185th Regiment Baisha Lake

Introducing 185th Regiment Baisha Lake

Baisha Lake is located in Habahe County and is one of the important scenic spots on the Thousand Mile Gallery in Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang. It is an original desert lake independent of the vast desert. It has no water inlet or outlet. The evaporation rate in the desert is generally large, but the water level here has not changed for many years, and has not increased or decreased with seasonal changes.

The scenery here is unique. Dense thickets of reeds and calamus, each 1-4 meters tall, surround the lake. Within 50 meters of the lake lies a dense mixed forest of tall poplars and birch trees. In June, lotus flowers bloom in the lake, and wild ducks swim among them.

In the golden autumn of October, the red and yellow leaves flutter in the wind, the green water in the lake is as blue as a mirror, and the lake and mountains are reflected in each other. Looking from afar and up close, the scenery is magnificent. Under the sunlight, the sand emits bursts of earthy fragrance, which makes people intoxicated. It is known as the "Little Jiangnan in the Northern Frontier".

Climate and best time to travel

Best in summer and autumn

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1-3 hours

Tickets

Ticket price: 20.0 yuan, maintenance fee 20 yuan (including the Couple's Post, the National Boundary Monument, Mingsha Mountain, and Habahe Scenic Area)

Attraction opening hours

Summer and Autumn : 10:00-20:00

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Most Popular FAQs for 185th Regiment Baisha Lake

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

185th Regiment Baisha Lake is part of Xinjiang’s expansive natural landscapes, significant for its ecological importance, local irrigation, and recreational use. It also supports regional agriculture and livestock activities.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Located in the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps 185th Regiment area. Accessible by private car or taxi from nearby towns; regional buses may connect to larger towns. Walking is recommended only within designated lake paths.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

• Open year-round, usually during daylight hours.
• Best visiting months are May to October when weather is mild and scenery is vibrant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance is usually free, but certain areas may charge a small fee. Tickets, if required, are bought onsite.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking is generally not required unless visiting as part of an organized group tour.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–3 hours for a standard visit; half-day recommended if including photography or bird watching.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The main lake area with panoramic views.
• Shorelines with diverse birdlife.
• Nearby small hills for elevated views.
• Vegetation zones and open meadows surrounding the lake.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours may be arranged locally, typically in Chinese; English tours require special arrangement.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Lake edges for reflections and sunrise/sunset photography.
• Nearby hills or elevated points overlooking the lake.
• Areas where birds gather for wildlife photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start at the main entrance or parking area.
• Walk along the lake perimeter to view different angles.
• Stop at designated rest areas or viewpoints.
• Optionally return via a scenic path through surrounding meadows.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

No regular night visits or light shows; special nighttime events may occur with prior arrangement.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Generally quiet; weekdays and mornings are least crowded.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as public toilets and a few rest areas; food and shops are limited nearby.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Mostly accessible on flat paths; uneven terrain may limit access for wheelchairs or strollers.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash recommended; mobile payments accepted at some nearby facilities.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants and cafes in nearby towns; minimal options at the lake itself.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal options available in nearby towns; vegetarian/vegan options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Guesthouses, small hotels, and yurts in nearby towns or the regiment area.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Altay Mountains
• Burqin Rainbow Beach
• Local cultural villages and nomadic settlements

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenirs in nearby towns include local handicrafts, textiles, and traditional food items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

• Taxi or private car to nearby towns or hotels.
• Regional buses for other Xinjiang destinations.
• Car rental for visiting multiple natural sites in the region.