Meta Description: Visit Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) near Urumqi – Xinjiang’s most accessible alpine lake. Complete guide with transportation, tickets, best time to visit, and travel tips.
Heavenly Lake, Tianchi, Xinjiang attractions, day trip from Urumqi
—
Heavenly Lake (Tianchi): Complete Travel Guide 2024
Just 110 kilometers from Urumqi, Heavenly Lake (天池, Tiānchí) is Xinjiang’s most accessible and popular natural attraction. This stunning alpine lake, nestled at 1,907 meters above sea level in the Tianshan Mountains, has captivated visitors for centuries with its crystal-clear waters reflecting the majestic Bogda Peak.
Known as the “Yaochi” (Jade Pool) in Chinese mythology, Heavenly Lake is where the legendary Queen Mother of the West was said to have entertained King Mu of Zhou. Today, it remains one of Xinjiang’s must-visit destinations, especially convenient for travelers with limited time.
Where is Heavenly Lake?
Heavenly Lake is located in Fukang City, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, about 110 km from Urumqi (1.5-2 hours by car).
Exact Location: Tianshan Tianchi National Geopark, Fukang, Xinjiang
How to Get to Heavenly Lake from Urumqi
Option 1: Day Tour (Easiest for Most Travelers)
Many travel agencies in Urumqi offer day tours to Heavenly Lake:
- Price: ¥280-400/person (including transportation, entrance fee, and lunch)
- Duration: Full day (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM)
- Pros: Hassle-free, English-speaking guides available
- Cons: Less flexible with time
Option 2: Public Bus (Budget-Friendly)
- Take bus from Urumqi Beijiao Passenger Station to Fukang (¥25, 1.5 hours)
- Transfer to minibus from Fukang to Heavenly Lake (¥20, 1 hour)
Total cost: ¥45 one way
Total time: 3-4 hours
Option 3: Chartered Car (Most Flexible)
- Price: ¥500-800 for a round trip (4-7 seater)
- Duration: 1.5 hours each way
- Pros: Flexible schedule, can stop for photos
- Recommended: For groups of 3-4 people
Option 4: Self-Drive
- Distance: 110 km from Urumqi
- Driving time: 1.5-2 hours
- Route: Urumqi → G216 → Fukang → Heavenly Lake
- Parking: Available at the scenic area (¥10-20)
Best Time to Visit Heavenly Lake
Peak Season (May to October)
May-June: Spring flowers bloom, lake thawed, fewer tourists
July-August: Warm weather (15-25°C), peak tourist season
September-October: Autumn colors, clear skies, ideal photography weather
Winter (November to April)
- Lake partially or fully frozen
- Snow-covered landscapes
- Fewer tourists
- Very cold (can reach -20°C)
Our Recommendation: June-September for the best weather and scenery.
Entrance Fees and Tickets (2024 Prices)
Peak Season (April 1 – October 31)
- Entrance Fee: ¥95/person
- Shuttle Bus (mandatory): ¥60/person (round trip)
- Total: ¥155/person
Off Season (November 1 – March 31)
- Entrance Fee: ¥45/person
- Shuttle Bus: ¥60/person (round trip)
- Total: ¥105/person
Additional Activities
- Cable Car to Maya Mountain: ¥220/person (round trip)
- Boat Ride on the Lake: ¥80-120/person
- Horse Riding: ¥50-100 (depending on distance)
Where to Buy Tickets:
- Official website
- On-site ticket office
- Through tour agencies
Tip: Buy tickets online to skip the queue during peak season.
Top Things to Do at Heavenly Lake
1. Enjoy the Lake View
The main viewing platform offers spectacular views of the lake with Bogda Peak (5,445m) in the background.
- Best photography time: Early morning (7:00-9:00 AM) and late afternoon (6:00-8:00 PM)
- Photography tip: Bring a polarizing filter to reduce glare from the water
2. Take a Boat Ride
A boat ride offers a different perspective of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Duration: 20-40 minutes
- Price: ¥80-120/person
- Operating hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
3. Hike Around the Lake
Several hiking trails offer beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forests.
- Easy trail: Lakeside path (2-3 km, 1 hour)
- Moderate trail: To the waterfall (5 km, 2-3 hours)
- Difficult trail: To Maya Mountain (8 km, 4-5 hours)
4. Visit the Tianchi Waterfall
A beautiful waterfall located about 5 km from the lake. The hike there passes through dense spruce forests.
5. Take the Cable Car to Maya Mountain
For panoramic views of Heavenly Lake and the Tianshan Mountains.
- Cable car duration: 20 minutes (one way)
- Price: ¥220/person (round trip)
- View: Spectacular aerial view of the lake
6. Explore the temples and historical sites
Several temples and historical sites around the lake showcase the area’s cultural and religious significance.
