Xinjiang's Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (Tian Chi Lake)
Heavenly Lake, also known as Tianchi Lake, is a stunning natural wonder located on the northern side of the Bogda Peak of the Tianshan Mountains, 40 kilometers east of Fukang County, and approximately 120 kilometers away from Urumqi City in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwest China. The Lake is a natural scenic spot renowned for its unique lakes and snow-capped mountains. The lake was named by Ming Liang, a Qing Dynasty Commander, in 1783, and has since become a popular tourist destination for visitors from all over the world.
In 1982, Heavenly Lake of Tianshan was ratified as the first National Protection Area in China, and it has been designated as a national forest park by the Chinese government. Additionally, it was recognized by UNESCO and selected as one of the "50 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime" by National Geographic Traveler in 2006.
The Heavenly Lake of Tianshan Mountains sits at an altitude of 1,910 meters (6,266 feet) and covers an area of 4.9 square kilometers (1.9 square miles). The lake has a unique crescent moon shape, with a length of about 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) and a width of about 1,500 meters (4,921 feet). The area surrounding the lake is a natural scenic spot that boasts picturesque views of snow-capped mountains, lush forests, and serene waters.
The Heavenly Lake of Tianshan Mountains can be divided into four scenic areas: the north slope of the Big Heavenly Lake, the Big Heavenly Lake area, One Hundred Thousand Luohan Mountain, and Bogda Peak North Slope. These areas are adorned with unique mountains, lakes, and landscapes. One notable feature of the area is the presence of rare fauna, such as the snow lotus flower, sage grass, and other precious medicinal plants. These plants grow at altitudes of 2,600 meters (8,530 feet) to 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) in the fissures of snow rock masses and can withstand temperatures as low as -30°C (-22°F). It takes approximately five years from sprouting to blooming for these plants to reach maturity.
We highly recommend staying one or two days to hike and fully enjoy the natural beauty of the snow mountains at Heavenly Lake. For those who seek adventure, cable cars and boats are available to explore the mysteries of nature. Transportation in the area is convenient, and there are plenty of local flavors to savor, such as roasted whole lamb and milk tea.
The entrance fee for busy seasons (April 1st to October 31st) is 100 Yuan per person, while the off-season price is 40 Yuan per person.
Here are some travel tips for visiting Heavenly Lake in Xinjiang.
-
Best time to visit: The best time to visit Heavenly Lake is during the summer months (June-September) when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its most vibrant. However, be aware that this is also peak tourist season, so expect crowds and book accommodations well in advance. If you're looking to avoid the crowds, consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May or September. Skiing activities are available in winter at Tianshan Tianchi international ski resort which is located at the foot of the Tianchi scenic area.
-
Altitude sickness: At an altitude of over 2,000 meters, visitors to Heavenly Lake may experience altitude sickness. To prevent this, it's recommended to spend a day or two acclimatizing in Urumqi or Fukang before heading to the lake. Additionally, drink plenty of water and avoid strenuous activity in the first few days. If you experience severe symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.
-
Transportation: The most convenient way to reach Heavenly Lake is by private car or taxi, which can be arranged through a tour company or hotel. However, there are also public buses that run from Urumqi to Fukang, and from Fukang to the entrance of the national park. The journey can take several hours, so be prepared with snacks and water.
-
Entrance fees: Visitors must pay an entrance fee to access Heavenly Lake National Park. The fee varies depending on the season and the type of ticket purchased (boat tour, cable car, etc.). Be sure to check the official website for up-to-date information on fees. Discounts are available for students and seniors.
Entrance Ticket cost Peak season: CNY 155
Off season: CNY 105
The cost includes the shuttle bus.Openning time Peak season: 9:00-20:30 (April 1- Oct. 31)
Off Season: 10:00 - 18:00 (Nov. 1- Mar. 31)Boat fee CNY 100 per person Mayashan Cable car CNY 220 per person -
Dress appropriately: The weather at Heavenly Lake can be unpredictable, so it's best to dress in layers and bring a waterproof jacket in case of rain. Additionally, comfortable walking shoes are a must, as the park involves a lot of walking and hiking. Don't forget to pack sunscreen and sunglasses, as the high altitude means stronger UV rays.
-
Food and drink: There are several restaurants and snack vendors within the national park, but prices can be quite high. It's recommended to bring your own snacks and water to avoid overpaying. If you're looking to sample local cuisine, try some of the Uighur dishes such as laghman noodles or lamb kebabs.
-
Respect the environment: Heavenly Lake is a protected national park, so visitors should respect the environment and avoid littering or damaging the natural surroundings. Additionally, some areas may be off-limits to visitors to protect the flora and fauna, so be sure to follow all signs and guidelines. If you're interested in learning more about the local ecology, consider to take a guided Xinjiang Tours.