Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake) in Shangri-La

More Picture

At the junction of Sichuan and Yunnan, two hidden gems of Shangri-La await: Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake, 无底湖) and Abuji Cuo (阿布吉措). These secret realms are like earthly paradises, captivating the hearts of those who visit. Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake) is located in the Dilon Snow Mountain (迪隆雪山) region of Shangri-La, and it is a high-altitude lake at 3,800 meters, renowned for its beautiful natural scenery. It sits deep within the Three Parallel Rivers (三江并流) and Hengduan Mountains (横断山脉), hidden between snow-capped mountains and dense forests. Among the many lakes in Dilon Snow Mountain (迪隆雪山), Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake) stands out with its stunning views, making it one of the finest alpine lakes in Yunnan.

Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake), known as “Wodi Cuo” (沃迪措) in Tibetan, is nestled in the embrace of Dilon Snow Mountain (迪隆雪山) at 3,800 meters. Here, the snow-capped mountains, lake waters, forests, meadows, and leisurely grazing cattle and sheep come together to create a breathtaking landscape. At this high-altitude plateau, Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake) attracts nature enthusiasts who come to experience its unique charm. Despite only a few herders living in this pristine area, far removed from the noise of modern life and mobile signals, the beauty and tranquility of Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake) remain untouched.

Natural Scenery of Bottomless Lake (无底湖)

Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake), also called “Wodi Cuo” (沃迪措), is located in the heart of Dilon Snow Mountain (迪隆雪山) at 3,800 meters. The snow-capped peaks and clear lake waters create a mesmerizing reflection, while the surrounding forests, meadows, and grazing cattle paint a picturesque scene. The combination of snow-capped mountains, crystal-clear waters, and lush forests offers a peaceful and natural escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. Dilon Snow Mountain (迪隆雪山), located to the east of Gezan Township (格咱乡) in Shangri-La (香格里拉), is part of the magnificent Zhongdian Snow Mountain Range (中甸大雪山). Its main peak rises to 5,004 meters, dominating the landscape. The mountain is covered in snow peaks above 4,000 meters, which stretch out like a giant dragon, winding and imposing — truly a “Snow Mountain Kingdom” in Shangri-La.

Exploring High-altitude Lakes and Pastures

Fairy Lake (仙女湖) and Cumu Lake (措姆湖)

Fairy Lake (仙女湖), although small, is a sparkling gem nestled in the forest. Its water is emerald green, teeming with life and vitality, captivating all who see it. Fairy Lake (仙女湖) is small and green, while Cumu Lake (措姆湖), meaning “beautiful maiden” in Tibetan, is as stunning as a young woman. Its gentle ripples seem to depict the delicate features of a maiden, while the mist rising from the lake adds an air of mystery and romance, making this a perfect alpine lake.

Multiple Exploration Routes for Bottomless Lake (无底湖)

Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake) is hidden about 100 kilometers deep into Langdu Village (浪都村), Gezan Township (格咱乡), along the road from Shangri-La (香格里拉) to Daocheng Yading (稻城亚丁). Several routes are available for exploring Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake), whether by car or on foot, allowing travelers to fully experience its natural beauty. Starting from Shangri-La (香格里拉), it takes around two hours by car to reach the lake. However, the road is not smooth, as it is mostly winding mountain roads, often affected by rockfalls and landslides. Travelers must also cross high-altitude peaks, and the roads may freeze in winter. Therefore, it is recommended to travel with experienced drivers and four-wheel-drive vehicles to ensure a safe and smooth journey. Hiking to Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake) is also a great option, allowing travelers to immerse themselves more deeply in this natural wonder.

Shangri-La’s Bottomless Lake Secret Realm: Six Lakes Light Trekking Tour

The “Secret Six Lakes and Birong Canyon Trek” (秘境六湖，碧茸大峡谷徒步) is one of our newly launched trekking routes this year. This route passes through scenic spots such as Shangri-La (香格里拉), Birong Canyon (碧茸大峡谷), Pani Cuo (帕念措), Genian Cuo (格念措), Bira Cuo (碧拉措), Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake, 无底湖), Fairy Lake (仙女湖), and Abuji Cuo (阿布吉措).

