Heavenly Lake (Tianchi)

Heavenly Lake, which is located in the Bogda Mountains, boasts both splendid natural scenery and legendary tales. The crescent-shape lake lies 110 km (68 miles) east of Urumqi, covering an area of 4.9 sq km (1,211 acres).

The water in the lake is pure and clean, reflecting the snow-capped Bogda Mountains around. Because of the high altitude, 1,980 meters (6,496 ft) above sea level, the temperature of Heavenly Lake is usually quite low. This makes the lake a perfect summer resort. Visitors can climb the mountains and walk in the forests to enjoy the beauty of nature. Visitors can also go boating and fishing at dusk, when the lake is particularly still. Flowers richly bloom around the lake making it an excellent place to come and relax. In snowy winter, visitors can come to the icebound lake and try their hand at skating.

According to fairy tale, pure Heavenly Lake is the summer palace of the famous Queen Mother of the Western Heavens (the Leader of the Goddesses) and so many places in the Heavenly Lake Scenic Area are related to her. The venerable elm standing beside the lake is said to be the avatar of the Queen Mother's hairpin. The deep Dragon Pool, which is just under the Heavenly Lake, is said to be her swimming pool. Waterfalls, rocks, and even pine trees are all connected with the Queen Mother of the Western Heavens. All these beautiful tales make the Heavenly Lake a land of mystery!

Admission Fee

Entrance Charge	CNY 100, Peak Season; CNY 40, Low Season
Cable Car	CNY 35
Barge Tour	CNY 30
Electric Bus	CNY 10