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Cloud Lake is a beautiful spot for nature lovers and photographers. Enjoy boat rides, explore scenic walking trails, or simply relax by the water. The surrounding natural beauty makes it perfect for outdoor activities like picnics, bird watching, and photography. The lake is also known for its serene atmosphere, ideal for unwinding.
Yunhu National Forest Park is located in Mianzhu City, Sichuan Province. It is named after the alpine lake in the center of the park, which is embedded in thousands of acres of forest.
Since the discovery of large areas of the national first-class protected native species Davidia involucrata and the national second-class protected plant Davidia involucrata in the forest area in 2004, it has attracted many visits from biological experts and scholars from all over the country and has received widespread attention from all walks of life.
Yunhu National Forest Park is located in the northwestern mountainous area of the Sichuan Basin, a branch of the Jiuding Mountain range of the Longmen Mountains. Its highest temperature is 25.6°C in late July, and its lowest is -9.6°C in late January. With abundant rainfall, frequent clouds and fog, it possesses a unique forest microclimate.
Davidia involucrata
The dove tree, also known as Davidia involucrata, is a first-class national protected plant and a rare ornamental tree species found worldwide. It is endemic to China. The tree boasts a tall, upright trunk, thick, broad leaves, and a graceful, flowing posture. Its flowers are particularly unique and beautiful, blooming from April to May each year. The flowers of the Davidia involucrata lack petals. Instead, they form a head-like inflorescence composed of numerous male flowers, culminating in a bisexual flower. Below the inflorescence are two large bracts. When in bloom, the bracts are pure white, resembling pigeon wings. The purple-red inflorescence resembles a pigeon's head, and the yellow-green stigma resembles a pigeon's beak. Each Davidia involucrata flower resembles a white dove, complete with eyes and beak. Because it grew 10 million years ago during the early Tertiary Period of the Cenozoic Era, it is often called a "living fossil."
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Cloud Lake is known for its natural beauty and serene surroundings. It has become a popular destination for tourists seeking to enjoy nature and escape the hustle and bustle of city life. The lake's clear waters and surrounding greenery make it a perfect spot for relaxation and reflection.
Cloud Lake is located in Deyang, Sichuan, about 40 kilometers from Chengdu. You can reach the lake by taxi or private car. Public buses are also available, but taxi or car rentals are more convenient for tourists. Walking around the lake is a great way to explore its beauty once you arrive.
Cloud Lake is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the landscape is at its most vibrant. Summer can be quite hot, and weekends may see more visitors, so weekdays are preferable for a peaceful experience.
There is a small entrance fee to visit Cloud Lake, typically around 20-30 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance or at local tourist centers. Some tours may also include entrance fees in their package prices.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you're visiting during peak seasons or public holidays. It’s usually sufficient to buy tickets on the day of your visit.
Exploring Cloud Lake typically takes about 2 to 3 hours. If you plan to take a boat ride or explore the surrounding trails, you might want to allocate half a day for a more leisurely visit.
The main highlight of Cloud Lake is the picturesque lake itself, surrounded by lush greenery and walking paths. Take a boat ride on the lake or hike the surrounding trails for the best views. The tranquil atmosphere and natural beauty are the key attractions.
Guided tours are available, mostly in Mandarin. English-speaking guides may be arranged upon request, but it is recommended to check availability in advance. Audio guides are not typically offered.
There are several scenic spots along the walking trails around the lake, offering excellent views of the water and surrounding mountains. The boat ride also provides a unique perspective of the lake, making it a great photography opportunity.
Start your visit by walking along the lake’s shores, enjoying the natural scenery. You can then take a boat ride to explore the lake from a different angle. If you have more time, explore the surrounding trails or relax at one of the rest areas near the lake.
Currently, night visits or light shows are not available at Cloud Lake. The best experience is during daylight hours, when the natural surroundings are most visible and vibrant.
Cloud Lake can be crowded during weekends and public holidays, particularly in summer. To avoid the crowds, visit on weekdays or early in the morning during the off-peak seasons (spring or autumn).
Basic facilities such as public toilets, food stalls, and water are available near the entrance and along the trails. Rest areas are scattered around the lake, where visitors can relax. There are also small shops selling local snacks and souvenirs.
Cloud Lake is generally accessible for elderly visitors and children, with smooth paths around the lake. However, some areas along the trails may have uneven terrain, so it’s important to be cautious. Wheelchair access may be limited in certain areas.
Cash, cards, and mobile payment methods (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are accepted at most shops and ticket counters. It's recommended to carry some cash for small vendors and areas where mobile payments may not be available.
There are several local restaurants and cafes around Cloud Lake, offering Sichuanese cuisine. You can find both small eateries near the lake and larger restaurants in nearby towns or cities.
Vegetarian and vegan options are commonly available in Sichuan cuisine. However, halal food options may be limited, so it’s recommended to check for availability in advance, especially in more rural areas.
There are a few budget hotels and guesthouses near Cloud Lake. For more luxurious options, consider staying in Deyang or Chengdu, where you can find a range of hotels and accommodations suitable for different budgets.
Nearby attractions include the ancient town of Zhongxian and Baoguo Temple. These sites can be easily combined with a trip to Cloud Lake, allowing you to explore more of Sichuan's cultural and natural beauty.
There are souvenir shops around Cloud Lake, where you can find local handicrafts, snacks, and traditional Sichuan products. Popular souvenirs include tea, embroidered textiles, and local artwork.
After visiting Cloud Lake, taxis or private cars are the best options for continuing your trip to other attractions in Sichuan. Public buses are also available, but they may require transfers. If you’re heading back to Chengdu, consider taking a high-speed train or bus for convenience.
