Napahai Lake

Historical Overview

Revered by Tibetan nomads as "Napa" (forest behind the lake), it became a pilgrimage site in the 8th century. In 1992, it joined the East Asian–Australasian Flyway Network, protecting endangered waterbirds. Key events include the 2004 UNESCO designation as a wetland of international importance and the 2016 discovery of ancient Tibetan burial sites nearby.

Structural Layout

1. The wetland comprises:Core Zone: Lake basin surrounded by Shika Snow Mountain (4,449m) and grazing pastures.

2. Ecosystems: Sedge meadows, willow forests, and open water supporting 300+ plant species.

3. Key Features: 10km pilgrimage circuit, 6 birdwatching towers, and the seasonal "Zha-Chu" River delta.

4. Tibetan Villages: Napa and Xiaojiudu villages practicing traditional pastoralism.

Major Attractions

Napa Sunrise Platform: 6 AM viewpoint over mist-covered lake and Shika Mountain.

Lovers’ Meadow: July–August blooms of gentian and primrose.

Bird Island: Floating platform for observing black-necked cranes (Nov–Mar).

Pilgrimage Trail: 10km loop with prayer flags and lakeside stupas.

Tibetan Eco-Museum: Exhibits on nomadic culture and wetland conservation.

Horseback Riding: Guided tours through meadows and yak herder camps.

Suggested Itineraries

• Classic Route (3–4 hours):

Sunrise Platform → Bird Island → Lovers’ Meadow → Eco-Museum.

Highlights: Photography, birdwatching, and flora.

• Cultural Route (5–6 hours):

Pilgrimage Trail → Tibetan Village → Yak Butter Making Demo.

Highlights: Nomadic culture and spiritual sites.

• Adventure Route (Full Day):

Horse Ride to Shika Summit → Lakeside Picnic → Sunset Cruise.

Highlights: Panoramic vistas and local cuisine.

Ticket Purchase

Entrance Fee: Free (donations encouraged at Eco-Museum).

Horseback Tours: ¥150–200/hour (includes guide and yak butter tea).

Boat Cruise: ¥50 (30-minute paddleboat rental).

Shuttle Bus: ¥20 (round-trip from Shangri-La Old Town).

Transportation

To Shangri-La:

Flight: Daily flights from Kunming/Lhasa to Diqing Airport (DIG).

Bus: 4-hour bus from Lijiang (¥65) or 3-hour bus from Kunming (¥150).

Local:

Bus: Route #12 from Shangri-La Old Town to Napa Hai Entrance (¥3, 40 mins).

Taxi: ¥40–50 (20 mins) from Old Town.

Bike Rental: ¥30/day for the 16km lakeside trail.

Best Time & Tips

Avoid Crowds: Visit Nov–Mar (off-season) or weekdays.

Best Seasons: Spring (May–Jun) for blooms; autumn (Sep–Oct) for cranes.

Dress Code: Layered clothing (temps range from -10°C to 20°C).

Altitude Note: 3,266m; stay hydrated to prevent altitude sickness.

Respect: Nomadic camps; ask before photographing locals.

Eco-Tip: Use reusable bins (plastic banned in reserve).

Try: Suanna Rougan (smoked yak meat) and Tibetan Barley Wine in Xiaojiudu Village.