As the 21st Century dawned, in the year 2000, 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 this title, other than luring tourist dollars.

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

Where is the real Shangri-la?

Determined to discover origins rooted behind the myth, Laurence Brahm launched the “Searching for Shangri-la” Expeditions Project in 2002.

Altogether four expeditions were launched, reaching some of the most remote places on the Tibetan plateau. Shambhala Studio was established to document the journeys.

The Shambhala Studio is dedicated to producing documentary features on aspects of the Himalayas, to explore concepts of science, climate, traditions, and philosophy of this amazingly diverse, yet ecologically fragile region.

Shambhala Studio has office and production facilities in both Beijing and Kathmandu. In Beijing we have two studios: one in central Beijing located in a traditional courtyard house in a historic neighborhood; the other located in the mountains beside the Great Wall. In Kathmandu our studio is located within a short walk of the Boudha Stupa in Boudhanath, Kathmandu.

In 2015, Laurence Brahm was elected Fellow International to the New York Explorer’s Club. In 2016, the Searching for Shangri-la Expeditions Project received the National Geographic Air and Water Conservation Award, and Laurence Brahm became a recognized National Geographic explorer. He is listed on Wikipedia as one of 296 American Explorers. Cinematographer Dou Yan, also a recognized National Geographic explorer is China’s most experienced cinematographer for subject matter on the Tibetan plateau.