Liangshan Mountain and Tianchi Lake in Yunxian County, Lincang
Overview of Liangshan Tianchi Lake
Liangshan Tianchi Lake (亮山天池), also known as Pinghe Reservoir (平河水库), is located in the southeastern part of Yunxian County (云县), approximately 75 kilometers from the county seat. Sitting at an elevation of 2,400 meters, the area experiences cold, dry winters and cool, humid summers, with fresh air that makes it an ideal place for leisure, sightseeing, and summer retreats. The site receives an average of over 500,000 visitors annually.
- Chinese Name: 云县亮山生态度假旅游区
- Foreign Name: Zunyoung
- Geographical Location: Yunxian County
- Climate Conditions: Warm winters and cool summers
- Opening Hours: All day
- Admission Price: Free
- Area: 1,500 square meters
- Famous Attractions: Liangshan Tianchi Lake, Liangshan Linhai, Caocang Huahai
Geographical Context of the Attraction
Liangshan Tianchi Lake is situated south of Yongbao Town (涌宝镇), 66 kilometers from the county seat and 7 kilometers from Yongbao Town itself. With an altitude of 2,400 meters, the lake holds approximately 2.4 million cubic meters of water and covers an area of 0.1 square kilometers. The cool and humid climate makes it an ideal summer retreat.
Historical Significance
Liangshan Tianchi Lake was established in 1957 and completed for use in 1960. The total area of the reservoir is about 15 hectares, with an annual storage capacity of 2.4 million cubic meters. It benefits two villagers’ committees, 23 village groups, 750 households, and 2,356 people, along with providing water for over 6,000 livestock and 1,200 acres of farmland. In 2005, a small hydropower station with a capacity of 240,000 kilowatts was constructed downstream, effectively utilizing the area’s natural resources.
Unique Features
Liangshan Tianchi Lake is an artificial lake with a unique geographical position and natural conditions, characterized by distinctive mountains, dense forests, and rich water resources that create a high mountain canyon landscape. The area is a treasure trove of natural flora and fauna, home to key protected wild animals such as the white pheasant (白鹇), black bear (黑熊), and the key protected animal in Yunnan, the flying squirrel (鼯鼠), as well as monkeys, wild chickens, and muntjacs. The rich forest resources include a variety of plant species, featuring state-protected plants like camphor trees (香樟树), seven-leaf-one-branch flowers (七叶一枝花), chicken blood vine (鸡血藤), and various valuable medicinal herbs.
Described as a high mountain gem, Liangshan Tianchi Lake features crystal-clear waters, picturesque surroundings, and is often compared to a paradise. The clear, blue waters host playful wild ducks and soaring birds, while the scenery includes willows swaying gently and bamboo casting beautiful shadows, creating a dreamy, enchanting atmosphere. A small natural island within the lake is covered in lush trees and blooming mountain flowers, making the entire area resemble a fairyland that captivates visitors.
Surrounding Scenery
The southern side of Tianchi Lake is bordered by the vast Liangshan Forest Sea (亮山林海), an ecological forest area spanning 19,600 acres. To the north lies the vibrant Caocang Huahai (草场花海), where grasses and flowers flourish. Together, Tianchi Lake, the forest, and the grassland create a breathtaking landscape, ideal for city dwellers seeking to escape pollution and return to nature.
Liangshan Forest Sea
The Liangshan Forest Sea covers an area of 19,600 acres, with towering ancient trees and abundant flowers and wild fruits. Walking through the forest, one is enveloped by the beauty and purity of nature, enhanced by the melodies of chirping birds.
Caocang Huahai
The northern slope of Tianchi Lake rises to 2,410 meters, leading to a gentle, expansive natural grassland covering 0.15 square kilometers. The lush green grass and vibrant flowers create a peaceful scene with flocks of sheep leisurely grazing, making it a picturesque setting for relaxation and contemplation.
How to Get There
To reach Liangshan Tianchi Lake, visitors can travel by car or bus from Lincang City (临沧市) to Yunxian County, and then take local transport to Yongbao Town, followed by a short drive to the lake.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and summer are ideal for enjoying the natural beauty and mild weather.
- What to Bring: Pack hiking gear, swimwear, and picnic supplies for a full day of enjoyment.
- Local Cuisine: Try local dishes available in nearby eateries for a taste of regional flavors.
- Accommodation: Look for guesthouses or hotels in Yunxian County for a comfortable stay.
- Wildlife Watching: Be on the lookout for the diverse wildlife and take care to respect their natural habitat.
