The Golden Mirror of Lhasa: Autumn Splendor and Wetland Serenity at Dazi Golden Pond

A Hidden Gem on the Plateau

Located just about 30 kilometers east of the holy city of Lhasa, Dazi Golden Pond (达孜金色池塘) is a hidden ecological treasure waiting to be discovered. Situated in the Dazi District, off the famous National Highway 318, this scenic spot is not a commercially developed tourist attraction but a naturally formed wetland and forest area along the north bank of the Lhasa River,. Standing at an altitude of 3,700 meters, it offers a serene escape where the rugged plateau mountains meet the gentle flow of the river and lush vegetation,. For travelers and photographers, it is a secret garden that captures the essence of "Highland Aesthetics," offering a quiet alternative to the bustling monasteries of Lhasa,.

An Oil Painting Come to Life

1.The most defining feature of Dazi Golden: Pond, and the reason for its evocative name, is the spectacular visual transformation it undergoes during the autumn season. The area is densely populated with ancient poplar and willow trees,. As late autumn approaches—typically from mid-October to early November—the leaves of these trees turn a brilliant, translucent gold,. When the sunlight hits this "Golden Forest," the reflection in the calm, emerald waters of the pond creates a mesmerizing, oil-painting-like effect. The interplay of the deep blue plateau sky, the brown mountains in the background, and the golden foliage reflected in the mirror-like water creates a visual shock that feels like a "fairytale world" or a "golden dream" on the plateau,.

The Tradition of "Linka"

2.Dazi Golden: Pond is deeply intertwined with the local Tibetan custom of "Guo Linka" (spending time in the park/garden). For generations, this riverside grove has served as a beloved leisure spot for Lhasa residents. In the summer and autumn, locals flock here to set up white tents, lay out carpets, and enjoy picnics with family and friends under the shade of the trees,. Visitors can witness this authentic lifestyle, seeing locals drink sweet tea, eat yak meat, and enjoy the fresh air. It is a living cultural space where the harmony between the Tibetan people and nature is vividly displayed, far removed from the solemnity of religious sites, offering a glimpse into the joyful, secular life of the region,.

A Photographer's Paradise

For photography enthusiasts, Dazi Golden Pond offers endless inspiration. The core highlight is the pool reflection, where the water is so still that it perfectly mirrors the golden trees and the sky, creating a symmetrical composition that is breathtaking,. Additionally, the Golden Corridor formed by the dense forest allows for stunning portrait photography, with sunlight filtering through the leaves to create a mottled light and shadow effect on the ground,. Whether it is capturing the grand landscape of the Lhasa River valley or the intimate details of a falling leaf, the site provides a rich palette of colors and textures,. The best time for photography is in the late afternoon, when the warm, slanting sunlight enhances the golden hues and deepens the reflections,.