Yele Lake

Introducing Yele Lake

Yele Lake, also known as the Yele Reservoir, is located in Yele Township, Mianning County, Sichuan Province, at an altitude of over 2,600 meters. It boasts the beauty of a plateau lake. Furthermore, its remote location in the mountains of Liangshan, where the Yi people live, has resulted in few tourists and a near-untouched natural landscape.

The scenery of Yele Lake is charming all year round. The most beautiful season of Yele Lake is from June to September. The lake water is azure blue and is surrounded by primeval forests, with snow-capped mountains reflected in the water. There are large meadows with clusters of rhododendrons and wild flowers on the meadows. Cattle and sheep graze peacefully on the waist-deep grasslands. Since few people know about it and only a small number of hikers go camping there, it is still a paradise.

Climate and best time to travel

plateau climate;

The best time to travel is from June to September

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Yele Lake

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

Yele Lake is a natural freshwater lake in Liangshan, Sichuan. It is significant for its ecological diversity, scenic beauty, and as a recreational spot for locals and tourists. The area also reflects the natural and cultural landscape of the Liangshan region.

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

• Located in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province, China.
• Accessible by bus or taxi from Xichang city, the prefecture capital.
• Private car or rental car is convenient for flexible travel around the lake.
• Walking is ideal for exploring lakeside trails and scenic spots.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open year-round, generally from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
• Best times to visit: spring and autumn for pleasant weather and clear views.
• Summer is suitable for water activities, but check for occasional rain.

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

• Entrance fee: approximately 40–60 CNY per person.
• Tickets can be purchased onsite at the entrance.
• Some travel agencies may offer bundled tour tickets online including transportation and activities.

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

Booking in advance is not usually necessary for regular visits. During peak tourist season or holidays, booking a few days ahead is recommended.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

• Half a day for a casual lakeside visit and short walk.
• Full day if combining boat rides, hiking, and wildlife observation.

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

• Main lakeshore viewpoints and scenic piers.
• Nearby forested hills and hiking trails.
• Local cultural villages around the lake.

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

Guided tours are occasionally available through local travel agencies, mainly in Chinese. Audio guides are not common.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Lakeside piers and observation points for sunrise and sunset shots.
• From small boats in the middle of the lake for panoramic views.
• Hiking trails overlooking the lake from higher elevations.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main entrance, walk along the lakeshore, visit key viewpoints.
• Take a boat ride mid-visit for lake photography and scenery.
• Finish with a short hike or visit to nearby cultural spots.

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

Night visits are limited; the lake area is mainly visited during daytime. Special events may occur during festivals but are not regular.

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

• Peak season: Chinese public holidays and summer weekends.
• Least crowded: weekdays in spring or autumn.

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

• Public restrooms and benches around main entry points and scenic areas.
• Small restaurants and snack stalls near parking areas.
• Limited souvenir shops along the lakeshore.

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

• Main lakeshore paths are generally accessible to children and elderly.
• Some hiking trails may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors.
• Boat rides are suitable for most age groups but check safety regulations for children.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

• Cash is recommended for entrance fees and small stalls.
• Mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are widely accepted at restaurants and ticket counters.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Local Sichuan cuisine restaurants near the lake entrance.
• Small cafes and snack bars along the lakeshore.
• Hotel restaurants within 10–20 minutes drive from the lake.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some restaurants. Vegan and halal options are limited, requiring advance inquiry or preparation.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Local guesthouses and inns in Liangshan city.
• Hotels near the lake with lake-view rooms.
• Resorts offering access to natural surroundings and outdoor activities.

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

• Nearby Yi cultural villages.
• Surrounding hills for hiking and nature observation.
• Other scenic lakes or rivers in Liangshan Prefecture.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Small souvenir shops near the entrance.
• Typical souvenirs: local crafts, Yi ethnic handicrafts, and snacks.

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

• Private car or taxi for flexible travel to nearby towns and attractions.
• Local buses connecting to Liangshan city and nearby scenic spots.
• Rental cars recommended for exploring remote areas in the prefecture.