A Plateau Water World Where Villages Float on the Lake: Ecology, Culture, and Serenity at Eryuan West Lake Wetland

The Source of Erhai Lake

1.Located in Yousuo: Town, Eryuan County, approximately 70 kilometers north of Dali Ancient City, Eryuan West Lake Wetland is a sparkling pearl embedded in the plateau. As its name "Eryuan" suggests, this area is one of the significant headwaters of the famous Erhai Lake. Unlike the vast open waters of Erhai, West Lake is a unique plateau freshwater lake wetland system characterized by a fascinating geographical layout: "villages in the lake, and the lake in the villages." Covering a water area of about 4 square kilometers with an average depth of 1.8 meters, it sits at an altitude of approximately 1,970 meters. This wetland is not only a National Wetland Park but also a vital part of the Cangshan Erhai National Nature Reserve, renowned for its pristine water quality and harmonious coexistence of nature and humanity,.

Villages Floating on Water

2.The most distinct feature of Eryuan West: Lake is its spatial configuration of "Six Villages and Seven Islands." The lake is dotted with six natural villages (such as Zhangjia and Xiangjia) and seven islands that are scattered across the water. These settlements are interconnected by water channels and surrounded by the lake, creating a rare "water town" landscape on the plateau. For centuries, the local Bai people have lived here, building their homes on the islands and peninsulas, relying on boats for transportation and fishing for their livelihood. This seamless integration of residential life and the aquatic environment offers visitors a glimpse into an authentic and tranquil lifestyle that has persisted for generations, far removed from the hustle of modern cities,,.

A Sanctuary for Biodiversity

3.Eryuan West: Lake is a haven for biodiversity, particularly famous for its aquatic flora and avian residents. The water here is crystal clear, allowing visibility down to the bottom. It is one of the few places where you can see the Ottelia acuminata (Seaweed Flower), often called the "Water Fancy," blooming in abundance. These delicate white flowers, which root in the lakebed and float on the surface, are indicators of excellent water quality. In winter, the wetland becomes a paradise for thousands of migratory birds. Species such as purple swamphens, egrets, wild ducks, and gray geese flock here to overwinter, adding dynamic life and color to the serene lake. Birdwatching enthusiasts will find this an exceptional location to observe these creatures in their natural habitat,,,.

The Joy of Boating

4.The best way to explore West: Lake is by taking a traditional wooden boat. As the boatman gently paddles through the intricate network of waterways, you will glide past reed marshes, blooming water flowers, and ancient Bai dwellings. The reflection of the distant Cangshan Mountain and the nearby Foguang Mountain mirrors perfectly in the calm water, creating a mesmerizing painting of "mountains merging with water." The experience is serene and poetic, often described as wandering inside a landscape painting. Visitors can also stop at the islands to walk through the villages, observing the traditional architecture and the daily activities of the locals, such as fishing or washing vegetables by the water's edge,,.

Cultural Richness and Local Flavors

Beyond its natural beauty, Eryuan West Lake is steeped in Bai culture. The local lifestyle is a living museum of fishing and farming traditions. During festivals like the "Sea Sacrifice" (Hai Deng), villagers release lanterns onto the water to pray for a good harvest and peace. The area is also known for its delicious local produce. Visitors can taste fresh lake fish and shrimp, as well as local specialties like plums and papayas. The "Lake Fish Banquet" is a culinary highlight not to be missed. The harmonious relationship between the locals and their environment, where they protect the water that sustains them, adds a profound cultural depth to the scenic beauty of West Lake,,.