A plane crash strands four passengers in a remote Tibetan valley, where they find the modern yet mysterious lamasery Shangri-La. While some want to escape, others embrace the valley’s harmony and modern comforts.
The story unfolds as four passengers survive a plane crash in Tibet and are escorted to Shangri-La, a lamasery combining ancient tranquility with surprising modern conveniences like central heating and musical instruments. The characters have varied reactions: Conway is fascinated by the natural beauty and philosophy, Mallinson is eager to leave, and the others adjust in different ways. The summary highlights the contrast between the harsh outside world and the peaceful, almost utopian life inside Shangri-La, emphasizing themes of refuge and acceptance.
Quick quotes
The lamasery – they find the central heating, modern bathes, musical instruments and other conveniences of the modern world there.
Conway is amazed with the nature of the valley, the local mountain Karakal, people and their mentality.
Mallinson is angry for all this situation and wants to go back home as early as possible.