[2025 Shanshan Attraction] Travel Guide for Tuyugou (Updated Jun)

"To love, to live, to get hurt" "My Altay" has imprinted the mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas of Altay in many people's hearts, and has also given another possibility for life. The vast wilderness of Xinjiang seems to be able to accommodate the joys and sorrows of many people. Although everyone's life is not easy and smooth, nature seems to have such magic that can temporarily heal us, and then we set off again - Snow mountains, lakes, forests, grasslands, canyons, streams, summer flowers 🌲Summer is really suitable for going to Xinjiang, the summer in Xinjiang will refresh your cognition, and it's beautiful like the scenes in comics - ✅Recommended itinerary and route: Day1: Urumqi—Shanshan Kumtag Desert—Stay in Shanshan Day2: Shanshan—Tuyugou Scenic Western Region Architectural Area—Stay in Hejing Day3: Hejing—Nalati Sky Prairie—Valley Scenery—Stay in Nalati Day4: Nalati—Qiaxi—Stay in Tekes Day5: Tekes—Qiongkushitai—Stay in Qiongkushitai Day6: Qiongkushitai—Xiaota Luxury Trekking—Stay in Xiaota Day7: Xiaota—Guozigou Bridge—Sailimu Lake Scenic Loop—The Lonely Tower—Stay at Sailimu Lake Day8: Sailimu Lake—Stay in Urumqi - 🌲Recommended must-visit attractions in Xinjiang: Nalati + Qiaxi Forest + Qiongkushitai + Sailimu Lake - 💡Travel tips: 1. In addition to the large temperature difference between morning and evening in Xinjiang, there is also a large temperature difference in the mountains 2. The attractions in Xinjiang are far apart, so prepare some dry food. There may be no signal in some sections of self-driving, and the prices are higher if you stay in scenic areas. The hotels in the county are all around two to three hundred, and our trip cost about five hundred per person excluding airfare 3. Those who do not self-drive can consider finding a reliable leader to arrange the itinerary, if you need, you can ask me - The meaning of travel is not to tell others that I have been here, but that there was a story about me here. It lets me know that there are many ways to live life, you can have a wandering soul, the joy and innocence of a child, and also the courage to see the world's prosperity

You won't want to leave once you visit Xinjiang! Crystal-clear lakes🌊, leisurely grazing cattle and sheep🐂 on grasslands Summer in Xinjiang is where vibrant life unfolds🍃 🛬【Itinerary】: D1—Ürümqi D2—Ürümqi-Tuyugou-Kumtag Desert-Shanshan D3—Shanshan-Flaming Mountains-Uyghur Home Textile Experience-Ürümqi D4—Ürümqi-S101 Highway-Anjihai Grand Canyon-Stay in Dushanzi D5—Dushanzi-Northern Dushanzi-Kuqa Highway-Tangbula Grassland-Fairy Lake-Stay in Tangbula D6—Tangbula-Nalati-Zhaosu D7—Zhaosu-Xiata Ancient Road-Kazanqi Village-Lavender Fields-Khorgos D8—Khorgos Port-Sayram Lake-Jinghe D9—Jinghe-Heiyou Mountain-Devil's City-Urho D10—Urho-My Altay Checkpoint-Hemu D11—Hemu-Kanas-Stay in Altay D12—Fly from Altay ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: 🟣S101 Highway: A fusion of blue skies, snow-capped mountains🏔️, grasslands🌿, danxia landforms, and rivers🌊; 🟣Tangbula Grassland: Rolling hills with clouds☁️ floating through valleys, perfect for camping🏕️ with distant snow mountain views; 🟣Xiata Ancient Road: Walk the ancient valley path where glaciers🧊 remain even in midsummer, with snow-capped peaks🏔️ in sight; 🟣Sayram Lake: Its blue hue is a visual shock only fully appreciated in person! Sunlit waters glow like filtered gemstones💎; 🟣Kanas: Dubbed "God's Garden," its clear waters🏞️ surrounded by majestic mountains offer breathtaking views😍. 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: - Big Plate Chicken: Tender chicken with potatoes🥔 and peppers🌶️, spicy and flavorful in generous portions; - Roast Whole Lamb: Xinjiang's signature dish, crispy-skinned🐏 with juicy, tender meat inside; - Lamb Skewers: Charcoal-grilled skewers🥩 seasoned with cumin and chili powder🌶️, aromatic and delicious; - Naan: Traditional Xinjiang bread🍜, uniquely textured and perfect with various dishes🥗. 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: 1️⃣Choose better hotels🛎️ if budget allows for comfort and peace of mind; 2️⃣Book early for more options, as rooms sell out fast during holidays. 🚌【Transport Tips】: Attractions in Xinjiang are far apart🛣️. Renting a car🚗 is recommended to avoid transport hassles~ 🧡【Tips】: ⭕Strong UV rays🔆—bring sunscreen🧴; ⭕Pack stomach medicine💊, motion sickness pills, and mosquito repellent🦟; ⭕Unpredictable weather🌦️—carry an umbrella☔; ⭕Respect local ethnic customs and religious beliefs.

