Heavenly Lake is a natural paradise with the reputation of“the Pearl of the Heavenly Mountain”. It is one of the few unspoiled places in China. Nestling high in the Heavenly Mountains, 115 kilometers west of Urumqi, the superlatively beautiful lake lies 1980 meters above sea level and is hemmed in by the towering snow-capped Bagda Peak.

　　The lake has a shape of half-moon. The crystal water reflecting the snow-topped peaks, fluffy white clouds and blue sky create a breath-taking view. The banks of the lake are covered with lush spruce forest.

　　A local legend says that the Heavenly Empress would hold a gala at this lake whenever a local peach tree bore fruit. As this only happened about once every 3000 years, the banquets were understandably grand affairs. All the mortals would gather for such a long-awaited occasion, making the lake area into something of a Little Heaven, so hence the name, Heavenly Lake.