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Discover the Ethereal Beauty of Milk Lake: A Gem Within Doacheng Yading National Park, China
Tucked away in the majestic scenery of Sichuan Province, China, lies a natural wonder that will leave you in awe – the Milk Lake at Doacheng Yading National Park. This tranquil lake is a part of the Shangri-La mythology and has gained recognition as a UNESCO Global Geopark. Its otherworldly beauty is simply captivating, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts alike.
Getting There
The Milk Lake is located approximately 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) inside Doacheng Yading National Park, which lies in the Shaluhe Township, Dechang County, of the Liangshan Prefecture. Reaching the park requires careful planning and logistics, but the efforts will be worth it.
The closest town is Chengdu, Sichuan’s capital city, which is connected by a regular bus service from the major transportation hubs like Beijing and Shanghai. After arriving at Dechang Town, a minivan taxi or taxi ride of approximately 20 kilometers (12.4 miles) can take you to the starting point of the national park.
Exploring Milk Lake
To reach Milk Lake, hikers embark on a gentle, moderate 7.5 km (4.6-mile) hike, which generally takes about 3 to 4 hours. As you begin the trek, the stunning landscapes unfold with lush meadows, vast valleys, and snow-capped mountains looming in the distance.
After traversing through alpine forests, the sound of water soon becomes evident, and it’s when the majestic vision of the Milk Lake will greet your senses. Stretching for 300 square meters, this tranquil blue-green lake shines with clarity, nestled at an elevation of approximately 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). The scenic lake, nestled among meadows of fragrant Himalayan mint and verdant grass, invites contemplative moments.
Feng Huang Sea – The Spiritual Significance
Milk Lake, known as Feng Huang Sea, is shrouded in mysticism. Legend speaks of an empress finding solace amidst this surreal landscape after an unkind fate took away her love and son. Local myth points to Feng Huang, China’s mystical Phoenix, flying over this enchanted valley. Here, believers worship at three ancient stupas and burn incense as offerings in reverence for their loved ones.
Visiting Regimes
While hiking on the paths is encouraged to appreciate the sheer grandeur of this park, visitation policies apply:
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Timings: May 15 to November 15; Closed from May 15 to October 15.
- Restricted Areas: Parts of the park may be restricted; please observe posted signs to ensure safe access.
Accommodations & Services
Nearby national park villages like Chaoke and Baidian offer temporary accommodations for those planning shorter stays or long treks. Several high-altitude guesthouses with limited beds are scattered across the forest, though, reservations become essential well in advance.
For local resources and emergency assistance, don’t miss the dedicated team at Park Headquarters. Staff and Park Rangers assist hikers to ensure an enchanting but safe visit.
Unforgettable Memories at Milk Lake
Venture to China’s captivating Doacheng Yading National Park for an ethereal encounter – Milk Lake – and step into an ever-present essence of beauty and mysticism. Remember, when on this majestic lake’s bank, don’t be awestruck just by photography; rather, listen deeply to nature, allowing an unforgettable interplay between land, soul, and celestial harmony.