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Dengcaogou Village, Banfanggou Township, Urumqi County
Encompasses all of Xinjiang's natural landscapes except for deserts
The Urumqi Tianshan Grand Canyon, located in Urumqi County, is a stunning natural wonder just 48 kilometers from the city center. Spanning an area of 1038.48 square kilometers, the canyon is surrounded by mountains on three sides and sits at an average altitude of 2020 meters. With an annual average temperature of 4-6°C, it boasts the most complete and visually striking original snow-capped spruce forest on the northern slope of the Tianshan Mountains. This area encompasses all of Xinjiang's natural landscapes except for deserts, making it a living museum of nomadic culture before the advent of agricultural civilization. The canyon offers immense value for tourism, scientific research, and historical culture. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking canyon views, snow-capped mountains, skiing, ice skating, hiking, and photography, making it a perfect outdoor paradise for leisure and vacation in Urumqi.
Visit Zhaobi Mountain 照壁山
Zhaobi Mountain is the main mountain at the entrance of the Tianshan Grand Canyon, densely covered with Tianshan spruces. Due to its unique terrain, the mountain often glows brilliantly under sunlight and river reflections, resembling the wall of a noble's mansion, hence the name "Zhaobi Mountain." The mountain's unique terrain also creates spectacular natural phenomena, such as a single line of peaks and rainbows after rain, making it a distinctive landmark of the canyon.
Stroll Along the Twelve Connected Lakes 十二连湖
The Twelve Connected Lakes are a series of artificial lakes primarily for flood control, creating a beautiful landscape from the canyon to the visitor center. The lakes are surrounded by lush trees, green grass, winding stone paths, and simple pavilions, making it an ideal place for cooling off, leisurely walks, and relaxation.
Overlook Swan Lake and Qiaoya Grassland from Tianmen
From Tianmen, you can overlook the entire Swan Lake and Qiaoya Grassland, offering the widest view in the canyon. The canyon winds like a ribbon, and in the distance, snow-capped peaks stretch endlessly, creating one of the most breathtaking landscapes in northwest China.
Hike Through the Tianshan Grand Canyon
The Tianshan Grand Canyon is rich in natural landscapes, combining snow-capped mountains, forests, lakes, grasslands, and canyon views. Recent developments, such as hiking boardwalks and shuttle buses, make it an ideal hiking destination. The Zhaobi Mountain-Liumao Lake-Zhaobi Mountain loop is a popular route: Zhaobi Mountain → Jinshan Valley → Swan Lake → Tianmen → Liumao Lake → Zhaobi Mountain. This route offers diverse experiences but also tests your physical strength and endurance. Along the way, you'll traverse the rugged Jinshan Valley, enjoy the tranquility of Swan Lake, conquer the steep Tianmen, and finally reach the picturesque Liumao Lake.
Bailong Bay (碧龙湾): Bailong Bay is named for its dragon-like shape when the reservoir is full. The top of the Tianshan Dam is the best place to view Bailong Bay and Zhaobi Mountain.
Jiasdaban Scenic Area: Located east of Zhaobi Mountain, this crescent-shaped lake covers about one hectare. From May to August, the area is lush with green grass and wildflowers, making it an ideal habitat for wildlife such as foxes, highland hares, and snow chickens.
Qiaoya Grassland (乔亚草场): Covered with thick snow in winter, Qiaoya Grassland is the area with the heaviest snowfall in the Nanshan region, perfect for winter tourism. The Tianshan glaciers and icefalls are even more stunning in winter, offering both scenic views and winter sports activities.
Swan Lake （天鹅湖）: Swan Lake, also known as "Lover's Tears," is surrounded by a romantic legend. The lake's beauty reflects the grandeur and vastness of the Tianshan Mountains. Kazakh yurts with smoke curling up welcome visitors, inviting them to explore the mysterious Tianshan Stone Gate and the ancient horse trails, stepping back in time to experience the life of ancient riders.
1. Direct buses to the Tianshan Grand Canyon are available from the Urumqi South Suburb Bus Station.
2. Given Xinjiang's vast land and numerous attractions, renting a car is one of the best ways to explore the region. However, for foreign tourists, this can be inconvenient. It is recommended to join a Xinjiang tour group or contact us to arrange your itinerary, transportation, and accommodation.
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