Banyan Tree Ringha

Behind every myth is at least a grain of truth — a comforting thought for someone in search of James Hilton's evasive Shangri-La. In his acclaimed novel "Lost Horizon" Hilton masterfully describes a distant and secluded hideaway of great beauty and peacefulness, a remote paradise on earth hidden in a Tibetan valley of snow-capped mountains, where harmony reigns, where the gods walk among the people, and where man and nature embrace. A utopian dream perhaps or surprisingly close to reality?

Banyan Tree Ringha is found in China's Yunnan province, a mountainous area that has been designated as the official Shangri-La by the Chinese government and is part of Greater Tibet, both historically and culturally. At 3,200 meters above sea level, the setting is spectacular with day-trips and overnight excursions taking you to divine mountain peaks touched by the clouds, awe-inspiring ridges, deep canyons, torrential rivers, mystical plateaus, endless valleys, crystal-clear streams and the most tranquil of lakes.

In true Banyan Tree style, the resort architecture reflects the local Tibetan culture. All 32 spacious lodges and suites are traditional Tibetan farmhouses with intricate woodcarvings, smoky fireplaces and wooden balconies that have valley or river views. Impressive pine pillars add enormous character to both the interior and exterior of each house. And of course, there is the heavenly Banyan Tree Spa.

Lodges
Ringha Lodge
When traveling through Shangri-La, nothing compares with calling an authentic Tibetan farmhouse your home. Ringha Lodge was built as the private residence of a Tibetan villager, his family and his livestock; it was taken apart, reassembled in its present location and renovated to the highest specifications preserving its historic charm. It’s a personal hideaway that’s ideal for a family or group of four, with two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a wonderfully atmospheric living area and an enchanting courtyard.

Tibetan Spa Suite
After a day’s trekking in the mountains there is nothing more divine than returning to the resort and pampering yourself with an indulgent spa treatment in the lazy comfort of your own suite. With a luxurious wooden bathtub and private couple spa treatment room, this spacious one bedroom suite offers the ultimate in rejuvenation.

Tibetan Lodge
In true Banyan Tree style, Ringha's architecture evokes a sense of place and reflects the local Tibetan culture. All lodges are traditional Tibetan farmhouses that have been painstakingly re-built and feature intricate woodcarvings, cozy fireplaces and wooden balconies that have valley or river views. Impressive pine pillars add enormous character to the two-bedroom lodge.

Tibetan Suite
Savor the rustic charm of the one-bedroom Tibetan Suite, which blends the cozy setting of a Tibetan cottage in the countryside with contemporary colors and furnishings. It's the perfect retreat after a day of cultural and spiritual discovery. You can admire the scenery from your private terrace or indulge in a rejuvenating bath in the handcrafted wooden hot tub of the bathroom.

Tours
Ringha Treks
At Banyan Tree Ringha, we invite you to experience the remote Tibetan paradise that James Hilton so masterfully described in his acclaimed novel “Lost Horizon”, a distant and secluded hideaway of great beauty and peacefulness, where harmony reigns, the gods walk among the people, and man and nature embrace!Start your journey of discovery with our three 4 Wheel Drive tours and three adventure treks, which are done either on foot or horseback:Treks are accompanied by an experienced guide, who will share his knowledge and love for Tibetan culture, religion, village life and the local flora and fauna with you.

Reservations
To insure availability, we suggest that you book your trek well in advance. Reservations are confirmed on a first come, first served basis. Choose an alternate trek in case your first choice is taken.Private Tours
Private tours are available for guests who desire to proceed with their own tour without outsiders joining (limited to 1 to 4 guests per private group). Tours are subject to guide availability and weather conditions. A surcharge applies.

Banyan Tree Spa
Step into the luxurious and charming Banyan Tree Spa in the Tibetan valley of Ringha. Unwind in this intimate spa retreat, which presents the epitome of romantic serenity coupled with exotic sensuality and brims with the wonders of nature. Awaken your senses to the aroma of essential oils and the soft touch of our professionally trained spa therapists.Take in the goodness of special spa treatments that have been inspired by sacred Himalayan beliefs, Chinese Tui Na and the ancient Chinese Five Elements philosophy. At Banyan Tree Spa, you may just find a true sense of Shangri-La.

Dining
Llamo
In the Tibetan language, "llamo" refers to a communal place where friends, family and neighbors gather to enjoy opera, plays, festivals and good food together. At Banyan Tree Ringha, Llamo Restaurant sets the stage for dining in a congenial atmosphere with a variety of Chinese and Western set meals for breakfast and dinner. Try one of the special local liquors with your food.

Chang Sa
Hotpots and steamboats are some of the culinary delights of Yunnan province, and Chang Sa Bar & Restaurant is a wonderful place to sample both. This Tibetan dining space offers heavy meals as well as light snacks and a collection of Chinese rice wines, sakes, hard liquors and other alcoholic beverages before and after dinner.

Jakhang
Few countries in the world have perfected the art of tea appreciation as well as China, where hundreds of varieties of tea are grown in the different provinces. Adjourn to the Tea House, Jakhang, to learn about the wide and fascinating array of tealeaves, buds and brews; and enjoy some of the finest selections by the fireplace.

In-Suite Dining
If you wish to eat in your suite or lodge, choose from our In-Suite Dining menu. We can set up hotpots and steamboats in your room as well as BBQ, satay and teriyaki grills in your private courtyard garden.