Lake Sayram, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Silk Road,” is the largest alpine lake in Xinjiang. It is located approximately 90 kilometers (56 miles) southwest of Ürümqi in the Potala Prefecture. In Mongolian, “Sayram” means “lake on the ridge.” In Kazakh, “Sayram” means “blessing.”
The lake is approximately 20 kilometers (12 miles) long from east to west and about 30 kilometers wide from north to south. It covers an area of approximately 454 square kilometers (about 175 square miles) and lies at an elevation of 2,073 meters (6,800 feet).
Lake Selam is a veritable paradise, boasting breathtaking natural scenery. It lies like a dazzling emerald set in a basin embraced by the Tianshan Mountains, The water is crystal-clear, with flocks of ducks and swans gliding leisurely across the surface. Lush cypress and cedar trees cover the entire mountain range, while thatched cottages dot the foothills, and horses and flocks of sheep graze contentedly on the slopes, bleating softly. What a vivid and magnificent sight!
Lake Selam is also home to a touching love story. Legend has it that the lake was formed by the tears of a young Kazakh couple. A beautiful girl and a handsome young man were deeply in love. One day, a cruel demon, captivated by the girl’s beauty, abducted her and imprisoned her in his lair. The girl attempted to escape, but the demon soon discovered her trail and gave chase. Forced to flee, she leaped into the abyss. Later, when her boyfriend learned of this, he was overcome with grief and threw himself into the abyss to be reunited with his beloved. Their tears of sorrow flowed into the abyss, forming Lake Selam.
The scenery varies with the seasons. In winter, biting winds whip up towering waves that crash against the shore, and thick fog often shrouds the snow-capped peaks. In spring, the hillsides are lush with greenery, dotted with colorful flowers. Summer and autumn are the best seasons to visit Lake Sayram, when the lake’s surface is as calm as a mirror. Every year from late July to early August, the Mongolian people hold the grand “Naadam Festival,” in which the Kazakh people also participate. The festival features horse racing, wrestling, folk songs, and dance performances.