Natural Scenery
Yila Grassland
Shangri-la, China
3-4 hours
About
Located 8 km northwest of Dukezong Ancient Town in Shangri-La at an altitude of 3266m, Napahai is a provincial-level natural protected wetland. It features unique dual seasonal landscapes: abundant glacial meltwater forms a vast mirror lake from June to September, while water recedes to expose wide Yila Grassland from October to May. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, scattered Tibetan villages and fluttering prayer flags, it serves as a vital winter habitat for black-necked cranes and migratory waterbirds. The public ring road and open viewing spots are free for sightseeing; private grassland ranches and horse-riding services charge separate fees.
Travel Tips
- Visitors aged 70 and above enter the private grassland zone free by presenting official identity documents.
- The altitude reaches 3266 meters, walk slowly and avoid strenuous activity to prevent altitude sickness. Carry portable oxygen if you feel dizzy or breathless.
- Intense plateau ultraviolet rays all year, prepare high-power sunscreen, sunglasses and wide-brim hats. Day-night temperature gap is huge; bring a thick windproof jacket even in summer.
- Dirt lakeside trails and grassland paths turn muddy and slippery after rain. Wear non-slip walking shoes; slippers and high heels are not suitable for grassland hiking.
- Do not trample wetland vegetation, pick wild alpine flowers, disturb migratory birds or litter on grasslands to protect the fragile wetland ecosystem.
- Mobile payment signals are weak in remote lakeside sections; carry small cash for horse riding and private grassland entry fees.
Facilities
Photography Allowed
Admission
¥40/ adult
Child¥40
Senior¥40
Opening Hours
Mon00:00 - 23:59
Tue00:00 - 23:59
Wed00:00 - 23:59
Thu00:00 - 23:59
Fri00:00 - 23:59
Sat00:00 - 23:59
Sun00:00 - 23:59
Best Time to Visit
June–September for blue lake and green grassland; November–March for migratory black-necked cranes and golden dry grass.