Sayram Lake

Chinese name: 赛里木湖（Sai Li Mu Hu）
Location: 90km southwest of Botala Prefecture, Ili, Xinjiang..
Ticket: Entrance ticket CNY145.00 during 16Apr-31Oct include sightseeing bus, CNY75.00 during 01Nov-15Apr include sightseeing bus
Estimated tour time: half day
Recommended time to visit: Jun to Aug
Nearby attractions: Guozi Valley, Huocheng Lavendor Garden, Ili River, Xiata Scenic Area, Zhaosu Wetland, etc.

Sayram Lake, renowned as a pearl on the mountain, is the largest and highest alpine lake in the Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region. The lake is located in a mountain basin in the western part of Tianshan Mountain. It is the only way to Ili prefecture.

Sayram Lake, Bostan Lake, Kanas Lake and Ulungur Lake constitute the four famous lakes in Xinjiang. Bostan Lake boasts a golden beach and the largest area. Kanas Lake is famous for its mysterious water monster and green forests. Ulungur Lake features water birds and clear lake water. Sayram Lake is famed for the rolling pasture by its lakeside and its blue water.

In ancient China, the lake was called the “clean sea.” Sayram lake is also known as the “Atlantic Ocean's last teardrop,” because it is the farthest place that the warm and humid air current of the Atlantic Ocean reaches.

Located 2,073 meters above sea level and measuring 30 kilometers long and 25 kilometers wide, the lake covers an area of 460 square kilometers. The main source of the lake is ground water, in addition to some snow and river water. The lake rises by 3 to 5 centimeters every year. Its area also continues to grow.

The water in the lake is clear and peaceful, attracting flocks of ducks and swans. Flourishing cedar trees cover the whole mountain. Herds of horses and sheep graze on the pastures. The lake has become a top choice for lovers to take wedding photos and spend their honeymoons.

The serene Sayram Lake turns into a sea of festivity and happiness every August, when local Mongolian people hold their annual Nadam fair. At this time, the lakeside is filled with people from various ethnic groups, dressed in their traditional costumes. They come to the lake to trade or take part in all kinds of entertainment and competitions, such as archery, wrestling and horse racing. The fair is great fun for locals and tourists alike. If you want to, you can also join them in the interesting activities and games.