Sayram Lake
Located in the alpine basin of the western section of the Tianshan Mountains in Bole, Xinjiang, Sayram Lake is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the region. It is called “Sailimuzhuoer” in Mongolian, which means “lake on the back of the mountain.” With its high altitude, vast area, and breathtaking scenery, Sayram Lake features crystal-clear blue water, snow-capped mountains, and surrounding grasslands.
Sayram Lake is the last place where the warm and humid air from the Atlantic Ocean reaches, which has given it the poetic name “the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean.” With its stunning natural landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking a relaxing escape in Xinjiang.
Features
Chinese Name: 赛里木湖 [ sàilǐmùhú]
Location: more than 90 kilometers southwest of Bole City
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, take speedboats, enjoy special Xinjiang food, etc.
Suited to: everyone
Time-needed: 1-2 days
Sayram Lake
Recommended Tour Itinerary:
11 Days North Xinjiang Group Tour to Kanas Lake and Sayram Lake
Classic Xinjiang Tour: Sayram Lake, Narat and Duku Adventure
Best Time to Visit Sayram Lake
June to July is considered the best time to visit, when wildflowers bloom across the surrounding grasslands, creating a stunning contrast with the blue lake water and snow-capped mountains.
🌸 June to July (10–25°C) — Best Season for Flowers & Photography
Summer is the most popular time to visit Sayram Lake. During this period, the grasslands around the lake turn green and colorful wildflowers cover the lakeside, creating one of the most beautiful alpine landscapes in Xinjiang. The combination of blue water, snow-covered mountains, green meadows, and blooming flowers makes it the perfect season for photography, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
Minor downside:
Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly after sunset due to the high altitude, so warm clothing is recommended.
🍂 September to October (5–20°C)
Autumn brings a peaceful atmosphere to Sayram Lake. The surrounding grasslands gradually turn golden, while the clear sky and fewer visitors create excellent conditions for photography and relaxing sightseeing.
Minor downside:
The weather becomes cooler, especially in the morning and evening.
❄️ November to March
During winter, Sayram Lake transforms into a quiet snow-covered landscape. The frozen lake, snowy mountains, and white grasslands create a unique winter scene.
Minor downside:
Cold temperatures and icy conditions may limit some outdoor activities.
How to Get to Sayram Lake
Sayram Lake is located about 90 kilometers southwest of Bole City and can be reached by train, bus, or private vehicle.
By Train + Car
Travelers can take a train from Urumqi to Yining, then continue to Sayram Lake by car or shared vehicle. The journey from Yining to Sayram Lake takes about 2–3 hours.
By Bus
Visitors can take a long-distance bus from Urumqi to Bole or Yining, then transfer to a local vehicle or taxi to reach Sayram Lake.
By Private Car or Charter Car
Driving or hiring a private car is one of the most convenient ways to visit Sayram Lake, especially for travelers who want to explore the lake at their own pace. The famous G30 Lianhuo Expressway passes by the lake, offering beautiful mountain and grassland views along the way.
What to Explore in Sayram Lake
Sayram Lake is famous for its magnificent alpine scenery, combining crystal-clear blue water, snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and peaceful natural surroundings. The lake offers different landscapes throughout the year, from colorful wildflower meadows in summer to a quiet snow-covered world in winter.
Lakeside Scenery — Mountains, Water and Grasslands
The most attractive way to explore Sayram Lake is to travel around the lake and enjoy the changing views along the route. The surrounding grasslands, forests, streams, and mountain landscapes create a breathtaking alpine scene.
In summer, the lakeside becomes especially beautiful, with green grasslands, blooming wildflowers, and herds of cattle and sheep forming a picturesque pastoral landscape. In winter, the frozen lake, snowy mountains, and white grasslands create a peaceful and unique winter wonderland.
Mystical Legends and Cultural Heritage
Beyond its natural beauty, Sayram Lake is also surrounded by fascinating legends and historical heritage. Stories about mysterious lake phenomena, including lake monsters and unusual natural features, have added a sense of mystery and romance to this beautiful destination.
The area around Sayram Lake also preserves traces of ancient grassland civilizations, including rock paintings, Wusun ancient tombs, temple sites, stone inscriptions, and ancient post stations. These cultural remains provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and ethnic traditions of the region.
Things to Do in Sayram Lake
Take a Scenic Tour Around the Lake
One of the best ways to explore Sayram Lake is to take a scenic tour around the lake and enjoy the changing landscapes along the route.
Located at an altitude of 2,073 meters, Sayram Lake is one of the important wetlands in the arid region of northwest China. The lake stretches about 30 kilometers from east to west and 25 kilometers from north to south, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, grasslands, forests, and streams.
