Shangri-La is a picturesque town and was selected as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003, and located in northwest Yunnan, southwest of China. Yunnan province is one of the most important living areas for minority ethnic groups in China. In Tibetan: Shangri-La means the moon and the sun in the heart; it is an ideal place to live. This town is a peaceful retreat favoured by tourists, locals and expats. It is a place where people and nature coexist.

Ecotourism and the purpose of Yunnan Mountain Handicraft Center

In Shangri-La the various ethnic groups live in harmony. They use the resources of nature to produce unique local handicrafts for tourists to purchase. The profit that is made from the handicraft turns into an income for the local artisans. However, some of the workers from the rural villages still can not benefit from the tourism industry; therefore the Yunnan Mountain Handicraft Centerwas set up. It is a non-profit, community based organization which supports the local artisans. The handicraft center is located in one of the loveliest Tibetan towns -- DuKeZhong old town. It provides a chance for the artisans to sell their handicrafts to the tourists. The revenue from selling the handicrafts will be re-invested into projects to promote the local culture heritage, handicrafts and eco-tourism.

Projects in process

Yak Butter Tea Demonstration

Yak butter tea is a traditional drink in Shangri-La. The project attracts many visitors to the center to see the process and taste the yak butter tea.

Volunteer Program

The volunteer program is an important part of the Yunnan MountainHandicraft Center. Volunteers come from China and all over the world. They independently fund themselves, and mainly help projects to do with teaching, culture heritage and eco-tourism.

Shangri-La community library

At the end of 2008, the community library within the center opened. It provides more then 2000 books for the local community. People can support the center by donating their books.

There is a family atmosphere at the center, we welcome everyone to come to Shangri-La, and to pay us a visit at the center. You can also help us by getting involved through volunteering and donations. We welcome people who have the passion to join us!

For more information, please contact

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