Heavenly Lake of Tianshan

My dad had told me stories about visiting Heavenly Lake in the 1980s, so when I finally made it here last month, I teared up a little. We took the old cable car up to the ridge and hiked along the trail to the western viewpoint; the clouds lifted just as we reached the top and revealed the whole lake shining below us. It felt like standing inside a painting. My sister and I fed puffed corn to a cute chipmunk near the boardwalk, which made my whole day. The facilities are fine, the boat rides are a bit pricey, but honestly none of that mattered because the memory I made here with my family is priceless. This place deserves every bit of its fame. If you’re lucky with the weather, it’s absolute magic. Coming from someone who’s traveled to 30+ countries — top five natural places I’ve ever seen.

I’m not usually one for super touristy attractions, but I’m so glad my friend convinced me to stop here on our way from Urumqi. The setting is jaw-dropping — forested mountains rising steeply around a mirror-still lake that seems to glow. We brought a picnic (bread, local cheese, apricots, and those big Xinjiang naan) and found a patch of grass near the waterfall outlet, away from the main boardwalk crowd. Eating a slow lunch with the sound of rushing glacial melt water and the occasional yaks grazing nearby is an experience I’ll never forget. The only downside was that we ran out of daylight and missed the final shuttle — the night bus ride back down through the switchbacks was a bit thrilling/slightly terrifying. Still, would absolutely recommend. Take a packed lunch, skip the fancier restaurants, and find your own little corner.

Honestly this was the highlight of my entire Xinjiang trip. I’ve seen a lot of alpine lakes in my life, but Heavenly Lake has something special. The moment the shuttle dropped us off and I walked toward the water, I just stood there for a minute with my mouth open. That electric blue-green color, the eagle circling overhead, the little wooden boats — it felt surreal. I took the walking path around the eastern shore and found a quiet stretch where the only sound was the water lapping and the wind in the spruce trees. There’s something humbling about staring up at a 5,445-meter glacier peak while sitting by warm, calm water. I know some people complain about the crowds, and yeah, it’s busy, but it’s famous for a reason. I would 100% come back. Bring layers, the wind can bite even in summer.

Gorgeous scenery — no doubt about it. The lake is huge and the color is unreal, like something out of a postcard. We took the cable car up to the top of the mountain and the views over the lake and Bogda Peak are absolutely spectacular. My only real complaint is how commercialized the whole place has become. There are souvenir stalls every ten meters, someone wanting you to rent an “Uyghur prince” outfit for photos, and the shuttle bus system feels like a cattle operation. It’s also not cheap once you add up tickets, rides, and snacks. That said, if you come in with the right expectations, it’s still a genuinely amazing place. I’d give it a 4 — so close to perfection, just dial back the tourist traps a bit.

I really wanted to love this place, and the lake itself is undeniably beautiful, but the whole experience felt rushed and frustrating. We paid a decent amount for the entrance plus the shuttle bus, then waited almost 40 minutes in a packed line just to get up the mountain. Once we arrived, the boardwalk was shoulder-to-shoulder with tour groups shouting into microphones. The food stalls were overpriced (¥38 for a basic corn dog) and the toilets were pretty rough. Yes, the water is a stunning turquoise and the snow peaks look great in photos, but I couldn't find a single quiet spot to just soak it in. If you go, get there right at opening time or go in the off-season. I left feeling more tired than relaxed.

Top drawer natural beauty. I came here on a tour and we arrived just after opening, which I think is the secret. The cable car ride gave me epic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains, and the short hike down to the waterfall was brilliant. Water so clear you can see the pebbles near the shore. It’s a bit touristy with the boat rides and photo spots, but the scenery is so powerful it doesn't matter. Best part of my whole trip to Xinjiang. Would happily do it again.

I wasn't sure what to expect, but Heavenly Lake completely won me over. Even with quite a few tourists around, there’s this calmness that settles over you when you stand at the water’s edge. We walked along the wooden boardwalk for a while and found a quieter spot near the eastern shore. The air was fresh, the pine trees smelled amazing, and the reflections were perfect. One of those rare places that actually looks better in person than in pictures. Absolutely magical.

One of the most stunning places I have ever visited. The drive up winding through the mountains was an adventure on its own, and then you arrive at this immense turquoise lake surrounded by towering snowy peaks. The boat ride across the lake was absolutely worth it – the silence out on the water, broken only by the wind and distant birds, was unforgettable. We also hiked a little along the western side and got views that were completely different from the crowded main area. Can't recommend this place enough, just go early and bring layers!

Really gorgeous place! We went on a weekday and the weather was clear in the morning, so the lake looked unreal with the snowy mountains behind it. Took a short boat ride and it was peaceful, though the wind picked up and got chilly fast. The only reason it’s not a 5 for me is the queues – waiting for the shuttle both ways took ages, and a couple of the viewing platforms were badly overcrowded. Still, the scenery is world-class and I’d definitely come back with more time.

The lake itself is undeniably beautiful, with those snow-capped peaks reflected in the blue water. But honestly, I left a bit frustrated. The shuttle buses from the gate were packed and we had to wait almost an hour in the heat. Once up there, it was so crowded along the main boardwalk that you could barely get a clear photo. The food stalls were overpriced and the whole visit felt rushed because the last bus down was earlier than expected. It’s worth seeing once, but manage your expectations.

Went with my family and everyone loved it. The kids were amazed by the cable car ride and kept pointing at the eagles circling above. We rented a small boat and rowed out to the middle of the lake—the silence up there is incredible, just the sound of water and distant waterfalls. A perfect day trip, though bring sunscreen because the UV is strong at this altitude.

