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Located in Altay City, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, Ulun Lake comprises four parts: Dahaizi, Zhonghaizi, Xiaohaizi, and Jili Lake. With a total area of 827 square kilometers, it lies on the northwest edge of the Junggar Basin and is the largest inland lake in northern Xinjiang. Its waters are clear, its shores thick with reeds, and at dusk, it offers captivating views of the sunset. The lake is teeming with fish and boasts abundant catches. Its vast expanse, the merging of water and sky, the vast expanse of the lake, is a breathtaking sight. As one of China's ten largest lakes, it attracts numerous tourists.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Dahaizi, Zhonghaizi, Xiaohaizi, Jili Lake, 1-3 hours
Wulun Lake is an important natural reserve in Xinjiang, known for its ecological significance. It is a habitat for diverse wildlife, especially migratory birds, and has become a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Wulun Lake is located in the northern part of Xinjiang, near the Altai Mountains. To reach the lake, visitors can take a taxi or rent a car from the nearest city, Altay. Public transportation options are limited, so a private vehicle is the most convenient way to travel.
The lake is open to visitors year-round, though the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months, when the weather is mild and the surrounding nature is at its most vibrant. Avoid visiting in winter, as the cold temperatures can make access difficult.
There is no official entrance fee for Wulun Lake. Visitors can access the area for free, though some activities like boat rides may require additional charges. Tickets for such activities can be purchased on-site.
No advance booking is required to visit Wulun Lake. Tickets for boat rides or tours can be purchased on the spot. However, if you are visiting during peak seasons, it’s advisable to check availability in advance for specific activities.
A visit to Wulun Lake can be comfortably completed in half a day, allowing time for sightseeing, a boat ride, and enjoying the natural beauty. If you prefer a more relaxed visit, you can extend your stay to a full day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some local guides may offer services in English. Audio guides are not commonly provided, so it’s recommended to arrange a guide in advance if you need one.
The best viewpoints are along the lake's edge, especially near the small islands. Sunset offers the most picturesque views, as the sun casts beautiful colors over the water and surrounding mountains.
Start by exploring the shoreline and take a boat ride to see the islands. Afterward, visit the wetland areas for bird watching, then spend time relaxing by the lake before concluding your visit with a scenic walk along the water’s edge.
There are no night visits, light shows, or special tours available at Wulun Lake. The area is best visited during daylight hours for optimal views and photography.
Wulun Lake is generally not overcrowded. The least crowded times are weekdays, particularly in the early morning or late afternoon during off-peak seasons (spring and autumn).
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available near the lake. However, there are no large restaurants or shops inside the area, so visitors should bring water and snacks with them. Nearby towns offer more extensive food options.
The lake is relatively accessible for elderly and children, but the walking paths may not be suitable for disabled visitors. Some areas may require more effort to access, especially for those with mobility challenges.
Cash is accepted at the lake, and mobile payment methods like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used in Xinjiang. Credit cards are not widely accepted, so it’s best to have cash or use mobile payments.
There are no restaurants inside the immediate area, but local cafes and small restaurants can be found in nearby towns such as Altay, where you can enjoy Xinjiang specialties like lamb skewers and rice dishes.
Halal food options are widely available in the region, and vegetarian dishes are also common in local restaurants. Most eateries cater to Muslim dietary preferences in Xinjiang.
Accommodation options are available in Altay, which is about a 30-minute drive from the lake. Hotels such as the Altay International Hotel and local guesthouses offer a range of facilities for tourists.
There are no souvenir shops at Wulun Lake itself, but you can find local handicrafts, woolen garments, and traditional Xinjiang items in Altay or nearby towns.
The best way to continue your trip is by taxi or rental car. If you plan to visit other attractions in the Altay region, renting a car is ideal for greater flexibility.
