Hey everyone, Mark here! I'm a seasoned backpacker, and my latest adventure took me to the breathtaking Lugu Lake in Yunnan, China, a place often called "God's Tears." This wasn't your typical tourist trip; it was a journey filled with stunning landscapes, unexpected encounters, and a deep appreciation for the local culture. Get ready to immerse yourselves in my incredible experience!
The Journey Begins: Reaching Lugu Lake
My journey started in Sichuan's Yanyuan County. I hopped on a local bus, and after a bumpy, four-hour ride, I finally arrived at Lugu Lake. The air was crisp and cool, a definite jacket-weather kind of day. The lake itself, a magnificent high-altitude body of water, stretched out before me, living up to its ethereal reputation.
Cultural Encounters and Unexpected Hospitality
I checked into a guesthouse and met a fellow traveler. We decided to explore together, hiking to the Deqing Temple near Dazucun. The altitude (over 2700 meters!) quickly became apparent as I struggled to catch my breath. The temple, a beautiful example of Tibetan Buddhism, hummed with the chanting of lamas. A kind grandmother even gave me a delicious local pastry and I shared a cup of butter tea, the rich flavour warming me both inside and out. The generosity and welcoming nature of the locals truly struck me, a constant offering of food and drink a testament to their welcoming culture. It felt like a sacred and spiritual experience.
A Solo Trek to the Iconic Lige Peninsula
I learned that most people know Lugu Lake from a famous photo—an aerial shot of the Lige Peninsula stretching into the lake. My current location, Dazucun, was quite a distance from Lige Village, around ten kilometers. Renting a shared electric scooter was expensive, and I couldn't find a bike, so I opted for a solo trek.
The path was lined with mani piles, stacked stones often carved with Buddhist images and scriptures. They’re a common sight in Tibetan areas, symbols of good fortune and peace. I had to navigate around some loose rocks, sticking to the lakeside path to avoid the risk of falling debris.
The trek itself was a stunning journey. I passed wild peach trees, their fallen fruit carpeting the ground, and even spotted a frog. The lake, a mirror-like expanse, was breathtaking. After hours of walking, I finally reached a viewpoint with a giant mani pile and a number of tourists – the now-famous “Sky Star” photography spot. A local offered me a sausage, potato, and egg for 12 Yuan. It was the perfect fuel for the remaining journey.
Even though Lugu Lake is a well-developed tourist spot, I found the people to be incredibly warm and welcoming. A local woman shared her family's delicious pork with chili flakes, a truly unforgettable taste of authentic Lugu Lake cuisine.
Exploring Lugu Lake's Diverse Cultures
I learned from the locals that the Mosuo people, a unique ethnic group of around 50,000, identify as Mongolian on their ID cards, with a rumour that they are perhaps descendents of Kublai Khan. I couldn't verify the truth, but it added to the rich tapestry of cultural nuances I was experiencing.
I explored the famous pig trough boats, the traditional transportation of the lake. The lake is actually divided between Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, with each side managing its own portion of the area.
Finally, I arrived at the Lige Peninsula, the location of the iconic photo, and found it bustling with visitors.
The Mystery of Lige Village's Closed Businesses
I wanted to check out the prices at the hotels in Lige Village, only to find that they've all been closed for two years! The reason? To protect the lake's pristine waters from pollution caused by wastewater from businesses being too close to the shore.
The Final Stretch: A Budget-Friendly Guesthouse and a Delicious Meal
After nearly four hours of hiking, I finally found affordable lodging (40 yuan a night!). Exhausted but satisfied, I indulged in a delicious local dish of fish cooked in a creamy milk-like broth. The friendly owners of the guesthouse even let me use their car for free!
Goddess Bay and the Unexpected Rainbow
The next day, I visited Goddess Bay and was rewarded with a spectacular rainbow after a sudden downpour—just as the locals had predicted! The stunning scenery of the bay, with its lush, verdant hills and the serene waters, was an unforgettable end to my amazing trip.
Lugu Lake Quick Facts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | On the border of Sichuan and Yunnan provinces, China |
| Altitude | Over 2700 meters |
| Notable Features | Stunning high-altitude lake, unique Mosuo culture, iconic Lige Peninsula, pig trough boats |
| Best Time to Visit | Summer (July-August) for pleasant weather, but expect crowds |
