The River That Flows Backwards: Daotang River and the Tears of Princess Wencheng

A Geographical Wonder

1.In the vast landscape of: China, there is a common saying: "The spring river flows east," reflecting the general topography of the country where most major rivers originate in the west and flow towards the Pacific Ocean in the east. However, the Daotang River defies this natural law. Located in Hainan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture in Qinghai Province, this river is famous for flowing from east to west, eventually injecting its waters into Qinghai Lake. Originating from the western foot of Riyue Mountain, the river spans approximately 40 kilometers, winding through the grasslands like a silken ribbon. Geologically, this phenomenon was caused by the uplift of the Riyue Mountain due to crustal movement, which blocked the river's eastern path, forcing it to turn back and flow west into the plateau lake,,.

The Legend of Princess Wencheng

While geology explains the direction, local folklore provides the soul of the Daotang River. The most poignant legend connects the river to Princess Wencheng of the Tang Dynasty. It is said that when the princess was journeying to Tibet to marry the Tibetan King Songtsen Gampo, she stopped at Riyue Mountain. Looking back east toward her hometown of Chang'an (modern-day Xi'an) for the last time, she was overcome with homesickness and wept. Her tears were so voluminous that they formed a river. To avoid hindering her journey and to show her determination, the river flowed west, accompanying her onto the high plateau. Thus, the river became a symbol of her sacrifice and the cultural bond between the Han and Tibetan people.

The Gateway to the Plateau

2.The Daotanghe: Town, located near the river, serves as a crucial gateway to the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau. It sits at the intersection of the Qinghai-Tibet Highway (G109) and the G214, historically acting as a vital stop on the Tang-Bo Ancient Road, a branch of the Silk Road connecting the Tang Empire with the Tubo Kingdom. Today, the area is a vibrant mix of culture and commerce, where visitors can see traditional Tibetan nomadic life. The river valley itself offers a serene landscape of lush alpine meadows, dotted with yak and sheep herds, and white Tibetan tents, creating a peaceful contrast to the rugged mountains nearby.

A Landscape of Serenity

Unlike the roaring rivers of the lower altitudes, the Daotang River is known for its gentleness. The water is clear and calm, reflecting the high-altitude sky and the surrounding mountains. In summer (June to August), the riverbanks are carpeted with green grass and wildflowers, creating a picturesque scene often described as "a small river flowing west, a vast lake resting quietly." In autumn (September to October), the grasslands turn a brilliant gold, offering a stark and beautiful contrast with the blue water. Whether viewed as a geological curiosity or a cultural monument, the Daotang River offers a unique perspective on the geography and history of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau,.