Sayram Lake offers different scenery in different seasons. In summer, the lakeside is covered with green grasslands and colorful wildflowers, while herds of cattle and sheep create a peaceful pastoral landscape. In winter, the lake freezes and becomes surrounded by snow-covered mountains and ice fields, creating a quiet and beautiful winter scene.
Visitors can travel around the lake throughout the year, stopping at different viewpoints to enjoy the unique scenery and discover the natural beauty of Sayram Lake.
Photography — Capture the Beauty of Lake, Flowers and Mountains
Sayram Lake is one of the best photography destinations in Xinjiang. June and July are the most popular months for photographers, when wildflowers bloom across the surrounding grasslands, creating a stunning contrast with the blue lake water and snow-capped mountains.
The flowers around the lake also have different characteristics in different areas. The northern shore is mainly decorated with purple flowers, the western area features yellow flowers, and the eastern area offers blue-toned flowers, providing different perspectives for photography.
The lake is also an excellent place to capture sunrise, sunset, and reflections of the surrounding mountains. Every July, the Naadam Festival on the lakeside grasslands adds more cultural charm to the beautiful scenery.
Experience Grassland Culture and Outdoor Activities
The grasslands around Sayram Lake provide opportunities to experience the traditional pastoral lifestyle of Xinjiang. Visitors can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, visiting local herdsmen’s camps, and tasting Xinjiang specialties while experiencing the peaceful atmosphere of the grasslands.
Enjoy the Night Sky and Peaceful Atmosphere
Thanks to its high altitude and open surroundings, Sayram Lake offers excellent conditions for enjoying the night sky. On clear nights, visitors can admire the stars above the lake and experience the quiet beauty of the Tianshan Mountains.
Travel Information
Opening Time: Year-round 10:00-22:00
Customer Service Phone: 0909-7659990
Admission fee: 72.5CNY/PP
Nearby Attractions:
Guozigou Valley
Guozigou is the natural gateway of the Ili area, a famous canyon tunnel that goes up to Sayram Lake in the north and down to the Ili River Valley in the south. It is located 40 kilometers northeast of Huocheng County, and it is the only passage of 312 National Highway. Besides, Guozigou has a total length of 28km, with high mountains and tall silver fir. It is also a natural treasure house endowed by nature. There are countless wild fruits, especially wild apples and wild apricots. The medicinal resources are also very rich. From spring to autumn, wildflowers are in full bloom, and the fruit is fragrant.
Guozigou Valley
Khorgas Port
Khorgas Port is 110 kilometers away from Sayram Lake and it is an important land port between China and Kazakhstan; it faces Kazakhstan across the Khorgas River. Here you can see the boundary monument of today and the boundary monument of the Qing government.
Khorgas Port
Keguerqin Lavender Garden
The Keguerqin Lavender Garden is located on the north side of the Ili River Valley, backed by the majestic Keguerqin Mountain. There is a large area of lavender planted in the scenic area. You can take a European-style small train to enjoy the beautiful view and if you like photography and flowers, you can take some nice photos here too. Besides, you can taste Xinjiang specialty snacks in the folk food street; and also can experience the joy harvest in the seasonal fruit and vegetable picking garden.
Lavender Garden
Travel Tips for Visiting Sayram Lake
1. Prepare for Changing Weather
The weather around Sayram Lake can change quickly due to its high altitude (about 2,073 meters above sea level). Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so it is recommended to bring a light jacket, windproof clothing, and comfortable shoes.
2. Allow Enough Time to Explore
Sayram Lake is best explored at a relaxed pace. A half-day visit is possible for travelers with limited time, but spending 1–2 days allows you to enjoy the lake loop, photography spots, sunrise and sunset views, and nearby attractions.
3. Bring Sun Protection
The sunlight is strong at high altitudes, especially during summer. Travelers should prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect themselves from UV rays.
4. Drive Carefully Around the Lake
The scenic area is large, and driving around the lake is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery. There are many viewpoints along the route, so travelers should drive slowly and allow enough time for stops and photography.
5. Book Accommodation in Advance During Peak Season
June to August is the busiest period at Sayram Lake. If you plan to stay overnight near the lake, especially during weekends and holidays, it is recommended to reserve accommodation in advance.
6. Respect the Natural Environment
Sayram Lake is a protected natural scenic area. Visitors should avoid littering, damaging vegetation, or disturbing local wildlife, and help preserve the beautiful alpine landscape.
