Nestled at 4,900 meters in southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, the heart-shaped Gurula Co lake has transformed from a remote alpine secret to a global social media phenomenon. Travel vlogger Wang Zihao's 2024 Douyin video showcasing its crystal waters, glacial peaks, and flower-carpeted valleys sparked a 300% increase in visitor inquiries within weeks, according to local tourism authorities.
"The moment sunlight hits the lake's surface, it looks like liquid sapphire," Wang told KhabarAsia, describing the landscape near Shannan City's Tsomey County. The viral clip has drawn comparisons to European alpine destinations, earning Gurula Co the nickname 'Tibetan Alps' among travel communities.
Local officials have accelerated infrastructure upgrades, including eco-friendly viewing platforms and waste management systems, to protect the fragile ecosystem while accommodating growing tourist interest. This balancing act reflects Xizang's broader strategy to develop sustainable tourism that benefits rural communities—a sector that grew 18% year-on-year in 2023.
For adventurers, the area offers high-altitude hiking trails with panoramic views of the Himalayan foothills. Cultural historians note the lake's significance in local folklore, where it's said to mirror the mountain deities' emotions. As international travel resumes, Gurula Co's rise signals shifting trends toward nature-focused Asian destinations.
