Jilantai Salt Lake

About

Jilantai Salt Lake, also known as Jilantai Dabus, is a salt lake located in the Alxa League of the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. Covering an area of approximately 40.35 km2 (15.58 sq mi), it is situated within the Mongolia-Xinjiang Plateau region. Its primary drainage basin is classified as the "Rivers of the Inland Drainage Area," while its secondary drainage basin is designated as the "Hexi Corridor–Alxa Inland Drainage Area". The town of Jilantai is named after this salt lake and is situated 102 kilometers (74.57 miles) north of Bayanhot, the administrative seat of the Alxa League. The name "Jilantai" means "sixty" in Mongolian; it is said to have acquired this name because, historically, sixty households once resided in the area. "Dabus" means "salt" in Mongolian. The Jilantai Salt Lake covers a total area of 120 km2 (46 sq mi), with a salt layer spanning 60 km2 (23 sq mi). The entire salt lake takes the form of an elliptical basin; the salt layer has an average thickness of 3 to 5 meters (9.8 to 16.4 feet), reaching a maximum depth of 5.94 m (19.5 ft), and boasts a total reserve exceeding 114 million tons. The table salt produced here is commonly known as "Ji Salt," renowned for its distinctive characteristics: large crystals, minimal impurities, and a rich flavor. In addition to sodium chloride—its most abundant component—the brine also contains various other co

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