Bandier Blue Lake (Bandier Water Reservoir)

Kashgar, Xinjiang

Bandier Blue Lake: The Pristine Sapphire Hidden Deep in the Pamir Plateau

Altitude

1,289m

ℹ️

About This Attraction

1.Bandier Blue: Lake, also known as the Bandier Water Reservoir, is a stunning high-altitude lake located in Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County (Taxian) within the Kashgar Prefecture of Xinjiang. Situated at an elevation of approximately 3,050 meters, this lake is a masterpiece of modern engineering and natural beauty, formed by a water conservancy project on the Taxkorgan River. Unlike natural alpine lakes, its color is characterized by a unique, almost metallic blue that shifts between emerald, sapphire, and deep ink blue depending on the mineral content, depth, and the angle of sunlight.

The lake is famously nestled among the desolate, earthy-yellow and white mountains of the Pamir Plateau, creating a surreal visual contrast where the vibrant blue water appears like a sapphire embedded in a rugged, barren landscape. The water is often exceptionally calm, acting as a perfect mirror that reflects the towering snow peaks and the vast plateau sky. Historically, this area lies along the ancient paths where merchants and explorers once traversed the "Roof of the World," and local Tajik and Kyrgyz people have long regarded the surrounding mountains as divine guardians.

For travelers on a road trip through the Pamirs, the drive along the lake shore provides an ever-changing perspective of this "hidden gem". It offers a sense of profound tranquility and isolation that is increasingly rare in more developed scenic areas. Whether viewed from the designated observation deck or from the winding roads that hug the shoreline, Bandier Blue Lake stands as a testament to the raw, aesthetic power of the highland wilderness.

2.Highlights 核心亮点: Captivating Metallic Blue Water: Experience the unique "Bandier Blue" hues that change with the light, offering a milk-like or metallic texture due to rich local minerals. Highland Mirror Reflections: Marvel at the lake’s still surface, which provides a flawless mirror image of the surrounding Pamir mountain ranges and the piercing blue sky. Stark Geological Contrast: Witness the breathtaking sight of vibrant sapphire waters set against the backdrop of desolate, earthy-toned mountains. Hidden Silk Road Gem: Enjoy the quiet, uncrowded atmosphere of a location that feels like a pristine, untouched secret deep within the ancient Silk Road routes.

✨ Why Visit Bandier Blue Lake (Bandier Water Reservoir)

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Captivating Metallic Blue Water: Experience the unique "Bandier Blue" hues that change with the light, offering a milk-like or metallic texture due to rich local minerals

✦

Highland Mirror Reflections: Marvel at the lake’s still surface, which provides a flawless mirror image of the surrounding Pamir mountain ranges and the piercing blue sky

✦

Stark Geological Contrast: Witness the breathtaking sight of vibrant sapphire waters set against the backdrop of desolate, earthy-toned mountains

✦

Hidden Silk Road Gem: Enjoy the quiet, uncrowded atmosphere of a location that feels like a pristine, untouched secret deep within the ancient Silk Road routes

Location & Nearby

📍 Showing 5 nearby attractions within 50km

📍 Kashgar, Xinjiang • 🏔️ 1289m elevation

Frequently Asked Questions - Bandier Blue Lake (Bandier Water Reservoir) Travel Guide

is situated in Taxkorgan County, along the route between Taxian town and the Panlong Ancient Road. Is it a natural lake?

No, it.

is an artificial reservoir formed by a water conservancy project on the Taxkorgan River. What is the best time to visit?

June to October offers the most vibrant water colors and favorable weather for road travel.

How does the water get its blue color?

The color.

is a result of minerals in the water interacting with the sunlight and the white sediment on the lake floor. Do I need a special permit?

Yes, because it is located in the border county of Taxkorgan, all visitors must obtain a Border Defense Permit. Article Title 文章标题: Bandier Blue Lake: The Pristine Sapphire Hidden Deep in the Pamir Plateau

✨ Why Visit Bandier Blue Lake (Bandier Water Reservoir)

✦ Captivating Metallic Blue Water: Experience the unique "Bandier Blue" hues that change with the light, offering a milk-like or metallic texture due to rich local minerals

✦Highland Mirror Reflections: Marvel at the lake’s still surface, which provides a flawless mirror image of the surrounding Pamir mountain ranges and the piercing blue sky

✦Stark Geological Contrast: Witness the breathtaking sight of vibrant sapphire waters set against the backdrop of desolate, earthy-toned mountains

✦ Hidden Silk Road Gem: Enjoy the quiet, uncrowded atmosphere of a location that feels like a pristine, untouched secret deep within the ancient Silk Road routes