This trekking route is considered light trekking, requiring no heavy equipment, making it perfect for beginners. While some of the spots are at high altitudes, they are connected by roads, and there’s no need to cross difficult mountain passes. The trekking experience is excellent and offers a high completion rate.

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Lijiang

• Accommodation: Stay in Lijiang.

• Meals: No meals provided.

After checking in at the hotel, you’ll have free time for self-guided exploration. The ancient towns of Lijiang, such as the bustling Dayan Ancient Town (大研古城), peaceful Baisha Ancient Town (白沙古镇), and artistic Shuhe Ancient Town (束河古镇), each offer a unique experience. Spend the day slowly strolling through the town to enjoy its culture and architecture.

Day 2: Lijiang to Shangri-La

• Accommodation: Stay in Wengshui Village (翁水村).

• Meals: Breakfast included.

After breakfast, depart for Shangri-La (香格里拉). The first stop is Birong Canyon (碧茸大峡谷), where you’ll take a 6 km hike. Enjoy the majestic natural landscapes before heading to Wengshui Village (翁水村), located at an altitude of 3,150 meters, for an overnight stay.

Birong Canyon (碧茸大峡谷), also known as Birong (Rong) Canyon, is situated about 103 kilometers from Shangri-La (香格里拉). This narrow, deep canyon is flanked by cliffs on both sides, where ancient rock paintings by migrating tribes can still be seen.

Day 3: Wengshui Village to Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake, 无底湖)

• Accommodation: Stay at Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake, 无底湖) homestay.

• Meals: Breakfast included.

After breakfast, take a local transfer for about one hour to Pani Cuo (帕念措), where you will begin your hike. You’ll pass through several beautiful lakes, including Pani Cuo (帕念措), Genian Cuo (格念措), and Bira Cuo (碧拉措), before arriving at Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake, 无底湖). The three lakes are situated between 300 to 3,000 meters apart, with elevation differences ranging from 200 to 400 meters. The scenery is breathtaking, with fields of yaks grazing during the summer and autumn months.

Day 4: Hiking Around Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake, 无底湖) and Fairy Lake (仙女湖)

• Accommodation: Stay in Shangri-La (香格里拉).

• Meals: Breakfast included.

Start the day with a hike around Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake, 无底湖), then proceed up a steep slope to Fairy Lake (仙女湖), a small but beautiful lake known for its vibrant green waters. After soaking in the views, return to Bottomless Lake (Wudihu Lake, 无底湖) for a simple afternoon tea before heading back to Shangri-La (香格里拉).

Hiking distance: 4 km (with a 350-meter ascent and descent). The trek will take about 4 hours.

Day 5: Shangri-La to Lijiang

• Accommodation: Own arrangements.

• Meals: No meals provided.

After breakfast, drive to Abuji Cuo (阿布吉措). The hike starts from an altitude of about 3,500 meters and takes you through alpine meadows and pastures. Once at the pass, enjoy panoramic views of Abuji Cuo (阿布吉措), with the snow-capped peaks towering in front of you. The bright blue lake contrasts beautifully with the surrounding snow-covered mountains. After the hike, head back to Lijiang in the evening.

Preparation for the Trek 

1. Local Temperature :

This trekking route is located in the mountainous regions around Shangri-La (香格里拉) in Diqing Prefecture (迪庆州), Yunnan Province (云南省), where there is a large temperature difference between day and night. During the day, the weather is usually warm with ample sunshine and little to no wind or rain. However, in the early mornings, evenings, or when it rains and the wind picks up, the temperature can drop to a cold winter-like chill. Therefore, regardless of the time of year, it is essential to bring a fleece jacket or a thick down jacket for the trek.

2. Suggested Gear:

• Upper Body : Quick-dry base layer, fleece jacket, windbreaker, and a thick down jacket.

• Lower Body : Fleece pants (or thermal leggings) and trekking pants/quick-dry pants.

• Footwear : Mid/high-cut hiking boots or mountaineering shoes, waterproof and slip-resistant.

• Headgear : A sunhat or woolen hat to protect from the wind and sun. It is important to physically block strong UV rays at high altitudes and protect the head from headaches caused by wind exposure (remember that high-altitude wind can lead to headaches).

• Other : Gloves (to prevent sunburn and abrasions on hands), gaiters (to prevent rainwater from entering shoes, seasonal requirement), multiple pairs of moisture-wicking socks, knee pads (to protect knees when descending).

