This is the Sailimu Lake mentioned by Sa Beining

Sailimu Lake | The last tear of the Atlantic Ocean, a pure secret place you must visit in your lifetime --- 1. Why go to Sailimu Lake? Sailimu Lake, formerly known as "Pure Sea", is located in Bortala Prefecture, Xinjiang. It is the highest and largest alpine lake in Xinjiang and is known as "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean." The lake water is 12 meters transparent and as blue as a gem. The scenery varies in each season: - Summer (May-August): The lakeside is full of wild flowers, snow-capped mountains are reflected, and the grassland is green, which is suitable for summer vacation and photography. - Autumn (September-October): Golden meadows interweave with blue lakes, forests are colorful, and the scenery is beautiful with few people. - Winter (December-February): The lake is frozen, with ice bubbles, rime and icicles, just like a fairy tale world. --- 2. Best time to travel - Peak season (May-September): Temperature 10-20℃, clear lake water, blooming grasslands, and Nadam Festival (July). - Shoulder season (April-May, October-November): Fewer tourists, suitable for enjoying nature in peace, with the melting ice in spring and the golden meadows in autumn having their own unique charm. - Off-season (December-March): Be prepared for the cold weather and experience the wonders of ice and snow, but some facilities may be closed. --- 3. Transportation Guide 1. Big traffic - Plane: Fly to Urumqi or Yining, then take a bus or chartered car (about 4-5 hours). - Self-driving: From Urumqi, take the Lianhuo Expressway to Guozigou Bridge, then turn to Provincial Highway S249 (Ring Road around the Lake). The road condition is good. - Direct bus to scenic spots: There are special shuttle buses in Bole City and Yining City. It is recommended to book in advance. 2. Transportation within the scenic area - Shuttle bus: Enter from the East Gate or South Gate, and go around the lake clockwise or counterclockwise (it is recommended to enter from the East Gate, the clockwise route is more classic). - Self-driving electric vehicle: You can rent a new energy vehicle to travel around the lake (about 200 yuan/day) and stop at various scenic spots flexibly. --- 4. Must-see attractions and experiences 🌊 Classic check-in spot 1. Moon Bay (first stop at East Gate) - The lake is shaped like a crescent moon and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. You can experience sailing and go-karting. 2. The Generals’ Platform - The site of Genghis Khan's Western Expedition, where you can overlook the lake from a high point and see a sea of ​​pink poppies in summer. 3. Keller's Pearl - A group of springs that never freeze all year round, with clear water and legend has it that there are "water monsters" lurking there. 4. Pine Head - The highest point on the south bank of the lake, you can climb to the top of the wooden plank road to enjoy the panoramic view of the lake and mountains. 📸 Hidden Secret Place 5. S Bay Highway - The highlight of the highway around the lake, the S-shaped curve and the snow-capped mountains and grasslands form a beautiful picture. 6. Swan Water - In summer, you can see wild swans and bar-headed geese. It is recommended to go there in the early morning or evening. 7. Sail Creek - The boulder is shaped like a sail, which contrasts beautifully with the lake water. Check in at the "Western Pure Sea" sign. ❄️ Winter only - Ice Bubble Lake: Methane gas at the bottom of the lake freezes into bubbles, like an alien wonder. - Ice fishing/skiing: Experience the traditional ice activities of the Kazakh people, which requires the guidance of a guide. --- 5. Accommodation Recommendations 1. Within the scenic area - RV campsite: camp under the stars, with a lake view from the window (open in summer). - Xihai Grassland Yurt: Experience nomadic life and roast a whole lamb around the stove at night. 2. Surrounding hotels - Bole City: Economical choice, we recommend Bole Hotel (1 hour drive from the scenic spot). - Yining City: High-end resort, such as Yili Tianyuan International Hotel (suitable for continuing the northern Xinjiang itinerary the next day). --- 6. Food Guide - Must-try specialties - Gaobai salmon feast: a cold-water fish special to Sayram Lake, with tender meat, steamed or grilled is recommended. - Kazakh milk tea + hand-pulled meat: Experience the authentic flavor in a herdsman’s home, better with naan. - Wild Mushroom Rice Soup: Summer only, delicious and warming. - Recommended restaurants - In the scenic area: Xihai grassland herdsmen’s home (advance reservation required). - Bole City: Western Region Food Street (specializing in Xinjiang snacks). --- 7. Practical Tips 1. Tickets: 70 yuan/person in peak season (June-September), free in winter; shuttle bus 75 yuan (one entry). 2. Clothing guide: The temperature difference between day and night is large, so you need to bring a windproof jacket in summer and a down jacket + snow boots in winter. 3. Environmental protection requirements: It is prohibited to drive into the core area by yourself, and garbage must be taken out by yourself. 4. Photography Tips: - Best sunrise/sunset views: Dianjiangtai (sunrise), Santai Grassland (sunset). - Use a telephoto lens to capture the texture of the lake, and a wide-angle lens is suitable for showing the reflection of the snow-capped mountains. 5. Safety Tips: - Avoid walking alone near the lake to avoid falling into the water. - Driving in winter requires a four-wheel drive vehicle with anti-skid chains. --- 8. Itinerary Planning Reference Classic 2-Day Lake Tour - Day 1: East Gate → Moon Bay → Dianjiangtai → Songshutou → Xihai Grassland (stay in a yurt). - Day 2: Xihai Grassland → Swan Water → Keleyongzhu → Water Beach → Return. Depth 3-day line Add hiking on the S Bay Road, exploring the island in the middle of the lake, or experience photography on the Ice Bubble Lake in winter. --- Sailimu Lake is a feast for the eyes and a pure land for the soul. No matter when you come here, the pure beauty can heal your fatigue. Take this guide with you and start your journey to "The Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean"! 🔍 Click to save and plan your Sailimu Lake itinerary with one click!