Please, do your homework before heading to Sayram Lake!

Check the weather before visiting Sayram Lake! Otherwise, strong winds and overcast skies will totally ruin your trip!

Sayram Lake Tips
🌅 A full loop around Sayram Lake takes about 2 hours, covering approximately 92 km, with stunning views all the way. A thorough visit usually takes a full day. Staying overnight to catch the sunrise and sunset is highly recommended.
🌅 There are 3 entrances to Sayram Lake. The tourist center is at the East Gate (entry and exit), while the South Gate is exit-only.
🌅 Counterclockwise route: East Gate → Moon Bay → Santai Grassland → Borhan Mountain → Qinshui Beach → North Gate → Film City → Khan Bay → Dianjiangtai → Swan Paradise → West Sea Grassland → Kule Yongzhu → Golden Flower & Purple Herb → Pine Tree Head.
🌅 If going clockwise, use the restroom at the East Gate first—the next one isn’t until Pine Tree Head. The restrooms at Guozigou are dirty, with limited stalls and long queues.
🌅 There are about a dozen swans in Sayram Lake, mostly gathered at Kule Yongzhu. Spend more time at Pine Tree Head—climb the slope for a panoramic view of the lake and the distant Guozigou Bridge.
🌅 Ticket: ¥70/person + shuttle bus ¥75/person. The ticket is valid for 48 hours, allowing unlimited entries. Even if purchased online, you must exchange it for a paper ticket at the tourist center.
🌅 It’s very windy at Sayram Lake—bring a windproof jacket.
🌅 The weather here changes quickly. If it rains, it won’t last long like in southern regions. Wait it out, and the post-rain scenery is even more beautiful.

✅ 8-Day Northern Xinjiang Itinerary Reference
D1: Ürümqi
D2: Ürümqi → S21 Desert Highway → Sea Devil City → Altay
D3: Altay → Ahe Highway → Hemu Village
D4: Hemu Village → Kanas Scenic Area
D5: Altay flight to Bole → Sayram Lake loop → Yining
D6: Yining → Lavender Farm → Nalati Grassland
D7: Tangbula → Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery → Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway (North Section) → Ürümqi
D8: Return trip