Nianbao Fairy Lake

Nianbao Fairy Lake

Nianbao Fairy Lake (Tibetan: "Ximu Cuo Lake"). Located on the northern side of the main peak of Nianbao Mountain, the lake consists of a large lake and a small lake, covering an area of approximately 17 square kilometers. Formed by the erosional action of massive glaciers, this glacial lake is 47 kilometers from the county town and 4 kilometers from the Xijiu Highway, which has now been extended to the Fairy Lake scenic area. The lake is as smooth as a mirror, often shrouded in thick morning and evening mist along with light drizzle, presenting ever-changing and mystical views. It is world-renowned for its indescribable “magic,” and is deeply revered by local Tibetan people as a sacred mountain and a mysterious “palace.” Tibetans throw agates, precious stones, silver coins, and hada scarves into the lake to pray for good fortune, happiness, and to send their blessings. The lake is home to various fish species, otters, and birds.

In the center of the lake lies a bird island shaped like a goldfish, hence named “Goldfish Island.” Various birds inhabit and breed on the island, and during May, June, and July, bird eggs are scattered all over the island and throughout the surrounding woods. At dawn and dusk, little birds fly and play in the air, accompanied by their crisp chirping, creating a beautiful scene. About 2 kilometers to the right of the Large Fairy Lake is the first waterfall, where clear spring water cascades down, hidden among holly and dense woods, offering a refreshing and serene beauty. The waterfall is about 0.9 kilometers long. After climbing the first set of steps, you’ll come across the second waterfall, which, although not long, is extraordinarily steep and perilous. By climbing up along the rock crevices, you’ll be greeted by an incredibly clear and green “Heavenly Pool,” covering an area of about 2 square kilometers. The pool water is as green as ink, intoxicatingly beautiful, and beyond the pool lies the third waterfall, descending from the horizon.

To the left of the Small Fairy Lake is a fast-flowing stream with a significant drop, tumbling over huge rocks and churning out countless foamy white splashes. The surroundings of Fairy Lake naturally grow a variety of plants, including valuable Chinese medicinal herbs such as snow lotus, fritillaria, rhubarb, and caterpillar fungus, as well as rare animals like deer, bears, snow leopards, lynxes, blue sheep, Mongolian gazelles, snowcocks, and giant salamanders.

The northern part of the Fairy Lake, around Zhongjilong, is covered with blooming flowers as far as the eye can see, with successive blooms adorning Nianbao Fairy Lake in breathtaking beauty. On both sides around Zhongjilong, there are glacial erratics and volcanic rocks scattered amidst the bushes, forming a uniquely spectacular landscape.