One of the largest and most famous Tibetan Buddhist monasteries in Yunnan Province, Songzanlin Monastery is a cultural wonder sitting atop a hill just 5 or so kilometers from the Old Town section of Shangri-la, China. Founded in the late 17th century by the Fifth Dalai Lama, Songzanlin Monastery is an ancient treasure brimming with shrines, colorful frescoes depicting religious stories, golden Buddha statues, warm passages, yak butter candles and Tibetan prayer wheels.

With worn, colorful prayer flags flapping in the wind and room for about 700 monks, Songzanlin Monastery is a harmonious and beautiful place that vibrates with the energy of this peaceful religion. Visit in late November you may catch a festival, like one where Buddhists from all around the region gather for religious mask dances performed by local monks. There’s another in September where artisans come to show their art works, and one more in June with dances, feasts, songs, horse traders and racing southeast of the village.

But no matter when you go, this beautiful site is something you’re going to want to stop by on your romantic honeymoon in China. Songzanlin is a peaceful wonderland sure to leave any couple in awe, as well as leaving you with the peaceful warmth of love from your immersion in the energy of this magical place.