Xiagei Tibetan Culture Village,Shangri-la

Some people would say that 8 miles from Shangri-la, there is a typical Tibetan village called Xiagei. That of course is assuming that you believe that all Tibetan villages are built to be tourist attractions. It is located along the same road that takes you to Pudacuo National Park. If you take a tour of the park or hire a private car, Xiagei is the usual stop on the way back to Shangri-la. More than twenty families live in this Tibetan village cum shopping center in traditional style homes. The village is meant to exhibit the colorful Tibetan culture, costumes, foods, music and festivals.

The Xiagei hot spring is an excellent place to relax  after hiking the rigorous trails of Shangri-La. Complete with a large pool, several hot springs and optional accommodations, Xiagei offers travelers an enjoyable retreat away from the city and old town.
   

In the village, artisans show people the history and process of making pottery, Tangka embroidery , wooden and yak bone carving and incense.
   
Statues of Sakyamuni and other figure of Tibetan Buddhism dot the landscape. Having visited Xiagei in 2007 while it was under construction. And having spent at least 5 minutes walking the grounds before departing I would give it a pass.