🚞Xining→Turpan 296.5 🚄Shanshan North→Urumqi 79.5 After getting off the train, you can choose to stay near the train station, or in the city, which will be much more convenient. Food recommendation: Fried noodles at a restaurant at the train station, especially delicious, cheap and large portion. There will be many carpooling groups after getting off the train, CNY 100 per person. The driver we joined was very nice, but later he left us to other people, which led to another driver, who looked unhappy the whole time because we weren't the customers he was looking for, so it's best to ask if he is the driver who will be driving you when carpooling. The route is basically (Karez Well Source→Flaming Mountain→Tuyugou→Shanshan Kumtag Desert). The Karez Well is not worth going to, it's just a small ditch below, and the CNY 40 ticket is not worth it. Just take two photos at the entrance of Flaming Mountain, no need to go in. The ticket to Tuyugou is CNY 15. Personally, I think this is the best place. Although it was being renovated when we went, the environment and the photos that girls love to take are really great. You don't need to bring clothes specially. Renting clothes at the entrance costs CNY 50 for a set. If there are many people, you can also talk about helping with makeup. If you can't accept the dust, it is recommended not to come. Afterwards, you will continue to drive to Kumtag Desert. The ticket is CNY 30 + shuttle bus CNY 30. It is a long walk, so it is recommended to take the bus. There are also clothes for rent at the entrance for CNY 50, which includes clothes, but no makeup. But the desert is really beautiful for taking wasteland-style photos. After having fun, you can take the nearest train station, Shanshan North, directly to Urumqi to visit the Grand Bazaar.

If you're considering a trip to Urumqi, here's a carefully prepared travel guide with practical advice and personal experiences to ensure your trip is both fulfilling and enjoyable. Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning, this guide will help you better enjoy this exotic city. Three-day, two-night itinerary recommendation: Day 1: Start your cultural journey by visiting the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum to learn about the history and culture of this land, then stroll along Hetian Second Street to feel the local life. In the afternoon, head to the International Grand Bazaar to experience the rich ethnic customs, and in the evening, climb Hongshan Park to enjoy the beautiful city night view. Day 2: Plan a hike to explore the natural beauty of Tianshan Tianchi. Then, you can choose to continue to Qitai Ghost City or Jiangbulak Grassland to experience different landforms. If time permits, visit Tuyugou Mazar Village to feel the charm of the ancient village. Day 3: Leave Urumqi and head to Shanshan, visit Tuyugou Scenic Area and Kumtag Desert along the way, and don't miss the two famous attractions of Flaming Mountain and Karez, then return to Urumqi to end your trip. Tips: The Grand Bazaar is a great place for shopping and food, whether you're buying souvenirs or trying authentic Xinjiang snacks, you won't be disappointed. Xinjiang has a dry climate, so pay attention to eye comfort and avoid wearing contact lenses. When dining at a halal restaurant, please follow local dining habits and etiquette. Enjoy Xinjiang's rich fruit resources, but remember not to drink hot tea immediately after eating fruit to avoid stomach discomfort. Food map: Around the Grand Bazaar: Try the special snacks such as Desert Red Goose, Master Ma's Oil Cake, and Afanti Milk Tea. Consulate Lane: Wunaer Cake and Yili Milk Tea are not to be missed, as well as Midnight Noodles and Pilaf. Hetian Second Street: Kashgar Yibazhua, Milami Cake, and Zhengfei Fresh Milk are all good choices. Heping South Street: Enjoy authentic Xinjiang fried rice noodles, Turgen Emin lamb and pigeon soup, and other delicacies. Take this guide and embark on an unforgettable trip to Urumqi!

