Driven by some unknown force, we find ourselves back here again, in the land known as "Shangri-La".

And every journey... creates countless memories for us without us even realizing it. Until the day we reminisce about it again, I'm thinking about the old trip with friends from the day we backpacked across countries, taking a bus from Thailand through Laos, changing buses all the way to China until we reached our dream destination in Shangri-La. And I'm thinking about the high mountains covered in snow, that is Shika Snow Mountain or what we know as The Valley of Blue Moon.

In the morning, we left our accommodation in Shangri-La city center by a small van that we had arranged the day before. After a short drive, we reached the cable car station. Due to the long distance, we had to take two cable cars instead of one. The scenery gradually changed as we ascended, with green trees giving way to white snow and the air becoming increasingly colder. Soon, the magnificent peaks of the mountains appeared before our eyes. Although the sky was not completely clear that day, it still revealed the vastness of the mountains from time to time. It was truly a breathtaking sight. (The ticket price, including round-trip cable car rides, was 220 yuan.)

At an altitude of over 4,000 meters, the temperature is extremely low, the air pressure is low, and the oxygen content is also low. It is necessary to move slowly and avoid rushing, as this can easily lead to fatigue, shortness of breath, and an increased risk of altitude sickness. However, we have oxygen cans as a precaution, and most importantly, we have brought water and snacks, which are essential.

"The colorful prayer flags fluttering against the backdrop of pristine white snow create a breathtaking sight. Tibetans believe that the wind carries the prayers inscribed on the flags, bringing good fortune, smooth sailing, and safety."

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One thing that makes each place you travel to more beautiful and memorable is the friendship of your fellow travelers. No matter how long the journey, your fellow travelers will always make the time shorter.

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• For those who enjoy adventure, you can drive from Thailand to Shangri-La. The route we used starts from Chiang Khong District, Chiang Rai Province, passes through Laos, enters China, Kunming, Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La.
• Another route we have used starts from the Thai-Lao Friendship Bridge, Nong Khai Province, enters Vientiane, Lao PDR, then takes an international bus from Vientiane to China, stopping by Xishuangbanna or Jinghong, and then taking a bus to Dali, Lijiang, and Shangri-La. However, this route takes longer. Alternatively, you can take a plane to Kunming and then take a bus or plane to Shangri-La, depending on your convenience and budget. The total cost of the trip is around ten thousand baht, depending on the duration and mode of transportation.