Shangri La

Enjoy it while visiting Honolulu - Oahu in Hawaii

Shangri La

Nestled near Diamond Head State Monument, this lavish oceanfront residence was once the winter retreat of Doris Duke, a generous philanthropist and heiress to the American tobacco fortune. Today, the home has been transformed into a captivating museum showcasing Islamic art, culture, and design. Starting in 1937, Duke embarked on a decades-long project to adorn the walls and rooms with a remarkable collection of art and furniture from Egypt, India, Morocco, Spain, Syria, and Turkey. With approximately 4,500 objects amassed throughout her lifetime, you now have the opportunity to explore her extraordinary home during a guided tour.

If you have an appreciation for art, a visit to Shangri La is a must. However, even if you’re just a little curious about the mysterious heiress, it’s worth stopping by her home. Recent visitors have been thoroughly impressed with the museum, describing its collection as “unbelievable” and definitely worth seeing. Many people also highlight the importance of not overlooking the property itself, which has drawn comparisons to magnificent estates like Topkapi Palace in Istanbul and the Taj Mahal in Agra, India.