• Medications : Common cold/fever medicine, stomach medication, motion sickness pills, allergy pills, and headache medicine (e.g., pain relief tablets or headache powders). Please note that internal medications are not provided during the trek.

• Sun Protection : Sunscreen, moisturizer, lip balm (to protect skin from dryness at high altitudes), and sunglasses (for eye protection).

• Equipment : A 30-40L hiking backpack, packing as lightly as possible.

• Other : A thermos (drink hot water in colder areas), personal belongings and documents, and a high-capacity power bank.

Hidden Hiking Routes in Yunnan | The Bottomless Lake and Heavenly Pond Nine Lakes Loop, Exploring the Heart of Dilong

Introduction

August in Shangri-La is a peak season for outdoor hiking, attracting crowds to popular spots like Abujico Lake and Nanji Luo, while places like Yubeng, once a quiet haven for trekkers, are no longer the peaceful retreats they used to be. So, where can we find a hidden hiking gem, away from the crowds, yet equally stunning in its natural beauty?

After exploring the secret of Wengshui (翁水), we set our sights on the nearby Bottomless Lake (无底湖) and Heavenly Pond (天池), which captivated our attention. This time, however, we decided to venture deep into the heart of Dilong Snow Mountain (迪隆雪山) to explore a brand-new hiking route—the Bottomless Lake and Heavenly Pond Nine Lakes Loop. This route offers breathtaking views of alpine lakes, including the iconic Bottomless Lake and Heavenly Pond, but also features several lesser-known lakes hidden deep in the mountains. Along the 23 km trail, you’ll pass by nine lakes, each with its unique characteristics, and from the Heavenly Pond, perched at 4,900 meters, you can enjoy a distant view of the sacred Mount Adi (亚丁神山). The continuously changing landscape along the way ensures an adventure filled with surprises.

A half-hour drive from Bottomless Lake brings you to Qianshui Pasture (千水牧场), a serene area surrounded by lakes such as Cuonaka (错那卡), Sancai Lake (三色湖), and Nabu Cuosong (那部措松). These lakes, tucked away in remote areas, offer a unique experience with their crystal-clear waters and vibrant landscapes.

Route Overview

The Bottomless Lake and Heavenly Pond Nine Lakes Loop spans 23 kilometers, with a highest elevation of 4,919 meters and a cumulative ascent of 1,400 meters. While not overly difficult, the route does present certain risks, particularly a 2-kilometer rock slope when crossing the Heavenly Pond at 4,900 meters. The hike is strenuous in places, but the rewards of exploring these hidden lakes and pristine landscapes are worth the effort.

Since no one had previously hiked this route, we relied on pre-planned tracks and adjusted our path as necessary. Originally intended as a 3-day trek, our journey stretched to 4 days due to unexpected hail and thunderstorms, which made the conditions tougher.

Day 1: Shangri-La → Gezan Township → Bottomless Lake
Day 2: Bottomless Lake → Fairy Lake → Heavenly Pond
Day 3: Heavenly Pond → Small Lake → Yongnie River → Damoco
Day 4: Damoco → Damoco Upper Lake → Pasture → Dumu Tong
Day 5: Dumu Tong → Swan Lake → Yazha Pasture → Bottomless Lake

Bottomless Lake: The Blue Tears of Dilong

Day 1: Shangri-La → Gezan Township → Bottomless Lake
Our first day was relatively simple. We drove from Shangri-La, passing through Gezan Township, and arrived at Bottomless Lake, where we hiked around the lake before setting up camp by the shore. The campsite was at an elevation of 3,840 meters.

Bottomless Lake, a well-known high-altitude lake, has grown in popularity due to its easy accessibility. Vehicles can drive directly to the lakeside, making it a favorite for many. In recent years, it has been developed into a scenic area, with the local villagers managing the site. Upon reaching the entrance, we paid a 10 RMB sanitation fee, then drove to the parking lot, eager to admire the lake’s beauty.

Surrounded by dense forests and wildflower-filled meadows, the lake reflects a bright blue sky. The scenic area features a well-maintained wooden trail that loops around the lake, and during peak tourist seasons, over 1,000 visitors can be found here each day. We decided to leave the bustling crowds behind and explored the deeper, quieter parts of the lake.

