TIANSHAN TIANCHI NATIONAL PARK

Classified since 2013 as UNESCO's World Heritage Site, this great national park is undoubtedly the only reason to go to Urumqi in summer and winter. And for cause, a visit to her will make you discover the Celestial Lake (or Lake of Paradise - Tian Chi). Located within the Tianshan National Park, about 2,000 meters above sea level, the beautiful lake du Paradis is within walking distance or cable car. We're mainly going there to take a tour of the lake, which is the occasion for a restful "fresh" joyride whatever the time in Urumqi.

Please be aware that it takes 7 hours to complete the entire lake. However, many tourist infrastructure - including a shopping mall - that has been set up on the north west shore of the lake, will avoid this part - hyper-mercantile - as much as possible and head towards the path along the south shore and is better preserved. So we'll prefer these trails already traced to avoid getting lost (unless you've decided to spend the night, which is possible in summer, in one of the many tents planned for this effect…).

Also, note that this excursion is easy to achieve but that you have to take two hours from the capital. So, to get there, it takes at least one day, especially since the surrounding countryside is splendid. Normally you will go through the tours organized by the CITS or by an agency recommended by your accommodation (all offer the same kind of service, only the price changes). In any case, take your path, on the way, when you will be offered multiple visits to "traditional minority habitats" (Kazakh and Mongols)…

Once these visits have been made, expect a very nice show (hoping that the view will be released…). Unmissable! However, regardless of temperature at Urumqi, you can expect warm clothing and waterproof clothing as the weather changes very quickly in altitude and because it is often fresh on top (a bonnet is often not luxury!).