Watch: This Real Lake In China Flowing With Shiny Ice Shards Looks AI-Generated

There's something undeniably magical about winter travel. You get to experience pristine white mountains, frozen lakes and fluffy snowfall all at once. Now, a similar video showing a lake that appears to shatter into glittering ice fragments is going viral online. The clip, shared on Instagram, captures the phenomenon in all its glory.

Sayram Lake is the largest and highest alpine lake in China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters that shift colours and is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the summer, travellers visit to witness the vibrant wildflowers. The breathtaking sunrise and sunset views here are some of the most visually stunning destinations on the planet. A visit to this lake promises an unforgettable experience that delights the senses and soothes the mind.

However, the rare phenomenon that attracts tourists from far and wide occurs in the winter season. The lake undergoes a magical transformation when the temperature plunges lower. Its surface starts to freeze, and massive ice sheets start forming that drift across the water.

Powerful winds combined with temperature changes force broken ice blocks to pile up onto the shore. The open water coexists with gleaming ice, resulting in a beautiful scenario, known as the "ice push".The shards resemble something like sculptures, ice mushrooms or flowers. They create a stunning display that is at its best at sunrise. 

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How to reach Sayram Lake? 

By Train: Take a train to the closest Bole Station. From here, you can board any local tourist bus or hire a private vehicle to the lake

By Bus: Long-distance buses leave from Nianzigou Passenger Station in Urumqi to Bole or Yining, where they drop passengers near the east side of the lake. Day tour buses are also available from Yining. 

By Car: Going from your own car from Yining or Bole provides flexibility for touring the lake. Road trips also allow you to stop at scenic spots like the Santai Grassland, Dianjiang Platform and Swan Play Area.

Ticket cost

Sayram Lake tickets generally cost around 110 RMB (approximately Rs 1,481) for standard admission. You can buy a special pass at the entrance to drive your own vehicle around the lake.

Best time to visit 

If looking for blooming wildflowers, green grasslands and pleasant weather, the best time to visit Sayram Lake is from June to August. Choose the December to March window for stunning blue ice and snow scenes.