The brightest pearl of the Pamir Plateau - Basha Lake

Basha Lake Guide: A hidden corner on the Pamir Plateau 🌟 Highlights: Basha Lake is a pure land hidden in the Pamir Plateau, a peerless beauty in Xinjiang's Pamir Plateau. Both the bustling south bank and the tranquil north bank are worth exploring. There are two Basha Lakes in Xinjiang, one in the Altay region of northern Xinjiang and the other on the Pamir Plateau of southern Xinjiang. Today, let's talk about the Basha Lake located in the southern Xinjiang. 📍 Location: Basha Lake, a poetic name, is located on the Pamir Plateau in southern Xinjiang, Akto County, Kizilsu Kirghiz Autonomous Prefecture, adjacent to National Highway 314. Whether you are departing from Kashgar or heading to Taxkorgan, Basha Lake will unexpectedly meet you on your journey. 🌟 Basha Lake is divided into the south and north banks, each with its own charm. 🔹 South Bank: The first choice for tourists, where there are two viewing platforms and parking areas. Although tour group visitors like to gather at the first viewing platform, I recommend you to go to the second one. There are fewer people, more beautiful scenery, and a broad view, making it an excellent spot for photographing the beauty of Basha Lake. Those classic photos on the internet with blue lake water in front and a viewing platform sign above are taken on the south bank. There are also convenient facilities, such as toilets and small shops. You can also stroll along the plank road to the lakeside, enjoying the tranquility and beauty. However, it is said that the south bank charges a 40 yuan admission fee, but I did not encounter any toll points, perhaps because I went too deep. The only fee required is for taking pictures with yaks, 20 yuan each time, which is very interesting. 🔹 North Bank: More natural and primitive, no admission fee, no dedicated viewing platforms or parking areas. You can find a place to park on the roadside, and if you have an off-road vehicle, you can even drive up to the nearby hill for a panoramic view of Basha Lake. Set the navigation to 'Mujixiang' from the start, and soon after passing the checkpoint, Basha Lake will come into view. There are two viewing spots on the north bank. To the right of the first viewing spot towards Mujixiang direction is a parking lot with a small hill, where off-road vehicles can drive up. On the left is the cliff facing Basha Lake. The second viewing spot is more hidden, with a smaller entrance on the left side of the road, marked by some piled stones, but it also offers a broad view and excellent photo opportunities. 📌 Travel Tips: 1. Whether on the way there or back, Basha Lake is a must-pass. The plateau weather is changeable, so choose the best time for photography. If visibility is poor, continue your journey and take pictures later. 2. Road signs are popular photography spots, pay attention to safety and obey traffic rules. 3. Carry mosquito repellent, avoid wearing short sleeves and shorts to prevent mosquito bites. 4. The wind is strong and the UV radiation is intense, wear sunglasses and apply sunscreen. 5. The north bank is suitable for outdoor picnics, enjoy leisure time, remember to take your trash with you, and protect the environment.