Balikun Lake Travel Guide: Hami, Xinjiang Pulei Hai Scenery & Legends

Balikun Lake, also known as Barkol Lake or by its ancient name Pulei Hai, sits in the Balikun Basin of Hami, Xinjiang, at an elevation of 1,580 meters. This saline lake covers roughly 112 square kilometers and is framed by the East Tianshan Mountains to the south and the rolling Balikun Grassland to the north. Historically a resting point on the Silk Road and shrouded in local folklore, the lake offers a blend of geological intrigue and pastoral Kazakh culture.

Its shallow, reflective waters often produce a striking mirror effect of snow peaks, while a white salt ring along the shore creates a stark contrast against the green plains. During summer and autumn, the area becomes a destination for photography, road trips, and camping, though visitor infrastructure remains minimal.

Overview and Landscape

Balikun Lake lies about 18 kilometers northwest of the county seat of Balikun Kazakh Autonomous County, which itself is part of Hami City. The lake's altitude of 1,580 meters places it in a high basin but not at plateau altitude, so altitude sickness is rare for most visitors. The lake is classified as a saline lake, with Glauber's salt deposits that often form a white rim—this "white salt shoreline" is one of the lake's most photographed features.

The surrounding Balikun Grassland is one of Xinjiang's largest, dotted with Kazakh yurts and herds of horses, sheep, and cattle. The landscape shifts with the seasons: summer brings lush grasses and wildflowers, while autumn paints the plains in gold and brown before snow caps the Tianshan peaks.

The "Lake within a Lake" Mirage

One of the most unusual natural phenomena associated with Balikun Lake is the apparent mirage of a second lake or floating peaks above the water's surface. Known locally as the "lake within a lake," this optical illusion occurs under specific atmospheric conditions—typically on calm, sunny days with stable air layers. The phenomenon is not guaranteed; it depends on temperature gradients and water vapor.

Scientific sources attribute it to inferior mirage or Fata Morgana effects, but no formal study has documented its exact frequency. For travelers hoping to witness it, the best chance comes during summer mornings or late afternoons when the air is still.

Salt and Geology

The lake's salinity comes from ancient marine deposits and ongoing evaporation in the arid basin. The white salt crust is not solid enough to walk on safely—the lake is shallow but muddy. Visitors should keep to the designated paths or stay on the grassy shore.

The salt rings vary in width depending on seasonal water levels. During rainy summers, the ring narrows; in dry years, it expands. This natural cycle affects both the visual appearance and accessibility of the shoreline.

Practical Information for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: Summer (June–August) and autumn (September–October) offer the most pleasant weather for viewing and photography. Spring is windy and dusty; winter is cold, with temperatures below -15°C and possible road closures.

Tickets: The lake is currently listed as free and open to the public. No ticket booth or official gate has been confirmed by multiple independent sources. However, during peak season, local herders may charge a small fee for parking or access to specific grassland areas—these fees are not standardized. Always carry small cash for such possibilities.

Getting There: From Hami city (approximately 130 kilometers southeast), you can take a public bus to Balikun County town, then hire a local taxi or join a tour for the remaining 18 kilometers northwest to the lake. Road conditions are generally good asphalt until the last few kilometers of unpaved track leading to the lakeshore. A 4WD is not necessary unless visiting after heavy rain.

Altitude and Safety: At 1,580 meters, altitude effects are minimal. No special acclimatization is needed. However, the sun is intense due to the high elevation and lack of cloud cover—bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. The area is remote; the nearest hospital with Western medicine is in Balikun County town, about 20 minutes away. Carry a basic first-aid kit and sufficient drinking water.

Camping: Camping on the lakeshore is common among self-guided travelers and tour groups, but designated campsites with facilities are absent. Open fires may be restricted during dry months—check with local authorities. Campers should pack out all trash. The grassland is also used by herders; respect their livestock and yurts.

