Kangding Lotus Lake

Introducing Kangding Lotus Lake

Kangding Lotus Lake is located in the Kuxirong Valley of Pusharong Township, Kangding County, at an altitude of over 3,000 meters. It is 120 kilometers from Kangding County (the seat of Ganzi Prefecture) and nestles between Mount Gongga and the Wuxuhai Scenic Area. Named after the lotus flowers that grow in the lake, it is also known as Hehe Lake or Lotus Stone.

　Lianhua Lake in Kangding, at an altitude of approximately 4,200 meters, is a virgin, undeveloped alpine freshwater lake covering over 500 mu (approximately 1,000 acres). Few people know about this little-known spot, which retains the pristine beauty of the Kangxi Plateau: pure sunshine, azure skies, alpine meadows like green carpets, wildflowers as dazzling as stars, sapphire-like plateau lakes, and winding streams like silver chains.

Surrounding the lake are emerald green lawns, herds of cattle and sheep scattered across the grasslands like pearls, beautiful butterflies flutter in the air, and occasionally white cranes and otters frolic in the lake. Lotus Sea is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, stone forests, and forests. The snow-capped peaks are sacred and elegant in the sunlight, while the stone forests and trees on the mountainside are diverse and diverse. Wildlife such as gazelles and blue sheep live and multiply there.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 3-5 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Kangding Lotus Lake

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

Kangding Lotus Lake is a serene natural landmark located in the Ganzi Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. It holds cultural significance for the local Tibetan people and is known for its scenic beauty and spiritual value. The lake is surrounded by beautiful Tibetan villages, making it a peaceful retreat for both locals and tourists alike.

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

The lake is located in Kangding, Sichuan, approximately 20 kilometers from the town center. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car. It’s not accessible via public transportation, so renting a car or hiring a taxi is the best option.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Kangding Lotus Lake is open year-round. The best time to visit is between June and August when the lotus flowers are in full bloom. Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

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

The entrance fee to the lake is about ¥30 per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There is no online ticketing system for this attraction.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for Kangding Lotus Lake, as it is a relatively low-profile tourist attraction. However, if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons or holidays, it may be helpful to check availability with local operators.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You’ll need about 1 to 2 hours to explore the lake and its surrounding areas. If you plan to take a boat ride or go on a nature walk, you may want to allocate additional time for a more leisurely visit.

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

• The lotus flowers, particularly during the summer bloom, are the main attraction.
• The scenic viewpoints around the lake offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
• Nature trails around the lake provide an excellent opportunity for hiking and photography.

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

Guided tours are available in Chinese, and some local operators may offer tours in English. Audio guides are not commonly provided at this location.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best photography spots are along the lake's edge, where you can capture the lotus flowers against the backdrop of the surrounding mountains. The boat ride also provides a unique perspective of the lake, ideal for photos.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start by taking a walk around the lake’s perimeter, stopping at various viewpoints. Next, take a boat ride to get a closer look at the lotus flowers. If you enjoy hiking, explore the nearby nature trails for more stunning views of the region.

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

There are no night visits or light shows at Kangding Lotus Lake. The lake is best visited during the day, with the summer months offering the most scenic views of the lotus flowers.

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

Kangding Lotus Lake is generally not very crowded, especially outside of peak tourist seasons. Weekdays, especially early mornings or late afternoons, are the least crowded times to visit.

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

• Basic toilet facilities are available on-site.
• There are no restaurants or cafes within the immediate area of the lake, but small food stalls may be available nearby.
• Water and snacks can be found in the local shops around the area.

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

The lake area is accessible, but some paths may be uneven or challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. The main viewpoints and boat rides are suitable for children and elderly visitors, but the surrounding trails may not be as accessible.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is the preferred method of payment at Kangding Lotus Lake, but some local shops and food vendors may accept mobile payments (like WeChat Pay or Alipay). It’s best to bring cash with you, especially for ticket purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are no major restaurants or cafes directly at the lake, but you can find local eateries in Kangding town offering traditional Tibetan food like yak meat, butter tea, and tsampa (roasted barley flour).

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options are available at some of the local Tibetan restaurants, though halal options may be limited. It’s advisable to check with the restaurant staff regarding specific dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• There are several guesthouses and mid-range hotels in Kangding town, which is about a 30-minute drive from the lake.
• For a more traditional experience, consider staying at a Tibetan-style guesthouse in the area.

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

• Kangding town itself offers a variety of cultural and scenic attractions, such as the Kangding Guozhuang and the nearby Mugecuo Nature Reserve.
• The Daocheng Yading Nature Reserve, famous for its stunning landscapes, is also accessible from Kangding and makes for a perfect day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, you can find souvenir shops in Kangding selling Tibetan handicrafts, such as prayer beads, thangkas (Tibetan paintings), and woolen scarves. Local tea and Tibetan incense are also popular items to purchase.

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

After visiting Kangding Lotus Lake, taxis or private cars are the best way to continue your trip. Kangding has a bus station with connections to other parts of Sichuan, and you can also hire a local guide to explore nearby attractions.