Hands down one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever visited. The contrast between the deep blue lake and the white peaks is surreal. We arrived at 8am and had the place almost to ourselves for the first hour—magical. The walk along the shoreline feels like a fairytale. If you’re in Xinjiang, this is a must-do. 10/10.

Absolutely breathtaking! Took the cable car up and was blown away by the turquoise water surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Walked around the entire lake, took a thousand photos, and even spotted a few marmots. The air is so fresh and crisp—totally worth the drive from Urumqi. Highly recommend packing a picnic and spending at least half a day here.

Stunning scenery, but the entry fee is quite steep for what you get. The lake is gorgeous and the boat ride is nice, but I wish there were more marked trails for hiking instead of just the boardwalk. Also, the restrooms near the visitor center could use some maintenance. Still, the view of the glacier behind the lake is something I’ll never forget.

The lake itself is beautiful, no doubt—crystal clear water against the snowy peaks. But the whole experience felt a bit overhyped and overcrowded. We queued for nearly an hour just to get a cable car ticket, and once we got to the lake, finding a quiet spot was impossible. Plus, the food stalls charge tourist prices for mediocre snacks. If you go, go early on a weekday.

What a magical spot! Even with the summer crowds, the lake felt peaceful once you walked a bit away from the main pier. The reflection of the snow mountains on the water is unforgettable. We hired a local guide who shared legends about the lake — that made the experience extra special. Five stars all the way!

One of the most beautiful places I've ever been! The color of the water is unreal — like a giant turquoise gem. We did the full loop hike and every angle was postcard-perfect. Saw a couple of marmots too. The weather changed quickly though, so bring layers. Highly recommend!

Honestly felt a bit let down after seeing so many rave reviews. Yes the lake is pretty but the whole experience felt overpriced and rushed. The shuttle buses were packed, the food stalls were mediocre, and the constant hawking ruined the vibe. For the entrance fee plus cable car, I expected more tranquility.

Stunning location but be prepared for crowds. Got there early and still had to queue for the shuttle. The lake itself is gorgeous, crystal clear and cold. The boat ride was fun but a bit pricey. Overall worth it for the scenery, just wish it was less touristy.

Absolutely breathtaking! The turquoise water against the snowy peaks is like a painting. We took the cable car up and the view just kept getting better. The walk around the lake was serene, with wildflowers everywhere. Definitely a must-see in Xinjiang — 10/10 would come again.

I’ve traveled to over 30 countries and Heavenly Lake is easily in my top 5 natural wonders. The contrast between the deep blue sky, snowy peaks, and emerald lake is surreal. I hiked the trail to the west side for a quieter view—no crowds, just birds and the sound of water. The staff at the ticket office spoke English and were helpful. If you're into photography, stay until sunset. The golden hour light on the mountains is pure magic. Unforgettable.

We visited as a family with two teenagers and everyone loved it. The kids were amazed by the clear lake and the yurts on the shore. We rented a small electric boat and it was so peaceful gliding on the water with the mountains all around. The area is very clean and well-organized. Plenty of photo spots. My only tip: bring snacks because the restaurant queues are long. Definitely a 5-star experience for nature lovers.

Absolutely breathtaking! The turquoise water against the white peaks is something you have to see in person. Took the cable car up and the 360-degree view from the top was worth every penny. We spent a good 3 hours just walking along the boardwalk and sitting by the shore. The air is so fresh and crisp. Bring a jacket even in summer—the wind can be chilly. One of the most beautiful places I've ever visited in China!

Nice spot but not mind-blowing. The water is beautiful and the mountains are majestic, but the weather can change in a heartbeat. We got there around noon and it was cloudy, so the view wasn't as postcard-perfect. The hiking trail around the lake is well-maintained and easy to walk. Staff were friendly but the food options are limited and expensive. A decent day trip, but don't expect a hidden gem.

The lake itself is stunning, crystal clear and surrounded by snow-capped peaks. But honestly, the whole experience felt over-commercialized. Way too many souvenir stalls and selfie sticks at every viewpoint. For the entrance fee plus the shuttle bus, I expected a bit more peace and quiet. The boat ride was nice but overpriced for just 20 minutes. If you go, try to come early morning before the crowds flood in.

Absolutely fell in love with this place! Did the full loop around the lake - about 3 hours of easy walking with incredible views at every turn. The wildflowers in late June were a bonus. Saw a few marmots too! The water is so clear you can see the rocks at the bottom. One of those rare spots where the photos don't do it justice. 10/10 would recommend to anyone visiting Xinjiang.

A solid day trip from Urumqi. The drive up the mountain was scenic, but the entrance fee combined with the shuttle bus and optional boat ride adds up quickly. The lake is gorgeous, especially when the clouds clear. I wish there were more clear informational signs in English. Overall a pleasant experience, just not mind-blowing given the cost.

Beautiful place but honestly a bit overcrowded for my taste. We went in July and it was packed with tour groups. The lake itself is stunning, no doubt, but the facilities around it feel a little outdated. Also, the food stalls near the entrance were overpriced and mediocre. Still worth seeing once, but manage your expectations if you're looking for solitude.

Came here on a sunny afternoon and the lake looked like a mirror reflecting the mountains. The air is so fresh and crisp, it feels like you're in a different world. Boat ride was worth it too, though a bit pricey. The whole vibe is peaceful and majestic. Would definitely come back in autumn for the foliage!

Spent a whole day here and it was absolutely breathtaking. The turquoise water against the snow-capped peaks is something you have to see to believe. We took the cable car up and the views from the top were unreal. Plenty of photo spots and the walking path around the lake is well maintained. One of the best natural wonders I've ever visited in China. Highly recommended!