt of Tibet.

Gesar Epic Tradition

Intertwined in many aspects of Tibetan, Mongolian, and Tu communities in western and northern China are stories of the ancient King Gesar. These stories represent the values of aiding the weak, ridding the world of monsters, and uniting ancient tribes. To be lucky enough to witness this tradition is to be lucky enough to learn about culture, history, religion, and humanity from expert storytellers.

Regong Arts

Along the Longwu River basin in Western China, Buddhist Monks and artists of the Tibetan and Tu ethnicities keep traditional practices of the Regong Arts alive. Regong Arts consists of painting murals, sewing patchwork, and sculpting. Not only are the finished products something to marvel at but getting to see the artists at work is the most amazing part of it all.

Tibet is a powerful example of how culture, history, religion, and natural wonders adapt to changes of new times, persevere to stay connected to ancient heritage, and teach visitors the importance of it all. For a stunning, serene place to stay during your visit to Tibet, stay at one of our Songtsam Lodges. Tibet will be the reason for your visit, but Songtsam Lodges will be the reason you come back.

We recommend staying at the Songtsam Laigu Lodge if Regong Arts is a focal point of your trip. Looking out upon snow-covered glaciers, the Songtsam Laigu Lodge will take your breath away. This is our highest property, and the construction process was no easy feat, but keeping Tibetan heritage in mind was critical. The building was designed with modular prefabrication and embedded under a high cliff, hidden from sight. We are so proud of this lodge and its harmonious relationship with the surrounding village. To capture the most impressive pictures during your stay, we recommend booking a photography tour with us.

Regong Arts

Connecting with Yunnan’s Intangible Cultural Heritage

Yunnan has 5 exquisite World Heritage Sites and a perfectly balanced mix of natural beauty and man-made marvels but connecting with the people in Yunnan is the most wonderful part of every visit. To get a better sense of traditional practices and cultural insight, make sure you check out two amazing Intangible Cultural Heritage Sites during your stay.

Dragon Boat Festival

Filled with festivities like dragon races, dragon boating, the Dragon Boat Festival in Yunnan is meant to bring families closer together, find harmony between nature and humanity, and encourage creativity. Not to mention, this festival is filled with massive amounts of delicious foods for visitors to enjoy. Don’t leave without trying Zongzi, a sticky rice dumpling that is wrapped up in bamboo leaves and filled with various fillings. Celebrated on the 5^th day of the 5^th lunar month, the Dragon Boat Festival takes many forms throughout China, especially along the Yangtze River. If you’re able to come during this time, participating in this festival or simply observing it will be one of the most memorable experiences of your lifetime.

Lum Medicinal Bathing of Sowa Rigpa

A pillar of health maintenance and a practice developed by the Tibetan people is Lum Medicinal Bathing of Sowa Rigpa. In Tibetan, “Lum” is the traditional practice of bathing in a natural hot spring to ensure the health of the mind and body, and treat illness. This practice has been preserved and propelled by Tibetan people over many years, and today, it’s possible for visitors to participate. For the true experience, Lum is guided by a physician and can take place in a mineral-rich hot spring or by bathing with five medicinal nectars. These nectars consist of various herb combinations concocted by the physicians; these herbs could be things like long pepper or ginger, mixed together to treat certain ailments.

Navigating traditional ceremonies in an unfamiliar place can be a challenge, and at Songtsam we are committed to ensuring your stay offers you the experiences you’re looking for without causing stress. To experience authentic wellness practices stress-free, explore our Tibetan wellness travel offerings, such as the Tibetan Medicated-Bath Therapy experience. These experiences are carefully crafted to maintain the integrity of each ceremony and take visitors on an authentic journey.

Songtsam Tibetan Medicated-Bath Therapy

Songtsam is Committed to Preserving Traditional Heritage

Tibet and Yunnan are both places of deep cultural heritage that are kept alive because of the commitment of people to ensure traditions get passed on and teachings remain strong. Songtsam Lodges recognizes and applauds the efforts of both communities to maintain traditions, and our hope is always to act as an enhancement to the cultural traditions that exist within these communities. Our lodges alone are meant to embody peace, health, and prosperity by providing a place for our visitors to reflect, learn, and absorb the culture of these places and these people. Further, we pride ourselves on traditional ambiance and a deep connection to the cultural heritage surrounding our lodges.

Songtsam Lodges aren’t just places to stay. They are meant to holistically enhance your family's travel experience as you connect with the culture, people, and history around you. Tibet and Yunnan have rich histories and complex cultures, but Songtsam hopes to be the place you rest your head as you continue to connect more and more with these welcoming communities.