Ayikule (West Moon Lake) Scenic Area

Ayikule (West Moon Lake) Scenic Area

Ayikule (West Moon Lake) Scenic Area

Ayikule (West Moon Lake) Scenic Area, situated in the southwest of Karamay City and only 2 kilometers from the city center, is an artificial scenic tourism area mainly intended for leisure, entertainment, and sightseeing. The reservoir boasts a maximum water surface area of 4.04 square kilometers and a total storage capacity of 38 million cubic meters, with water intake and outlet pipes beneath the dam releasing water at a flow rate of 10 cubic meters per second. The meandering Karamay River flows into the reservoir from its northeastern corner. The dam, standing majestically on the southeastern side of the reservoir, is 29.6 meters high, over 5,000 meters long, 30 meters wide at the base, and 6 meters wide at the top. The reservoir consists of four main structures: the dam, water intake and outlet tunnels, a central lake island, and a dock. The reservoir’s water surface is a wavy polygon shape, with naturally exposed gentle Jurassic hills forming much of the lakeshore. It is surrounded by vast Gobi deserts and undulating hilly terrain. Built artificially, Ayikule not only supplies irrigation water for hundreds of thousands of acres of agricultural land in Karamay and supports aquaculture development, but also serves as an ecological barrier for the city and a hub for leisure and entertainment for residents and tourists. The scenic area features various wind-eroded rock formations and unique Gobi stones shaped over millions of years, which complement the beautiful lake views, creating a breathtaking scene. The area offers a range of water activities including speedboats, jet skis, bumper boats, and a fishing park, as well as recreational options such as a children’s amusement park, a winter ski resort, “Golden Sand Beach,” and a “horse ranch.” With its diverse attractions catering to visitors of all ages and interests, the scenic area is an ideal destination for sightseeing and leisure vacations.