Salt Lake Ecological Zone

Introducing Salt Lake Ecological Zone

The Salt Lake Ecological Tourism Area, located in Dabancheng District, Urumqi, Xinjiang, is known for its abundant salt production. It's nicknamed Xinjiang's "Sky Realm" and is also known as the "Dead Sea of ​​China." The entrance to the area is quite far from the core area, requiring visitors to purchase a shuttle bus or walk. The lake itself is approximately 4 kilometers in diameter, boasting a vibrant blue water. The surrounding area is blanketed in white salt crystals, with massive salt mountains nearby. The stunning scenery has earned it the nickname Xinjiang's "Chaka Salt Lake," attracting numerous tourists and Urumqi locals.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate, summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Tianshan and Nanshan pastures, 1-3 hours

Tickets

Adult ticket: 49 RMB; shuttle bus: 30 RMB; package ticket: 80 RMB

Attraction opening hours

10:00-22:00 (Monday-Sunday, January 1st-December 31st)

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Most Popular FAQs for Salt Lake Ecological Zone

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

Salt Lake Ecological Tourism Area is a vital ecological zone near Urumqi, Xinjiang, known for its natural salt formations, unique landscape, and biodiversity. It plays an important role in regional ecological conservation and attracts tourists for its scenic beauty and educational value.

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

The area is located approximately 30–40 km east of Urumqi city center. Visitors typically reach it by taxi, private car, or organized tour buses. Public transportation is limited, so private transport is recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Best visiting seasons are spring and autumn for mild weather and clear skies; summer can be hot, and winter is less ideal due to freezing conditions.

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

Entrance fees are approximately ¥40–60 per person. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or via official websites and authorized travel apps for online booking.

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

Booking is recommended during peak tourist seasons, such as summer holidays, ideally 3–5 days in advance to ensure availability.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours is usually sufficient to explore the main areas, take photos, and enjoy the boardwalks and ecological exhibits.

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

• Main salt lake and surrounding boardwalks.
• Ecological exhibition centers.
• Bird-watching areas and wetlands.
• Scenic pavilions and viewpoints for photography.

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

Guided tours are available primarily in Chinese. Some organized tours may provide English-speaking guides. Audio guides are not common.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Boardwalks along the central lake for reflective water photos.
• Wetlands and bird-watching areas during migration season.
• Lakeside pavilions for panoramic shots of the salt landscape.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Enter through the main entrance, walk along the boardwalks, visit ecological exhibits, stop at pavilions for photos, explore the wetland trails, and finish at the lakeside observation deck.

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

Night visits and light shows are not generally available. Special ecological or educational tours may be offered on request.

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

Weekdays outside major holidays are least crowded. Summer weekends and public holidays see higher visitor numbers.

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

• Public toilets near the main entrance and key boardwalk points.
• Small restaurants or snack stalls at the entrance.
• Rest areas and benches along the trails.
• Souvenir shops near the parking area.

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

Main boardwalks and observation areas are accessible for elderly and children. Some trails may be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted; cash is less commonly used but can be used at some stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Small local restaurants near the entrance serving Xinjiang snacks and meals.
• Cafes in nearby Urumqi city for lunch or refreshments before/after visiting.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, halal food is widely available; vegetarian options are limited but can be found at some restaurants near the entrance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels in Urumqi city center, 30–40 km away.
• Some guesthouses and small resorts near the scenic area.

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

• Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) Scenic Area.
• Red Hill (Hong Shan) in Urumqi for city views.
• Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar for cultural shopping.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Local salt products and mineral souvenirs.
• Postcards, keychains, and small decorative items featuring salt lake scenery.
• Xinjiang local handicrafts and dried fruits sold near the entrance.

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

Taxis or private cars are most convenient. Some tour buses connect to Urumqi city center or nearby attractions like Tianchi Lake.