Diqing Shangri-La Airport Overview

Diqing Shangri-La Airport (DIG) serves Shangri-La, the county-level city once known as Zhongdian, in the Dêqên Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture of northwest Yunnan, China. It opened to passenger flights in 1999 and is the main air link to this high Tibetan plateau region. You may see it listed as Diqing Airport or Shangri-La Airport.

Where Diqing Shangri-La Airport Is

The airport lies about 5 km southwest of Shangri-La's city centre. Getting into town takes only a short drive, which is welcome after a flight into thin mountain air.

High Altitude at Shangri-La Airport

At roughly 3,280 metres above sea level, this is a high-plateau airport. Many travellers feel the altitude as soon as they step off the plane. Take it slowly on arrival, drink plenty of water and avoid heavy exertion on the first day.

Terminal and Facilities at Diqing Shangri-La Airport

A single passenger terminal handles all flights, with check-in counters, a small selection of food outlets and waiting areas. The layout is simple, so moving from the gate to the arrivals hall is quick.

Airlines and Routes from Diqing Shangri-La

Scheduled domestic flights link Shangri-La with Kunming, the provincial capital, as well as Chengdu, Lhasa, Chongqing, Guangzhou, Shanghai and Beijing. Frequencies can rise in the main travel season and drop in winter, so check the timetable for your dates. Most onward connections run through Kunming or Chengdu.

Getting from the Airport to Shangri-La

Taxis wait outside the terminal and are the most convenient choice. Many hotels and guesthouses in the old town can also arrange a pick-up if you ask in advance.

Sights Around Shangri-La

Dukezong Old Town is the heart of Shangri-La, with Tibetan-style wooden houses and prayer flags. Nearby, Songzanlin Monastery, also called Ganden Sumtseling, is a major Tibetan Buddhist site. Pudacuo National Park, with its lakes and meadows, lies east of the city.

Travel Tips for Diqing Shangri-La Airport

• Bring warm layers, even in summer; evenings at this altitude are cold.
• Carry your passport or Chinese ID for check-in and security.
• Mountain weather can affect flights, so leave slack in tight connections.

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