A Karst Wonderland of Lotuses and Lakes: Exploring Puzhehei National Wetland Park

A Pastoral Karst Masterpiece

1.Located in Qiubei: County, Wenshan Zhuang and Miao Autonomous Prefecture, Yunnan Province, Puzhehei National Wetland Park is a breathtaking tapestry of water and stone. The name "Puzhehei" comes from the Yi language, meaning "a pool teeming with fish and shrimp," a fitting description for this lush, aquatic paradise. Covering a vast area of 388 square kilometers, the park is a National 5A-level scenic spot that seamlessly blends dramatic karst peak forests with extensive wetlands and lakes. Unlike the towering stone forests elsewhere, the landscape here is characterized by "pastoral karst," where isolated peaks rise abruptly from emerald waters and green fields, creating a scene often compared to a living ink-wash painting or a "Guilin of the Plateau".

The Summer of Lotuses

2.The most iconic season in: Puzhehei is summer, particularly from June to August. During these months, the lakes transform into an endless sea of lotus flowers. Thousands of acres of wild lotuses bloom in shades of pink and white, contrasting vividly with the deep green of the karst peaks and the blue of the sky. Taking a boat ride through the winding waterways during this time is an immersive experience. Visitors often engage in playful water fights, a local tradition that adds a splash of joy and energy to the serene environment. The combination of the blooming flowers, the reflection of the mountains in the water, and the lively atmosphere makes it a photographer's dream.

A Sanctuary for Birds

Beyond its floral beauty, Puzhehei is a vital ecological haven. The Swan Lake (Tian'e Hu) area within the park is a designated wetland ecology zone. It is home to a diverse array of bird species, including the elegant black swans and white swans. In winter, the park becomes a paradise for migratory birds. As the northern lands freeze, flocks of birds migrate south to these wetlands, creating spectacular scenes of flight and life against the backdrop of the wetlands. Walking along the wooden boardwalks in the wetland area allows visitors to observe these creatures up close and appreciate the rich biodiversity of this "Earth's Kidney".

Cultural Charm and Panoramic Views

Puzhehei is not just about nature; it is deeply rooted in the culture of the local Yi, Zhuang, and Miao people. The villages scattered around the lakes, such as Xianrendong Village and Puzhehei Village, preserve traditional architecture and customs. For the best panoramic view of this unique landscape, a hike up Qinglongshan (Blue Dragon Mountain) is essential. Standing at the summit, you can gaze out over a 360-degree panorama of isolated peaks scattered like chess pieces across the glittering expanse of lakes and fields. This vantage point is particularly famous for capturing breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, where the golden light bathes the entire valley in a mystical glow. Additionally, the park gained pop-culture fame as the filming location for the hit TV drama Eternal Love (Three Lives, Three Worlds, Ten Miles of Peach Blossoms), attracting fans to its ethereal "Peach Blossom Island".