Lenggacuo is an incredible alpine lake at about 4500m that offers amazing views of Gongga mountain.

About Lenggacuo

The lake is often affectionately called the 'tear of Gongga' thanks to its shape.

The lake sits at about 4,500m above sea-level and, on a clear day, gives you an incredible reflection of the mountains just beyond.

At the top there is a little shed that offers hot water and instant noodles.

Because of the way the sun hits, this is the perfect spot for sunset over a sunrise.

But, if you are hoping for a sunrise, please note that because of the way the paths up work, this is a hard spot to get to for sunrise so if you're hoping for that then I'd suggest camping on top.

Getting to Lenggacuo

Please note that because of the way this map works - these are only the general coordinates of the lake.

To get to the lake, you have two options:

• A-Line (horseback or hiking) - this is the more popular path up the mountain. There is a small gate at the base of the mountain where you can pay 200 ish RMB for a 4.5-5k journey up the mountain by horse.

  The trip takes about 40 minutes and it's full of epic views with the mountains in the background.

  To get to A-line, search for Bangmu Jide (帮木吉徳) on your map app - though be wary there is about 20km of half off-road half shocking road conditions to get there.

• B-line (car & motorbike) - this is the faster of the 2 options.

  At the base of the mountain you'll be ushered into a van for a 20-ish minute journey to the base proper.

  From there, you'll be put onto the back of a local's motorbike who will speed up the mountain 'fast and furious' style.

  If you have apple maps and search for Lenggacuo - the path will usually take you to B-line.

With the altitude being what it is, I highly suggest you pick a non-hiking way up

If you pick the horse option then you'll have to pay again to come down - or you can hike the trail down (hiking down is a lot better than up!) while the motorbike option is a 2-way trip.

Staying at Lenggacuo

You can camp on the mountain for 50 rmb if you have your own tent - otherwise you'll be looking for one of the guesthouses at the base of the mountain.