Shangri-La, formerly known as Zhongdian County, is the capital of Diqing Autonomous Prefecture. Shangri-La is 315 kilometers north of Dali and 659 kilometers away from Kunming. Shangri-la is a Tibetan word meaning land of sacredness and peace. As wonderful as the scenery is, the area has its fair share of man-made beauty as well including the elaborate Songzanlin Monastery and Feilai Temple where is the best place to appreciate holy Meili Snow Mountain.