Sailimu Lake Travel Guide

Sayram Lake sits at an elevation of 2,071 meters, with a surface area of 453 square kilometers, and is a Tianshan fault-sinking lake. Because it is the last stop for the westerly and humid Xinjiang movement, it is called the 'Last Tear of the Atlantic.' The lake water is unbelievably blue, with a loop of about 90 kilometers along the lakeside road and one jet stand after another

How to play around the lake

• Driving yourself or chartering a car clockwise around the lake, on the south shore (toward Dianjiangtai), you can see the lake water and snow-capped mountains in a frame, while the west shore is densely planted with wildflowers
• Guozigou Bridge is on the southern side of the mountain road downhill. The service area has a viewing platform and is a must-visit photo spot when entering or leaving Ili
• There are hotels and yurt campsites within the lake area; If you want to watch the sunrise, stay on the south or west bank, where the morning light paints the lake a powdery blue
• In winter (December to March of the following year), the lake surface freezes. Blue ice and ice bubbles are the best photography seasons. Pay attention to ice safety and only engage in permitted areas

How many months will it go?

Around mid-June is the peak bloom of wildflowers; September is the bluest lake water and least crowded; In winter, blue ice forms its own season. Spend half a day to a full day taking photos around the lake; Most northern Xinjiang loop routes connect it with Ili

Notes

Strong winds by the lake, feeling five to ten degrees lower than in the city, be sure to bring a windproof jacket; Walk slowly at 2,000 meters altitude; During peak season (late June to August), book yurts and hotels at least one week in advance; Do not enter the water or drive herds within the protected area