Tianshan Heavenly Lake (Tianchi)
天山天池
A high-mountain glacial lake beneath Bogda Peak, where snow peaks and spruce trees are reflected in its clear waters. Associated with the legend of the Jade Pool, it is the most classic day trip from Urumqi.
Tianshan Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) lies on the northern slope of Bogda Peak in Fukang City, Changji Prefecture, about 100 km from downtown Urumqi. The lake surface sits at 1,910 m above sea level. It is a glacial dammed lake, about 3.5 km long, with a maximum depth of over 100 m. The water is deep blue, and spruce forests cover the surrounding snowy ridges. To the south, the main peak of Bogda, at 5,445 m, is snow-covered year-round. Legend says the Jade Pool, where the Queen Mother of the West hosted King Mu of Zhou, was here. It is a 5A-rated scenic area and part of the World Natural Heritage Site “Xinjiang Tianshan.” How to visit: buy tickets at the visitor centre at the foot of the mountain (about 95 yuan for entry and about 90 yuan for the shuttle bus). The shuttle takes about 40 minutes to reach the lake. Wooden walkways and lookouts line the lake. You can walk around the north shore in about one hour, or take a boat (about 80 yuan) to the opposite shore to see the reflection of Bogda Peak. The Queen Mother of the West Temple by the lake has a viewing platform over the whole lake. If you are fit, hike to the Maya Mountain cable car (extra fee) for a bird's-eye view of Tianchi and Bogda Peak. In summer, the lake is about 10°C cooler than the city. In winter, there are ski resorts and ice sports. Getting there: a day tour from Urumqi costs about 200–300 yuan per person including entry and transport. A private car takes about 2.5 hours each way. Tourist shuttles also depart from People's Park in the city. Tips: UV rays are strong and temperatures are low on the mountain, so bring a jacket. The shuttle queue is long during peak season, so leave early. Swimming is banned in the lake area. Food in Kazakh yurts is expensive, so consider bringing your own lunch.
Opening hours
Peak season 08:00–19:00; off-season 09:30–17:30
Nearby sights
- Xinjiang Tianshan Wildlife Park
- Shuimogou Scenic Area
- Shaanxi Great Mosque
- Erdaoqiao & Bazaar Food Street
- Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
- Memorial of the Eighth Route Army Office in Xinjiang
- Hongshan Park
- Xinjiang Art Museum