Where to Stay Near Heavenly Lake
Option 1: Day Trip from Urumqi (Recommended)
Most travelers visit Heavenly Lake as a day trip from Urumqi. This is the most convenient option.
Option 2: Stay at the Scenic Area
- Tianchi Hotel: ¥400-800/night (basic but convenient)
- Guesthouses: ¥150-300/night
- Advantage: Enjoy sunrise and sunset at the lake
- Disadvantage: Limited dining options, higher prices
Option 3: Stay in Fukang City
- More accommodation options
- Price range: ¥100-500/night
- Distance to Heavenly Lake: 1 hour by car
What to Eat
Dining options at Heavenly Lake are limited and expensive. Consider bringing your own food.
Options at the Scenic Area
- Canteen near the lake: Basic Chinese dishes, ¥30-50 per dish
- Restaurants in the hotel: Better quality but more expensive, ¥50-100 per dish
- Snack stalls: Instant noodles, grilled sausages, etc.
What to Bring
- Sandwiches, bread, or other easy-to-carry food
- Plenty of water
- Snacks like nuts, energy bars
Essential Packing List
Clothing
- Layered clothing: T-shirt, fleece, jacket
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Hat and sunglasses
- Rain jacket: Weather can change quickly
Other Essentials
- Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
- Water bottle
- Camera
- Cash (ATMs not available at the scenic area)
- Altitude sickness medication (if sensitive)
Important Travel Tips
1. Altitude
Heavenly Lake is at 1,907 meters. Most people don’t experience altitude sickness, but take it easy if you’re sensitive.
2. Weather
Mountain weather changes rapidly. Even in summer, bring warm layers as temperatures can drop significantly.
3. Crowds
Heavenly Lake is very popular, especially on weekends and Chinese holidays. Visit on weekdays if possible, and arrive early (before 9:00 AM).
4. Scenic Area Regulations
- Private cars are NOT allowed inside the scenic area. You must take the shuttle bus.
- Swimming in the lake is prohibited.
- Drones may be restricted (check current regulations).
5. Best Time of Day to Visit
Arrive early (8:00-9:00 AM) to avoid crowds and enjoy the lake in peaceful morning light.
Sample 1-Day Itinerary (Day Trip from Urumqi)
8:00 AM
Depart from Urumqi
9:30 AM
Arrive at Heavenly Lake scenic area, take shuttle bus to the lake
10:00 AM
Enjoy the lake view, take photos
11:00 AM
Take a boat ride on the lake
12:00 PM
Lunch at the canteen or hotel restaurant
1:30 PM
Hike to the waterfall OR take the cable car to Maya Mountain
4:00 PM
Relax by the lake, enjoy the scenery
5:00 PM
Take shuttle bus back to the entrance
6:30 PM
Arrive back in Urumqi
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Heavenly Lake worth visiting?
Yes! Heavenly Lake is one of Xinjiang’s most beautiful and accessible natural attractions. The combination of alpine lake, spruce forests, and snow-capped mountains is stunning.
How much time do I need at Heavenly Lake?
A day trip (6-8 hours) is sufficient to see the main sights. If you want to hike extensively or enjoy sunrise/sunset, consider staying overnight.
Can I visit Heavenly Lake independently?
Absolutely. The scenic area is well-developed with clear signage and public transportation options from Urumqi.
Is it cold at Heavenly Lake?
It depends on the season. Summer (June-August) is pleasant (15-25°C), but evenings can be cool. Spring and autumn require warm clothing. Winter is very cold.
Can I swim in Heavenly Lake?
No, swimming is not allowed to protect the lake’s ecosystem.
Are there any hotels at Heavenly Lake?
Yes, but options are limited and prices are higher than in Urumqi. Most travelers visit as a day trip.
Conclusion
Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) offers a perfect introduction to Xinjiang’s natural beauty without requiring extensive travel or hiking. Its convenient location near Urumqi makes it an ideal destination for travelers with limited time, while its stunning scenery ensures a memorable experience.
Whether you’re enjoying the lake’s reflections of Bogda Peak, hiking through spruce forests, or simply soaking in the mountain atmosphere, Heavenly Lake will leave you with lasting memories of Xinjiang’s breathtaking landscapes.
Plan your visit between June and September for the best weather, arrive early to avoid crowds, and don’t forget your camera – you’ll want to capture this slice of paradise.
—
Related Articles:
- [Kanas Lake: Complete Travel Guide](#)
- [Urumqi Travel Guide: 2-Day Itinerary](#)
- [Best Time to Visit Xinjiang](#)
- [Xinjiang Packing List: Essential Items](#)
—
*Last updated: June 2024*