What to See and Do

Photography: The main draw is the reflection of the East Tianshan in the calm lake water. Early mornings (sunrise around 6:30–7:30 AM in summer) offer the most mirror-like conditions. The white salt rim provides a foreground element. Later in the day, strong winds often create ripples, ruining reflections.

Horse Riding: Kazakh herders offer short horse rides along the lakeshore and into the grasslands. Prices are negotiable; expect 50–100 CNY per 30 minutes. Horse riding experience is recommended but not essential.

Kazakh Yurt Visits: Many yurts around the lake welcome visitors for tea, kumis (fermented mare's milk), or simple meals. These are informal interactions—guiding your own visit is fine if you are comfortable with cross-cultural exchanges. Offering a small gift or paying for food is appreciated.

Silk Road History: The lake was a landmark on the northern Silk Road. The nearby ancient city of Balikun (now largely ruins) was a garrison and trading post. You can combine a visit to the lake with the Balikun Ancient City site, about 15 minutes by car south of the lake.

Cultural Significance and Legends

Balikun Lake carries deep cultural weight in Xinjiang. Its historical name, Pulei Hai, appears in Han dynasty records. Local legends blend Han Chinese and Kazakh motifs.

One tale says the lake was formed from the tears of a Han princess who was married to a local steppe ruler; her nostalgia created the lake, and her husband became the mountain range. Another story tells of a Darkhan hero whose tragic love story ended with the man transforming into the lake and his lover into a nearby mountain. These narratives are still recited by Kazakh elders and add a layer of emotion to the landscape.

The lake also plays a role in the Kazakh annual festival Nauryz, when herders gather on the grassland for horse games, songs, and feasts. If you visit in March, you may catch these celebrations, though the weather is still cold.

Photography Tips

• Best light: Sunrise and sunset. The golden hour enhances the white salt and green grass.
• Lens choice: Wide-angle (16–35mm) for landscapes; telephoto (70–200mm) for compressing the mountains and reflections.
• Filter: A polarizing filter will reduce glare from the salt and water, boosting color saturation.
• Drone rules: Unmanned aerial vehicles may be restricted near the lake or over inhabited yurts. Xinjiang has strict drone regulations; apply for permits in advance or check with local police.
• Conditions: Strong winds can ruin reflections and blow dust onto camera sensors. Protect with a weather-sealed camera or use a rain cover.

Who Should Go and Who Should Skip

Go if: You enjoy wide-open landscapes, nomadic culture, and natural phenomena like salt flats and mirages. Photography enthusiasts will find ample material. Road trip travelers with a flexible schedule will appreciate the calm atmosphere.

Skip if: You want developed tourist infrastructure with restaurants, hotels, and clear signage. The lake is remote and requires self-sufficiency. If you prefer structured tours with fixed itineraries, consider a guided package from Hami. Also, if you are allergic to dust or hay fever, summer winds can stir up pollen and dust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Balikun Lake worth visiting from Hami?
Yes, if you have a full day and enjoy natural landscapes. It is about a 2.5-hour drive from Hami city. Many visitors combine it with the Balikun Grassland and Ancient City for a day trip.

Can I swim in Balikun Lake?
No. The lake is saline and shallow with muddy bottom; swimming is not pleasant or recommended. The water is not clean for recreation.

Is there any entrance fee?
No official fee has been reported. Local herders may ask for a small parking or access fee during peak season.

What is the altitude? Will I feel sick?
Altitude is approximately 1,580 meters. Most people from sea level do not experience acute mountain sickness at this elevation.

When is the best time for the mirage?
Summer mornings or evenings with still air are the most likely times, but the phenomenon is not predictable or guaranteed.

Conclusion

Balikun Lake remains a relatively underdeveloped attraction in Xinjiang, offering an authentic slice of the region's natural and cultural heritage. Its combination of salt shores, mountain reflections, and Kazakh pastoral life makes it a rewarding stop for travelers who value experience over convenience. Plan your visit with flexibility, carry supplies, and respect the local environment and customs.