Pudacuo National Park
Pudacuo National Park, China’s first modern national park and a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, spans 1,300 km² in Yunnan’s Shangri-La region. Known for pristine alpine lakes, wetlands, and meadows, it’s home to 20% of China’s plant species and rare wildlife like black-necked cranes and snow leopards. Elevations range from 3,200m to 4,159m, offering subarctic to temperate ecosystems.
Historical Overview
Established in 2007 under China’s National Park System, Pudacuo merged three protected areas: Bita Lake, Shudu Lake, and Militang Pasture. In 2008, it became a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, balancing conservation with Tibetan herding traditions. Key events include the 2016 return of wolves (after 50 years) and 2021’s expansion to include new hiking trails.
Geographical Layout
The park is divided into three zones:Shudu Lake: 3.3km² turquoise lake with a 3.5km boardwalk.
Bita Lake: 15km² glacial lake surrounded by primeval forests.
Militang Pasture: 10km² alpine meadow with grazing yaks and eagles.
Key Features: 70km loop road, 12km of trails, and the 4,159m Shambhala Peak.
Major Attractions
Shudu Lake: Boardwalk with views of Songzanlin Monastery reflections.
Bita Lake: 10km hiking trail through ancient cypress forests.
Militang Pasture: Wildflower meadows (June–August) and yurt camps.
Attu Goddess Waterfall: 30m cascade accessible via Bita Lake trail.
Alpine Flower Sea: July–August blooms of rhododendrons and primulas.
Tibetan Villages: Traditional homes in Napa Village (park entrance).
Shambhala Peak: 4-hour round-trip hike to 4,159m summit.
Suggested Itineraries
- Classic Route (3–4 hours):
Shudu Lake Boardwalk → Attu Waterfall → Militang Pasture.
Highlights: Lakes, waterfalls, and pastoral views.
- Nature Route (5–6 hours):
Bita Lake Hike → Ancient Cypress Forest → Shambhala Peak Viewpoint.
Highlights: Wildlife, forests, and alpine vistas.
- Adventure Route (2 Days):
Day 1: Shudu Lake → Militang Camping.
Day 2: Bita Lake Circuit → Shambhala Peak Summit.
Highlights: Multi-day hiking, camping, and stargazing.
Ticket Purchase
Entrance Fee: ¥100 (adults), ¥50 (students/seniors).
Shudu Lake Boat Tour: ¥50 (20-minute cruise).
Bita Lake Shuttle: ¥30 (round-trip).
Combined Pass: ¥160 (entrance + boat + shuttle).
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:
Park Shuttle: ¥20 (round-trip) from Shangri-La Old Town.
Taxi: ¥80–100 (40 mins) to park entrance.
Car Rental: ¥400/day (includes driver).
Best Time & Tips
Avoid Crowds: Visit Nov–Mar (off-season) or weekdays.
Best Seasons: Spring (Apr–May) for rhododendrons; autumn (Sep–Oct) for clear skies.
Wear: Layered clothing (temps drop 10°C/1,000m), waterproof boots, and sunglasses.
Safety: Hike with a buddy; carry water (no refills on trails).
Respect: Tibetan culture; don’t disturb yaks or prayer flags.
Eco-Tip: Use reusable bottles (free water stations at visitor centers).
Try: Tsampa (roasted barley flour) and Suanna Rougan (Tibetan beef jerky).
What Our Clients Say?
Based on 10,000+ traveler reviews
Ryan Adelaide
Denmark
Reviewed on October 28,2024
Tianmen Mountain was seriously the biggest surprise of my trip in China! And that glass walkway? A bit scary, but the view over the valley was incredible. The Tianmen Cave is breathtaking, it's amazing what nature can do. If you love nature and a good challenge, you definitely don’t want to miss this place—Tianmen Mountain is totally worth a visit!
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
October 23,2024
Truman Blake
Brazil
Reviewed on October 14,2024
Oh my god! The Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon is an absolute wonderland! The highlight was definitely the Grand Canyon Glass Bridge – walking on that transparent floor with the deep canyon below was both terrifying and exhilarating! And the lush greenery everywhere made me feel like I’d entered a fairytale world. Every turn offered a new breathtaking view. This place truly showcases the incredible power and beauty of nature. It’s a must-visit for anyone traveling to China!
Destination(s):
Zhangjiajie
Date of
Experience:
October 10,2024
Irma Bernal
Ireland
Reviewed on November 07,2024
Before I came to the Dali Ancient Town, I was full of expectations for this place, and it was completely beyond my imagination! It's both historic and lively, and it's fun to chat with the locals. Sitting in a street café, feeling the slow pace, it's so pleasant! Dali Ancient Town, I will definitely come again!
Destination(s):
Dali
Date of
Experience:
November 05,2024
