Cotton Castle of China—Baishuitai

Baishuitai is located at the foot of Haba Mountain, Shangri-La, in the Sanba Township southeast of Shangri-La County, 101 kilometers away from the county town, with an altitude of 2380 meters. It is known as the birthplace of the Dongba religion of the Naxi people. Baishuitai is a natural wonder formed by the dissolution of calcium carbonate in spring water. The spring water containing calcium bicarbonate slowly flows down, and the carbonate gradually precipitates, forming a platform over the years, like terraced fields. It is known as the 'Fairy's Terraced Fields'. Covering an area of about 3 square kilometers, it is the largest travertine platform in China. The water platform of Cotton Castle, like God overturned the palette, layers of snow-white piled up, calcium carbonate dissolved in the spring water, it is amazing. It is said to be the terraced fields transformed by the gods of the Naxi people, and later generations also called it 'Fairy's Terraced Fields'. Every year from February to April and September to November, Baishuitai is the most beautiful in the three seasons of spring, summer, and autumn. The water volume is not large in winter, and the morning sun shines, it is crystal clear and has a unique scenery. The altitude is relatively high, it is recommended that friends with high anti prepare in advance, do not go in the rainy season due to the risk of falling rocks, novices are not recommended to drive by themselves, the road is quite rugged. Baishuitai looks better from a distance, so you can see the layered cream terraces. You can also go to the nearby viewing platform, the view is also good