Aduo Lake

Aduo Lake

Aduo is a beautiful and tranquil alpine lake. From afar, the lake appears half green and half blue—this is because one side reflects the verdant mountains while the other reflects the blue sky. The lake is surrounded by grasslands, marshes, and countless small ponds. During the breeding seasons of spring and summer, you can see flocks of black-necked cranes dancing by the water and nesting in the grass, with up to a hundred or more at times. The black-necked crane is the only species of crane living on the plateau, and there are only around 500 left in the world, making it an endangered species. In addition to black-necked cranes, the white-lipped deer is another rare wild animal found only on the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau.

According to research by experts from China and abroad, the high-altitude ecological zone of the Jinsha River basin within Shiqu County is the area with the highest distribution and largest population of white-lipped deer. In Zhanda Township, where the highest number of white-lipped deer are found, there is a nunnery called Gawu Temple that lives in harmony with these sacred deer. Nestled against mountains and near water, the temple is surrounded by lush forests. The nuns are kind-hearted, generous, and respectful of all life, making it a frequent visiting place for the white-lipped deer. Standing in the temple, you’re greeted by a vista of verdant hills and the sound of deer calls, making the secluded monastic life of morning bells and evening drums here seem as enviable as a heavenly existence.