Blue Moon Valley was really high on my list. When I saw the stunning photos of this place, I knew I had to check it out. And that was before I discovered that there was a yak meadow and horses around. But trust me, I wasnât ready for what I was about to see. This place is spectacular. And along with these gorgeous sights, you will see them : the wedding people. Couples, photographers and assistants, sitting, standing, posing to capture those memories for eternity (hopefully). Jokes aside, Iâve never seen so many in my life. But instead of complaining about the crowd as usual, I decided to incorporate them into my photos and make this compilation of my favorites for you. Hope you enjoy the ride!
Composed of 4 lakes at the bottom of the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain, Blue Moon Valley is an unmissable natural scenery in Yunnan province. Itâs about 2 hours away from Lijiang. Its bright blue water is almost surreal. It actually reminds me of some lakes in Southern France like Les Gorges du Verdon. But the water can also turn white when it rains a lot because of the white mud, so the Naxi people actually call it the White Water River. Nestled among mountains, the Valley will be the perfect stop for a full day trip. We started at the bottom and followed the river until we got to the end and walked back. You can also take shuttles, but then youâll miss out on the nice walking path. There are a few restaurants and KFC but I havenât found anything amazing. If you do, please let me know. A nice restaurant with a view of this lake would be pretty neat. Just saying.
What youâll see there
- The turquoise blue lake
- Many impressive waterfalls and dams
- A curvy wooden path on the lake
- Horses
- yaks (some of them are chained up, I disagree with those practices so I didnât take pictures of them, thatâs sad). There is a yak meadow, but it was closed when I went.
- people wearing colorful traditional clothing
- a cable car to see the valley from higher up.
- crowds of tourists - you can avoid them by going early or walking down the river.
How to get there & get back
You can take the 101 bus from Lijiang Old Town (15 RMB), and I personally always show the driver my destination to check and they usually tell me when to get down. That way you donât miss the stop. The entrance to the Snow Mountains is 100 RMB, then you take a new bus to Blue Moon Valley for 20 RMB.
To leave, go to the Service Center and the bus will take you back to the place where youâll get the bus back to Lijiang. Keep in mind that the last bus leaves at 5pm.
To leave, go to the Service Center and the bus will take you back to the place where youâll get the bus back to Lijiang. Keep in mind that the last bus leaves at 5pm.
Where to stay
I stayed in an apartment of the Gemmel hotel in Lijiang, near the Old Town.
Final word
The water is freezing all year long, and according to the legend, enamored young men have to step into the water in front of their partner to prove the authenticity of their love. Would you do that? Haha
Comments are closed.
Gorgeous!!!!!! Thank you for sharing.