The Baisha Lake Scenic Area is located in Habahe County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It is a national 5A-level tourist scenic area. The area of the scenic area is about 60 square kilometers. Baisha Lake is a small desert lake surrounded by sand dunes. The lake water is clear, and there is rich vegetation around. It has a unique desert lake landscape. There are also natural landscapes such as birch forests in the scenic area, as well as some buildings with ethnic characteristics. The lake water of Baisha Lake mainly comes from the melted snow of the surrounding high mountains. The lake water presents a unique blue-green color, forming a sharp contrast with the surrounding desert and forest, and has a high ornamental value.
History and Culture
The area where the Baisha Lake Scenic Area is located has a long history. In ancient times, it was one of the important passages of the Silk Road, and many caravans and travelers passed through here. The surrounding area is also a settlement of multiple ethnic minorities, and various ethnic groups have left rich cultural heritages and unique folk customs here. For example, the traditional lifestyles and cultural customs of ethnic minorities such as the Kazakhs and Mongolians have added a strong historical and cultural atmosphere to the scenic area. In addition, some ancient buildings and ruins around Baisha Lake have witnessed the changes of history and reflected the local ancient architectural styles and craftsmanship levels. These historical and cultural elements are integrated with the natural landscape, making the Baisha Lake Scenic Area not only a natural sightseeing resort but also a good place to understand the local history and culture.
Main Attractions
Baisha Lake
Baisha Lake is the core attraction of the scenic area. The lake is like a pearl embedded in the desert, surrounded by white sand dunes. The lake water is clear to the bottom, and there are various fish in the lake. There are various plants around the lake, including reeds, calamus, etc., forming a unique wetland landscape. In different seasons, Baisha Lake presents different scenery. In spring, flowers are in full bloom; in summer, there are dense green trees; in autumn, the forests are dyed with different colors; in winter, it is wrapped in silver.
Birch Forest
The birch forest in the Baisha Lake Scenic Area is a major characteristic attraction. The large area of birch forest is lush and green, and the tree trunks are straight and white, looking particularly beautiful under the sunlight. The air in the birch forest is fresh, making it a good place for leisure walks. Tourists can stroll in the forest, admire the graceful posture of the birch trees, and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature. In addition, the birch forest is also the habitat of many birds and small animals, and tourists with good luck can see various wild animals.
Mingshashan (Singing Sand Mountain)
The Mingshashan around Baisha Lake is also one of the important attractions of the scenic area. The sand dunes rise and fall, and the sand makes a unique sound when blown by the wind, hence the name Mingshashan. Tourists can slide on the sand dunes to experience the fun of sand sliding, and they can also climb up the sand dunes to overlook the Baisha Lake and the surrounding scenery, feeling the grandeur and mystery of the desert.
Delicacies
Hand-Pulled Mutton
Hand-pulled mutton is a local characteristic delicacy. High-quality local mutton is selected and simply stewed to retain the original flavor of the mutton. When eating, you can grab it directly with your hands and match it with some seasonings. The mutton is tender, juicy, and has a rich taste.
Roasted Mutton Skewers
Roasted mutton skewers are a classic delicacy in Xinjiang, and they can also be tasted in the Baisha Lake Scenic Area. Fresh mutton is cut into small pieces, strung on an iron skewer, roasted over charcoal fire, and sprinkled with seasonings such as cumin and chili. After roasting, the outer skin is golden and crispy, and the inside is tender and juicy, with a strong aroma.
Kazakh Steamed Noodles
Kazakh steamed noodles are a traditional delicacy of the Kazakh ethnic group. The noodles are chewy and are steamed together with ingredients such as mutton, carrots, and onions. The noodles absorb the flavor of the mutton and vegetables, and they taste delicious and are rich in nutrition.
Ticket Prices
The ticket price for the Baisha Lake Scenic Area is 45 yuan per person, and the price for the shuttle bus within the scenic area is 30 yuan per person.
You can search for the official WeChat public account of the scenic area, "白沙湖景区", to obtain the latest information.
Opening Hours
The Baisha Lake Scenic Area is open throughout the year, and the opening hours are generally from 08:00 to 20:00. However, the opening hours may be adjusted in case of special weather or holidays. It is recommended that tourists check the official information of the scenic area in advance.
You can obtain the latest information on the official WeChat public account of the scenic area.
Itinerary for Visiting
One-day tour: Tourists can first go to Baisha Lake to admire the lake and the surrounding desert landscape, and then go to the birch forest to feel the tranquility of the forest. In the afternoon, they can go to Mingshashan to experience the fun of sand sliding. Finally, taste the local characteristic delicacies to end the pleasant journey.
Two-day tour: On the first day, after arriving at the scenic area, first visit Baisha Lake, admire the lake and mountain scenery, and taste the local delicacies. At night, you can rest in a homestay near the scenic area. On the second day, go to the birch forest and Mingshashan to deeply experience the natural landscapes of the scenic area.
Transportation
- By air: Tourists can first arrive at Altay Airport, then take the transportation to Habahe County, and then go to the Baisha Lake Scenic Area from Habahe County.
- By road: Starting from Urumqi, you can go to Habahe County, Altay Prefecture along the expressway, and then go to the Baisha Lake Scenic Area. The road conditions are good, but the journey is relatively long. It is recommended to plan the route in advance.
- Transportation within the scenic area: After entering the scenic area, you can take the shuttle bus to each attraction, which is convenient and fast.
Must-visit Attractions
- Baisha Lake: The core attraction of the scenic area, with clear lake water and unique surrounding landscapes, is a great place to enjoy the desert lake scenery.
- Birch Forest: The large birch forest has beautiful scenery, fresh air, and is suitable for leisure walks and wildlife viewing.
- Mingshashan: The sand dunes are continuous, and the sand makes sounds. Tourists can experience the fun of sand sliding and overlook the magnificent surrounding scenery.
Suggestions for Visiting
- When visiting the scenic area in summer, take sun protection measures and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, sun hats, etc.
- Some attractions in the scenic area require walking, so it is recommended to wear comfortable shoes.
- If you want to experience activities such as sand sliding, follow the guidance of the staff to ensure safety.
- Respect the local ethnic customs and do not damage the natural landscapes and facilities in the scenic area at will.
Precautions
- Littering is prohibited in the scenic area, and the environment should be kept clean.
- In forest areas such as the birch forest, pay attention to fire prevention and do not bring fire sources in.
- The sand dunes around Baisha Lake are relatively steep. When playing, pay attention to safety to avoid falling or sliding down.
- The local climate is changeable. It is recommended to understand the weather conditions in advance and prepare appropriate clothing.