Crescent Lake
Crescent Lake is located near the Chinese town of Dunhuang in the center of the Gobi Desert. This unique masterpiece created by nature has the shape of a crescent moon. Translated, it is precisely this value that it has – « a young month ». There is no vegetation around it, only endless sand is present everywhere. Sand dunes in a circle protect the lake from the effects of sandstorms. In the middle of the desert, the lake is considered a real paradise.
From a long time the lake was called « a well in the sands ». It was believed that water had healing properties. Later this place was arranged for a resort. The water in Yueyatsuan is very clean and transparent, which gives great value to the lake. Despite weather conditions, the water in this pond is always cool. The whole oasis is surrounded by mountains of Minshashan.
A wonderful lake gradually disappears, falling under the rays of a constantly scorching sun, as a result of which water evaporates. Also, water is stolen by local residents, using it for their needs. Today, the lake area has decreased to 5.5 thousand square kilometers, and the deepest place is 1.3 m. It gradually decreases in size, as if sinking to the bottom.
Local authorities planned to artificially replenish water in Yueyatsuan, but there is not enough funding to implement the plans. Donations that go to the content of oasis are collected here. We regulated the norms of water consumption to the local population, which are prohibited to exceed. It is not allowed to drill additional wells. It is hoped that the lake will not dry, and will delight its beauty for many years.
A couple of dozen trees grow near the shores of Lake Yueyatsuan, due to their proximity to water, they feel comfortable here. Also built buildings in the architectural style inherent in China. The monastery of Confucian monks rises, which organically fits into the landscape of the neighborhood. This place is considered the religious shrine of Buddhism. The palace of the empress, the palace of the dragon, the cave of medicine were also erected here. There is a special energy in this place.
Yueyatsuan Lake is a pearl of the desert and is included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
This water attraction is in demand among exotic lovers, ordinary tourists and pilgrims from around the world. You can get here from the city on a caravan of camels, looking along the path of the beauty of the neighborhood, or on SUVs. On its transport, entry into the territory of the oasis is prohibited.
