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Heaven Lake
Heaven Lake
Nestling high in the Tianshan Mountains, 115 kilometers west of Urumqi, the superlatively beautiful Heavenly Lake lies 1980 meters above sea level and is hemmed in by the towering snow-capped Bagda Peak. Heavenly Lake is a natural paradise with intoxicating scenery. The four hour drive from Urumqi through the seemingly endless desert may seem tiring but Heavenly Lake will provide travelers an exciting experience of the Heavenly Lake that makes the drive worthwhile.
The lake has a reputation of the Pearl on Tianshan Mountains for its fascinating scenery and was listed among the first group of the national key scenic spots in 1982. The climate here is moist with plenty of rainfall. In summer, the Heavenly Lake is a perfect resort in the sweltering desert. One can enjoy the pure and fresh air as well as the cool and pleasant weather.
What to appreciate
Heaven Lake
The area is one of the few unspoiled places in China. The crystal water reflecting the snow-topped peaks, fluffy white clouds and blue sky create a breathtaking view. Lying at the mountainside of the snow-crowned Bogda Peak, the Heavenly Lake is surrounded by numerous towering verdant dragon spruces, tall and straight. The lake also has various waterfalls with constantly changing cloud and mist, forming a splendor and open plateau landscape.
The beauty of Heavenly Lake has attracted throngs of visitors from all over the world. Visitors can climb the magnificent mountains and walk leisurely in the forests to enjoy the beauty of nature. A two to three hours hike along shore will take you to peaceful coves and grassy hills. Flowers richly bloom around the lake making it an excellent place to come and relax.
Heaven Lake
In summer, the beautiful lake is an ideal cool resort. Boaters on the lake see the ever-changing silvery mountains soaring into the blue sky, their slopes highlighted with verdant pasture and flamboyant wild flowers. Fishing at dusk has its own special charm when the lake is particularly still.
In snowy winter, visitors can come to the icebound lake and try their hand at skating. A day in this fairyland promises restoration.
How to get there
Buses leave from the north end of Renmin Park in Urumqi between 9am and 9.30am every day and return from the lake between 4pm and 4.30pm. The trip takes between 90 minutes and 4 hours, depending on the type of transport you take. Minibuses are the most efficient. There are also private buses running from the Hongshan Hotel. It takes you about 2 hours to get there from Renmin Park and Hongshan Hotel, or one and half hours journey through the Urumuqi Highway, and riding up the mountain has a 20 Yuan per hour fee.
