Shangri-La Hotel Lhasa Opens in Tibet

In May 2010, Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts announced that it would open its first hotel in the Qinghai Tibetan plateau. The Shangri-La brand was inspired by the legendary land featured in James Hilton’s 1933 novel, Lost Horizon. Resting among the highest peaks in the world, travellers will find refuge in their own personal paradise as they discover Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa. The hotel is scheduled to open in the heart of the Himalayas in the Spring of 2014 and will provide travellers unparalleled heartfelt hospitality.

Tibetan heritage at the Heart of the Hotel

Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa was carefully planned with a deep appreciation for Tibetan culture. The vibrancy of the people, culture and art is the cornerstone of the hotel’s design and concept. The hotel’s design is a conscious blend of Tibetan heritage and modern Shangri-La luxury.

The Gate

The hotel’s entrance features a grand Tibetan gate that was hand carved and painted locally. The gate, one of the largest in Lhasa, symbolises tranquillity and serenity. It shows a magnificent blend of the Shangri-La culture and Tibetan spirit. The walls are plastered in traditional Tibetan style, while earthy red arches complement the delicately carved bronze doorknockers and panels. The frame is carved with intricate details of traditional designs commonly found in Tibetan architecture. Upon entering the gate, guests will find a variety of indigenous plants, flowers and greenery as they drive up to the main entrance.

The Garden

Accessible via Level 1, the garden is a natural oasis filled with indigenous plants, flowers and trees that create oxygen. The garden is inspired by traditional Tibetan gardens called Linka. Throughout the garden, guests will find the Tibet’s Gesang flower. These brightly coloured flowers symbolise happiness and good luck. Alongside small ponds and fountains, Tibetan pavilions grace the relaxing environment.

A Warm Reception

The main entrance of the hotel faces Potala Palace and is enhanced with burning yak butter lamps and water features. These are similar to the features found at local temples and monasteries. The hand-painted porte cochere is carved with Tibetan motifs and two of the most auspicious Tibetan symbols, the lotus and the eternity knot, are etched on the ground. A floating cloud installation behind the Level 3 reception desk transforms the space into a dream-like state. Signifying unity and strength, the ancient Tibetan symbol of swirling clouds is made into a contemporary work of art using hammered oxidised bronze. The layered clouds with vast detail contrast the smooth texture of the dark brown walls.

Shangri-La Service With Tibetan Inspiration

Aside from design, the hotel has considered Tibetan customs in other aspects, as well. The hotel offers arrival experiences that include the presentation of the Kadak (a traditional ceremonial silk scarf), throwing of barley and playing of Tibetan string instruments. Guests will also be served traditional butter tea and be presented with a good luck token, a nine-eye bracelet made out of yak fur.

The Oxygen Lounge

Lhasa is the capital and largest city in Tibet and means “Place of God”. It sits on the Qinghai Tibetan plateau on the banks of the Lhasa River at an altitude of 3,650 metres above sea level, and is one of the highest inhabited regions on earth. With high altitudes in mind Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa is the first five-star international hotel to introduce an Oxygen Lounge.

The concentration of oxygen in the lounge is equivalent to sea level. The lounge is surrounded by extensive garden landscaping featuring indigenous plants to increase oxygen levels. Inside the oxygen lounge, guests can recharge and enjoy reflexology treatments, manicures and pedicures.

HOTEL LOCATION

Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa is centrally located on Norbulingka Road near numerous scenic spots, historical attractions and monasteries. It is within walking distance to Potala Palace and Norbulingka Palace, both of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

With the addition of a new highway, the hotel is just a 40-minute drive from Lhasa Gongar Airport and a ten-minute drive from the world’s highest railway station. It offers views of Potala Palace and the surrounding mountain range. Located next to traditional Tibetan housing, the hotel provides guests with authentic surroundings and an insight into the local life.