White Water Terrace Baishuitai
Discover the surreal beauty of White Water Terrace (Baishuitai), a sacred Naxi cultural site with stunning travertine formations.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
White Water Terrace Baishuitai
Best Time
Pleasant weather, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the surreal beauty of White Water Terrace (Baishuitai), a sacred Naxi cultural site with stunning travertine formations.
"A must-visit geological wonder and the spiritual birthplace of Dongba culture, offering breathtaking views."
Skip the Horse Ride
Save money and enjoy the hike; the climb is manageable and offers better views than the horse ride. :athletic_shoe:
Explore All Three Springs
Don't miss the less-visited springs; they offer unique beauty and cultural insights from local residents. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cascading Terraces
Main viewing areas
Witness the stunning, milky-white travertine terraces formed by mineral-rich springs, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.
Birthplace of Dongba Culture
Cultural interpretation points
Discover the spiritual significance of Baishuitai as the sacred origin of the Naxi people's Dongba culture and traditions.
Snow-Capped Mountain Backdrop
Upper viewing platforms
Enjoy panoramic views of the terraces with majestic snow-capped mountains providing a breathtaking natural backdrop.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Baishuitai
Navigating Baishuitai's Terraces
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Skip the Horse Ride
Save money and enjoy the hike; the climb is manageable and offers better views than the horse ride. :athletic_shoe:
Explore All Three Springs
Don't miss the less-visited springs; they offer unique beauty and cultural insights from local residents. :camerawithflash:
Drone for Epic Shots
Bring a drone for stunning aerial views, or hire local guides for unique footage. :drone:
Worth the Entry Fee
The CNY 30 entry fee is considered a good value for the unique scenery and cultural experience. :ticket:
Tips
from all over the internet
Skip the Horse Ride
Save money and enjoy the hike; the climb is manageable and offers better views than the horse ride. :athletic_shoe:
Explore All Three Springs
Don't miss the less-visited springs; they offer unique beauty and cultural insights from local residents. :camerawithflash:
Drone for Epic Shots
Bring a drone for stunning aerial views, or hire local guides for unique footage. :drone:
Worth the Entry Fee
The CNY 30 entry fee is considered a good value for the unique scenery and cultural experience. :ticket:
A Scenic Stopover
Perfectly situated between Tiger Leaping Gorge and Shangri-La for a memorable detour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise White Water Terrace for its unique and breathtaking natural beauty, often comparing it to otherworldly landscapes. The cultural significance as the birthplace of Dongba culture adds a profound layer to the experience. While the entry fee is considered reasonable, some advise against optional services like horse riding, suggesting the hike is more rewarding.
"I’ll tell you this is a must visit place. Worth to visit!
Ticket price is ¥30/person. But don’t ride the horse! Don’t ride the horse! They will charge you ¥60 at the beginning but as you walked in they will charge u only ¥20. But never mind it will not take too long to climb up the hill. Don’t forget There are 3 springs inside (most visitors only took pictures at exterior) The staff(native residents) introduced me the origin of the Springs and their culture. The spring is much beautiful than the pic I upload here guys"
Geetze Zeng
"You can either come here from Shangrila or Lijiang. Entry fee is CNY30 at the point of writing. From the parking area you need to hike up & come back down from the other end. Drone shots will be able to capture the full scenery, otherwise pay the local guys to help you get the footage."
D. lee
"It’s a beautiful stop from Tiger Leaping Gorge to Shangri La not to be missed. The hike up to the viewing platform is easy and hence you don’t need the horse riding service. You can see the terraces with snowcap mountain at the backdrop. This place is a bit similar to Pamukkale in Turkey."
Jon Ng
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach White Water Terrace (Baishuitai) from Shangri-La is by private car or joining a small tour group, as large tour buses often skip this destination. The journey takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Yes, Baishuitai is accessible from Lijiang, though it's a longer drive. It's often visited as a stopover point when traveling between Lijiang and Shangri-La.
