Dagu Lake

Dagu Lake

Dagu Lake is a high-altitude lake located in the southern section of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, at an elevation of 2,200 meters. It sits at the border of Maolin District in Kaohsiung City, Pingtung County, and Taitung County, and is the source of the Shanhuannunu River and the Zhuokou River. The lake consists of three parts: West Pond, East Pond, and Dagu Lake itself. Among them, Dagu Lake has a surface area of about 120 square meters, and during the wet season the water depth can reach up to 40 meters. It is known as the deepest high-altitude lake in Taiwan and one of the most famous lakes in the country.

Dagu Lake is considered a sacred lake by the Rukai people, who call it “Tamarulin Pond” or “Dahupaling.” The lake is surrounded by sparsely populated areas and is difficult to access due to damaged roads, which has helped preserve its untouched environment. To this day, it retains excellent ecological conditions and beautiful natural scenery, and has been designated by the Taiwanese government as part of the Shuanggui Lake Nature Reserve. The reserve is home to many protected animal species and dense primeval forests that are often shrouded in mist. According to a long-standing Rukai legend, whenever anyone approaches the lake, thick fog rolls in and eerie sounds echo, as if the lake is shy — yet when the mist clears, the crystal-clear water becomes faintly visible. Coupled with the lush greenery all around, it presents an extraordinarily beautiful scene of pristine mountain forest, making for a truly captivating landscape.

Great Ghost Lake

Must-visit reason: The deepest high-altitude lake in Taiwan