Silk Road Photo Gallery - Tianchi Lake
| |||
Tianchi is an alpine lake at almost 2000m. Surrounded by mountains that are snow-covered year-round, the scenery here is quite "heavenly". As expected, there were incredible crowds trying to get in and board the buses that go up to the lake.
Outside cars are not allowed in the park, so transportation must be on one of the park's vehicles.
At the bus terminal, you can either continue walking uphill or pay for an electric vehicle to go the rest of the way.
| |||
A large crowd had already amassed at the lakefront. What they didn't seem to realize is the hiking paths radiating out from the lake were great. The overnight cold had resulted in some ice and snow cover, which made the scene even more magical. I didn't have enough time to do a full circle but did a short hour-long walk to enjoy the serenity beneath the tree cover.
Where did everyone go? Surely, they didn't pay all that money just to take a photo at the end of the lake?
After the long walk and amidst the cold weather, it was a good time for lunch. Would you try this sort of street food?
The other must-do item here is a cruise on the lake to see the mountains up-close. The bottom level of the boat is enclosed while the top-deck is open, and lifejackets must be worn upstairs, which is enforced.
All the extra fees adds up to an expensive outing quite quickly, but this is the new China. The high cost doesn't deter large groups from visiting. Looking at all the buses parked outside, they are ready to handle the biggest crowds.
| |||
