Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts will bring its world renowned hospitality to the highest region on earth with the debut of a 289-room urban retreat in Tibet
Few places in the world are as magical as Lhasa, the administrative capital of Tibet. Set on a plateau soaring 3,650 metres above sea level, the city is encircled by the fabled Himalayan mountains, glaciers and desert-like landscapes. This intriguing destination will become home to Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts’ newest property, the 289-room Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa, which opens on 17 April, 2014.
Welcoming travellers from afar, Shangri-La Hotel, Lhasa will be a luxurious home base for those wishing to explore dramatic scenery and some of the world’s most culturally significant Buddhist sites, including World Heritage Sites such as the Potala Palace, Jokhang Temple, Sera Monastery and Norbulingka Palace. The hotel is conveniently located within walking distance to Potala Palace and Norbulingka Palace.
A Warm Welcome Awaits
Guests will approach the hotel through a grand entrance gate, which opens onto an expansive plaza and is inspired by traditional Tibetan architecture, as is the hotel’s exterior. The unique Tibetan culture was the reference for the property’s harmonious, contemporary interiors – the heart of which is Lodgers Lounge.
The focal point of the lounge is a dramatic 6.5 metre bell-like chandelier draped in flowing red fabric which is reminiscent of a prayer wheel. Dressed in warm tones and earthy colours drawn from Thangkas (Tibetan paintings), high ceilings and windows surrounding the lounge let in light and fresh air, and guests can enjoy snacks and beverages inside or on the outdoor patio. To the right of the lounge is the Front Desk, where a floating cloud installation behind Reception creates a dream-like space. Signifying unity and strength, the ancient Tibetan symbol of swirling clouds are made into a contemporary work of art by using hammered oxidized bronze.
Paradise on Earth
The Shangri-La brand was inspired by the mythical paradise found in James Hilton’s novel, Lost Horizon. True in spirit to that imaginary Shangri-La, the hotel offers guests Shangri-La’s heartfelt hospitality and a full array of facilities and luxurious comforts, from a range of dining venues and recreational facilities, to spacious guestrooms and elegant meeting and event spaces.
The hotel’s Horizon Club Lounge caters to the full range of travellers’ needs, providing destination information, arranging tours and transportation as well as offering business services.
Visitors to Lhasa are advised to acclimate to the high altitude before exploring widely. To refresh and assist guests in doing so, the hotel has built the first oxygen lounge to be found in a hotel in Lhasa. Guests can relax and enjoy reflexology treatments there while overlooking the hotel’s landscaped garden. Two stunning pavilions built by Tibetan craftsmen using bronzeware, lacquer, murals and carvings anchor the landscape. In addition to the oxygen lounge, a spa, fully equipped gym, an indoor swimming pool, and a complete clinic with professional staff are located onsite.
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