Foto: Huanglong National Park (bron: Ronald van der Veer)
China - Huanglong National Park, located in northwest Sichuan province in China, is one of the country’s most enchanting natural areas. The park is known for its spectacular limestone terraces, brightly colored lakes, lush forests, snowy mountain peaks, and rare wildlife. Huanglong literally means "Yellow Dragon," a name referring to the shape of the valley, which from above resembles a dragon winding through the landscape. The park lies at an elevation between 1,700 and 5,588 meters and is part of the Minshan mountain range. The most famous part of Huanglong is the Huanglong Valley, which features a series of mineral-filled terraces and pools. These natural limestone formations are created by deposits of calcium carbonate, and the pools vary in color from turquoise to emerald green and deep blue depending on the season, temperature, and mineral content. This color spectacle is most impressive in autumn when the surrounding forests are brightly colored, creating a photogenic contrast with the clear water. Besides the geological wonders, Huanglong also boasts great biodiversity. The park is home to endangered species like the giant panda and golden snub-nosed monkey, though these are rarely seen in the wild. The vast forests and fresh mountain air make the area attractive for hikers, photographers, and nature lovers. Visitors can explore the park via a well-maintained trail system stretching several kilometers. The route passes main attractions such as the Five-Color Ponds, Mirror Ponds, and the Huanglong Temple—a Buddhist temple at the valley’s end. For those unable to complete the hike, a cable car is available to bridge part of the climb. In 1992, Huanglong was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its unique karst landscape and ecological importance. It is about 100 kilometers from the famous Jiuzhaigou National Park and is often visited together with this equally impressive destination.
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