Posted 10 Jul 2009

The mercury can rise sharply in China during the summer months, so getting out of the sweltering cities and into the countryside may shave a few much-needed degrees off the thermometer.

This is according to the People’s Daily Online, which has outlined some rural spots which may offer a cool haven in the summer months for those on a gap year in China.

Head to the Changbai Mountains in Jilin Province for both fluctuating temperatures and breathtaking views, it recommends. Alternatively, Qinghai Lake in the western province of Qinghai offers a relieving 15-degree climate in the summer, as well as a striking emerald-coloured stretch of water.

Another lake, Tianshan, is described as "a mirror dropped from heaven" by the news provider, while it also lauds Jiuzhaigou, with its waterfall, flowers and "fairytale world" as a place of "original beauty".

Dingxi, a city located in Gansu Province, is known as the country’s most thirsty location and is currently experiencing a drought that began in May and has left 230,000 people short of drinking water, the China Daily relates.

Category: Asia