Nestled in Hami City within northwest China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, Tuolekule Lake captivates visitors with its ever-changing spectrum of colors. Rich in mirabilite, salt deposits, and algae, the water shifts between rose, pink, violet, and other hues depending on light, temperature, and weather patterns — earning it the local nickname "weather lake." Residents have long observed its chromatic transformations to predict atmospheric changes.
Beyond its visual splendor, the lake's surrounding wetlands sustain lush pastures and provide critical habitats for diverse wildlife. This ecological harmony underscores Xinjiang's role as a region where natural beauty intersects with environmental stewardship.
While photographs showcase the lake's dreamlike quality, scientists emphasize its unique mineral composition as a subject of ongoing study. For travelers and researchers alike, Tuolekule Lake stands as a testament to Asia's extraordinary geological diversity.
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Xinjiang color palette: Tuolekule Lake, a shimmering dreamland
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