Bortala

A Mongol autonomous prefecture in western Xinjiang, whose biggest highlight is Sayram Lake, the "last tear of the Atlantic."

Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture lies in northwestern Xinjiang, bordering Kazakhstan, with its capital at Bole and the Alashankou border crossing within its territory. Sayram Lake is a large, high-elevation alpine lake in Xinjiang with deep blue water and lakeside grasslands that bloom with wildflowers in summer, earning it the nickname "the last tear of the Atlantic." Near Bole, Guaishiyu is known for its strange granite rock formations. June to September is the best time to visit, with the flowers at their loveliest in June and July, and in winter the frozen lake surface offers a unique landscape. Arrive via Bole Alashankou Airport, or drive along the Lianyungang–Horgos Expressway.

Destinations

• Sayram Lake
• Bole & Guaishiyu

Itineraries

• North Xinjiang Grand Loop: Kanas, Ili & Duku Highway – Depart from Urumqi to loop through Altay, Sayram Lake, and Ili, returning via the northern section of the Duku Highway
• In-Depth Ili Valley Grassland Loop – In and out of Yining, connecting Sayram Lake, Zhaosu, Kalajun, Kurdening, and Nalati