The Mystery Lakes Of The Badain Jaran Desert

The spring-fed lakes in the Badain Jaran Desert are a strange sight to behold. Located near Alashan Youqi in Western Inner Mongolia, the site is a geographical anomaly that has been fascinating experts for many years.

Over 100 lakes nestle in-between “Megadunes” – mammoth sand dunes. Researchers believe that the lake water originates from groundwater stored beneath the sands.

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Groundwater concentrates in some areas to form springs, which then feed a layer of freshwater into deeper lakes. More research is being conducted to verify the source of the water, as well as their rate of evaporation, or in some cases, disappearance.

Whatever the source, the area is certainly a must see for those that venture so far off the beaten track. With large sand spires swirling in the background, visitors witness a strange vista of sheep grazing in saline waters against a background of yellow-brown sand.

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It certainly is a unique sight. There are very few places on earth where one can see lakes in the desert.

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(Image Credits: Amusing Planet, HD Wallpapers, ASA, Chinese Eye)
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