China's bluest lake, bar none!

Sayram Lake Travel Guide: ✅Transportation 1. Self-drive/chartered car🚘: - From Urumqi: Approx. 550 km along Lianhuo Expressway (G30), 6–7 hrs. - From Yining: Approx. 160 km, 2.5 hrs. - The loop road around the lake is about 90 km, allowing for stops for photos. 2. Public transportation🚌: - From Urumqi: Take a bus to Bole (approx. 7 hrs), then transfer to the scenic spot shuttle (1 hr). - Direct tourist buses are available from Yining to Sayram Lake. ✅Must-see attractions 1. Around the lake: - Songshutou: Hike up for a panoramic view of the lake (approx. 30 mins).🍀 - Kereyungguzhu: Clear spring water by the lake that doesn't freeze in winter. - S-bend road: Near the south gate, a popular photo spot with snow mountains and the lake in the background. - Dianjiangtai: Historical site of Genghis Khan, offering wide-open views. 2. Unique experiences: - Horse/camel riding: Available from herders by the lake (approx. CNY 50–100/hr). - Stargazing and camping: Overnight camping is allowed at designated campsites within the scenic area. The Milky Way is clearly visible in summer.🌼 ✅Tickets and fees - Ticket + shuttle bus: Peak season (May–Oct) CNY 145/person, off-season CNY 75/person. - Self-drive entry: Requires a separate vehicle ticket (approx. CNY 75/vehicle). - Opening hours: 9:00–21:00 (may be shorter in winter). ✅Accommodation recommendations - Inside the scenic area: - RV campsite/yurts: More expensive (CNY 500–1000/night), but convenient for sunrise and sunset viewing. - Surrounding areas: - Bole/Wenquan County: Budget hotels (CNY 200–400/night), within 1 hr drive.🌼 ✅Food recommendations - High white salmon: Fresh cold-water fish, available in restaurants in the scenic area (CNY 80–120/person).😋 - Xinjiang cuisine: Lamb skewers, hand pilaf, milk tea (more affordable from herders by the lake or in Bole).😋 ✅Important notes 1. Sun and cold protection: Strong UV rays, bring sunscreen and sunglasses; large temperature difference between day and night, bring a jacket. 2. Altitude sickness: The lake is at an altitude of 2071m. Altitude sickness is generally not a problem, but avoid strenuous exercise. 3. Environmental protection: No swimming or littering. Protect the ecosystem. 4. Drones: Requires prior notification to the scenic area management department. ✅Nearby attractions - Guozigou Bridge: 30 mins drive from Sayram Lake, free viewing platform for panoramic bridge photos.📷 - Huocheng lavender (mid-to-late June): You can visit the Princess Jieyou Lavender fields on the way.🌼