Special connection

The desert holds a special place in the hearts of the herders who inhabit, protect, and raise their animals in it.

"Across generations, we have grazed, survived, nurtured our kin, earned our livelihoods, upheld our heritage, and treasured these desert plains as our communal playgrounds," said Zhang. "This desert is not just our dwelling place, but our legacy. We must care for our land, leveraging the expertise of various departments to safeguard our resources for future generations."

Alatenggerile, a veteran herder from Badain Jaran Village in Yabulai town, epitomizes the enduring bond between the desert and its inhabitants. "Nearly every lakeside in the desert hosts herders like us, sustaining our livelihoods through the diligent care of camels and sheep," he said.

"As I grow older, I increasingly believe that my home is the best place," Alatenggerile added.

On July 26, following seven years of effort, Badain Jaran Desert: Towers of Sand and Lakes was finally admitted to the World Heritage List at the 46th session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee held in New Delhi, India.

The desert has multiple tall dunes, including the Bilutu Peak, the world's highest such peak with an altitude of more than 1,611 meters and a relative height of over 500 meters, according to a People's Daily report.

The tall dunes are what create the desert's "singing sands", producing a mysterious booming sound when the wind blows. The Baoritaolegai area with steep peaks and sand dunes of varying heights on the edge of the desert is dubbed the "Kingdom of Singing Sands "because of its spectacular sounds.

There are 144 crystal-clear lakes nestled between dunes, supporting lush vegetation and diverse wildlife while creating unique desert landscapes, the report said. Natural springs in the desert are famous for their purity. The most famous spring water of the desert comes from the Yinderitu Lake, which has 108 springs.

Of the desert's temples, the Badain Jaran Buddhist temple built in 1755 is a major landmark and is often referred to as the "Forbidden City of the desert".