Guanyutai Viewing Platform in Kanas

Guanyutai Viewing Platform (观鱼台) is located on the summit of Halakai Mountain (哈拉开特山), also known as Camel Peak (骆驼峰), within Kanas Scenic Area (喀纳斯景区). It is the only elevated panoramic viewing platform overlooking Kanas Lake (喀纳斯湖), with a vertical elevation difference of approximately 660 meters above the lake. Originally known as Guanyu Pavilion (观鱼亭), it is traditionally regarded as one of the best places to look for the legendary “Kanas Lake Monster,” which gave the site its name.

The main structure consists of two platforms and a pavilion, with a distinctive architectural design. Four wing-shaped structures extend from the top, symbolizing both the wings of an eagle and the tail fin of the legendary lake monster. To reach Guanyutai, visitors first take a dedicated scenic-area shuttle bus to the trailhead and then climb 1,068 wooden steps to the summit, making it one of the most iconic viewpoints and photo stops in Kanas.

Main Highlights

360-Degree Panorama of Kanas Lake

After reaching the summit, visitors can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of Kanas Lake. The crescent-shaped lake winds through pristine taiga forest, while the color of the water changes subtly with the angle and intensity of the sunlight. In the distance, the snow-covered glaciers of Friendship Peak (友谊峰) in the Altai Mountains (阿尔泰山) can be seen on clear days.

Along the climbing route, wooden walkways pass through alpine meadows and pine forests. In summer, the slopes are covered with golden globeflowers, creating beautiful scenery throughout the ascent. Several small viewing platforms along the way provide places to pause, rest, and take photographs.

Changing Scenery from Morning to Sunset

The landscape around Guanyutai changes dramatically throughout the day. In the early morning, mist drifts across the surface of Kanas Lake, partially obscuring the mountains and water and creating a dreamlike atmosphere. In the afternoon, clear sunlight brings out vivid blue and green tones in the lake. Toward sunset, warm golden light spreads across the forests and lake, producing particularly beautiful light and shadow effects.

Guanyutai is also closely associated with the long-standing legend of the Kanas Lake Monster (喀纳斯湖怪). Many visitors make the climb specifically to look out across the lake from above, hoping to catch a glimpse of mysterious movement on the water.

Practical Information

Guanyutai is a separate attraction within Kanas Scenic Area and requires an additional Guanyutai shuttle-bus ticket beyond the basic Kanas admission package. During the peak season, operating hours are generally 09:00–18:00, with visitors admitted according to reserved time slots. Capacity can be limited during busy periods, so advance reservation is recommended. Allow approximately 1.5–2 hours for the visit, including the shuttle ride, climb, sightseeing, and photography.

Private vehicles must be parked at Jiadengyu (贾登峪). Visitors then take the main Kanas scenic shuttle bus to Kanas Transfer Center (喀纳斯换乘中心) and transfer to the dedicated Guanyutai shuttle bus for the mountain ascent.

A recommended sightseeing sequence is:

Kanas Transfer Center → Guanyutai → descend the mountain → Three Bays: Fairy Bay (神仙湾), Moon Bay (月亮湾), and Wolong Bay (卧龙湾).

Carry your identification document throughout the journey.

Travel Tips

The summit is at a relatively high elevation and temperatures can be low, so even in summer you should bring a windproof jacket. Ultraviolet radiation is also strong in the mountains, making sun protection essential.

There are many steps along the route, so climb according to your physical condition, maintain a steady pace, and avoid rushing. Wear comfortable, non-slip sports shoes, as the wooden steps can become slippery when wet.

Mountain weather can change rapidly, with fog and sudden showers possible at any time. Carry appropriate rain gear. For environmental protection, do not leave the designated walkways or enter the surrounding pristine forest, and take all rubbish with you.

Older visitors and those with limited fitness can stop at one of the viewing platforms halfway up the mountain rather than forcing themselves to reach the summit.

During the peak season, queues for the shuttle buses can be long, so allow extra time and plan your itinerary accordingly.