A high altitude respite from Urumuqi's heat in the summer, Tiān Chí (天池), or Heavenly Lake, is a lovely alpine lake 2,000 meters (1.3 miles) up in the Tian Shan mountain range. The pine-clad surrounding hills with locals grazing their herds and snow-enameled mountains are picturesque to be sure.

The summer months bring crowds to Tian Chi, who pay a day-visit to the lake or spend the night in Kazahk-run yurts, which run about RMB 40 a person. Though while the area is a high-profile tourist spot, it remains largely undeveloped. Some of the accommodations are more authentic than others, but the whole experience can be rewarding. Make sure to bring warm clothes as the area gets rather chilly at night. Camping is okay, too, as is hiking up to the snowline. While hiking, beware of loose stones.

Horses are also available to rent to explore the area and boat tours make the rounds on the lake.

Rising above the lake is the snow-capped northern slope of Bogda Peak (博格达峰 Bógédá Fēng), which is revered by locals as a holy place. The name means "god" in Mongolian.

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