Abuji Co: A Paradise on Earth!

The two most handsome men in Shangri-La's Abuji Co, without a doubt. Normally, I'm not much of an outdoor enthusiast, but when I heard some guys at the hostel talking about their trek to Abuji Co, I thought to myself, "If they can do it, why can't I?" The next day, two guys from Guangzhou signed up for the trek, and I figured since I was already in Shangri-La, where travelers from both China and abroad come to explore the highlands and admire the paradise-like scenery, I might as well give it a shot. After spending a few days acclimating to the altitude, I decided I was ready and asked the hostel owner to sign me up for the trek. Other travelers came to Shangri-La fully equipped for trekking, but as a complete novice, I approached it with the same mindset as climbing Yangmingshan, completely unprepared. Thankfully, I was staying at a professional trekking hostel. The owner handed me three chocolate bars, some compressed biscuits, water, and even lent me trekking poles and a raincoat. The best part about staying at a trekking hostel is that even though I knew nothing about Shangri-La, the owner (a local) and the other guests were either professionals or well-prepared travelers. Everyone was eager to share their experiences and help each other out. Despite not even knowing how to adjust trekking poles, I confidently signed up and got ready to go. And just like that, I made a spontaneous decision to embark on this adventure. As someone who doesn't exercise much, I found myself heading up the mountain. After a restless night, I caught up on sleep during the car ride to the starting point. Once we arrived, I was practically hiking while half-asleep. But soon, I realized—oh, this is actually quite tiring, and I was struggling to keep up. The most handsome guide, Brother Larong, said, "Let me carry your backpack for you. It'll make it a bit easier." I replied, "No need! I can still manage." Eventually, I couldn't go on, and Brother Larong insisted on carrying my backpack. Thank goodness for this amazing guide! Feeling a bit embarrassed (as my backpack was now on his back), I followed the group to the first rest stop. The temperature gradually dropped. I sweated while walking, took off my jacket, and put it back on once it dried and I felt cold again. The trek required constant adjustments. The scenery along the way was truly otherworldly—fallen logs, flowing streams, towering cedar trees (I think 🤣), occasional shrubs, and grassy slopes. It was nothing short of paradise! At the first rest stop, we warmed ourselves by the fire and enjoyed some naan bread. The butter tea tasted especially good at that moment! I said, "I can't go on; I need to take the car," and activated my "superpower mode." Enter the highland Daniel Wu (or was it Andrew Wu?), a man so cool he could drive an off-road vehicle to pick up exhausted hikers. This guy was amazing! The whole ride, we (the passengers, me, and another lady) couldn't stop laughing. The off-road ride was so much fun! The scenery along the way was stunning, and the vehicle felt like an amusement park ride. Not exactly thrilling, but definitely entertaining 😄. With our "superpower mode" activated, we made it to the summit. Thankfully, the hostel owner had advised me to bring a raincoat. It was freezing at the top, and my hands were ice-cold. After snapping a few photos, I quickly shoved my hands into my pockets. The fog at the summit would roll in and out every 30 seconds, and we enjoyed the beauty of the peak amidst this ever-changing mist. On the way down, I practically flew. After all, I hadn't exerted much energy on the way up. The highland Daniel Wu drove a few exhausted ladies down the mountain, passing by us. The incredible guide, Brother Larong, joked about how impressive my downhill speed was. I replied, "How about I carry your backpack this time? 🤣" If you visit Shangri-La, not trekking would be a missed opportunity. Even with just the experience of climbing Yangmingshan, you can still make it. After all, I did! Staying at Dan She Hostel means you won't miss out on many interesting experiences, and not taking a ride in the highland Daniel Wu's off-road vehicle would be a loss of fun 🤣! Choosing the best guide, Brother Larong, is a surefire decision. After all, this man carried my backpack for 3.8 kilometers, while I activated my "superpower mode" for the remaining 17 kilometers 🤣🤣🤣. Wishing everyone a wonderful trip to Shangri-La! Find a route that inspires you and experience paradise on earth!