Thousand Lake Mountain
The Thousand Lakes hike, located approximately 50 kilometers south of Shangri-La, offers a breathtaking escape into a high-altitude watery plateau nestled between the Tibetan Plateau and the deep gorges of the Yangtze and Mekong rivers. The trek is characterized by a relatively gentle 9-kilometer loop with an elevation gain of roughly 350 to 400 meters, making it an ideal choice for hikers looking to acclimatize to the region’s thin air. The journey begins with a steady climb up a well-maintained forested track, where the landscape is dotted with bamboo and fallen trees. Due to the remote nature of the terrain and the potential presence of wild animals, hikers often enlist the help of a local guide and driver to navigate the mountain paths and manage the entry requirements of the area.
Upon reaching the alpine pastures at an elevation of nearly 4,000 meters, the forest opens up to reveal a dramatic landscape of “pearl-like” glacial lakes scattered across a vast meadow. The scenery is a feast for photographers, featuring a stark contrast between vibrant life and the haunting beauty of silvered, fire-burnt forests. Depending on the season, the plateau transforms: June brings a “flower fest” of purple, yellow, and red rhododendrons, while autumn turns the grasslands into a deep, moody red. Though it lacks the jagged, massive panoramas of more vertical treks, the Thousand Lakes area captivates with its diverse terrain, mirror-like waters reflected against the ridgelines, and the serene presence of grazing yaks, offering a peaceful yet spectacular outdoor adventure.
DIFFICULTY
DISTANCE
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ELEVATION
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DIRECTIONS
1. Hire a Private Driver: The trailhead is in Tuanjie Village (团结村), approximately 50km south of Shangri-La. Since there is no direct public transport, hire a driver for the day (roughly 200–300 RMB). Tell them you are going to Qianhu Mountain (千湖山).
2. The Scenic Drive South: The drive takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll head south on the Yunnan-Tibet road, passing through the Xiao Zhongdian area. The final stretch involves winding mountain roads that climb significantly in altitude.
3. Check-in and Fees: At the entrance, be prepared to pay a small entry fee (usually around 20–80 RMB depending on the season). In certain months, local regulations may require you to take a local guide due to the risk of wild animals or to ensure you don’t get lost in the vast plateau.
4. Trek the Forest Track: The hike begins with a gradual climb on a well-defined forested track. You’ll pass through thick stands of trees, fallen logs, and patches of bamboo. It’s a “pleasant incline” rather than a vertical scramble, perfect for building your mountain legs.
5. Emerging into the Meadows: After about an hour of climbing, the forest opens up into the alpine pastures. You are now at roughly 3,900 meters. This is where the landscape shifts from dense woods to wide-open grazing land for yaks.
6. Navigate the “Labyrinth” of Lakes There isn’t just one path here; the plateau is a vast area dotted with hundreds of glacial lakes. Follow the main trail toward the larger lakes like Sanbi Hai (三碧海) or Big Black Sea (大黑海). The lakes vary in shape—some circular like mirrors, others long and thin.
7. Seasonal Sightseeing If you are here in June, look for the “sea of purple” as the rhododendrons bloom. In autumn, the grass turns a deep, rusty red. If you’re a photographer, head toward the burnt forest sections for high-contrast shots of dead trees against the blue water.
8. Peak and Panorama Before heading down, climb one of the small ridges surrounding the lakes. At 4,000m+, you’ll get a panoramic view of the “pearls” (lakes) scattered across the meadow and the jagged “Holy Finger” ridgelines in the distance.
9. Descend via the Loop The hike is approximately 9km total. Most hikers return via the same forest track or a slightly different loop that reconnects with the main logging road. The descent is easygoing and should take about an hour.
10. Return to Shangri-La Meet your driver at the designated trailhead clearing. The drive back to the city is downhill, giving you a chance to rest. You’ll be back in Shangri-La’s Old Town in time for a warm yak-meat hotpot dinner.
GALLERY
