Nestled in Tsomey County of Shannan City in the Xizang Autonomous Region of the Chinese mainland, Gurula Co (or 'heart lake' in Tibetan) sits at a breathtaking altitude of 4,900 meters. Surrounded by towering peaks, ancient glaciers and vibrant alpine meadows, this heart-shaped gem has captivated the imagination of travelers worldwide.
In early 2024, travel vlogger Wang Zihao took to Douyin to share a first-person glimpse of Gurula Co's crystal-clear waters. His video, brimming with panoramic drone shots and close-ups of blooming rhododendrons, quickly went viral, drawing widespread attention online and sparking a surge in interest from hikers, nature photographers and digital nomads alike.
Local authorities in the Xizang region have since accelerated efforts to upgrade trails, lodging and waste-management systems, aiming to protect the delicate alpine ecosystem while welcoming a growing flow of eco-conscious visitors. From designated campsites to guided cultural tours led by Tibetan herders, the goal is to ensure that every step taken around the lake leaves a minimal footprint.
For those plotting a trip to Gurula Co, timing is everything. Late spring to early summer brings the full bloom of alpine flowers, while clear autumn days offer the most stable weather for high-altitude trekking. Visitors should acclimatize gradually, pack layers for shifting temperatures, and respect local guidelines to preserve the lake's pristine allure.
As Gurula Co solidifies its status as a must-see destination, it exemplifies a broader trend: the rise of sustainable adventure tourism in the world's most remote corners. For young global citizens seeking off-the-beaten-path experiences, Xizang's heart lake is now firmly on the map—proof that a single Instagram-ready shot can turn a hidden gem into a viral sensation.
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From hidden gem to viral sensation: the allure of Xizang's Gurula Co
cgtn.com
