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Paradise Lake is ideal for boating, fishing, and hiking around its scenic surroundings. Visitors can also enjoy photography, bird watching, and relaxing by the water's edge, especially during sunrise and sunset for the best views.
Paradise Lake is a snow-capped glacial lake located on the famous Wusun Ancient Road in the Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang.
The Wusun Kingdom was a great power in the Western Regions during the Han Dynasty. To unite against the Xiongnu, Emperor Wu of Han twice married off two orphaned imperial daughters, Liu Xijun and Liu Jieyou, to the Wusun, creating a peace alliance. Two thousand years later, the ancient Wusun Kingdom has long since vanished into the mists of history. Yet, the landscapes along the banks of the Tianshan Mountains remain, imbued with a vibrant and rich tapestry thanks to these legends. The Baozhadun Wusun Ancient Road (hereinafter referred to as the "Wusun Ancient Road"), stretching north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, is a scenic route that has borne witness to millennia of history.
The beauty of Wusun is diverse and rich, grand and exquisite, heavy and delicate, with dangers and challenges, as well as breathtaking scenery and temptations.
The Dream Road - this 130-kilometer scenic road spanning the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, encompasses grasslands, dense forests, snow-capped mountains, glaciers, lakes and other landscapes. The scenery changes with every step and is breathtaking.
The azure and tranquil Paradise Lake has become a landmark of the Wusun Ancient Road, adorning the landscape like a pearl. Passers-by sigh with admiration, feeling completely captivated by its beauty at first sight.
Xinjiang has a temperate continental climate. Generally speaking, May to October is the tourist season in Xinjiang, while the best travel seasons are July, August and September.
Recommended itinerary:
Day 1: Various places - Urumqi - Kuqa
Day 2: Kuqa - Heiyingshan Township - Bozirige River Valley
Day 3: Bozirige Valley Camp
Day 4: Bozikrig River Valley Camp - Akbulak Pass - Akkule Alpine Lake
Day 5: Akekule Alpine Lake - Koksu River Camp
Day 6: Kuokesu River Camp-Kunosai Camp
Day 7: Kunosayi Camp - Qiongdaban - Qiongkushitai Valley Camp
Day 8: Qiongkushitai Valley Campsite - Qiongkushitai Village - Yining - Urumqi
Day 9: Yining-Urumqi
Paradise Lake is known for its stunning natural beauty and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful retreat for nature lovers. It has cultural significance for local communities and is a popular destination for both tourists and locals to reconnect with nature.
Paradise Lake is located in Aksu, Xinjiang. It can be accessed by taxi or private car from the city center. Public transportation options are limited, so renting a car is the most convenient way to reach the lake.
The lake is open year-round. The best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is mild, and the surrounding nature is at its peak. Avoid summer's intense heat and winter's chill for the most pleasant experience.
The entrance fee is modest, and tickets can be purchased at the site. There is no need for online booking, but during peak seasons, it's advisable to arrive early to secure entry.
Booking tickets in advance is usually unnecessary, but if you're visiting during a holiday or peak tourist season, it’s recommended to book at least a few days in advance to avoid any inconvenience.
To fully explore Paradise Lake and its surrounding area, 2-3 hours should be sufficient for hiking, sightseeing, and enjoying the water activities. If you're interested in fishing or relaxing, consider spending half a day.
The main highlights include the serene waters of the lake, the surrounding mountain views, and the tranquil forests. The best viewpoint is from the lake’s edge, where you can capture stunning reflections of the mountains.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. It's possible to arrange for English-speaking guides, but it is recommended to book in advance if you need one.
The best viewpoints are along the lakeshore and at the summit of the surrounding hills. Sunrise and sunset are perfect times for photography, offering beautiful light on the water and mountains.
Start by walking along the lakeside to take in the natural beauty. Afterward, hike up to a viewpoint for a panoramic view of the entire area. End the visit with some time by the water for relaxation or boating.
Night visits are not available as the lake closes after dark. There are no light shows, but the lake offers a peaceful atmosphere during the day with minimal commercial activities.
Paradise Lake is less crowded than many other tourist spots, though weekends and holidays can attract more visitors. The least crowded times are weekdays, especially during the early mornings.
There are basic facilities such as toilets, rest areas, and water stations. Food and drink options are limited, so it’s recommended to bring your own snacks and beverages for a more enjoyable visit.
While the lakeside area is accessible, the trails around the lake may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. The main area by the lake is generally suitable for children and elderly visitors.
Cash is still commonly used at the site, but mobile payment options like Alipay and WeChat Pay are also accepted in many areas. It's a good idea to carry some cash, especially for small purchases.
There are a few simple restaurants and local food vendors near the lake, serving traditional Xinjiang dishes. For a wider range of options, it's better to travel back to Aksu city.
Halal food is available at local restaurants, as the region is known for its Uyghur cuisine. Vegetarian options are also common, but vegan-specific dishes may be limited.
There are a few hotels in Aksu city, with a range of accommodations from budget to mid-range options. If you prefer staying closer to Paradise Lake, there may be guesthouses available near the lake.
Nearby attractions include the Tianshan Mountains and Aksu’s historical sites. A day trip can also include visiting local villages and experiencing the culture of the region.
Souvenir shops near the lake sell traditional Xinjiang products, such as Uyghur handicrafts, local spices, and textiles. Typical souvenirs include handwoven rugs and colorful scarves.
After visiting, you can take a taxi or private car to explore nearby attractions. Aksu city has bus and train services for further travel to other parts of Xinjiang.
