Tianchi, also known as Heavenly Lake, is a stunning alpine lake in Xinjiang, Northwest China. Nestled on the north side of the Bogda Shan range of the Tian Shan mountains, the lake is approximately 30 kilometers south of Fukang and 45 kilometers east of Ürümqi. Tianchi translates to “Heavenly Lake” and is shared with several other mainland China and Taiwan lakes. This Tianchi was formerly known as Yaochi or “Jade Lake” and was renamed in 1783 by Mingliang, the Qing Commander of Urumqi Command.
Tianchi is 4.9 square kilometers, with a maximum depth of 105 meters, and is located 1,907 meters above sea level. The lake was formed during the Quaternary Glacier period, making it a drift lake of significant geological interest.
2006, a major restoration project was initiated to preserve and enhance the lake and its surrounding tourism area. The project, which cost 800 million yuan (approximately US$100 million), aimed to expand the tourism zone from 158 square kilometers to 548 square kilometers. Tianchi is recognized as a top-tier scenic area by the China National Tourism Administration, attracting numerous visitors yearly.
The lake is accessible via Provincial Highway 111 from Fukang, making it easy for tourists to access. Due to its high elevation of 1,943 meters, the climate at Tianchi is characterized by cooler temperatures and varying weather conditions, contributing to the lake’s unique and serene environment.