Aba, Sichuan Province

The Palette of God: Five-Color Ponds and the Jade Pools of Huanglong

📸Photography 🛤️Highland Aesthetics(高原美学)

About This Attraction

The Crown Jewel of the "Human Yaochi"

1.Located at the highest point of the: Huanglong (Yellow Dragon) National Scenic and Historic Interest Area in Songpan County, Aba Tibetan and Qiang Autonomous Prefecture, the Five-Color Ponds (Wucaichi) represents the absolute pinnacle of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Situated at an altitude of approximately 3,576 to 3,900 meters, this spectacular cluster consists of 693 distinct calcified pools, making it the largest and most colorful group of travertine ponds in the world. Often hailed as the "Eye of Huanglong" and a "Fairyland on Earth," the ponds are shaped like lotus flowers or jade plates, cascading down the mountain in a terraced formation. The water here is crystal clear, but due to the deposition of calcium carbonate, the presence of various algae and minerals, and the refraction of sunlight, the pools display a mesmerizing array of colors—ranging from turquoise and emerald green to sapphire blue, amber yellow, and even light orange. It is a geological miracle where "water flows into the pools, and colors flow in the water," creating a dreamlike palette that seems to have been spilled by the gods onto the plateau,,.

A Symphony of Snow, Forest, and Water

2.The beauty of the: Five-Color Ponds is amplified by its dramatic surroundings. The pools are set against the majestic backdrop of Xuebaoding (Snow Treasure Peak), the main peak of the Minshan Mountain range standing at 5,588 meters. The stark white of the eternal snows, the deep green of the surrounding primitive coniferous forests, and the vibrant, multi-colored water create a striking visual contrast that is a paradise for photographers. In spring, blooming azaleas frame the pools; in summer, the water is abundant and vivid; in autumn, the reflection of golden and red leaves turns the water into a riot of colors; and in winter, the landscape transforms into a silent, silver kingdom of ice and jade. Unlike many high-altitude lakes that freeze over completely, the Five-Color Ponds often remain unfrozen due to the constant flow of spring water, maintaining their vibrant hues amidst the white snow,,.

Sacred Waters and Ancient Legends

Culturally, this area is steeped in mystery and faith. The ponds are located just behind the Huanglong Ancient Temple (Huanglong Gu Si), a site with a history tracing back to the Ming Dynasty. According to legend, the "Yellow Dragon" (a grandmaster or deity) attained enlightenment here and transformed into the golden travertine landscape to protect the earth. The Five-Color Ponds are believed to be formed by the tears of a goddess or the scattered feathers of a five-colored phoenix, symbolizing eternal love and auspiciousness. The water is considered "Holy Water" or "Wisdom Water" by the local Nyingma (Red Sect) Tibetan Buddhists. Pilgrims believe that gazing upon these colors can wash away worldly dust and bring spiritual clarity. Historically, this area also witnessed the Red Army during the Long March in 1935, adding a layer of revolutionary resilience to the spiritual serenity,,.

Frequently Asked Questions - Five-Color Ponds Travel Guide

Where are the Five-Color Ponds located?

They are located at the very top of the Huanglong Scenic Area's main valley in Songpan County, Sichuan Province. You usually take a cable car up and then walk to reach them,,.

Why are the ponds colored?

The colors are caused by the unique travertine (calcium carbonate) deposits on the pond bottoms, the growth of specific algae, and the refraction of sunlight through the crystal-clear water,.

What is the altitude? Will I get altitude sickness?

The altitude is approximately 3,576 meters (reaching up to 3,900m in the vicinity). Altitude sickness is common; it is recommended to walk slowly, use oxygen if needed, and avoid strenuous exercise,,.

What is the best time to visit?

September and October are considered the best months when the autumn colors are vibrant and the water levels are high. Summer (July-August) is also beautiful with green forests and full pools,,.

Is there water in the ponds during winter?

Yes, unlike some lower ponds in Huanglong that might dry up or freeze, the Five-Color Ponds usually maintain water year-round and remain unfrozen and colorful even in winter,,.

✨ Why Visit Five-Color Ponds

✦Kaleidoscopic Colors: Witness the world's most spectacular travertine pools, where water turns into shades of blue, green, yellow, and orange due to mineral deposits and sunlight refraction,,.

✦Xuebaoding Backdrop: Enjoy the breathtaking panoramic view of the jade-like pools set against the towering, snow-capped Xuebaoding peak (5,588m), creating a perfect composition of ice and water,,.

✦Huanglong Ancient Temple: Explore the historic Taoist and Buddhist temple located right next to the ponds, adding a profound sense of history and spirituality to the natural wonder,.

✦Terraced Travertine Landscape: Admire the unique geological formation of hundreds of pools cascading like a staircase of gems, formed over millennia by calcium carbonate deposition,.

✦Seasonal Spectacle: Experience the changing beauty, from the rhododendrons of spring to the fiery red autumn leaves reflecting in the water, and the surreal blue-and-white contrast in winter,,.