Lotus Leaf

What are the most recommended things to do in Lotus Leaf?

  • Hike scenic trails around the Lotus Leaf area to enjoy alpine meadows and wildflowers
  • Photography of the lotus-shaped lakes, rivers, and surrounding mountains
  • Experience local Tibetan and Qiang culture in nearby villages
  • Visit traditional monasteries and temples in the region
  • Bird watching and wildlife observation in the natural reserve areas
  • Take guided nature tours to explore high-altitude flora and fauna

Introducing Lotus Leaf

Lianbaoyeze is a scenic area located in the southeastern Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, between Aba County in Sichuan Province and Jiuzhi and Banma Counties in Qinghai Province. It covers an area of ​​approximately 800 square kilometers. "Lianbaoyeze" means "dignified jade peak" in Chinese and is commonly known as the Stone Castle or Stone Mountain.

Lianbaoye is a world of majestic peaks and rocks, a sanctuary of art. Here, the mountains are imposing and majestic, brimming with masculine energy; the hills are vast and endless; lakes are scattered throughout, and silver waterfalls cascade. This is a large, majestic, and imposing art palace of peaks and rocks, a magnificent stone castle, filled with unpredictable and profound peaks and rocks, picturesque lakes, cascading waterfalls, and steaming hot springs.

Each scenic spot and scenic element in the scenic area has its own strengths and complements each other, which is very beneficial to the development of the entire scenic area. It is the best destination for sightseeing, photography, adventure, scientific research, and mountaineering ecological tourism.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau climate, suitable all year round

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Longgacuolama

This is a tourist destination primarily known for its lake. Longgacuolama Lake, located at an altitude of 3,995 meters and covering an area of ​​approximately 1.5 square kilometers, is approximately 7 kilometers from Dega Shengduo, the terminus of the main highway, and 70 kilometers from Aba County. It is the largest lake within the Lianbaoyezhe Scenic Area in Aba County. Longgacuolama Lake is vast and expansive, its clear waters capturing the sky and majestic granite rocks. Fish swim within, birds fly above, and the lakeshore is broad and gentle. On the shores of Longgacuolama lies a massive butcher's stool, once used by the steward of the Lianbaoyezhe mountain deity. Legend has it that this was his residence and treasure house.


Luoyuncuo

Luoyuncuo is a beautiful plateau freshwater lake, located at an altitude of 4,150 meters and covering approximately 0.5 square kilometers. It is 5 kilometers from the main highway and 62.5 kilometers from Aba County. Approaching the lake's mouth, one is greeted by a breathtaking panorama of the exquisite Luoyuncuo. The lake's clear, azure blue waters are unfathomable, and numerous fish frolic happily in it, brimming with life. Looking up, a towering Ox Heart Stone is reflected in the mirror-like waters, while the lakeshore's bizarre rocks and snow-capped peaks shimmer on the shimmering surface, further enhancing the tranquil and secluded Luoyuncuo's spiritual aura. A gentle stroll of over 500 meters along the lake's north shore reveals a clear stream cascading down from the cliffs, forming a waterfall tens of meters high. This cascade of waterfalls, both large and small, forms a spectacular spectacle during the high-water season in summer, creating a scene truly reminiscent of the Yellow River falling from the sky.


Zhumucuo

Zhumucuo is a high mountain freshwater lake, located approximately 5.5 kilometers from the main highway and 55.5 kilometers from Aba County. Follow the trail towards Zhumucuo. Halfway along the way, you'll find a peak resembling an upside-down rice bowl, its base and sides clearly visible. Legend has it that this is the "tsampa bowl" King Gesar used during his campaigns at Lianbaoyezhe. Legend has it that this lake was where King Gesar's beloved concubine, Zhumu, bathed, hence the name "Zhumu Lake," and the entire valley is also known as "Zhumu Valley."


Zhagarcuo

"Zhagacuo" is Zhaga Lake, located 14.5 kilometers from the main highway and 54.5 kilometers from the county seat. Three or four kilometers from Zhagacuo, several vast U-shaped valleys and majestic glacial peaks come into view, shrouded in mist. Thick fog rises from the towering rock peaks, resembling erupting craters and beacon towers. Zhagacuo's surface is frozen in time, its rock walls capped with white snow. At an altitude of 4,600 meters and covering approximately 0.6 square kilometers, it is the highest of the four famous lakes in Aba County. The lake's waters are tranquil and serene, with fish swimming around. A unique, small, fat fish called "big-bellied" fish resides within the lake.

Tickets

free;

However, if you want to enter the scenic area, you need to walk for two or three hours or ride a horse, and the horse riding fee is generally 60 yuan per person.

Attraction opening hours

All day


Most Popular FAQs for Lotus Leaf

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Lotus Leaf is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It is renowned for its pristine alpine landscapes, unique lotus-shaped lakes, and rich cultural heritage of Qiang and Tibetan communities.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Lotus Leaf is in northwestern Sichuan. Visitors usually travel from Chengdu by car, taxi, or long-distance bus to the prefecture and then local transport or hiking trails to the site. Public transit options are limited.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The area is generally open year-round. The best time to visit is from late spring to early autumn (May to October) for clear weather, blooming flowers, and accessible trails.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees may apply depending on the specific natural reserve or scenic area. Tickets can usually be purchased on-site; online booking options are limited.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For peak seasons or guided tours, booking 1–2 weeks in advance is recommended. For off-peak visits, tickets can typically be purchased on arrival.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Plan 1–2 full days to explore the main scenic areas, enjoy hiking, and visit nearby cultural sites.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Lotus-shaped lakes and alpine wetlands
  • Surrounding mountain peaks and hiking trails
  • Traditional Tibetan and Qiang villages
  • Local monasteries and temples
  • Wildflower meadows and natural observation points

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be available in Chinese; English-speaking guides are limited and usually need to be booked in advance through local travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Overlook points above the lotus-shaped lakes
  • Mountain ridges and valleys for panoramic shots
  • Traditional village entrances and monasteries
  • Sunrise and sunset viewpoints near water bodies

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start with a main lake view, hike connecting trails to nearby peaks, visit a local village, and end the day at a scenic overlook for sunset.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not recommended due to safety; there are no organized light shows. Some cultural tours or homestay experiences may offer evening activities.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site is relatively quiet. Peak periods are during Chinese national holidays. Weekdays in spring and autumn are the least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas exist at main entrances. Limited food and souvenir shops are available; bringing water and snacks is recommended.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Some trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can enjoy short hikes, but supervision is advised.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is recommended as mobile payments are not always accepted in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local eateries in nearby villages offer traditional Tibetan and Qiang cuisine; cafes are minimal or non-existent.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options may be available; vegan and halal options are limited and should be arranged in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

  • Local guesthouses and lodges in nearby towns
  • Homestay experiences in Tibetan and Qiang villages
  • Basic hotels in the prefecture capital, Aba

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Jiuzhaigou Valley (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
  • Huanglong Scenic Area
  • Local Tibetan monasteries and temples

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir options are limited; typical items include handmade Tibetan crafts, prayer flags, and local textiles.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Private cars, taxis, or local tour buses are the main options. Public transport is limited, so pre-arranged travel is recommended for nearby attractions.