Sayram Lake in Xinjiang: A Serene Splendor & Alpine Oasis

Written by Veronica | Updated September 29,2025

Sayram Lake, or Sailimu Lake, is a stunning alpine lake (the highest one in Xinjiang) nestled in the high mountain basin of the western section of the Tianshan Mountains, enjoying an elevation of 2073 meters. It is believed to be the east-most destination that was influenced by the warm and moist Atlantic air currents, earning it the nickname “the last tear of the Atlantic”.

Being surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks and vast grasslands, Sayram Lake boasts its breathtaking natural beauty and is celebrated as one of the most famous attractions in Xinjiang. Its stunning body of water covers an area between 455 to 460 square kilometers, with an east-west stretch of about 30 kilometers and a north-south stretch of about 25 kilometers.

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• Fast Facts of Sayram Lake
• Why Visit Sayram Lake – Top Highlights
• What to See and Do in Sayram Lake
• How Many Days Are Needed to Visit and Fully Enjoy Sayram Lake?
• What and where to eat near the lake?
• Detailed Logistics
• Legends of Sayram Lake
• Best Places to Admire Flowers in Sayram Lake
• Best Time to Visit
• What Should I Pack for a Trip to Sayram Lake, Especially Regarding the Weather?
• How to Get to Sayram Lake
• How to Travel Sayram Lake
• Where to Stay during Your Sayram Lake Tour
• Travel Tips
• Attractions nearby Sayram Lake
• Join a Xinjiang Tour to Sayram Lake with China Xian Tour

Fast Facts of Sayram Lake

• Location: within the territory of Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China
• Ticket price: CNY 145 (from Apr. 16 – Oct. 31); CNY 72.5 (from Nov. 1 – Apr. 15)
• Opening hours: 9:00-21:00
• Area: About 455-460 square kilometers.
• Time Needed: half a day to one full day is needed to enjoy the lake scenery and the surrounding grassland
• Highlights: Hiking, camping, photography and sightseeing. Some of the recommended attractions include the lake itself, the surrounding mountains, and the nearby Kazakh villages.
• Suited to: Nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking for a peaceful retreat.
• Best time to visit: From May to early October when the weather is mild, the mountain flowers are blooming, and the landscapes are beautiful.

Why Visit Sayram Lake – Top Highlights

• Xinjiang’s Highest Alpine Lake: You can find this lakein the Tianshan Mountains at an altitude of 2,073m. Sayram Lake is known as “the last tear of the Atlantic.” why? It originates from a unique geographical phenomenon. Xijiang is located in the westerlies. The warm and humid air currents from the remote Atlantic Ocean reach the Tianshan Mountains after a long journey. Due to the rise of terrain, rainfall is formed. And Sayram Lake is the last stop of this water-vapor transfer. So it is called the “last tear of the Atlantic”.
• Breathtaking Scenery: VisitingSayram Lake gives you chances to see the stunning blend of snow-capped peaks, vast grasslands, dense spruce forests, and the turquoise lake. The scenery is perfect for photography, hiking, and soaking in nature.
• Seasonal Beauty: No matter which season you are planning to travel, Sayram Lake will always surprise you. Enjoy the changing seasonal beauty such as wildflower blooms (May–Oct), lush green meadows (spring–early summer), golden foliage (Sept–Oct), and cool mountain breezes (June–Aug).
• Diverse Activities: Don’t think that visiting Sayram Lake is only about walking around the lake. There are plenty of activities you can take in this journey, for example, hikingto Songshutou for panoramic views, exploring Kogurqin Mountain’s spruce forests, riding horses at Moon Bay, or camping under the stars.
• Cultural Charms:Nearby attractions also worth an exploration. Some of the most famous including Kazakh villages, historic sites like Jingwang Pavilion, and the legendary “lake monster” mystery which add unique cultural depth in this tour.

What to See and Do in Sayram Lake

Panoramic views of Guozigou Bridge from Songshutou (松树头)

A popular scenic spots within the Sayram Lake Scenic Area, Songshutou offers a wooden walkway leading to the viewing platform on the mountain summit. From the viewing platform, visitors can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of the Guozigou Bridge and catch some stunning vistas. Additionally, Songshutou is also a highly recommended spot for awe-inspiring sunset.

Good to know: It needs about 1 hour go reach the mountain summit from Songshutou.

Admiring Lush Pines on Kogurqin Mountain (科山观松)

The dense spruce forest on Kogurqin Mountain is another spectacular sight around Sayram Lake. On the northern slope of Kogurcin Mountain, there is a dense spruce forest spanning an area of 19.27 square kilometers, reaching to the lakeshore. Amidst the lush forests, there are winding paths leading visitors to the inclined plains that are covered with fragrant grasses.

This place is a great destination for visitors who want great mountain hiking, leisurely walking, picnics, and enjoying serene scenery.

Mount Fuji Rising in the East (富士东峙)

Located in the northern part of Sayram Lake, the Husumuqig Mountain boasts a towering main peak with an elevation of 3596.5 meters. Viewing from the Haixi Grassland across Sayram Lake, the mountain shows a remarkably regular conical shape, with its peak soaring into the blue sky and its summit wrapped in white clouds, looking like Mount Fuji in Japan. This creates the “Fuji Dongzhi” scene, one of the ten iconic views of Sayram Lake.

Golden Satin Edge around the Lake (金缎镶边)

The sloping plains surrounding Sayram Lake are blanketed with lush grasses which change colors with the seasons. In early spring, the serene pastures show a delightful shade of green as the tender shoots emerge. As summer arrives, the pastures become a sea of color, as countless yellow, red, blue, purple, and white flowers bloom on the grassland. Among the vibrant colors, the yellow wildflowers are particularly striking, and this eye-catching scenery is thus called “golden satin edge” around Sayram Lake.

Moon Bay (月亮湾) 

The Moon Bay is the first attraction upon entering the eastern gate of the Sayram Lake Scenic Area. The bay is like a crescent moon in shape, hence its name. Here, visitors can enjoy a variety of entertainment activities, including sailing, go-karting, horseback riding, and camel riding. Thanks to its expansive space, the bay is also ideal for capturing wide-angle scenes.

Waterfront Beach (亲水滩)

The Waterfront Beach is the place in Sayram Lake where visitors can interact closely with swans, and if you want to feed the swans, it’s recommended to bring some bread slices. There is an impressive boulder standing in this spot. It is the talles boulder in the scenic area, just by the lake, with the gilded characters “西域净海赛里木湖” engraved on it. Around the beach is a sea of flowers which offers great photo opportunities.

Xihai Grassland (西海草原)

On the west of the scenic area lies a vast grassland named Xihai Grassland. Locals call it “Haixi”, which means “west of the lake.” Every year from June to September, the grassland is at its most verdant while local herders graze their cattle and sheep here for three months.

Xihai Grassland is known for its breathtaking sunrises and sunsets, and the view of the snow-capped mountains from here is particularly striking, adding to the area’s natural beauty.

How Many Days Are Needed to Visit and Fully Enjoy Sayram Lake?

2 – 3 days is the most recommended duration. This period allows you to slow your pace. You can live by the lake for one night to appreciate the sunrise, sunset and starry sky. Then enjoy a leisurely time to drive along Sayram Lake, hike in the Songshutou, feed the goose in Keluo Yongzhu and experience horse riding or cycling, etc.

What and where to eat near the lake?

Inside the scenic area, there are a few places you can have meals inside and around the tourist center, including a food court, a food street, Chinese restaurants, etc. Both Chinese and Western dishes are offered. Of course, you can taste the delicious local food here. The local specialties include coregouns peled, cold water fish, lamb pilaf, stewed fish with sea buckthorn. Classic Xinjiang cuisines are grilled lamb skewers, big plate chicken, pepper chicken, baked buns, etc. But the cost may be higher. In the Bole City or Jinghe County around Sayram Lake, there are more options of food and restaurants, and the price is more cost-effective.

Covering a large area, it usually takes a long time to cover the whole scenic area. So it is advised to plan where to have meals in advance. And the portions of Xinjiang cuisine are usually large. When ordering food, you can ask the waiter for advice.

Detailed Logistics

• Sightseeing CarPrice: In peak season, the sightseeing car will be operated. It travels around the lake in 2-3 hours with stops at the main scenic spots. The ticket price is CNY 75 per person.
• Price ranges for accommodations: RV campsites and starry sky tents are popular with a price of CNY 800 – 2000. It is convenient for tourists to appreciate the sunrise and starry sky. While living in yurts and inns, you can experience the Kazakh ethnic customs. The price is about CNY 200 – 600, but the facilities are simple and they are usually equipped with public bathrooms.
• Estimated prices for popular activities: Horseback ridingusually costs about CNY 50 – 100 per hour. The price varies according to the routes and duration, so remember to check the price and time before the ride. Camel riding is a special experience along the lake and is very suitable for taking photos. The reference price is about CNY 50 per person each time. If you want to explore some sections by bike, there is also bike rental service with a cost of CNY 50 – 80 per hour.
• Driving Time Between Key Spots: Moon Bay – Songshutou – Jinhua Zihui – Kele Yongzhu – Xihai Grassland – Qinshuitan – Moon Bay: 55 minutes – 15 minutes – 15 minutes – 10 minutes – 45 minutes – 40 minutes.
• Internet/Connectivity:Located in the mountain area, some areas inside the scenic area have weak mobile phone signal or even do not have signals. In the hotels and RV campsites, the WIFI signal may also be unstable or slow. So remember to download an offline map and take some cash.

Legends of Sayram Lake

According to a famous story in the Record of Waterways in the West. At that time, the guards of the Sayram Lake saw a huge green sheep with green horns sticking out of the water of the Sayram Lake when it was dark. Upon the appearance of this monster, the dark sky began to rain heavily, waves began to roll in the lake, fog filled the sky, horses began to hiss uncontrollably, and many residents were soaked to the skin since they were unable to flee in time.

In the early years of the Qing Dynasty, the officials and citizens of the Sayram Lake built a magnificent Jingwang Pavilion on the lake and a very beautiful Dragon King Temple on the island in the center of the lake to worship the river god for blessings. From then on, the winds and rains were favorable, and people lived and worked in peace and happiness.

In the early years of the Republic of China, both Jinghai Temple and Longwang Temple were destroyed in the war. The temples and pavilions on the island in the center of the lake today were built in recent years. It is said that since 1982, many people have seen a huge horned beast surging in the lake. But what exactly is the “lake monster”, is still an unsolved mystery.

Best Places to Admire Flowers in Sayram Lake

Best Time to Visit

May to early October is the best time to visit Sailimu Lake when the weather is mild, the lake itself and the surrounding landscapes are at their most beautiful during this period. Spring to early summer is the best time to admire the wildflowers and lush meadows. June to August is the time to escape the heat and enjoy the cool mountain breeze in this area. During September to October, it is one of the great places in Xinjiang to admire fall foliage when many forests around the lake turn golden and red.

How does Sayram Lake change across the four seasons?

In spring, the ice and snow melt and the lake presents a blue-green color. The grassland revives and wild flowers begin to bloom. There are also migratory birds passing by. So the lake brims with vitality. Summer is the best season for a tour. The crystal and blue water, lush and green grass, and blooming flowers will impress you. The climate is also cool, so it is suitable for all outdoor activities.

In autumn, the grassland turns golden yellow and autumn foliage is dressed in various colors. After reflecting on the lake water, it forms a serene and splendid scenery. The most amazing spectacle in the winter is the rare blue ice of the lake. The entire scenic area is covered with snow, making it a pure white world. Tourists can take unforgettable photos of the ice and snow scenery.

What Should I Pack for a Trip to Sayram Lake, Especially Regarding the Weather?

With an altitude of about 2,000 meters, the weather is changeable in Sayram Lake and the temperature difference between day and night is also large. So a winter jacket is needed to protect yourself from the rain and strong winds. To keep warm, dry and comfortable, you can bring a fleece, a lightweight down jacket, quick-dry clothes, thermal underwear and a hat. The ultraviolet is also strong, so sunscreen and sunglasses are also necessary. Besides, take a thermal mug, a power bank, a small amount of cash and some common drugs with you.

How to Get to Sayram Lake

By Air

You can fly from your city to Urumqi firstly, then, take a flight from Urumqi to Yining or Bole City. Both of this two cities offer buses to the lake.

By Train and Bus

Take the high-speed train from Urumqi to Bole Station (about 4 hours), then take the blue buses to Sailimu Lake on the right side of the bus station exit.

Self-drive or Car Rental

The driving from Urumqi City to the Lake is about 550 km and will take about 7 hours. Also, you can rent a car in Bole City or Yining City and drive about 1.5-2 hours to the scenic area.

Rent a car with a local driver

Since it can be tiring to drive for several hours, it is recommended to contact the local travel agency to arrange a private Xinjiang tour with Sayram Lake or book a car with a local driver to pick you up and transport you to the lake.

