Short answer
The drive takes three to three and a half hours by road, or about two hours by train to Shangri-La station plus a transfer. A hired driver is easiest and lets you stop at Tiger Leaping Gorge.
The options
The train from Lijiang to Shangri-La takes about two hours, with a station transfer at the far end. Buses run from Lijiang's bus station and take three to four hours. A hired driver takes three to three and a half hours and can stop at the gorge.
The road route climbs through the gorge country and over passes above 3,000 metres. Scenery is the reason to drive. The Shangri-La guide covers what to do on arrival.
Arrival and altitude
Shangri-La sits at 3,200 metres, higher than Lijiang. Take the first day slowly, especially if you have come straight from the basin. The train is comfortable but the station is outside town; arrange a transfer.
If you are continuing to Deqin or Meili, allow more time and check road conditions. The local transport briefing explains driver hire and costs.
Related questions
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