Located in the alpine basin of the western section of the Tianshan Mountains in Bole, Xinjiang, Sayram Lake is one of the most beautiful mountain lakes in the region. It is called “Sailimuzhuoer” in Mongolian, which means “lake on the back of the mountain.” With its high altitude, vast area, and breathtaking scenery, Sayram Lake features crystal-clear blue water, snow-capped mountains, and surrounding grasslands.
Sayram Lake is the last place where the warm and humid air from the Atlantic Ocean reaches, which has given it the poetic name “the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean.” With its stunning natural landscapes and peaceful atmosphere, it is an ideal destination for nature lovers, photographers, and travelers seeking a relaxing escape in Xinjiang.
Features
Chinese Name: 赛里木湖 [ sàilǐmùhú]
Location: more than 90 kilometers southwest of Bole City
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, take speedboats, enjoy special Xinjiang food, etc.
Suited to: everyone
Time-needed: 1-2 days
Sayram Lake
Recommended Tour Itinerary:
11 Days North Xinjiang Group Tour to Kanas Lake and Sayram Lake
Classic Xinjiang Tour: Sayram Lake, Narat and Duku Adventure
Best Time to Visit Sayram Lake
June to July is considered the best time to visit, when wildflowers bloom across the surrounding grasslands, creating a stunning contrast with the blue lake water and snow-capped mountains.
🌸 June to July (10–25°C) — Best Season for Flowers & Photography
Summer is the most popular time to visit Sayram Lake. During this period, the grasslands around the lake turn green and colorful wildflowers cover the lakeside, creating one of the most beautiful alpine landscapes in Xinjiang. The combination of blue water, snow-covered mountains, green meadows, and blooming flowers makes it the perfect season for photography, sightseeing, and outdoor activities.
Minor downside:
Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly after sunset due to the high altitude, so warm clothing is recommended.
🍂 September to October (5–20°C)
Autumn brings a peaceful atmosphere to Sayram Lake. The surrounding grasslands gradually turn golden, while the clear sky and fewer visitors create excellent conditions for photography and relaxing sightseeing.
Minor downside:
The weather becomes cooler, especially in the morning and evening.
❄️ November to March
During winter, Sayram Lake transforms into a quiet snow-covered landscape. The frozen lake, snowy mountains, and white grasslands create a unique winter scene.
Minor downside:
Cold temperatures and icy conditions may limit some outdoor activities.
How to Get to Sayram Lake
Sayram Lake is located about 90 kilometers southwest of Bole City and can be reached by train, bus, or private vehicle.
By Train + Car
Travelers can take a train from Urumqi to Yining, then continue to Sayram Lake by car or shared vehicle. The journey from Yining to Sayram Lake takes about 2–3 hours.
By Bus
Visitors can take a long-distance bus from Urumqi to Bole or Yining, then transfer to a local vehicle or taxi to reach Sayram Lake.
By Private Car or Charter Car
Driving or hiring a private car is one of the most convenient ways to visit Sayram Lake, especially for travelers who want to explore the lake at their own pace. The famous G30 Lianhuo Expressway passes by the lake, offering beautiful mountain and grassland views along the way.
What to Explore in Sayram Lake
Sayram Lake is famous for its magnificent alpine scenery, combining crystal-clear blue water, snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, and peaceful natural surroundings. The lake offers different landscapes throughout the year, from colorful wildflower meadows in summer to a quiet snow-covered world in winter.
Lakeside Scenery — Mountains, Water and Grasslands
The most attractive way to explore Sayram Lake is to travel around the lake and enjoy the changing views along the route. The surrounding grasslands, forests, streams, and mountain landscapes create a breathtaking alpine scene.
In summer, the lakeside becomes especially beautiful, with green grasslands, blooming wildflowers, and herds of cattle and sheep forming a picturesque pastoral landscape. In winter, the frozen lake, snowy mountains, and white grasslands create a peaceful and unique winter wonderland.
Mystical Legends and Cultural Heritage
Beyond its natural beauty, Sayram Lake is also surrounded by fascinating legends and historical heritage. Stories about mysterious lake phenomena, including lake monsters and unusual natural features, have added a sense of mystery and romance to this beautiful destination.
The area around Sayram Lake also preserves traces of ancient grassland civilizations, including rock paintings, Wusun ancient tombs, temple sites, stone inscriptions, and ancient post stations. These cultural remains provide visitors with a deeper understanding of the history and ethnic traditions of the region.
Things to Do in Sayram Lake
Take a Scenic Tour Around the Lake
One of the best ways to explore Sayram Lake is to take a scenic tour around the lake and enjoy the changing landscapes along the route.
