Kanas Lake, Altay
(阿勒泰喀纳斯景区 ā lè tài kā nà sī jǐng qū)
The Mongolian term “Kanas” means “the lake in the valley”. Lying near the Altai Mountains in Xinjiang, Kanas Lake is the deepest freshwater lake, with about 117 different kinds of birds living along it.
Covering an area of 45.73 square kilometers with its deepest point reaching 188.5 meters, Kanas Lake is surrounded by the Altai Mountains forest zones. Kanas district is a national reserve with a total protection area of 5,588 sq km and altitude among 1,300-4,374 meters. Friendship Peak (4,370 meters), the highest peak of Altai Mountains, stands on the joint border of China, Russia and Mongolia.
Not only are there plenty of natural resources and animals in Kanas, the tourism environment and cultural resources here are also rich and unique, perfectly combining the vigorous scenery of North China with the charming mountains and river scenery of South China. In addition, scenic spots such as Glory in Sea Cloud, Color Changing Lake and Floodwood Causeway have become popular attractions in Xinjiang already.
Arriving in Kanas Lake, you will find a paradise to explore. Thick forests stand by the riverbank, emitting the scent of pine. The lakeside is covered with lush grasses and trees, some trestles stretching to the middle of the lake. Mid-level morning fog and beautiful lakeside scenery can be viewed from the bridgehead. Such beautiful scenery has given Kanas a reputation for offering “Oriental Switzerland Scenery”.
Scenic Spot Level: AAAAA
Ideal Sightseeing Season: June and September
Opening Hours: 9:00 – 19:00 on weekdays; 10:00 – 15:00 on weekends
Ticket Price: 160 yuan ($23.24) for 2-day-tour
Address: Burqin county, Altay, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region
Tel: +86-906-6524464
Website: https://www.kns.gov.cn/ (Chinese)
Note:
Please pay attention to environmental protection in the scenic area.