Milk Sea in Daocheng County, Garze
Overview of Milk Sea
Milk Sea (牛奶海) in Daocheng Yading is a high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains, renowned for its enchanting natural scenery and refreshing climate. The lake’s name derives from its milk-like white waters, and its high elevation makes it an ideal summer getaway. In this pristine plateau sanctuary, visitors can not only enjoy the cool climate but also immerse themselves in the unique natural landscapes and rich cultural atmosphere.
Geographical Location
Milk Sea is located within the Daocheng Yading Scenic Area in Daocheng County, Garze Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Sichuan Province. It sits at an altitude of approximately 4,500 meters. Encircled by snow-capped mountains, this typical high-altitude lake, despite its small surface area, has become one of the key attractions in Daocheng Yading due to its unique geographical position and natural beauty.
Scenic Features
The Milk Sea is named for its milky-white water, which starkly contrasts with the surrounding snow-capped mountains and meadows, creating a dreamlike natural canvas. Under the sunlight, the lake shimmers with a captivating glow, while the verdant grasslands nearby and the majestic snow peaks in the distance contribute to a scene that feels both pure and mysterious.
Tourist Facilities
Although the natural environment around Milk Sea remains relatively untouched, basic tourist facilities are available in the scenic area. Visitors can follow clearly marked hiking trails to reach the lake, enjoying various natural landscapes along the way. In this high-altitude region, it’s important for tourists to acclimatize, and the scenic area provides emergency medical services and guided tours to ensure the safety and convenience of visitors.
Summer Retreat Experience
Refreshing Climate
The climate in the high-altitude region where Milk Sea is located is cool, maintaining low temperatures even in summer. This refreshing climate makes Milk Sea an excellent choice for summer travel. Visitors can enjoy the fresh air of nature, escaping the heat and noise of the city for complete relaxation.
Hiking Adventures
Reaching Milk Sea typically involves a hiking journey. While high-altitude trekking can present challenges, the breathtaking views along the way make it worthwhile. Hikers can traverse vast meadows, cross pristine forests, and ascend to the foot of snow-capped peaks, with every step offering a delightful sense of exploration.
Stunning Natural Scenery
The natural beauty of Milk Sea is truly awe-inspiring. The contrast between the lake’s white waters and the surrounding green meadows and towering snow mountains creates a fairy-tale atmosphere. In the morning, mist gently drifts over the lake, immersing visitors in a dreamlike world; in the evening, the sunset casts golden hues over the water, turning it into a paradise for photographers.
Travel Tips
Altitude Acclimatization
Due to Milk Sea’s high altitude, visitors should prepare adequately for altitude acclimatization before their trip. It’s recommended to arrive in Daocheng Yading a few days in advance to gradually adjust to the plateau climate. Staying hydrated and avoiding intense physical activity can help mitigate altitude sickness.
Environmental Awareness
The natural environment surrounding Milk Sea is fragile, so visitors should practice environmental awareness during their exploration. This includes not littering, avoiding disturbances to wildlife, and adhering to the scenic area’s environmental regulations to help preserve this beautiful landscape.
Necessary Gear
Given the low temperatures typical of high-altitude areas, visitors should bring warm clothing. Even in summer, windproof and cold-resistant gear is advisable. Additionally, sunscreen and sunglasses are recommended to protect against strong UV rays. Adequate water and high-energy snacks are also essential for the journey.
Transportation Information
To reach Milk Sea, visitors typically trek or ride horses from Luorong Pasture. The one-way cost for a horse ride is approximately 300 RMB, taking about 3 hours. Due to limited availability of horses, advance booking is recommended.
Best Travel Seasons
The altitude here reaches 4,600 meters, which most visitors can typically access. The bottom of the Five-Color Lake features irregular mesh-like patterns. In July and August, various plants thrive at the lake’s bottom, reflecting different colors under sunlight, earning it the nickname “Seven-Color Sea.” To see the most beautiful scenery, selecting the right time to visit these lakes is crucial.
Milk Sea in Daocheng Yading, with its unique high-altitude lake scenery and cool climate, serves as an ideal summer retreat. The picturesque natural landscapes and the adventurous hiking experience make it a captivating destination. If you are seeking a refreshing escape, consider visiting Milk Sea to experience the beauty and wonder of nature.
