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Visitors to Bottomless Lake can enjoy hiking along scenic trails, exploring the unique landscape, taking photographs of the lake’s crystal-clear waters, and learning about the local culture and legends surrounding the lake. Boating and photography are popular activities here.
The Bottomless Lake is located deep in the Three Parallel Rivers and Hengduan Mountains, hidden in the snow-capped mountains and dense forests. It is the only colorful lake in Yunnan that can be reached by road.
Wudihu, meaning "Wodicuo" in Tibetan, is located in the heart of the Dilong Snow Mountain. It is a plateau snow-fed lake at an altitude of 3,800 meters and consists of two plateau lakes. The Wudihu area is rich in plant resources, the most striking of which is the fir forest growing on the plateau.
Cold temperate monsoon climate; not recommended during the rainy season as landslides are common
Hiking routes around the Bottomless Lake:
1. Bottomless Lake - Dilong Snow Mountain
2. Bottomless Lake - Kangqie Gola Loop
3. Bottomless Lake - Niru
4. Bottomless Lake -CassVillage—Echu Mountain—DaochengAden
5. Bottomless Lake - Gaigongcuona - Geza -Shangri-La
Open all year round
Bottomless Lake is steeped in local myths and legends, with some claiming it to be bottomless. It has cultural and spiritual significance for local Tibetan communities. The lake is also known for its unique natural beauty and is a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Bottomless Lake is located in Zhongdian, Yunnan province, in the Tibetan Autonomous Region. To get there, travelers typically fly into Shangri-La Airport and take a taxi or local transport to the lake. Public buses are also available from the town center to nearby areas.
The lake is open year-round. The best times to visit are during spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the natural surroundings are at their most beautiful. Winter is cold, while summer can be rainy.
The entrance fee is typically low, and tickets can be purchased on-site at the lake's entrance. It’s recommended to check with local tour operators for group ticket deals. There are no major online platforms for ticket sales directly for the lake, but nearby attractions may offer packages.
Booking tickets in advance is not usually required for individual visitors. However, during peak tourist seasons, booking a few days in advance is recommended, especially for group tours or special events.
Exploring Bottomless Lake fully can take about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time is spent hiking around the lake, taking photographs, and relaxing in the surroundings.
The main highlight is the lake itself, surrounded by majestic mountains and beautiful landscapes. The surrounding hiking trails and viewpoints offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding Tibetan plateau.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local guides may offer English-speaking tours for foreign visitors. It's best to arrange a guide in advance through a tour operator or at the local visitor center.
The best viewpoints are along the hiking trails that circle the lake. The early morning light and sunset are perfect for photography, providing a magical atmosphere over the calm water and surrounding mountains.
A recommended itinerary includes walking along the lake’s shore, taking a few short hikes to viewpoints, and spending some time at the lake for photography and relaxation. Visitors should also take time to explore the nearby Tibetan villages for cultural experiences.
Night visits are not typically available due to the remote location. However, special photography tours during the golden hour or sunset can be arranged with local guides for an enhanced experience.
The lake is relatively quiet, with fewer tourists compared to other Yunnan attractions. Weekdays, especially in the off-peak seasons (winter and spring), are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities like toilets, water stations, and rest areas are available around the lake. There are a few small local shops selling snacks and drinks, but larger restaurants and shops can be found in Zhongdian town.
The main areas around the lake are accessible, but some hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. It’s recommended to explore with caution if you have mobility concerns.
Cash is still widely accepted in local shops, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly common. Some larger establishments may accept credit cards, but it's best to carry cash when visiting the lake.
There are a few small local restaurants near the lake offering Tibetan cuisine, such as yak meat, momo dumplings, and barley bread. For more variety, restaurants in Zhongdian (Shangri-La) offer international and Chinese dishes.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available, particularly in Zhongdian. Halal food may be limited but can be found in the town's restaurants that cater to Muslim visitors.
There are several guesthouses and small hotels in Zhongdian, about 1-2 hours from the lake. Some of these offer stunning views and Tibetan-style accommodations for a more authentic experience.
Nearby attractions include the Songzanlin Monastery, Napa Lake, and the town of Zhongdian (Shangri-La). These can be easily combined into a day trip from Bottomless Lake.
There are a few souvenir shops selling traditional Tibetan handicrafts, including prayer beads, yak wool products, and handmade jewelry. Local tea and Tibetan scarves are popular souvenirs.
After visiting Bottomless Lake, taxis and buses are available to take you back to Zhongdian. From there, you can arrange transport to other Yunnan destinations or return to the airport.