#ChinaTravel #Turpan #吐峪沟景区 Toyugou Valley is the best place to enjoy driving in Turpan. Driving along the colorful and magnificent valley, the red earth and strange rocks unfold like a scene from a movie. The long road leads deep into the valley, and when you open the window, you can feel the scent of the desert carried by the wind, which makes it even more special. Especially, the moment when the sunset wraps around the valley is a beautiful scenery that you must take pictures of. A drive in the quiet nature with the sound of the car engine resonating gently will give you a special experience where you can feel the magnificent nature of Turpan with your whole body... Rather than a tour, rent a car and drive.

Xinjiang Tianshan Tianchi - Turpan, a great choice for silver-haired travelers! Round-trip high-speed train, no backtracking, easy access to Tianchi, Flaming Mountain, and the desert, all the highlights in one go! -------- **Must-see attractions**: ✨Tianshan Tianchi: Visit Tianchi National Geopark to see the alpine lakes and wetland meadows. We recommend taking a boat ride or strolling along the lakeside boardwalk to enjoy the natural beauty, perfect for a relaxing trip for silver-haired travelers. 🔥Flaming Mountain Scenic Area: This place has a rich historical and cultural heritage and a unique and spectacular landscape. It's easy to visit and you can take great photos, but don't forget to protect yourself from the sun and heat. 🏞Tuyugou: The scenic area combines a grand canyon, Thousand Buddha Caves, Khoja Mazar, and ancient villages. This is a place where history and culture meet, with ancient villages over 1,700 years old and unique adobe buildings waiting for you to explore. -------- Some tips: 🌬️ Xinjiang is already in winter in November, and the temperature in Tianshan Tianchi - Turpan is moderate, but you should also prepare down jackets and warm clothes. ✈️ After arriving at Urumqi Airport, you can take a long-distance bus to Tianchi, and there is a direct train to Turpan, which is very convenient! 🍖 Don't miss the Xinjiang cuisine! Grilled lamb skewers, pilaf, naan... every bite is full of happiness! 📸 Don't forget to bring your camera, the scenery here is picturesque, and you can take great photos with just a snap! 💧 The water in Tianshan Tianchi is clear, but it freezes in winter, so be careful! 🌞 Turpan has long hours of sunshine, so it's important to protect yourself from the sun. 🧳 We recommend traveling light, but warm clothes and sunscreen are essential. 🚗 For self-driving travelers, the G30 Lianhuo Expressway is a good choice to get to Tianchi! 🐎 In the Tianchi Scenic Area, you can also try horseback riding to experience a different style. 💖 Finally, remember to keep a good mood and enjoy this wonderful journey! -------- 🎉Don't miss the beautiful scenery of Xinjiang, come to Tianshan Tianchi and Turpan to leave your footprints! More exciting things are waiting for you to explore!🌈

