Located in Lanniping Mine in Dongchuan District, Kunming City, Fairy Pond is approximately 110 kilometres away from the downtown area. It is a grassland with a high mountain landscape. The mysterious and captivating frozen lake lies quietly in the embrace of the Gongwang Mountain range.
The crystal-clear water of the lake is visible to the bottom, and this is Fairy Pond. With an elevation of approximately 3,700 metres, it is an ice-dammed lake created by Quaternary glaciers. Despite being deep within high mountains at a high altitude, streams flow through the mountain valleys all day long, ensuring that the lake never dries up.
Fairy Pond is formed by three differently shaped "ponds" that are constantly filled with water throughout the year. The water is bone-chillingly cold and its depth remains unknown. The pond covers an area of several hundred square metres and it widens at its northern end, while narrowing down towards its southern end, resembling a giant lute embedded in the mountains.
The geological landscape of Fairy Pond resembles Tibet and it has been called "Little Tibet in Eastern Yunnan." The water quality of Fairy Pond Lake is clear and transparent; visitors can see all the way to the bottom from shore. Surrounding Fairy Pond are various geological wonders including vast meadows at mountain foothills, herds of yaks grazing freely, and snow-capped peaks that remain throughout most of each year. Combined with mystical legends surrounding this place, its popularity has greatly increased.
There are many legends about the Fairy Pond, and the most widely circulated one is as follows: when calling out or stirring the water at the lakeside, dark clouds immediately gather overhead, accompanied by strong winds, heavy rain, and even hailstones falling. In ancient times, people didn't understand the cause of this phenomenon and suspected it was the mischief of fairies, hence the name "Fairy Pond". Through scientific research verification, it is now known that this phenomenon occurs when hail in the upper atmosphere reaches near-saturation levels. The sound of tourists' voices breaks this critical state and causes hail to fall.
Standing on one side of Fairy Pond's shores allows for panoramic views encompassing towering peaks at distant horizons, along with intermittent visibility snow-covered ridges as well as translucent icy waters right before your eyes.
As seasons change throughout the year, Fairy Pond’s scenery transforms into something resembling paradise lost:
In springtime, the mountains bloom
Springtime brings vibrant colours to Fairly Pond’s surroundings: hillsides covered completely with flowers gives you a sense as if you're immersed within a floral seascape. A gusty wind fills the atmosphere with a fragrance which makes for enchantment beyond imagination.
In summertime, dreamlike mystery unfolds
Summer brings lush aquatic vegetation to Fairly Pond; flocks graze happily. During evening hours, multi-coloured clouds cover the entire sky, making the whole lakeside scene appear like something out of a dreamscape. As night falls, starry constellations light up the surroundings, making Fairly Pond romantic yet enigmatic under shimmering starlight reflections.
In autumn, the scene becomes serene
Autumn changes Fairly Pond’s greenery into darker hues revealing deep-toned attire. By daylight against the sky backdrop, everything appears tranquil and profound. From mountaintops, you get breathtaking views over expansive plateaus. A truly awe-inspiring spectacle!
In winter, the snowy panorama emerges
During winter, Fairly Pond dons a pure white cloak. Frozen, crystal-clear waters turn into ice, forming a world completely engulfed in silver-white wintery magic. The presence of prolonged seasonal snowfall nourishes this region, enabling the entire lake surface to freeze over, creating a perfect natural ice-skating arena. A rarity found in Yunnan Province!
Nevertheless, fairytale beauty extends beyond mere description. Despite being just slightly over ?? kilometers away from Kunming city limits, this extraordinary scenic spot should be considered a must-see attraction. Enroute, you'll witness alpine meadows, winding mountain roads and mining district paths, all providing perfect testing grounds for off-road vehicle enthusiasts.
At times, you might even encounter groups of yaks roaming around, creating an incredible driving experience akin to exploring Tibetan regions. Additionally, foggy sea vistas create ethereal ambiance, resembling utopia where time stands still. Most certainly, a place where souls find solace. Come join us at Fairytale Land, a place of captivating moments!
Located in Lanniping Mine in Dongchuan District, Kunming City.
Do not visit Dongchuang Fairy Pond alone because the roads are complex.
It is advised to join organized tours. Tour leaders offer clear directions, preventing unnecessary detours.
Furthermore, no cellphone signals exist, so downloading satellite maps is useful prior to departure.
