My trip to Shanghai is something I cherish the most. Having explored a couple of places in China, what caught my attention was Shanghai’s amalgamation of eastern and western culture which led the foundation of the global financial and technological hub. I truly believe that Shanghai should be on every travelers’ bucket list and that motivated me to pen this blog. I wanted to share my experience and provide as many details as possible which will help you plan your Shanghai trip.
So, first things first…
How to reach Shanghai
It takes approx. 9-10 hrs. flight from India and carriers that will take you there are – Cathay Pacific Airways, Air India, China Eastern
Most of the flights arrive at Pudong International Airport (PVG). Domestic flights operate from Hongqiao International Airport (SHA) which caters to domestic traffic.
Also read: Travel Plans for Indian Vacation
Best time to visit Shanghai:
The ideal time to plan your trip to Shanghai will be Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November). The weather in Shanghai remains relatively pleasant.
Best Hotel in Shanghai:
Shanghai offers a plethora of options for accommodation. My personal preference would be Sofitel Shanghai Hyland because that for me is the best hotel in Shanghai. I was in luck, so I managed to get a room with a fantastic view of the city!!!
Getting around the city:
Shanghai’s metro network (676kms long & 23+ lines counting…) is the best & cheapest way to travel to any part of the city. Base fare starts from 3 RMB. (Do Check The Current Exchange Rate).
Places to eat in Shanghai:
Not really a big fan of Chinese food. However, if you are keen on trying – Yang’s Fry Dumplings, El Willy’s tasty tapas, Co. Cheese Melt Bar for gourmet toasties. If you miss Desi food, head out to – The Indian Kitchen at Soho & Kebabs on the grill.
Dear Vegetarian friends, you might be out of options so would advise carrying RTE.
Things to do in Shanghai:
The Bund
Shanghai’s own promenade running a mile, along the western bank of the Huangpu River. With old French buildings with Gothic, Neoclassical architecture & the other side of the river faces the modern glittering skyscrapers of Lujiazui in Pudong District. A splendid place for a stroll, be it Day or Night!
AP Plaza
One of Shanghai’s truly great fake markets, you will find almost-real Louis Vuitton or Gucci handbags for around 200-250RMB. Market rules apply here, so haggle hard.
Pro -Tip: start at 10 percent of the asking price and never pay more than 30 percent of the original price
Shanghai Tower
The 2nd tallest skyscraper in the world at 2073 ft gives a panoramic view of the whole city. The observatory is on the 118th floor & high-speed elevators will take you to the top at 75km/hr. Crazy!!!
Shanghai Maglev Train (SMT)
34.2 km in under 7 mins! Yes, SMT will let you zipline from Longyang Road to Pudong International airport at 300-420 km/hr. Speaking of convenience 😊
Jade Buddha Temple
This temple houses the Recumbent & Reclining Buddhas carved out of creamy crystal jade. Well, China is known for its Jades. Hallways with red lanterns & bookended with bonsai trees with 7000 Dazang sutras in Jade tower are a treat to the eyes!!!
Shanghai Zoo
The Shanghai zoo offers a great way to see most of the Wildlife unique to China alone (like Giant Pandas 😊). It houses & exhibits more than 6000 animals & a total of 100,000 trees covering an area of 100,000 sqm. Wow!!! 😊
Shanghai French Concession
Leafy boulevards, enchanting streets, quaint cafes, colorful doorways & stylish boutiques make it one of the trendiest of the pieces. When it comes to charm, French Concession is your place!!!
Other Essential Things which you must not forget to make your life easier:
- Carry a translator app wherever you go. Hardly anyone speaks English.
- Also, carry Universal Travel adapter as power sockets are different than India.
- Winters can get awfully cold, get your jackets & gloves on 😊
- Download Didi, WeChat, Alipay as apps like Uber, FB & WhatsApp are banned in China.
So, that’s all folks. Hope you find this blog useful.
Happy Travelling!
Also read: Explore India with Instant travel plans
About Abhishek
Hello! I am Abhishek. An Engineer by accident, so MBA by choice obviously 😊 Consultant by profession, avid reader and traveler by passion
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