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Dujuan Lake was formed when lava flow blocked a river valley during a volcanic eruption. Located 92 kilometers northeast of Arxan City, at an altitude of 1,244 meters, and covering an area of 128 hectares, Dujuan Lake earned its name from the azaleas that bloom along its banks.
When the remaining snow melts and spring arrives, the azaleas bloom brilliantly by the lakeside, the blossoms and trees interspersed with vibrant red and green, the lake ablaze with a fiery glow. Flocks of wild ducks flock to the lake, cranes and swans nest, and schools of willow root fish vie for food. In summer, the lake's surface is covered in lush duckweed, swaying in the breeze and emitting a refreshing fragrance, reminiscent of the beauty of the Jiangnan region. In autumn, the water is as clear as a mirror, the surrounding forests dye the lake vibrant, and the surface ripples with golden waves. In winter, the lake is blanketed in snow, its waters frozen to a crystal-clear state, creating a natural ice rink. The highlight is the mirror-like calmness and the stark difference between spring and autumn.
temperate monsoon climate;
Suitable for all seasons, best in spring and autumn
free
All day
Azalea Lake in Arxan, located in Inner Mongolia, is known for its picturesque landscape, surrounded by lush forests and mountains. It is a popular destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. The lake is also famous for its seasonal azalea blossoms, which draw tourists during springtime. The region is historically significant for its connection to the Arxan Volcanic Group, which has formed the landscape of the area.
Azalea Lake is located in Arxan, Inner Mongolia. It can be reached by flying into the Hohhot Baita International Airport, followed by a bus or taxi ride to Arxan. Within the town of Arxan, taxis and local buses are available to take visitors to the lake. There are no metro systems in the area, so traveling by car or taxi is the most convenient option.
The lake is open year-round, with the best time to visit being from April to June, during the azalea blooming season, or in autumn for beautiful fall colors. The lake area is accessible during daylight hours, usually from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Entrance to Azalea Lake is typically free, but there may be a small fee for specific activities like boat rides or guided tours. Tickets for such activities can be purchased on-site at the lake's visitor center or through local tourism offices in Arxan.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically required unless you are planning a guided tour or specific activity during the peak seasons (spring or autumn). It’s advisable to book at least a few days in advance if visiting during these peak periods.
A visit to Azalea Lake typically takes around 2-3 hours to fully explore, including time for walking around the lake, taking photographs, and enjoying the surrounding natural beauty. For hiking or additional activities, such as boat rides, plan for 4-5 hours.
Guided tours are available at the lake, primarily in Mandarin. Some local tour guides may offer English-speaking services, especially during the tourist season. Audio guides may be available at the visitor center, though these are mostly in Chinese.
Start by walking along the lake's edge to take in the views and enjoy the natural surroundings. Follow the forest trail for a more immersive experience, and then take a boat ride if available. If visiting during spring, make sure to spend time exploring the azalea areas to witness the blooming flowers.
Currently, night visits and light shows are not a regular feature at Azalea Lake. However, the lake is open for daytime exploration, and the nearby areas offer beautiful night skies for stargazing, particularly in the clear, less-polluted air of Inner Mongolia.
The lake can become crowded during the peak tourist seasons in spring (for the azalea bloom) and autumn. The least crowded times to visit are during the weekdays outside these peak seasons, particularly in late autumn and winter when the weather is cooler.
There are basic facilities such as toilets, water stations, and rest areas around the lake. A few small shops offer snacks and local products, and some local restaurants serve traditional Inner Mongolian cuisine. It's a good idea to bring bottled water and snacks if you're planning on spending a longer time at the lake.
The main areas of Azalea Lake are accessible for children, elderly, and disabled visitors, although some of the hiking trails may be challenging for those with mobility issues. The lakeside and visitor center are well-maintained and offer relatively easy access for all visitors.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in the area. Credit cards may be less commonly accepted, especially in smaller shops, so it's advisable to have some cash on hand for local transactions.
There are a few local restaurants near Azalea Lake offering traditional Inner Mongolian cuisine, including grilled meats, dairy products, and hearty stews. A few cafes and snack shops provide light refreshments near the lake area.
Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited in the local area, but some restaurants offer vegetable-based dishes. Halal food is not commonly available, but certain local dishes may be adapted to meet dietary preferences.
There are several hotels and guesthouses in Arxan town, ranging from budget options to more comfortable mid-range accommodations. For a more luxurious stay, visitors can find larger hotels in nearby Ulanhot city, which is approximately 100 km away.
Yes, there are souvenir shops near the lake and in the nearby towns. Typical souvenirs include local handicrafts, Mongolian clothing, tea, and traditional arts and crafts.
After visiting Azalea Lake, you can take a taxi or bus back to Arxan town or continue your journey to Ulanhot for further exploration. From Ulanhot, you can travel to other parts of Inner Mongolia via train or long-distance bus services.
