The Lake Behind the Forest

Overview - Location: Situated in Shangri-La City, Diqing Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, northwest of Shangri-La County, approximately 8 kilometers from the county town. It lies between 27°49′-27°55′N latitude and 99°37′-99°40′E longitude. - Elevation and Area: The lake is at an altitude of 3,266 meters, with a water surface area of 660 square kilometers. The total protected area spans 2,400 hectares, including 2,083 hectares of wetlands. - Climate Characteristics: The region features a cold temperate highland monsoon climate, with distinct dry and wet seasons, strong solar radiation, small annual temperature variation, large daily temperature variation, long winters without summer, and short spring and autumn. The annual average temperature is 5.4°C. - Hydrological Features: This is a seasonal highland marshland fed by eight small rivers from surrounding mountains. During late summer and early autumn, it forms a large lake surface. The lake water flows into underground rivers through caves in the northwest corner and eventually drains into the Jinsha River via Tomdui in Nixi Township. Natural Scenery - Yila Grassland: During winter and spring, the lake surface of Napa Lake shrinks, transforming into vast marshy meadows known as Yila Grassland. It is the largest spring pasture in Yunnan, with herds of cattle and sheep creating picturesque scenery. - Napa Lake Wetland: The core area features expansive grasslands and lakes. In summer, the grasslands are lush with small flowers blooming, and herds of sheep, cattle, and horses grazing harmoniously with the landscape. The grasslands and lakes complement each other, resembling a paradise. - Gunyin Temple Ruins: Located on the eastern hill of Napa Lake, this temple was built at the end of the Yuan Dynasty and destroyed during conflicts in the early Qing Dynasty. From the ancient temple, one can enjoy a panoramic view of Napa Lake Grassland. - Zhongqin Temple Ruins: Situated on the northwest hill of Napa Lake, this temple was constructed at the end of the Ming Dynasty and destroyed during sectarian disputes in the early Qing Dynasty. The site is surrounded by towering ancient trees, with remnants of walls and scattered debris. Ecological Resources - Plant Resources: The wetland is home to 261 species of plants from 61 families and 171 genera. In May, the grasslands turn green, and in June, various wildflowers bloom, making it the largest grassland in the county. - Animal Resources: The area serves as a wintering habitat for numerous migratory birds. To date, 177 bird species have been recorded, with over 30,000 birds residing here. Among them are nationally protected species like the black-necked crane, as well as provincially protected species such as the gray goose, bar-headed goose, and gray crane, along with many waterfowl. Tourism Experience - Transportation: Visitors can take a taxi from the airport, use the Napa Lake Yila Grassland shuttle from the Dukezong Ancient Town parking lot, or drive or cycle along Changzheng Avenue, Jinsha Road, and Wangchi Road. - Activities: Tourists can rent bicycles or electric bikes to cycle around Napa Lake, enjoying the grasslands, lakes, and snow-capped mountains along the way. Other activities include horseback riding and archery.