The Emerald Tear of Guanyin: Exploring the Glacial Beauty of Cuomujiri

The Hidden Ice Lake

Nestled in the deep embrace of the mountains in southeast Tibet, Cuomujiri (also known as the "Ice Lake") is a hidden gem often overlooked by the hurried traveler. Located about 20 kilometers east of Bayi Town in the Bayi District of Nyingchi City, this glacial lake sits at an altitude of 3,400 meters. In the Tibetan language, "Cuo Mu" refers to Guanyin Bodhisattva, and "Ji Ri" means eyes. Thus, Cuomujiri is poetically known as the "Eyes of Guanyin Bodhisattva" or "Guanyin's Tears," a name that imbues the lake with a profound sense of spirituality and compassion. Unlike the famous holy lakes of Tibet that attract crowds of pilgrims, Cuomujiri remains a secluded sanctuary, offering a pristine and quiet beauty that feels like a forgotten paradise in the mortal world.

A Palette of Changing Colors

1.The most captivating feature of: Cuomujiri is the ever-changing color of its water. Fed by glacial meltwater and rich in minerals, the lake's hue shifts dramatically with the light and depth. Near the shore, the water is crystal clear and colorless; as it deepens, it transitions into a mesmerizing jade green. Under the bright highland sun, the lake can appear like a giant, glistening turquoise or shift to a profound dark blue, and sometimes even a mysterious black. This visual feast of shifting colors has earned it the reputation of being a "Fairyland on Earth" among locals and visitors alike.

A Sanctuary of Primitive Forests

Surrounding the lake is a vast expanse of well-preserved primitive forest. Tall pines and firs reach for the sky, their branches draped with usnea (Old Man's Beard), adding an ancient and mysterious aura to the landscape. In late spring and early summer, the mountains are set ablaze with blooming azaleas (rhododendrons) in various shades of white, purple, and red. These flowers reflect in the calm waters, creating a stunning contrast with the lush green forest and the snow-capped peaks in the distance. This "Snow Mountain-Forest-Lake" vertical landscape is a signature of the Nyingchi region, offering a rich ecological experience.

The Spiritual Echo of Benri

Cuomujiri is not just a natural wonder; it is deeply connected to the local spiritual landscape. It is situated at the foot of Benri Sacred Mountain (Benri Shenshan), one of the diverse holy mountains in the Bon religion. The lake acts as a mirror to the sacred peak, enhancing its majesty. On the lakeside, visitors can find colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind and piles of Mani stones engraved with mantras. These symbols of faith, placed by devout pilgrims, add a layer of solemnity to the scenic beauty. Standing by the lake, listening to the wind rustling through the pines and the prayer flags, one can feel a deep sense of peace and connection between humanity and the divine.

A Journey through Glacial History

The lake itself is a record of geological history, formed by ancient glacial movements that blocked the river valley. Traces of this powerful past are visible in the U-shaped valleys and massive glacial boulders scattered in the upper reaches. Exploring Cuomujiri is like walking through a living museum of geology and ecology. Whether you are strolling along the lakeside plank road or simply sitting quietly to watch the clouds reflect on the water, Cuomujiri offers a profound dialogue with nature, far removed from the noise of the city.