Five-Color Lake: A Magical Color-Changing Lake Beneath the Yading Snow Mountains

Nestled between the sacred mountains of Xiannairi and Yangmaiyong in the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area, Five-Color Lake sits at an altitude of 4,600 meters and is revered as a "holy lake" by local Tibetans. The lake's water displays enchanting hues of blue, green, yellow, orange, and purple due to mineral deposits on the lakebed and the refraction of light. On sunny days, it sparkles like a gemstone, while on overcast days, it appears deep and inky, earning its name "Five-Color Lake." It takes about a 30-minute hike from Milk Lake to reach Five-Color Lake. The trail involves crossing rocky slopes and streams, so caution is advised to prevent slipping and to manage altitude sickness. The lake has an irregular circular shape, covering an area of approximately 0.7 hectares. During summer, the melting snow fills the lake, while in winter, parts of it freeze. Tibetan prayer flags and mani stone piles are often seen around the lake, adding to its mystical ambiance. The lake is highly sensitive to light, with its colors most vibrant under the midday sun. It is recommended to bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare. Occasionally, alpine fish can be spotted swimming in the lake, but fishing or feeding them is strictly prohibited. There are no dining facilities nearby, so visitors should bring their own snacks and hot water. After visiting, it is advisable to descend slowly to avoid discomfort caused by strenuous activity.