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Badan Lake, located on the southern edge of the Badain Jaran Desert in Inner Mongolia, serves as the gateway to the region. The Badan Lake complex covers approximately 10 square kilometers and comprises 13 lakes, one of which is a rare freshwater lake in the desert. The scenic area is dotted with sand dunes and peaks, each offering a unique spectacle. Here, the sound of singing sand gathers in clusters, creating a unique sound. Verdant grass and lush trees border the lake, creating a unique "South of the Yangtze River in the Northern Desert" scene. Towering sand dunes, the vibrant singing sand, the tranquil lakes, the lush wetlands, the dreamlike reflections, and the honest and simple camels imbue this "sea of death" with new life.
Badan Lake is the closest desert lake to Ekenhudu Town, the seat of the county government, and one of the few freshwater lakes in the Badain Jaran Desert. Because of its beautiful scenery, resembling a dazzling pearl set on the southern edge of the Badain Jaran Desert, Badan Lake is also known as the "Gem Lake" by locals.
Temperate continental climate;
Best in summer and autumn
80 yuan
8:30-18:00
Bataan Lake is a scenic body of water located in Inner Mongolia, offering a peaceful natural retreat. Historically, it was an important resource for local communities for fishing and agriculture. The lake also holds cultural significance for the indigenous people living nearby.
Bataan Lake is situated in the Alxa League of Inner Mongolia. The best way to get there is by car or taxi. Public transportation is limited, so renting a car or booking a tour is recommended. It is about a 4-hour drive from Yinchuan.
The lake is open year-round. However, the best times to visit are during spring and autumn when the weather is milder and the natural surroundings are at their most vibrant.
There is typically no entrance fee to visit Bataan Lake, but fees may apply for boat rides or other activities. Tickets can be bought on-site.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary, but for boat rides or organized tours, it’s advisable to book at least a day ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
A visit typically takes about 2-4 hours, depending on whether you plan to do activities such as boat tours, hiking, or birdwatching. For a relaxed visit, a couple of hours are usually sufficient.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, but English-speaking guides may not be easily available. It is advisable to arrange a guide in advance if you prefer one.
Start your visit with a stroll along the lake shore, then take a boat ride to explore the lake from the water. Afterward, hike the nearby nature trails for some peaceful exploration and birdwatching. End your visit by relaxing in a scenic spot to enjoy the landscape.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Bataan Lake. The area is best explored during daylight hours, especially for nature activities like birdwatching.
Bataan Lake is generally not crowded. The least crowded times are on weekdays, especially in the early mornings or late afternoons. Weekends and public holidays can see more visitors.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available. However, there are limited food and shopping options on-site, so it is recommended to bring your own food and water, especially for longer visits.
The attraction is relatively accessible, but some parts of the area, especially nature trails, may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. However, the main areas around the lake are suitable for families and children.
Cash is commonly accepted, and mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used. Credit cards may not be accepted in all areas.
There are no restaurants directly at the lake. However, there are small local eateries in nearby towns where you can try traditional Mongolian food.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in the nearby towns, but they may be limited around the lake area.
There are no major hotels directly near Bataan Lake. Visitors can stay in Yinchuan, where a variety of accommodations are available, ranging from budget to more luxurious options.
There are no large souvenir shops at the lake, but small stands may sell local crafts, such as Mongolian textiles and handicrafts. You can also find postcards and small mementos from the area.
After visiting Bataan Lake, you can take a taxi or rent a car to continue your trip to nearby attractions. Yinchuan also offers public transportation and has an airport for domestic flights.
