Mengda Tianchi Lake
孟达天池
A high-mountain lake in the Mengda National Nature Reserve, ringed by primeval forest and emerald waters, often called the “Xishuangbanna of the Plateau.”
Mengda Tianchi Lake lies within the Mengda National Nature Reserve in Mengda Township, eastern Xunhua County, on the south bank of the Yellow River. The lake sits at about 2,500 meters above sea level, surrounded by dense mixed conifer and broadleaf forest that is rare in Qinghai, which is why it is nicknamed the “Xishuangbanna of the Plateau.” From the parking area, it takes about an hour on foot along a forest trail, or on horseback, to reach the lakeshore. Visitors can walk around the lake, go birdwatching, and photograph forest reflections in the water. Admission is about CNY 70, and horse rides cost extra. The lake is about 35 km from Xunhua county seat and 180 km from Xining. If you are driving, you can combine it with Jishi Gorge. Temperatures swing widely between day and night on the plateau, so bring a jacket, use sun protection, and climb at a relaxed pace.
Opening hours
About 8:30 AM–6:00 PM (shorter in winter)