- China Destination Guide

Follow us:

China travel and tour destination Tian Chi

China Destination Guide - Tian Chi 天池

Tian Chi or "Heavenly Lake" is only a couple of hours from downtown Urumqi but a world away in terms of climate and geography. As you drive up to an altitude of 2,000 meters gone are the deserts which are swiftly replaced by Alpine scenery. Han and Uygher dominated Urumqi is replaced by Central Asian Kazak nomads. The lake was listed as an UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1990 and is currently being developed for tourism big time which has affected some of the beauty. Still, it's proximity to Urumqi cannot be beaten and it is an ideal stop for those without much time in the area.

What there is to see at Tian Chi:

The lake itself is the chief attraction and the further you can get from the tourist town at the access end the better. Fortunately there are well marked paths along the lake sure and most day trippers don't venture more than kilometer along them so before the long crowds are gone and you are left with nature, the occassional Kazak yurt and, of course, strategically placed Chinese pavillion.
It is also worth climbing up the steep hills that surround the lake for views and peace and quiet. You will come across Kazak yurt camps but people are friendly and it can be hard to remember you are still in China rather than over the border in Kazakstan.

Best time to visit Tian Chi

April to October are the best months. Winters are cold and snowy and the lake can look stunning in these conditions if you can cope with the climate and the road to it is not blocked by snow.

Best reason to visit Tian Chi

Contrast to Urumqi. Walk as far along the lake so you can to escape mass tourism and enjoy the alpine peace. Spending overnight in a Kazak yurt is a must.

Our last word on Tian Chi

Although slightly spoilt by tourism the closeness to Urumqi makes the lake a good day or overnight trip.