Chang Hai: The Enigmatic Mother of All Seas in Jiuzhaigou

Chang Hai is one of the many enchanting lakes in Jiuzhaigou, stretching over four kilometers in length and exhibiting a […]

Chang Hai is one of the many enchanting lakes in Jiuzhaigou, stretching over four kilometers in length and exhibiting a deep indigo hue, distributed in an ‘S’ shape.
Adjacent to the lake, dense forests create a breathtaking view, where majestic snow-capped peaks and typical glacial landscapes are bathed in the azure sky and white clouds, presenting a spectacular and extraordinary scene.

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At an elevation of over 3000 meters, Chang Hai is the highest lake within the valley. It has no outlet, relying solely on the melting snow from the high mountains for its water source.

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Curiously, despite having no outlet, Chang Hai never dries up nor overflows, earning it the nickname from the Tibetan people as a ‘never full, never empty’ treasure gourd.

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Its indigo waters are surrounded by lush green mountains, and the peaks opposite don the white armor of early autumn, with a central ice peak exuding a chilling radiance.

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In the depths of winter, the ice layer on Chang Hai reaches up to 60 centimeters, thick enough to support the weight of heavy vehicles.

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Chang Hai is also considered the mother of all lakes in Jiuzhaigou, as it has no outlet and can only expel water through evaporation and underground rivers, which are essential in replenishing the water sources of other lakes.

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It is open all year round, accessible 24 hours a day.

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