Dazong Lake (达宗湖), also known as Da’erzong lake (达尔宗湖), is situated approximately 10 kilometers along the Wangxia Highway in Gannan Prefecture. This serene body of water is nestled within a fault scarp formation, creating a distinctive lake basin. Perched at an altitude of around 3000 meters, the lake stretches roughly 350 meters from north to south and spans about 100 meters from east to west, forming a narrow and elongated shape. Covering an area of over 50 acres, the lake is a picturesque retreat surrounded by expansive open shores, lush meadows, and a backdrop of densely forested mountains.
The surrounding landscape of Dazong Lake is characterized by its wide-open terrain, with the lake sitting in a tranquil basin encircled by hills. These hills are blanketed with verdant forests, home to a diverse array of bird species. The lake itself teems with various fish, while the banks are adorned with wild grasses and blooming flowers, creating a mesmerizing tableau of natural beauty. The idyllic scenery, with its interplay of water and mountains, evokes a profound sense of tranquility and wonder. Dazong Lake is often described as a jewel nestled in the heart of a dense forested valley, radiating a luminous brilliance atop highland gorges.
Dazong Lake holds a special place in the hearts of the local community, revered as one of the “sacred lakes” in the area. Each June, the lake becomes a pilgrimage site for devotees who flock from various regions to pay homage. During this time, the surrounding mountains are enveloped in the fragrance of incense and the resonant sounds of conch shells reverberate through the air, creating a spiritually charged atmosphere. Pilgrims, both men and women, can be seen turning prayer wheels and chanting scriptures as they circumambulate the lake three times in a clockwise direction. They then throw offerings into the lake, traditionally contained in long, cylindrical cloth bags filled with barley, seeking blessings for abundant harvests and the well-being of both people and livestock.
The left bank of Dazong Lake offers a relatively gentle slope, with a well-maintained path that allows easy access. However, as one ventures to the right side of the lake, the terrain becomes more rugged and the path transforms into a barely visible trail amidst dense shrubbery. This side of the lake features a cement platform where pilgrims present their offerings to the sacred lake. The lake’s surface is often dotted with numerous floating cylindrical cloth bags, each containing offerings such as barley, a testament to the enduring cultural practices of the local people.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 1 hour |
| Ticket Price | 20 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 8.00 – 17.00 |
| Telephone Number | 0086-0941-8225353 |
Location and Transportation
Dazong Lake is located in Dazong Village, Wanggetang Township, Xiahe County, Gannan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Gansu Province, China. It is approximately 17 kilometers from Xiahe County town. Currently, there is no public transportation to Dazong Lake. Visitors can take a taxi or hire a private car to reach the lake. The cost of hiring a private car from Xiahe County is approximately 150 yuan.
