Swan Lake (Tengger Desert)
天鹅湖
A wetland lake encircled by dunes where migratory birds rest. It is one of the closest and easiest ways to experience the Tengger Desert from Bayan Hot.
Swan Lake lies on the eastern edge of the Tengger Desert. Its water surface covers about 3.2 square km, surrounded by rolling dunes and reed wetlands. In spring and autumn, swans, wild ducks and other migratory birds often stop here. The site is a national 4A-level scenic area, and admission costs about 40 yuan (confirm on site). Paid activities include camel riding, sand sliding and off-road vehicle tours. It suits visitors without time to explore the desert in depth, offering a half-day experience. It can be visited on the same day as the nearby Dream Desert Motor Park, and it is reached by car. Mosquitoes are plentiful around the lake, so take precautions in summer.
Opening hours
Approx. 08:00–19:00
Nearby sights
- Dream Desert Motor Park
- Moon Lake (Tengger Desert)
- Yanfu Temple
- Dingyuanying Ancient Town
- Alxa Museum
- Guangzong Monastery (Nansi) & Helan Mountain Scenic Area
- Fuyin Monastery (Beisi)
- Tonghu Grassland