Located at an altitude of 2,073 meters, Sayram Lake is one of the important wetlands in the arid region of northwest China. The lake stretches about 30 kilometers from east to west and 25 kilometers from north to south, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, grasslands, forests, and streams.
Sayram Lake offers different scenery in different seasons. In summer, the lakeside is covered with green grasslands and colorful wildflowers, while herds of cattle and sheep create a peaceful pastoral landscape. In winter, the lake freezes and becomes surrounded by snow-covered mountains and ice fields, creating a quiet and beautiful winter scene.
Visitors can travel around the lake throughout the year, stopping at different viewpoints to enjoy the unique scenery and discover the natural beauty of Sayram Lake.
Photography — Capture the Beauty of Lake, Flowers and Mountains
Sayram Lake is one of the best photography destinations in Xinjiang. June and July are the most popular months for photographers, when wildflowers bloom across the surrounding grasslands, creating a stunning contrast with the blue lake water and snow-capped mountains.
The flowers around the lake also have different characteristics in different areas. The northern shore is mainly decorated with purple flowers, the western area features yellow flowers, and the eastern area offers blue-toned flowers, providing different perspectives for photography.
The lake is also an excellent place to capture sunrise, sunset, and reflections of the surrounding mountains. Every July, the Naadam Festival on the lakeside grasslands adds more cultural charm to the beautiful scenery.
Experience Grassland Culture and Outdoor Activities
The grasslands around Sayram Lake provide opportunities to experience the traditional pastoral lifestyle of Xinjiang. Visitors can enjoy activities such as horseback riding, visiting local herdsmen’s camps, and tasting Xinjiang specialties while experiencing the peaceful atmosphere of the grasslands.
Enjoy the Night Sky and Peaceful Atmosphere
Thanks to its high altitude and open surroundings, Sayram Lake offers excellent conditions for enjoying the night sky. On clear nights, visitors can admire the stars above the lake and experience the quiet beauty of the Tianshan Mountains.
Travel Information
Opening Time: Year-round 10:00-22:00
Customer Service Phone: 0909-7659990
Admission fee: 72.5CNY/PP
Nearby Attractions:
Guozigou Valley
Guozigou is the natural gateway of the Ili area, a famous canyon tunnel that goes up to Sayram Lake in the north and down to the Ili River Valley in the south. It is located 40 kilometers northeast of Huocheng County, and it is the only passage of 312 National Highway. Besides, Guozigou has a total length of 28km, with high mountains and tall silver fir. It is also a natural treasure house endowed by nature. There are countless wild fruits, especially wild apples and wild apricots. The medicinal resources are also very rich. From spring to autumn, wildflowers are in full bloom, and the fruit is fragrant.
Guozigou Valley
Khorgas Port
Khorgas Port is 110 kilometers away from Sayram Lake and it is an important land port between China and Kazakhstan; it faces Kazakhstan across the Khorgas River. Here you can see the boundary monument of today and the boundary monument of the Qing government.
Khorgas Port
Keguerqin Lavender Garden
The Keguerqin Lavender Garden is located on the north side of the Ili River Valley, backed by the majestic Keguerqin Mountain. There is a large area of lavender planted in the scenic area. You can take a European-style small train to enjoy the beautiful view and if you like photography and flowers, you can take some nice photos here too. Besides, you can taste Xinjiang specialty snacks in the folk food street; and also can experience the joy harvest in the seasonal fruit and vegetable picking garden.
Lavender Garden
Travel Tips for Visiting Sayram Lake
1. Prepare for Changing Weather
The weather around Sayram Lake can change quickly due to its high altitude (about 2,073 meters above sea level). Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be chilly, so it is recommended to bring a light jacket, windproof clothing, and comfortable shoes.
2. Allow Enough Time to Explore
Sayram Lake is best explored at a relaxed pace. A half-day visit is possible for travelers with limited time, but spending 1–2 days allows you to enjoy the lake loop, photography spots, sunrise and sunset views, and nearby attractions.
3. Bring Sun Protection
The sunlight is strong at high altitudes, especially during summer. Travelers should prepare sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect themselves from UV rays.
4. Drive Carefully Around the Lake
The scenic area is large, and driving around the lake is one of the best ways to enjoy the scenery. There are many viewpoints along the route, so travelers should drive slowly and allow enough time for stops and photography.
5. Book Accommodation in Advance During Peak Season
June to August is the busiest period at Sayram Lake. If you plan to stay overnight near the lake, especially during weekends and holidays, it is recommended to reserve accommodation in advance.
6. Respect the Natural Environment
Sayram Lake is a protected natural scenic area. Visitors should avoid littering, damaging vegetation, or disturbing local wildlife, and help preserve the beautiful alpine landscape.
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