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Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the lake surrounded by Tibetan culture, take boat rides on the lake, explore the nearby temples, and hike along the trails for panoramic views. The area is also great for photography, bird watching, and enjoying the tranquil natural surroundings.
Namu Lake is located in the Bipenggou Scenic Area in Li County, Aba City, Sichuan Province. It is one of the most famous tourist attractions in the Bipenggou Scenic Area and a major skiing spot in winter.
In winter, Namu Lake freezes over completely, leaving its waters flowing endlessly, like a mirror-like jade, pure and clear. Named after the legendary holy Tibetan girl "Nam," the lake is named after her. From winter to early spring, the naturally frozen Namu Lake forms a natural ice rink, with ice over 0.5 meters thick. Ice skates are provided for visitors to enjoy. The area also boasts a 1,000-meter ski slope, equipped with a tow ropeway, high-end skis, sleds, snow sleds, and snow saucers. It can accommodate 200 people simultaneously, making it an ideal ski destination in the southern low latitudes.
Subtropical monsoon climate;
Best time to visit in autumn and winter
Included in the Bipenggou Scenic Area ticket
120 yuan/person (scenic spot ticket + sightseeing bus)
7:00-17:00
Namu Lake holds spiritual significance for the local Tibetan people. It is often considered a sacred lake and is a key site for Tibetan Buddhist practices. It is known for its pristine natural beauty and as a destination for those seeking peace and connection with nature.
Namu Lake is located in the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan. It can be reached by car or taxi from the nearest city, Maoxian, or from Chengdu. There is no direct metro or bus service, but local taxis and tours are available.
The lake is open year-round for visitors, but the best time to visit is during the summer and early autumn months (June to October) when the weather is pleasant and the lake's surroundings are lush and green.
Entrance to Namu Lake is generally free. However, there might be small charges for activities like boat rides or guided tours. These can typically be purchased on-site.
There is no need to book tickets in advance for regular visits, but if you wish to book a guided tour or special activities, it’s recommended to book a few days in advance.
You can spend anywhere from a few hours to a full day exploring Namu Lake, depending on whether you plan to hike, take a boat ride, or visit surrounding attractions.
The serene lake itself is the main highlight, along with the surrounding Tibetan temples, hiking trails, and panoramic views of the mountains and lakeside scenery.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes in English. It’s advisable to book in advance for English-speaking guides.
The best viewpoints include the lake’s shoreline, the top of the nearby hills, and the Tibetan temples located around the lake. Sunset and sunrise provide beautiful lighting for photography.
Start with a visit to the lakeside temple, then hike up to the viewpoints for scenic views. Afterward, take a boat ride on the lake before exploring more of the surrounding nature.
Night visits are not typically available, but visiting during sunset offers a magical view. Special tours for photographers or spiritual seekers may be arranged in advance.
The area is not heavily crowded except during the peak travel seasons (July and August). The least crowded times are early mornings or weekdays outside of public holidays.
Basic facilities like toilets and rest areas are available. Food and drinks are sold at small kiosks or local shops around the lake. It’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks for longer visits.
The attraction is generally accessible, though some hiking areas might be challenging for the elderly or those with mobility issues. It’s advisable to check specific accessibility details if required.
Cash is accepted, though cards and mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in nearby towns. It’s a good idea to bring cash for small purchases and tips.
There are a few local Tibetan restaurants nearby serving traditional food such as yak meat, Tibetan bread, and butter tea. Larger towns like Maoxian offer more restaurant options.
Vegetarian options are available, especially in Tibetan restaurants. Vegan and halal options may be more limited but can be found in larger towns nearby.
There are small guesthouses and Tibetan-style inns near Namu Lake, but accommodations in Maoxian provide more options, including mid-range and budget hotels.
Nearby attractions include the beautiful Langmusi Monastery and the Tibetan grasslands. Combining Namu Lake with a trip to Langmusi can make for a fulfilling day trip.
Souvenir shops in the area offer traditional Tibetan items such as prayer flags, handcrafted jewelry, yak wool clothing, and local art.
The best options are to continue by car or taxi to nearby towns like Maoxian, or use local buses for further exploration of the Aba Qiang and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture.
