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Shangri-La Stone Village In North Carolina Just Might Be The Strangest Tourist Trap Yet

Shangri-La Stone Village in Prospect Hill, North Carolina, is a unique miniature stone village created by Henry Warren that attracts tourists for its detailed and peculiar structures.

Published Jan 21, 2021

Written by 

Marla Stein

Shangri-La Stone Village is truly one-of-a-kind. This miniature stone village is both a strange and unique attraction that tourists make a point to check out if they're visiting Prospect Hill, North Carolina.

Each structure in this gnome-size village is made with stone blasted by Henry Warren, the town's founder. He literally left no stone unturned when he started building the tiny village in 1968 - after he became a retired tobacco farmer. Until his passing in 1977, Mr. Warren grew the town to 27+ structures and and also made an impressive stone path.

Since the town is so "pint-size", don't get trapped into planning an entire day here. Shangri-La Stone Village is a great stop as part of a a bigger day trip.

Welcome to Shangri-La Stone Village!

A stone monument with a plaque reading "Shangri-La" and a quote about friendship, dated 1972.
flickr/bobistraveling

To reach this peculiar tourist attraction, head to 11535 NC-86 S, Prospect Hill, NC 27314.

Prospect Hill is a small unincorporated town and about a 35-minute ride to Durham.

A vintage postcard depicting cows by a river, surrounded by flowers and greenery, with "Greetings from Prospect Hill, N.C." text.
flickr/UNC Libraries Commons

Visitors are invited to sign a guest book and leave little trinkets when they stop by to peek around Shangri-la Stone Village.

A miniature stone building with a red-trimmed roof and decorative windows, set in a landscaped area.
flickr/bobistraveling

The impressive art even includes a water tower!

Aerial view of a whimsical stone village with unique buildings and a water tower, surrounded by greenery.
flickr/bobistraveling

You'll also notice a library, bank, gym, and hotel when you wander around the tiny village.

The level of detail that went into each piece is so impressive.

A miniature village featuring stone buildings with red accents, surrounded by grassy areas and small structures.
flickr/bobistraveling

Mr. Warren blasted stone from his own property to make each structure in the village.

The trees in the background add to the authenticity of the town; especially during the change of seasons.

A miniature village with stone buildings and red accents, set in a grassy area under trees.
flickr/bobistraveling

It's not every day that you see miniature replicas of Chinese buildings and structures.

A miniature village with stone buildings, a water tower, and a grassy area, set in a rural landscape.
flickr/bobistraveling

Remember to bring your camera when you come explore the village!

So, are you ready to be transported to another world and visit Shangri-La Stone Village? If you're curious to check out this strange and fascinating tourist destination, click here for directions.

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