Shangri-la Oslo
Explore the exotic side of Oslo
Shangri-La is one of the oldest and most popular alternative stores in Oslo. This eclectic store offers a treasure trove of fascinating items from distant corners of the world. Here you can explore unique and exotic items from Indonesia, Nepal, India, Thailand, and Ecuador. Items they sell include clothes, carpets, jewelry, masks, divine statues, didgeridoos, crystal balls, pendulums, aromatic incense, handcrafted pipes, henna, mystic tarot cards, and nearly everything else associated with the New Age culture.
The store was established in 1974 by three young individuals with no prior knowledge about running a business. They started by selling imported affordable LPs directly from England and at significantly lower prices than their competitors. Due to their reasonable prices, the store became very successful and rapidly expanded to encompass an alternative bookshop, a café, and a section dedicated to Oriental items. Shangri-La emerged as the central hub and shopping haven for Oslo's alternative audience. Even today, it remains a beloved destination for those with an affinity for the exotic and the alternative.
The inspiration behind the store's name stems from the mystical realm described in James Hilton's 1933 novel, "Lost Horizon." Shangri-La has since become synonymous with an earthly paradise, specifically a mythical utopia nestled in the Himalayas, a timeless sanctuary of everlasting bliss wholly detached from the external world. This name harmonizes perfectly with the store, creating an ambiance that transports you to a far-off realm of wonder and discovery.
About this spot
Find your way with 115 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Nice place right!? There’s so much more to discover:
Discover all other hidden gems in Oslo
Vålerenga
Walking back in time
"Vålerenga" in Oslo used to be part of the working-class part of the city. It gives you a good glimpse of what life was like back in the 19th century...
by
Bendik
Bryde
Nydalen Bathing
Backyard river swimming pool
Going bathing in the river in Nydalen in Oslo is one of my favorite summer activities. Come join the locals looking for a refresher in their backyards!
by
Bendik
Bryde
Grains Bakeri
French Crepes and Cakes
Grains Bakeri is also a pastry shop that embodies a passion for food, high-quality ingredients, and handmade delicacies crafted with care by pastry chefs.
by
Synne
Dalen
Kampen Bistro
A shrine to the palate
If I could recommend only one place for food lovers to visit in Oslo, it would be Kampen Bistro. I love the atmosphere, the leisurely pace, the food...
by
Glenn
Wells
Café Fiasco
Sit back and watch the world go by
"Café Fiasco" is next to Oslo Plaza and the perfect spot for watching all kinds of stories unfold. It's also one of my favorite burger joints around.
by
Glenn
Wells
Himkok
Mini-world of many pleasures
"Himkok" Oslo is a place I find something new each time I visit - a new bar, a barber shop, a live concert... Impossible not to leave full of good spirits!
by
Glenn
Wells
View over Oslo
Munch's "The Scream" setting
The "View Over Oslo" from the side towards the plateau of Ekeberg, is much better than where most tourists go to, namely Holmenkollen, and the locals know!
by
Glenn
Wells
Oslo Mikrobryggeri
Granddaddy of 'em all!
"Oslo Mikrobryggeri bar" has been serving up beer brewed on location since 1989, and has basically stayed unchanged since. Its atmosphere is its real quality.
by
Glenn
Wells
Café Laundromat
Good, clean fun
It has an open area vibe with plenty of space so that you can be left alone to do as you please. It's also a good spot for a casual meet-up with friends.
by
Glenn
Wells
The Botanical Garden
Oslo's urban oasis
"The Botanical Garden" in Oslo is an oasis for both young & old. It's a lush, expansive area that will appeal to all visitors but particularly to children!
by
Glenn
Wells
Kampen Økologiske Barnebondegård
Fun for kids
"Kampen Økologiske Barnebondegård" just outside Oslo is a quaint farm/petting zoo oasis where kids can interact with animals and learn about farms & ecology.
by
Glenn
Wells
Heading to Oslo?
115 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
Authentic Stories by Real People
Escape the Crowd & Travel Slow 🐌
... for just €9.99
✓ 0 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
✓ 115 Insider Tips
✓ Escape the Crowds
✓ Find Spots nearby
✓ Authentic Stories
... for just €9.99
City guides by those who know the city in and out!
Our Locals' Favorite Oslo
Our team loves Oslo
Get to know our other Spotters from Oslo
As featured on:
