Sayram Lake: The Last Blue Tear of the Atlantic

The following is a travel guide about Sayram Lake, covering attractions, food, and accommodation recommendations to help you plan the perfect trip: 👇Overview of Sayram Lake Sayram Lake is located in Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, at an altitude of 2,071m. It is the largest alpine cold water lake in Xinjiang and is known as "the last tear of the Atlantic." The lake water is clear and blue, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and the scenery varies in different seasons: Spring and Summer **(May–October): Wildflowers are in full bloom, and the lake water is like a sapphire, making it the best season to visit. ☃️Autumn and Winter **(November–April): Golden grasslands in autumn, and a frozen lake in winter, where you can see the spectacle of "blue ice." 🛣Must-See Attractions** 1. **Moon Bay** - The first stop at the east gate entrance, the lake water is clear, and the reflection of the snow-capped mountains is picturesque, perfect for taking pictures. 2. **Waterfront Beach** - You can see swans up close, and wildflowers dot the lake in summer. 3. **S-Bend Highway** 🔥A popular spot for photos, the winding highway and the lake are in the same frame, making it perfect for taking pictures. 4. **Pine Tree Head** - Climb to the top to overlook the panoramic view of Sayram Lake and the distant Guozigou Bridge. 5. **Kele Yongzhu** - The scenery of the lake bay is unique. In summer, the lake water is gradient blue-green, which is suitable for camping and stargazing. 6. **Xihai Grassland** - Golden lotus flowers in June, golden grassland in September, you can stay in a yurt to experience nomadic life. 🍇🍓Must-Eat Food** 🫘**Special Local Lake Food** 1. **Whitefish** - A unique cold water fish in Sayram Lake. Recommended ways to eat it: pan-fried, steamed, sashimi (must be booked in advance). 2. **Grilled Fish of Sayram Lake** - Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with special spices. **Xinjiang Specialty Food** 1. **Hand-pulled Lamb** - Traditional Kazakh practice, the meat is tender and has no mutton smell. 2. **Roasted Buns** - Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, the lamb filling is juicy, CNY 5/piece on the street. 3. **Big Plate Chicken** - Chicken and potatoes are stewed until flavorful, with a moderate level of spiciness. 4. **Milk Tea** - Salty, fragrant, and mellow, served with nang or roasted buns. **Affordable Snacks** - **Noodles with Egg Sauce** (CNY 10/bowl) - **Pickled Cabbage Noodles** (CNY 8/bowl) - **Cold Noodles** (CNY 6/portion) 🏡Accommodation Recommendations** **Inside the Scenic Area (Immersive Experience)** 1. **RV Campsite** - You can see the lake view when you open the door, and some are equipped with starry sky skylights, about CNY 600/night in peak season. 2. **Yurt** - Experience nomadic life, the price is about CNY 200/night (public bathroom). **Outside the Scenic Area (Cost-Effective)** 1. **Bole City Hotel** - **Bole Jinshigangwan Hotel**: Located in the city center, with complete facilities. - **Jinjiang/All Seasons Hotel**: Chain brand, high comfort. 2. **Yining City Homestay** - Russian style, such as the homestay near Kazanqi Folk Village. **Useful Tips** - **Transportation**: It is recommended to drive or charter a car, and you can stop and take pictures at any time in the scenic area. - **Sun Protection**: The ultraviolet rays are strong, so you need to prepare sunglasses and sunscreen. - **Environmental Protection**: Take your trash with you and do not feed wild animals.