Baishuitai (White Water Terraces)
The naturally occurring rock formations at Baishuitai (pronounced Bye-Shway-Tie), which means White Water Terraces in Chinese, are one of the most exceptional individual sites in Yunnan. Fresh mountain water trickling down from Haba Mountain over millions of years continuously deposits calcium bicarbonate forming the idyllic limestone terraces. The Naxi believe that their oldest Shaman, Dingbashiluo, first practiced and preached the Dongba religion here at Baishuitai. Excellent hiking options are possible in every direction, whether towards the endless rice terraces in the lush valley below, the inviting mountains behind leading to Tiger Leaping Gorge or north to Shangri-La.
