Heavenly Lake on Mt. Tianshan

The Heavenly Lake (Tianchi Lake) is situated to the east of the Tianshan Mountain range, north of Bogda Peak, 97 km south of Urumqi. The lake has a reputation of the Pearl on Tianshan Mountains for its fascinating scenery and was listed among the first group of the national key scenic spots in 1982.

The lake surface elevates 1,910 meters above sea level, with an average depth of 60 meters. Surrounding the Heavenly Lake are snow mountains, glacier forests and grassland alpine lakes, featuring a vertical natural landscape belt.

The area is one of the few unspoiled places in China. The crystal water reflecting the snow-topped peaks, fluffy white clouds and blue sky create a breathtaking view. Lying at the mountainside of the snow-crowned Bogda Peak, the Heavenly Lake is surrounded by numerous towering verdant dragon spruces, tall and straight. The lake also has various waterfalls with constantly changing cloud and mist, forming a splendor and open plateau landscape.

Known as Yaochi in ancient times, Heavenly Lake is the summer palace of the legendary Heavenly Empress. So many places in the Heavenly Lake are related to her. The venerable elm standing beside the lake is said to be the avatar of the Heavenly Empress’s hairpin. The deep Dragon Pool, which is just under the Heavenly Lake, is said to be her swimming pool. Waterfalls, rocks, and even pine trees are all connected with the Heavenly Empress.

The beauty of Heavenly Lake has attracted throngs of visitors from all over the world. Visitors can climb the magnificent mountains and walk leisurely in the forests to enjoy the beauty of nature.

In summer, the Heavenly Lake is a perfect resort in the sweltering desert. One can enjoy the pure and fresh air as well as the cool and pleasant weather. Boaters on the lake see the ever-changing silvery mountains soaring into the blue sky, their slopes highlighted with verdant pasture and flamboyant wild flowers. In snowy winter, visitors can come to the icebound lake and try their hand at skating. A day in this fairyland promises restoration.

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