Private car hire or joining a small, private tour is recommended to ensure you can visit Baishuitai, as it's not always on the itinerary of larger group tours.
Public transport options are limited and not as convenient as private hire. It's best to arrange transport in advance or through your accommodation in Shangri-La or Lijiang.
White Water Terrace is located about 106 kilometers south of Shangri-La city.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for White Water Terrace (Baishuitai) is typically around CNY 30 per person.
Information on specific discounts is not widely available, but it's always worth inquiring at the ticket counter.
While specific hours can vary, it's generally open during daylight hours to allow visitors to appreciate the natural beauty. It's advisable to check locally or with your tour operator.
Advance booking is usually not necessary for White Water Terrace, as it's often visited spontaneously or as part of a tour.
Parking fees may apply at the designated parking area near the entrance. It's best to confirm upon arrival.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore the unique travertine terraces, learn about the Dongba culture, hike to various viewpoints, and enjoy the scenic mountain backdrop.
Allow at least 2-3 hours to fully explore the terraces, hike to the viewpoints, and appreciate the cultural significance.
The hike up to the viewing platforms is generally considered easy to moderate, and many visitors prefer it over the horse riding option.
Yes, drones are permitted and can capture stunning aerial footage of the terraces. However, be mindful of other visitors and local regulations.
Wear comfortable walking shoes as you'll be doing some hiking. Layers are recommended due to the altitude, and sun protection is advisable.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The upper viewing platforms offer the most dramatic perspectives of the cascading terraces with the mountains. Exploring the different levels reveals unique angles.
Early morning or late afternoon light can create beautiful soft lighting on the terraces. Midday sun can be harsh but still offers good contrast.
Consider using a drone for aerial shots, or focus on the intricate details of the mineral formations. Hiring local guides can also lead to unique perspectives.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive terraces and mountain views. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water.
Generally, photography is allowed, but be respectful of any designated cultural or sacred areas. Drone usage might have specific guidelines.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
To enhance the family experience, focus on the storytelling aspect of the Dongba culture. Engaging children with the legends and traditions associated with Baishuitai can make the visit more educational and memorable. The natural beauty provides ample opportunities for fun photos and creating lasting family memories.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Drone photography is highly recommended here, as it allows for breathtaking aerial views that showcase the scale and patterns of the terraces. If you don't have a drone, consider hiring local guides who can assist with capturing unique perspectives or even provide drone footage services.
🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Lovers
Beyond the visual appeal, the geological processes at play are fascinating. Understanding how these terraces are formed adds an educational dimension to the hike. The surrounding natural environment, often featuring lush vegetation and distant mountain vistas, further enhances the experience for those who appreciate the outdoors.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geological Marvel of Baishuitai
This geological phenomenon is not only visually stunning but also holds significant cultural importance. Baishuitai is considered the sacred birthplace of the Dongba culture for the Naxi ethnic minority. The Naxi people believe the terraces are a divine creation, and the site is a place of pilgrimage and spiritual significance. Visitors can learn about these traditions and the unique Dongba script at interpretive points within the site.
For photographers and nature enthusiasts, Baishuitai offers unparalleled opportunities. The contrast between the white terraces and the surrounding greenery, often with snow-capped mountains in the distance, creates breathtaking scenes. Many visitors recommend using a drone to capture the full scale and intricate patterns of the terraces from above.
Cultural Significance and the Naxi People
Visitors can gain insights into the Dongba culture by observing the local residents who often share stories and explanations about the springs and their traditions. This cultural immersion adds a profound layer to the visit, transforming it from a mere sightseeing trip into an educational and spiritual experience. Understanding the cultural context enhances the appreciation of Baishuitai's beauty and its importance to the Naxi people.
While the natural beauty is undeniable, the cultural heritage of Baishuitai is what truly sets it apart. It's a place where nature and spirituality converge, offering a glimpse into an ancient and vibrant culture. Respectful engagement with the local culture is encouraged to preserve the sanctity of this special location.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit