Huangzhong Lotus Lake

Huangzhong Lotus Lake

The Lotus Lake Scenic Area is located in Lushar, Huangzhong County, commonly known as Ant Gully Reservoir. The lakeside is covered with dense woods, and the lake water is as clear as a mirror. Mist shrouds the mountains, and the winding waters meander through the valleys. Lotus Lake is enchanting all year round — crystal-white in winter and spring, emerald-green in summer, and golden like sunset in autumn. It boasts breathtaking beauty in every season.

Qunhua National Forest Park is situated at the northern foot of the Laji Mountain, 80 kilometers from Lushar Town, the county seat, and 90 kilometers from Xining, the provincial capital. Covering a total area of 11,266 hectares, "Qunhua" means "the place where the white phoenix once alighted" in Tibetan. The park boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna and is home to a rare primeval forest. It is also the source of the Qunhua River, a tributary of the Yellow River. With crystal-clear waters, lush forests, uniquely beautiful natural scenery, profound historical and cultural heritage, and simple, mysterious folk customs, it is hailed as the “Green Pearl of the Plateau.” The park lies within the Qunhua Tibetan Ethnic Township, which is predominantly inhabited by Tibetans and preserves ancient and traditional Tibetan ways of life, production, culture, and customs. Deep in the forest lies the Sandanleng Monastery, a sacred site of Tibetan Buddhism. Established in 1644, the monastery features a distinctive blend of Tibetan and Han architectural styles and offers a serene and elegant setting for spiritual practice. The Sixth Dalai Lama, the Ninth Panchen Lama, and the Tenth Panchen Lama have all held grand ceremonies here.

Source: People’s Government of Xining Municipality