In James Hilton’s novel Lost Horizon, the mystical Shangri La was located in a valley called the Valley of the Blue Moon. Within Shangri La, the Pond of the Blue Moon is the area chosen to reflect the original Shangri-La gardens of Lutcher Stark, who was inspired by Hilton’s novel. Stark used the reflection of blooming azaleas in Ruby Lake to provide overwhelming beauty for his visitors. In the new Shangri La, the Pond of the Blue Moon will provide a reflection pool for more than 41 varieties of azaleas. In addition, a structure called the Cypress Gate adds additional interest by framing the beauty of this garden between 60-foot cypress logs salvaged from the destruction caused by Hurricane Rita.
Colorful container and aquatic plants border the cypress timber walk to the Garden Gate structure. Plants include lotus, water lilies, papyrus, and seasonal color items in the containers.