Badain Jaran Desert

Introducing Badain Jaran Desert
Badain Jaran Desert is located in the Alashan Plateau of northwestern China. Badain Jaran Desert is China’s third largest, after the Taklamakan and Gobi, with a vast area of 49,200 square kilometers. It is a realm where sand and water engage in a breathtaking dance. The desert’s fame rests on its extraordinary mega-dunes, some of which reach staggering heights, earning them the title of the tallest stabilized sand dunes on Earth. These colossal sand mountains cradle a myriad of interdunal lakes, forming a mesmerizing mosaic where the amber hues of sand blend seamlessly with the sapphire glint of water. 

In a resounding acknowledgment of its unparalleled beauty and global significance, the Badain Jaran Desert was bestowed with the prestigious title of a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2024. This accolade, awarded during the 46th session of the World Heritage Committee, solidifies the desert’s place as a natural wonder, a beacon for adventurers and nature enthusiasts from every corner of the globe.

Badain Jaran Desert Fast Facts
• AKA: Pingshan Lake Grand Canyon
• Chinese Name: Bā Dān Jí Lín Shā Mò 巴丹吉林沙漠
• Best Time to Visit: March to May; September to October
• Recommended Visiting Hours: 1 – 2 days
• Things to Do: Photography, Nature, Scenic beauty, Hiking
• Opening Hours: 8:30 – 18:00
• Entrance Fee: CNY65 (Badain Lake).
• Address: Approx. 213 kilometers (132 miles) east of Zhangye, Gansu Province

What UNESCO Says of the Badain Jaran Desert
Located in the Alashan Plateau in the hyper-arid and temperate desert region of northwestern China, the Badain Jaran Desert is a meeting point for three sandy regions of China and is the country’s third largest desert and second largest drifting desert. The property stands out with its high density of mega-dunes, intersected with inter-dunal lakes. It displays spectacular ongoing geological and geomorphic features of desert landscapes and landforms which may well be unparalleled. Noteworthy features, among others, include the world’s tallest, stabilized sand mega-dune (relative relief of 460 m); the highest concentration of inter-dunal lakes; and the largest expanse of so-called singing sands (describing the resonance caused for example by wind moving dry and loose sand) and wind-eroded landforms. The varied landscape also results in a high level of habitat diversity, and hence of biodiversity.

What to Expect at the Badain Jaran Desert
Even seasoned desert wanderers find themselves captivated by the raw, ethereal beauty of the Badain Jaran Desert. A symphony of shimmering lakes, a stark contrast against the towering dunes surrounding them, ancient temple whispers carried on the wind, and the rhythmic sway of camel riders create a spectacle unlike anything found in the Sahara or beyond.

The Badain Lake
The Badain Jaran Desert, often lauded as China’s most stunning desert, is renowned for its unique feature: over 144 inland lakes nestled amongst towering sand dunes. While most of these lakes are hypersaline due to intense evaporation, resulting in colorful salt crusts formed by diverse mineral deposits, they add a splash of color to the landscape. These shallow lakes, typically less than 2 meters (6.56 ft) deep and spanning around 2 square kilometers (0.77 square miles), are predominantly oval-shaped and can be found within the complex mega-dune formations.

Contrasting the hypersaline lakes, Badain Lake serves as a freshwater oasis at the desert’s edge. Comprising thirteen interconnected smaller lakes, it supports a thriving ecosystem of fish and other aquatic life. The surrounding landscape is dominated by majestic sand dunes that stretch endlessly, creating a captivating panorama. The numerous lakes scattered throughout the dunes glitter like jewels against the sand, their intricate shapes adding to the visual spectacle. This breathtaking scenery has earned Badain Lake the local nickname “Gem Lake,” a testament to its splendor and importance.

Baori Taolegai – The Singing Dunes
Towering megadunes in the Desert harbor a captivating secret: singing sand. These colossal dunes emit a sharp, resonant sound, a haunting melody that can linger for over a minute. Scientists believe this phenomenon arises from an electrostatic charge generated as wind-blown sand cascades down the steep, leeward slopes. This electrifying dance produces a deep rumble, reaching a thunderous 105 decibels. However, this sonic spectacle requires specific conditions. The dunes remain silent during humid winter months, their voices muted by moisture. Only in the dry heat of summer, on slopes exceeding 30 degrees, can the booming be unleashed. This rare phenomenon is shared by only about 35 beaches and deserts worldwide. Under these same conditions, a gentle caress of a hand through the dry sand can coax out playful, pulse-like bursts of sound, adding a whimsical touch to this magical landscape.

The Bilutu Megadune
Bilutu Megadune is a colossal sand mountain that dwarfs even the Sahara’s mightiest dunes. Towering over 500 meters (1,640 ft) from its base, its summit is a razor-sharp ridge stretching from north to south. This ridge plunges downward at a dizzying 70-degree angle, defying the natural tendency of sand to slump. This sandy behemoth has earned the moniker “Mount Everest of the desert,” a testament to its unparalleled stature.

The Badain Jaran Temple
Badain Jaran Temple, originally built in 1755, is a harmonious blending of Han and Tibetan architectural styles. The temple’s exterior features imposing Han-style walls and gates, creating an atmosphere of solemnity. The main hall is Tibetan-style, resplendent with intricate brackets and gilded decorations. The exterior walls of the hall are adorned with vibrant murals depicting stories of the Buddha and showcasing the artistic brilliance of Tibetan Buddhism.

For the nomadic communities who traversed the endless sea of sand, Badain Jaran Temple was more than just a place of worship. It was a spiritual oasis and beacon of hope in a world defined by vastness and impermanence.

Haisenchulu Stone Forest
Haisenchulu, meaning “odd-like stones” in Mongolian, is a unique geological formation spanning over 40 square kilometers (15.4 square miles). Formed from submarine rocks sculpted by ancient seas, tectonic shifts eventually exposed these rounded and oval shapes to the elements. Wind and sand erosion further carved the stones, creating the bizarre and diverse landscape seen today. The heart of Haisenchulu (20 square kilometers) is densely populated with these wind-carved rocks, ranging in size from dozens of meters to just a few centimeters. Their fascinating forms resemble humans, animals, and abstract art, attracting photographers worldwide.

How to Get to Badain Jaran Desert
• The Badain Jaran Desert is located approx. 213 kilometers (132 miles) east of Zhangye.
• Charter a car/bus from GGC to enjoy a hassle-free transfer to the Badain Jaran Desert.