
Chaiwopu Lake is located in the Chaiwopu Basin at the foot of Bogda Peak, about 45 kilometers southeast of Urumqi city. It is located in the western part of Dabancheng area and is a natural cold-water lake. It is adjacent to the Hubei-Lanzhou-Xinjiang Railway, National Highway 312 , and Tuwu-Dalian Expressway, connecting the east and the west.
Chaiwopu Lake covers an area of about 30 square kilometers and is walnut-shaped. It has an average water depth of 4 meters and a maximum depth of about 7 meters. The lake water is slightly salty and is formed by the melting snow of Bogda Peak in the north of the lake and Kongur Mountain in the south of the lake. It is the largest water surface in the Urumqi area.
Standing by the lake, gazing out in all directions, the tourist area is shaded by verdant trees, with buildings nestled amidst the sea of greenery. Along the lakeside lie grasslands, forest belts, farmlands, deserts, and even wetlands and swamps thick with reeds. In the distance, vast snow-capped mountains, near by, a pool of clear water. A gentle breeze occasionally caresses the trees and reeds, fishing boats ply the streets, and seagulls soar, creating a truly enchanting experience.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
free
All day
Chaiwopu Lake is a serene and scenic spot located in the suburbs of Urumqi, Xinjiang. It has been a popular destination for locals and tourists alike for its natural beauty and tranquility. The lake is significant for its role in providing recreational space and preserving the area's local ecology.
Chaiwopu Lake is located in the southern part of Urumqi. The easiest way to get there is by taxi, as public transportation options are limited in the area. You can also reach it by private car or, if nearby, take a scenic walk through the surrounding parks.
The lake is open to visitors all day, but it is best to visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat of midday. Spring and autumn are the most pleasant times to visit due to the mild weather and fewer tourists.
The entrance to Chaiwopu Lake is free. However, certain activities, like boat rides or fishing, may have additional charges. These can typically be paid for on-site.
No advance booking is required as the lake is open to the public and free to enter. For specific activities such as boat rides, it may be beneficial to book in advance during peak seasons.
You can comfortably explore the lake and surrounding areas in about 2-3 hours. If you plan to take part in activities like boating or fishing, you might want to allow for more time.
There are no formal guided tours or audio guides available at Chaiwopu Lake. Visitors can explore the area at their own pace with clear signage around the lake.
Start by exploring the lakeside area, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Then, take a boat ride or visit the fishing areas. If time permits, stroll through the surrounding park to fully appreciate the natural beauty of the location.
There are no special light shows or night tours at Chaiwopu Lake. However, evening visits can be a peaceful experience, with beautiful views of the sunset over the lake.
Chaiwopu Lake is relatively peaceful, with fewer tourists compared to more famous attractions in Urumqi. Weekdays and early mornings are ideal times to visit if you want to avoid crowds.
The park has basic amenities like toilets, rest areas, and small food stalls offering refreshments. There are no large shops or restaurants within the park, but you can find such facilities nearby.
Yes, the park is accessible for elderly and children, with wide paths and resting spots. However, some areas near the lake may require careful navigation. Wheelchair access is available, but it’s best to check for specific accessibility before your visit.
Cash is commonly accepted for activities like boat rides and fishing. Mobile payment options like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted in the area as well.
Yes, there are vegetarian and halal food options available at local restaurants nearby, especially in Urumqi's city center.
Yes, you can find souvenir shops in the surrounding area selling local handicrafts, textiles, and items featuring the park’s natural beauty.
After visiting Chaiwopu Lake, taxis are the easiest way to continue your trip. You can also use public buses or private vehicles to explore nearby attractions or return to the city center.