Baishuitai (White Water Terraces) / 白水台

Category

Nature

Why Visit

• One of China's most unique geological wonders and the largest cold-spring freshwater travertine terrace. The ethereal white pools against blue water create a fairy-tale landscape. Combined with Naxi cultural heritage, it offers both natural and cultural richness.

Suggested Duration

2-3 hours

Best Visiting Time

April-June (moderate water, excellent light) and September-October (clear skies, vivid colors). Morning visits (before 14:00) for best lighting—terraces appear flat-white in backlight after 14:00.

Suitable For

• Photographers, geology enthusiasts, culture lovers, families

Tips

• Altitude is 2,380m—relatively low and comfortable. Wear non-slip shoes; terraces are wet and slippery. Do NOT step on the travertine formations—they are extremely fragile and took 300,000 years to form. Strong UV at this altitude—use sunscreen. Horse ride from parking lot to mid-section available (CNY 30-50). Try making Dongba paper in nearby villages.

Admission Type

Paid Ticket

Reservation Required

No

Price Estimates

CNY 30; Students/seniors: CNY 15; Parking: CNY 10

Reservation Max.

-

Opening Hours

Apr-Oct: 08:00-18:00; Nov-Mar: 08:30-17:00

Address (English & Chinese)

Baidi Village, Sanba Town, Shangri-La City, Yunnan Province, China (101 km from downtown, on the eastern ring road)

云南省迪庆藏族自治州香格里拉市三坝乡白地村

Amaps Link

https://surl.amap.com/4or6swPH1b7S3

Baidu Link

https://j.map.baidu.com/47/K3f