How to Travel Sayram Lake

Take the Sightseeing Car in the Scenic Area

Upon entering the scenic area from the eastern gate, visitors can purchase tickets for either a half-route or full-route sightseeing bus.  The full-route ride will take about 2-3 hours. After purchasing tickets, visitors need to walk to the back of the bus station to queue for boarding.  If possible, you can sit at the front of the bus for a better view. There are many stops for visitors to get up and off. The bus operates on a two-way single lane, you can simply wait for a bus on the opposite side of the stop if you want to go in the opposite direction.

By self-driving

Sayram Lake offers a scenic loop drive around the lake, making self-driving the ideal way to explore. There is a continuous parking lane throughout the loop, allowing visitors to stop and admire the beautiful scenery whenever they wish.

A recommended route is to travel counterclockwise from east to west. The essence of the lake is the western part around Songshutou, boasting stunning sunset views. This route allows you to save the most beautiful light before sunset for this area.

Traveling clockwise brings you closer to the lake, the S-curve, and mountain trails. For people who are limited on time can travel clockwise and exit the scenic area through the south gate after exploring half the circuit.

Rent a Bike

Bicycle rental services are available in the scenic area, making it easy to explore the area by bike. The bicycle lanes are well maintained. If you are a cycling enthusiast, you can consider to rent a bike and enjoy the lake and surrounding areas on two wheels.

Where to Stay during Your Sayram Lake Tour

Sayram Lake offers diverse types of accommodation to suit visitors’ different preferences. So that during this journey, you can choose from cozy apartments and scenic RV campsites to traditional Mongolian yurts and even wild camping. For visitors, staying within the scenic area is highly recommended, as it allows you to stay close to the breathtaking views whenever you want.

• RV Campsites:Most RV campsites are built along the lake or near key attractions like Waterfront Beach. These sites feature fully equipped RVs, and some are even with star-viewing roofs. This option is deal for travelers wanting convenience with a view of lakeside serenity.
• Scenic Apartments: Typical choices like the Sayram Lake Impression Apartment Hotel are the ones blending modern amenities (kitchen, living room, bathroom) with captivating views. Perfect for families or those seeking a home-like stay with easy access to lake activities.
• Mongolian Yurts: Yurts are the places which provide you with the best experience of enjoying nomadic charm. Staying at campsites like Swan Love Seven-Star Yurt Camp, you’ll find out how traditional yurts meet modern comforts. And this is valued as typically great for cultural immersion and stargazing.
• Wild Camping: Limited to Xihai Grassland, this option better suits adventurous travelers. Set up your tent amid vast meadows, fall asleep under the stars, and wake up to the sound of the lake

Travel Tips

• The snow-capped peaks are mainly on the western side of the lake, it’s recommended to take photos from the eastern side to catch photos of the lake below the snow mountains.
• From late July to early August, you’ll get a chance to see local ethnic groups hold the Nadam Fair.
• Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are essential due to the long hours of sunlight and intense UV radiation in Xinjiang.
• If time permits, it’s recommended to enjoy an afternoon of camping here which promises to be a top-notch camping experience.
• What traditional festivals take place at Sayram Lake? Some ethnic activities will be held in Sayram Lake every year, such as the famous Nadam Grassland Festival and Golden Flower Festival. Usually, these festivals integrate sports competition, folk custom display and cultural activities. So it is the best time to experience the authentic local culture. But the time and content may be adjusted every year, so check before your tour.
• Are boat rides available on Sayram Lake? Yes, you can find it at Moon Bay and Dianjiangtai. The boats in Dianjiangtai are in traditional style. During the boat ride, you can appreciate the lake, grassland and snow mountain around the lake, meanwhile savoring a cup of tea or coffee and tasting local fruits and snacks. This journey takes about 1 hour and costs about CNY 130 – 180.

Attractions nearby Sayram Lake

• Kanas Lake: Kanas Lake is located about 300 kilometers from Sayram Lake and is known for its stunning natural beauty and unique culture.
• Altay Mountains: The Altay Mountains are located about 150 kilometers from Sayram Lake and offer a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, and horseback riding.
• Guozigou Bridge: about 29 kilometers from Sayram Lake, it is the highest and first cable-stayed bridge in Xinjiang.

Join a Xinjiang Tour to Sayram Lake with China Xian Tour

With various splendid natural scenery and plenty of precious cultural heritages, Xinjiang has been a must-visit place for many domestic and foreign tourists. It is highly recommended to travel with China Xian Tour, because the vast area of Xinjiang requires a reasonable plan to avoid detours, and we are experienced in it. We can also customize a trip according to your preferences. Of course, to ensure you have a comfortable tour, we will arrange a driver and a guide for you. So do not hesitate to contact us!