Sand Lake

Historical Overview

Shahu Lake formed 8–10 million years ago due to tectonic shifts and Yellow River floods, evolving into a vital oasis for Silk Road caravans. Local Hui communities have relied on its fisheries and reeds for centuries, while Mongolian herders grazed livestock on its shores. Modern conservation began in 1992 with the establishment of Shahu Nature Reserve, which balances eco-tourism with habitat restoration. In 2013, it became Ningxia’s first UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, recognizing its role as a migratory bird superhighway.

Structural Layout

The lake is divided into three zones:

1. Wetland Zone: Features reed mazes, lotus marshes, and the “Bird Island” sanctuary.
2. Desert Zone: Home to crescent-shaped sand dunes, camel stables, and the “International Sand Sculpture Park.”
3. Cultural Zone: Includes the Hui Culture Museum, Silk Road Market, and “Sand Lake Grand Theater.”
   Key infrastructure includes 15km of wooden boardwalks, 8 observation towers, and a 5km “Desert-Lake” aerial tramway.

Major Attractions

1. Bird Island: A sanctuary for 200+ species, including endangered red-crowned cranes and Siberian cranes.
2. Camel Trekking: Hour-long rides across 50m-tall sand dunes with panoramic lake views.
3. Reed Maze Boats: Guided punt tours through 10km² of Phragmites australis reeds.
4. Hui Culture Museum: Exhibits on Hui architecture, calligraphy, and the “Flower Carpets” of Yinchuan.
5. Sand Sculpture Park: Gigantic sand art depicting Silk Road legends and Hui myths.
6. Lotus Pond: A 2km² wetland blooming with pink lotuses from June–August.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Half-Day Classic Route:
   North Gate → Reed Maze Boats → Bird Island → Camel Trek → Return.
   Highlights: Iconic wildlife and desert vistas in 3 hours.

2. Full-Day Adventure Route:
   North Gate → Sand Sculpture Park → Hui Museum → Lotus Pond → Evening “Legends of the Silk Road” Show.
   Highlights: Cultural immersions and nighttime performances.

3. Multi-Day Eco-Tour (2 Days):
   Day 1: Wetland birdwatching and reed craft workshops.
   Day 2: Desert camping, stargazing, and Hui cooking classes.
   Highlights: In-depth ecology studies and local traditions.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip, Fliggy, or the official Shahu WeChat account (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Tickets available at the North Gate ticket office; arrive early for peak-season visits.
• Prices:
  • Peak Season (May–October): ¥120 (adults), ¥60 (students/seniors).
  • Off-Season (November–April): ¥80 (adults), ¥40 (students/seniors).
  • Combo Pass (Lake + Desert): ¥180 (adults), ¥90 (students/seniors).
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

• By Bus:
  • Yinchuan Bus Station → Shahu (1.5 hours, ¥20).
• By Taxi:
  • Direct from Yinchuan Airport (1 hour, ¥150).
• By Tour:
  • Group tours from Yinchuan/Zhongwei include Western Xia tombs and desert camping.
• Departure: Shuttle buses depart every 30 minutes to Yinchuan/Shizuishan.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: May–June (lotus blooms), September–October (migratory birds).
• Avoid Crowds: Weekdays; weekends host domestic tourists.
• Weather: Pack layers (10–30°C) and rain gear (June–September).
• Essentials:
  • Wear sand-resistant clothing and closed-toe shoes.
  • Carry binoculars for birdwatching.
  • Respect Hui customs (no pork products in cultural zones).
• Prohibitions: Drones, littering, and feeding wildlife.