How to spend a day on a trip around Urumqi? Find out in this article

If you only have one or two days, how should you arrange your time in Urumqi? Go to Yili? Or go to Kanas or Kashgar? Actually, there isn't enough time to visit all of these places. Today, let me recommend a few places in Urumqi where you can fully enjoy yourself!

Heavenly Lake

It is the closest 5A-level scenic spot to Urumqi and one of the must-visit attractions. Also known as 'Yaochi', it is set against the backdrop of the Tengger Peak, which remains snow-capped all year round, surrounded by spruce trees, with emerald waters like a mirror, picturesque scenery. Take the Ma Ya Shan cableway to the top of the mountain to enjoy the panoramic view of Heavenly Lake. If you want to get closer to the lake, it is recommended to take a boat ride at your own expense. Enjoy the sound of the flowing water, the gentle breeze on the lake surface, which is refreshing and soothing. The scenery and tranquility of Heavenly Lake can heal the people from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Turpan City

Turpan is an oasis city, known for the ancient Karez well system, one of the three great ancient engineering projects, showcasing the wisdom of ancient people. It is widely known for its large temperature difference between day and night and long sunshine hours, making it a major grape-producing area. The Flaming Mountains became famous due to the story of Sun Wukong borrowing the palm-leaf fan three times to extinguish the fire in 'Journey to the West'. Despite the long distance, many people choose to visit the Kumtag Desert, which is in close proximity to the city, for 'sand therapy' even in hot weather.

Nanshan Natural Scenic Area

Nanshan Scenic Area is an excellent natural pasture, as well as a natural spot for summer resort, convalescence, and sightseeing. The Nanshan Pasture is rich in Kazakh folk customs, especially in the 'Xibaiyanggou Scenic Area'. Visitors can take an electric car to and from the core scenic spot 'Shenbulake Waterfall' to breathe fresh air, stroll through the canyon forests, and feel the tranquility and remoteness. Enjoy the comfort and ease of being away from the city.

Tianshan Grand Canyon

Located within a natural scenic area, it features snow-capped mountains, forests, lakes, and grasslands. It serves as a sports and leisure base, an autonomous region's fitness training base, a hiking base, and a mountaineering training base. It is 48 kilometers away from the city center. The canyon combines the grandeur of Mount Tai, the elegance of Mount Emei, the unique rocks of Yandang Mountain, and the steepness of Mount Hua. It boasts two lakes, three waterfalls, four streams, and eighteen valleys, all competing in beauty. The canyon is especially known for its 'peculiar pines, strange rocks, and sea of clouds.' It has earned the praises 'After visiting the Five Great Mountains, no other mountains are worth seeing; after visiting the Grand Canyon, the memory of the canyon lingers,' and 'A hundred-mile golden tourism corridor, an outdoor leisure and vacation paradise.'
Located in the central area, Hongshan is a symbol and emblem of Urumqi. Regardless of how the city develops, it still retains its charm here, deeply cherished and loved by generations of Urumqi citizens. Many local residents choose this place for their daily leisure and entertainment. 'Hongshan Sunset' is one of the most iconic sceneries of Urumqi, a must-visit spot for tourists. From the top of the distant view building or the Ferris wheel near the top of the mountain, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Urumqi. You can also visit the Great Buddha Temple to pray for blessings. Additionally, the only apricot tree in Urumqi also grows here.