In Searching for Shangri-la explorer and documentary film director Laurence Brahm asks: what is Shangri-la, and where could it possibly be located?

As the 21st Century dawned, a debate arose in western China among different regions each claiming to be the historical location of Shangri-la. Cities like Dali, Lijiang, and Zhongdian, vied with Lhasa, Yushu and Xiahe for the designation, all claiming to be the original Shangri-la. Ironically, there was no higher motivation in competing for the title, other than luring tourist dollars.

Nevertheless, the question had finally been put on the table:

Where is the real Shangri-la?

Determined to find out, Laurence Brahm led three expeditions to search for the mythical kingdom. The expeditions succeeded in revealing the origin of the Shangri-la myth, while unlocking mysteries of Shangri-la in our own subconscious.