Xiaohai Zi Lake

Xiaohai Zi Lake

Xiaohai Zi sits at an altitude of about 2,000 meters, stretching approximately 400 meters from north to south and 200 meters from east to west, making it relatively small in surface area. Close to the shore, a sparse growth of reeds can be found.

The lake is surrounded by mountains on all sides. The southern slope features dense pine forests, lush green grass, and deep valleys, serving as a natural pasture for herders and also a natural habitat and hiding place for ibex and Mongolian gazelles. The other three sides are vast, rolling wilderness dotted sporadically with greenery such as sea buckthorn. The western mountain is the steepest, rising almost vertically, with its ridgeline carved into deep and shallow gullies and grooves, resembling the five outstretched fingers of the Buddha, uneven yet beautifully arranged.

Many wild pigeons nest here. When hundreds or even thousands of them swoosh overhead, cooing loudly, it feels like an aerial squadron on drill, enticing me to venture deeper and farther into the mountains. The eastern side is also desolate, but atop the highest peak stands an ovoo, with colorful prayer flags fluttering in the wind.

Xiaohai Zi in Jinghe County is located about 34 kilometers southeast of Jinghe County town, at an altitude of around 2,000 meters. It measures roughly 400 meters from north to south and 200 meters from east to west, and is a saline lake formed by a mix of snowmelt and groundwater. Together with the nearby Dahai Zi and Bayin Namu Scenic Area, it forms a scenic chain.