Tianshan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake of Tianshan) is a stunning alpine glacial lake and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Xinjiang, China.
Basic Information
Location: Northern slope of Bogda Peak (5,445 m), Fukang City, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture; ~97 km east of Urumqi.
Elevation: 1,910 m above sea level.
Size: 4.9 km² area; 3.5 km long, 0.8–1.5 km wide; max depth 105 m.
Nickname: Ancient name Yaochi (Jade Pool); linked to the Queen Mother of the West mythology.
Status: National 5A Tourist Attraction, UNESCO World Heritage (2013, part of Tianshan Mountains).
Landscape & Features
Surroundings: Ringed by Tianshan spruce forests and snow-capped Bogda Peak.
Highlights:
Boat rides on the emerald lake.
Cable car to Mayan Mountain for a panoramic view.
Queen Mother Temple & Fushou Temple (Taoist sites).
West Small Tianchi & Feilongtan Waterfall.
Visiting Tips
Best time: June–October (summer cool, autumn golden); winter for ice scenery.
Hours: 8:00–20:00 (Apr–Oct); 9:00–19:00 (Nov–Mar).
Ticket: ~CNY 155 (peak, incl. shuttle); ~CNY 100 (low).
