Qianhu Mountain (千湖山), also known as Thousand-Lake Mountain, is a picturesque gem nestled in the heart of Shangri-La, Yunnan Province, China. Known as “Lamudongcuo” in Tibetan, meaning “Thousand Lakes Goddess,” this natural wonder is renowned for its pristine landscapes and the concentration of high-altitude lakes within the Jinsha River Basin.
Situated at elevations ranging from 3,900 to 4,000 meters above sea level, the lakes of Qianhu Mountain, centered around the Three Blue Lakes and the Great Black Lake, form one of the most densely populated high-altitude lake regions in Yunnan. These lakes boast a variety of shapes and sizes, some mirror-like and circular, others elongated like swimming fish. Some are expansive and flat, while others are secluded and tranquil. Some lakes curve around mountain valleys, while others are nestled among rhododendron bushes or scattered like pearls in a grassy meadow. Their presence adds immeasurable charm and mystique to the region.
Surrounded by pristine virgin forests dominated by towering fir and spruce trees, the shores of Qianhu Mountain are adorned with lush rhododendron forests, featuring varieties such as yellow, red, and white rhododendrons, with vibrant, oversized blossoms. The months of May and June transform the landscape into a mesmerizing sea of rhododendron blooms, captivating visitors with their beauty. As autumn approaches, the grasslands begin their seasonal transition, with herds of cattle and sheep gradually descending from the high mountain pastures. Meanwhile, plants such as the five-leaf maple and large-fruited redwood adorn themselves in vivid autumnal hues, painting Qianhu Mountain in a riot of colors.
Legend has it that at Qianhu Mountain, one must not raise their voice or cause disturbance, as it disrupts the natural ecological balance, leading even a clear day to be marred by rain or hail if one were to shout loudly. In the eyes of the Tibetan people, the lakes are sacred and should not be desecrated; hence, one must refrain from touching the water or raising one’s voice in loud exclamation.
Basic Information
| Estimated Length of Tour | 3 hours |
| Ticket Price | Admission: 20 RMB Guide: 100 – 160 RMB |
| Opening Hours | 24 hours a day throughout the year |
Location and Transportation
Qianhu Mountain is located in Tuanjie Village, Xiaozhongdian Town, within the Shangri-La City of Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. The area encompasses parts of both Xiaozhongdian Town and Shangjiang Township. It is approximately 50 kilometers south of Shangri-La City along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway. Visitors can arrange for a private car from Xiaozhongdian for around 400 yuan.
