Those thinking about organising a bespoke China tour this year will need to think long and hard about their itinerary.
Perhaps more than any other country on the face of the earth, China has a plethora of must-see locations.
World-famous cultural attractions such as the Forbidden City and the Great Wall will provide the focus of many trips to the country, but tourists may also want to see some of the natural wonders that China has to offer.
One such sight is Lugu Lake.
Found in a beautiful locale spread across both the Yunnan and Sichuan Provinces, the lake is more than a body of water. The fertile lands surrounding the lake are the historic home of the Mosuo tribes who settled in the area during the Warring States period.
Now the region is invaded by tourists.
More than 20,000 sought the tranquil destination out during China’s recent spring Festival – a figure that was 60 per cent higher than 12 months earlier.
Holidaymakers may scarcely believe that they are in the same country as huge, bustling conurbations such as Hong Kong of Beijing, as they breathe in the crisp alpine air.
The deep blue waters are enchanting and vast – covering an area of 187 square kilometres.
Lugu Lake is surrounded by 17 beaches and several hot springs and numerous temples that pay homage to the area’s spiritual heritage.
People who decide that the Yunnan Province should be part of their China tour may also want to see the hot spring known as the Boiling Pot.
The naturally-occurring geyser generates temperatures of 97 degrees C and although that is far too hot for the human body, the locals have adapted the spring to boil their meals.
Tourists can see the wonder for themselves by travelling to the Rehai area of the province.