Mangya—the name itself carries

Mangya—the name itself carries a touch of mystery, but the real "Eye of the Devil" is actually the Aiken Spring in Mangya! In the endless desert, a bright yellow circular structure is embedded in the earth, surrounded by orange and green sediments, giving the initial impression of stepping into a science fiction world. This trip will not only take you to see this surreal attraction, but also provide a hands-on review of desert transportation and your impressions, guaranteeing a rewarding experience.

Attraction Recommendation

Mangya Aiken Spring (Eye of the Devil)

Address: Aiken Spring Scenic Area, Moheerbuluke Village, Tugou Town, Mangya City, Haixi Mongolian and Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture

Opening Hours: 09:30-18:00 year-round

Ticket Price: 20 RMB

Aiken Spring, known as the "Eye of the Devil," is a miracle in the desert—a bizarre and captivating landscape. From afar, it resembles a quietly opening eye; a closer look reveals the various layers of color reflected in the water. The vibrant colors in the desert guarantee a 100% success rate for photos. However, be aware that due to the unique geology and saline-alkali deposits in this area, there isn't much greenery. Be careful to avoid slipping and protect your shoes when walking.

Tips | Transportation and On-site Experience: Driving is the most convenient way to get to Aiken Spring. Mangya itself is located in a remote area of Northwest China with limited public transportation. Planning ahead is essential for self-driving or hiring a car; an SUV or off-road vehicle is recommended. There is a small parking lot at the entrance to the spring area, but it can be crowded during peak season, so it's advisable to go early.

Practical Attire Tips: The ground around Aiken Spring is noticeably salty, and the area near the spring is slippery, so wear waterproof shoes. Sunscreen and a sun hat are essential; the desert sun is very strong. The spring water itself is not drinkable, and there aren't many shops nearby, so it's recommended to bring your own water and snacks.

On-site Impressions: Cameras easily capture colors! No matter how you shoot, the yellow spring water and orange-green deposits are particularly striking, making them look as tempting as food (laughs), but don't try it… The only downside is the limited on-site infrastructure. Local vendors mainly sell basic drinks and sun protection products; if you want local snacks, it's recommended to bring your own.

Food Recommendations

Because Mangya is located in a desert, dining options around the scenic area are limited. After returning to Mangya city, you can try Mongolian hand-pulled mutton or Tibetan yogurt at "Yihe Restaurant." It's located in the city center, about a 30-minute drive from the scenic area.

Transportation Guide
If flying to Mangya, you can first go to Golmud (the nearest major city), then hire a car to Mangya. The whole journey takes about 3-4 hours. For those driving, a navigation system is essential; road conditions in Northwest China are complex and signal is unstable, so it's recommended to download an offline map.

Scenic Area Precautions

1. The desert temperature varies greatly; bring a jacket in the mornings and evenings.

2. Do not linger near springs, especially do not touch the water directly.

3. The entrance fee is only 20 yuan, but the scenic area only provides basic facilities such as restrooms; please plan ahead.

Looking for a stunning spot to share on social media, yet still offering adventure and excitement? Aiken Spring, known as the "Evil Eye," will definitely give you plenty of unique photos and a fantastic wilderness experience. Remember to wear sunscreen, be careful of slippery surfaces, and eat well – safety is paramount!

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