Diexi Lake

Introducing Diexi Lake

Diexi Haizi, a provincial-level scenic spot in Sichuan, is located in Maoxian County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, the largest Qiang ethnic group settlement in China, at the foot of Minshan Mountain in the upper reaches of the Minjiang River. It is a unique scenic spot along the Jiuzhaigou and Huanglong tourist routes, both of which are world natural heritage sites.

Diexi Lake was formed by the 1993 earthquake. Its maximum depth reaches 98 meters, with an average depth of 82 meters. It holds 150 million cubic meters of water and covers an area of ​​over 3.5 million square meters. In the early morning, ascend the Diaolou Tower perched high above the lake for a panoramic view. The strips of water bathed in golden sunlight are enchanting, almost making you forget the disaster lurking amidst the tranquility and emerald greenery. Fortunately, the Strange Rock Forest, a landscape left on the shore by the earthquake, reveals the price paid for this beauty.

Climate and best time to travel

Plateau monsoon climate;

Suitable for all seasons

Tickets

30 yuan

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Diexi Lake

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

Diexi Lake is situated in a seismically active area of the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture. The lake is formed by an earthquake that occurred in the 1930s, which caused a massive landslide, blocking the flow of the Dadu River and creating a natural dam. The lake holds cultural significance for the local Tibetan and Qiang communities, as well as for its geological history.

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

Diexi Lake is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Sichuan, China. To get there, visitors can take a bus or taxi from Chengdu or nearby towns to the lake area. The most convenient route is by taxi or private car, as the area is not well-served by metro or public transportation.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Diexi Lake is open year-round. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer can be hot, and winter can be cold, so it's advisable to visit during the more temperate months.

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

The entrance fee for Diexi Lake is typically around 60-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance to the lake. It's advisable to check for any online booking options or discounts in advance, especially for group tours.

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

Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and autumn) or weekends. If traveling as a group, booking at least a few days ahead is advisable. During the off-season, walk-in tickets are generally available.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to Diexi Lake usually takes 2-3 hours, including time for a hike around the lake and to take in the views. If you plan on doing a boat ride or exploring the surrounding area in more detail, you might need an additional 1-2 hours.

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

The must-see highlights include the lake itself, surrounded by mountains and forests. The main trail around the lake offers several viewpoints for panoramic photography. The nearby waterfall and the earthquake-triggered landslide area are also significant landmarks in the area.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some basic English-speaking guides may be available during the high season. Audio guides are not widely available, so it's recommended to hire a local guide for a more enriching experience, especially if you are interested in the area’s history and culture.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

The best viewpoints are along the hiking trail around the lake, where you can capture stunning shots of the water surrounded by mountains. The area near the waterfall and the natural dam created by the landslide are also great photography spots.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

The recommended route is to start at the main entrance, follow the lakeside trail, and make stops at the major viewpoints. After exploring the lake, you can visit the nearby waterfall and the landslide site, which offers additional scenic views of the landscape.

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

Night visits or light shows are not typically available at Diexi Lake. The area is more suited for daytime visits, especially due to the natural lighting that enhances the beauty of the lake and surrounding landscapes.

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

Diexi Lake can get crowded during holidays and weekends, especially in spring and autumn. The least crowded times are typically weekdays in the off-season (winter or late autumn). Early mornings or late afternoons on weekdays are the best times to avoid crowds.

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

There are basic facilities available, including toilets and rest areas. Small shops near the entrance sell snacks and drinks, but it's recommended to bring your own supplies if you plan to spend a longer time at the lake. There are also some food vendors nearby offering local snacks.

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

Diexi Lake is accessible for elderly and children, though some of the hiking trails might be a bit strenuous. The area is not particularly designed for disabled access, so visitors with mobility challenges might find it difficult to navigate some parts of the trail.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is still accepted in many parts of the area, but mobile payments (such as WeChat Pay and Alipay) are widely used. It's advisable to have a mobile payment option available for ease, as well as some cash in case you visit small local shops or markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several local restaurants near the entrance to Diexi Lake serving Sichuan cuisine, including hotpot and noodles. For a more extensive selection, you can head to the nearby towns, such as Maoxian or Chengdu, for a wider range of dining options.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian options are available at some of the local restaurants, especially in the form of tofu and vegetable dishes. However, vegan and halal options might be limited in this remote area. It's best to inquire with restaurants ahead of time if you have specific dietary needs.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few guesthouses and budget hotels near Diexi Lake. For more options, you can stay in Maoxian or Chengdu, both of which are within a few hours’ drive from the lake. Chengdu offers more luxury hotels and diverse accommodations.

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

Nearby attractions include the scenic Dajin Waterfall, Mount Siguniang, and the Tibetan villages in the Aba region. These can easily be combined into a day trip or multi-day itinerary, offering opportunities for hiking, cultural exploration, and nature photography.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are a few small souvenir shops near the entrance, where you can find local Tibetan handicrafts, such as prayer beads, jewelry, and scarves. You can also buy traditional Sichuan snacks as souvenirs, like pickled vegetables and preserved fruits.

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

After visiting Diexi Lake, the best options are to take a taxi or bus back to Maoxian or Chengdu. From there, you can easily catch a bus or train to continue your journey to other destinations like Mount Siguniang or Chengdu.