The trail is well-maintained, retaining original stone paths, and large trees are left in place with humorous signs to ensure safety. As evening approached, the warm sunlight bathed the lake and surrounding forest, creating a picturesque scene.

We set up camp in a designated area for 120 RMB per tent, part of the park’s management plan to protect the local ecosystem. After a hearty dinner, the once-crowded area became peaceful again, and we enjoyed a restful night by the lake.

Heavenly Pond: A View of the Sacred Adi Mountains

Day 2: Bottomless Lake → Fairy Lake → Heavenly Pond
Distance: 7 kilometers | Highest Elevation: 4,693 meters | Camp Elevation: 4,638 meters
Departure at 12:00 PM, arriving at camp by 6:00 PM after 6 hours of hiking.

The second morning, we were awoken by the sound of birds chirping in the forest. Since the trail from Bottomless Lake to Heavenly Pond is well-established and not very challenging, we leisurely walked around the lake, enjoying the tranquility of the morning. After breakfast, we began our trek.

Along the way, we encountered numerous mushrooms, which lightened the mood and added new surprises to the journey. After about 3 kilometers in the forest, we reached an agricultural road, which led us to Fairy Lake. The lake, nestled in a valley, appeared even more mesmerizing in the sunlight.

We continued on and reached a meadow, and soon after, a mining area with a rocky slope. From here, the water from Heavenly Pond cascades down in a spectacular waterfall. After passing through the rocky terrain, the path became easier, and soon, Heavenly Pond came into view.

The landscape grew more stunning as we ascended. At 4,700 meters above sea level, we reached the highest point of the hike. The deep blue waters of Heavenly Pond and the shifting clouds created an ethereal scene. The distant Adi Mountains appeared clearly in the sky, enhancing the magic of the place.

Damoco: A Brilliant Gem Hidden in the Valley

Day 3: Heavenly Pond → Small Lake → Yongnie River → Damoco
Distance: 5 kilometers | Highest Elevation: 4,920 meters | Camp Elevation: 4,523 meters
Departure at 10:00 AM, arriving at camp by 6:00 PM after 8 hours of hiking.

The third day brought new challenges, as we had no prior track information. As we descended from the Heavenly Pond, the rocky slopes posed a challenge, but the beauty of the landscape made the effort worthwhile. We carefully navigated the terrain and finally reached Damoco, a stunning lake hidden in a secluded valley.

Swan Lake and Yazha Pasture: A Peaceful Finish

Day 4: Damoco → Damoco Upper Lake → Pasture → Dumu Tong
Distance: 3 kilometers | Highest Elevation: 4,658 meters | Rest at Dumu Tong’s Wooden Hut.
Departure at 12:00 PM, arriving at the wooden hut by 4:00 PM after 4 hours of hiking.

Day 5: Dumu Tong → Swan Lake → Yazha Pasture → Bottomless Lake
Distance: 8 kilometers | Departure at 10:00 AM, returning by 2:00 PM after 4 hours of hiking.

We spent the last day of the trek enjoying a peaceful descent through the mist-covered pastures. As we approached Swan Lake, the serene landscape provided a beautiful farewell to this magical journey. After passing through a series of dramatic cliffs and forests, we arrived at Yazha Pasture and then returned to Bottomless Lake, marking the end of our 5-day, 4-night adventure.

Additional Hiking Tips

1. Bottomless Lake is a well-developed scenic area where vehicles can drive right to the lakeside. The drive from Shangri-La to Bottomless Lake takes about 2.5 hours. The scenic area is open for hiking to Heavenly Pond, Cuomu Lake, and Swan Lake. Guided tours are mandatory with a fee of 480 RMB.

2. Heavenly Pond sits at the highest elevation and features rocky terrain. It is not suitable for camping due to frequent thunderstorms and hail, but the small lakes near Heavenly Pond are good camping spots.

3. Damoco to Swan Lake: The route is easier with well-marked paths and beautiful meadows. There’s a wooden hut near Dumu Tong for shelter.

4. Weather: Be prepared for rapid weather changes, particularly rainstorms and hail during the rainy season. Ensure proper gear to stay safe and dry.

5. Sancai Lake and Nabu Cuosong near Qianshui Pasture are charming, lesser-known lakes worth visiting. The hike to these lakes is moderate and provides a fantastic landscape.