Five Flower Lake: Gem Of the Jiuzhaigou National Park

Located in the southwest China, the Jiuzhaigou National Park is a valley on the Tibetan Plateau. The Jiuzhaigou Valley is on the UNESCO World Heritage Site list for a reason. Besides, breathtaking views, the valley is home to over dozen lakes and waterfalls. But, most spectacular of all is Five Flower Lake.

Five Flower Lake is surrounded with mountains. The depth of the lake is 16 feet, but the lake-bed is visible under its clear water. It’s color varies and it is mesmerizing to observe. The color of the lake varies: from amber yellow, emerald green, dark jade to light turquoise, with a hint of coral. But, most of the time the water is sapphire blue. The place is shrouded in a lot of secrets and mysteries. While neighboring lakes periodically melt and dry up, the water level in Five Flower Lake is always constant. The lake does not freeze in winter. Local residents consider it to be a holy lake. However, there is an explanation for it. The water contains lime, calcium carbonate and multicolored hydrophytes. Also, an underwater hot spring flows into the lake, so the lake does not freeze.

The Jiuzhagou Nature Reserve aims to preserve the nature as much as possible. But, there are very well developed walkways next to the crystal clear lakes, rapids and waterfalls. Bus service is provided, but it gets crowded fast. Also, there are shuttle buses, that take visitors around all the attractions faster. However, it is better to explore the place by walking, in order to enjoy it the fullest.