First of all, I would like to thank Old Xinjiang for giving me this opportunity and for his chivalrous duty as the main driver! Thanks to Beidou for providing the vehicle 'Beidou Star' and serving as the co-driver! They tirelessly drove our group of four through the beautiful mountains and rivers of Xinjiang, crossing three icy passes four times, traversing treacherous and rugged cliffs, over 13 days and nearly 6000 kilometers, safely and without incident. Itinerary: June 5-18 Arrive in Urumqi, Xinjiang from various places, and Old Xinjiang arranged for pickup to Yining. June 5: Yining—Sailimu Lake, overnight at Sailimu Lake June 6: Morning at Sailimu Lake—Urho, overnight at Urho June 7: Morning at Urho Ghost City, via Burqin to Kanas, overnight at Kanas June 8: Hiking and driving tour in Kanas, overnight at Kanas June 9: Return to Urumqi from Kanas, overnight at Urumqi June 10-11: Erdaoqiao and International Grand Bazaar in Urumqi, overnight at Urumqi June 12: From Urumqi to Turpan, visit Karez, Jiaohe Ancient City; via Flaming Mountains to Shanshan, watch the sunset in Kumtag Desert, overnight at Shanshan June 13: Sunrise in Kumtag, Tuyugou Grand Canyon, Tuyugou Thousand Buddha Caves, Tuyugou Folk Customs; via Turpan, through Toksun, to Bosten Lake to visit Golden Beach; via 218 to Baluntai to Huang Temple, arriving in Korla overnight! June 14: Drive along the Tarim Desert Highway, visit Luntai Populus Euphratica Forest Park, overnight at Korla June 15: From Korla along 218 via Baluntai crossing Aiken Pass into Gongnaisi Valley, forward to Qietemairike crossing Nalati Pass, into Bayinbuluke Swan Lake! Overnight at Bayinbuluke June 16: Tour the grasslands, watch swans, stay in Swan Lake cabins. June 17: Leave Bayinbuluke to Nalati zero kilometer point, cross Yuximolege Pass to Qiaerma, via Tangbula along 315 line back to Yili Huocheng. End of the 13-day self-driving tour in Xinjiang, full of joy. I sincerely feel: only with Old Xinjiang's first-class driving skills could we enjoy the trip so freely; it was Old Xinjiang's carefully planned route that gave me the enjoyment of beauty and the tremor of the soul! This will be an unforgettable self-driving tour for me!

Turpan, this small city in Xinjiang that is seriously underestimated. East Xinjiang is much more than Turpan Huoyan Mountain and grapes There are also thousand-year-old villages, barren sand dunes, The wild Gobi Desert, the vast desert... These can be visited in one day. 🚌Transportation Tips ◆ High-speed rail is recommended for round trip, which is faster than driving Outbound: Urumqi → Turpan, arrive in more than 1 hour Return: Shanshan → Urumqi, arrive in 2 hours There are many flights for the outbound and return trips, and you can choose according to your needs ◆In order to save time and have a comfortable trip, it is recommended to charter a car or rent a car after arrival 📍Detailed itinerary Check in at the entrance of Huoyan Mountain (10 minutes): There are big banana fans and surface thermometers here, no need to enter the scenic area! Huoyan Mountain (30 minutes) → Maza Village (1.5 hours, you can have a meal here) → Tuyugou Grand Canyon (15 minutes) → Kumtag Desert (1 hour) Map of Tuyugou Maza Village 🔖30 yuan/person The ancient village, which retains the ancient Uyghur folk customs, has a history of nearly 2,600 years, with dilapidated earthen houses, collapsed walls, and simple doors and windows. The traces of time make this place full of history. Tuyugou Grand Canyon free Climb up here to take panoramic photos of the ancient village You can take pictures of the canyon landforms, and the pictures of the highway are also beautiful. Standing on the edge of the canyon, with gullies crisscrossing, it looks like a very Western movie! Kumtag Desert 🔖30 The Kumtag Desert is the only desert in the world connected to a city and is known as the "desert in the city". There are also many activities in the desert, such as sand sliding, desert surfing, camel riding, glider, etc. You can see a thousand years in one day and feel the other side of Xinjiang