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At Qianhu Mountain, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities amid its stunning natural beauty. Recommended activities include:
About 50 kilometers south of Shangri-La along the Yunnan-Tibet Highway lies Qianhu Mountain, nestled in Tuanjie Village, Xiaozhongdian Township. Called "Lamdongcuo" in Tibetan, it means "Goddess Thousand Lakes" or "Fairy Thousand Lakes." Legend has it that a fairy, while dressing here, accidentally lost her mirror, and the shattered mirror scattered across the mountains, forming numerous lakes.
There are nearly 300 alpine lakes of various sizes on Qianhu Mountain, with Sanbi Lake and Dahai Lake as the center. They are distributed at an altitude of 3,800 to 4,000 meters. It can be said to be the place with the highest concentration of alpine lakes in Yunnan.
From May to June every year, the azalea sea is an intoxicating sight, and from September to October, it is a colorful forest, turning Qianhu Mountain into a world of flowers, a sea of flowers, and a fairyland on earth, forming a great natural wonder.
Recommended play time: 1-3 hours
20 yuan/person
Open all year round
Qianhu Mountain is a sacred site in Yunnan, known for its natural beauty and cultural significance. It is home to ancient temples and religious shrines, attracting both pilgrims and nature enthusiasts. The area has been a part of local folklore and serves as a site for various religious practices.
Qianhu Mountain is located in Zhongdian (Shangri-La), Yunnan. The easiest way to get there is by taxi or private car from Zhongdian city center. Public transportation options are limited, so it is recommended to arrange a ride in advance.
Qianhu Mountain is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is pleasant. Mornings and late afternoons are ideal for hiking and avoiding the midday heat and crowds.
The entrance fee is typically around 30-50 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the mountain. Online booking is not available for this attraction.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance. However, if visiting during peak tourist seasons, it is advisable to arrive early to avoid long wait times.
To fully explore Qianhu Mountain, including hiking, visiting temples, and enjoying the scenic views, around 3 to 4 hours is recommended. Visitors who wish to take more time exploring the area can easily spend a half-day.
The must-see highlights at Qianhu Mountain include:
Guided tours are available, and local guides can provide in-depth knowledge of the area's history and culture. Audio guides are not available, so hiring a guide is recommended for a more enriching experience.
The best photography spots include:
Start at the base and hike up the main trail toward the summit. Along the way, stop at the temples and other cultural sites. At the summit, enjoy the views before descending via a different route that passes through some of the best natural spots on the mountain.
Night visits and light shows are not offered at Qianhu Mountain. However, evening walks around the base of the mountain or nearby lakes can offer a peaceful experience with beautiful sunset views.
Qianhu Mountain can get busy during weekends and holidays, especially in the spring and autumn months. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays or in the early morning hours before the peak tourist rush.
Basic facilities are available at Qianhu Mountain, including toilets and rest areas along the hiking trails. There are small shops near the entrance selling snacks and drinks. It is recommended to bring sufficient water and snacks for the hike.
Qianhu Mountain involves hiking, which may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors. The terrain is uneven and may not be accessible for strollers or wheelchairs. Children can enjoy the area, but supervision is advised during hikes.
Cash is required for purchasing tickets, but mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at the entrance and some small shops near the base.
There are no large restaurants or cafes directly inside Qianhu Mountain, but visitors can find local eateries in Zhongdian city, where traditional Yunnanese cuisine is available.
Vegetarian food options are available in Zhongdian city, and halal options can be found in local restaurants catering to diverse dietary needs.
There are several hotels in Zhongdian city, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Staying in Zhongdian provides easy access to Qianhu Mountain for a day trip.
Nearby attractions include the Songzanlin Monastery and the Pudacuo National Park. These can be easily combined with a visit to Qianhu Mountain in a single day trip from Zhongdian.
There are small souvenir shops near the base of Qianhu Mountain, selling items such as Yunnan tea, Tibetan handicrafts, and traditional jewelry.
After visiting Qianhu Mountain, taxis and private cars are the best options for continuing your trip. Local buses can also connect you to nearby attractions like the Songzanlin Monastery.
