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Urumqi is your best gate way to Xinjiang. Check out your essential Urumqi travel interests points.
1. Explore Xinjiang Regional Museum for Silk Road Legacy, Loulan Beauty & Ancient History
- Location: Xinjiang Regional Museum, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- Attraction Highlights: Silk Road relics, 3,800-year-old desert mummies, cultural exhibits, ancient artifacts.
- Recommended Time: 2-3 hours, more for culture explorer
For tourist visiting Xinjiang the very first thing to do Urumqi is visiting the Xinjiang Regional Museum(新疆自治区博物馆), the gateway to learn about cultural fusion and ethnic diversity in Xinjiang. This Museum, or the the Best Attraction in Xinjiang, stands as a treasure trove of Silk Road history, also the history & culture even before that.
Things to Do at Urumqi's Xinjiang Regional Museum
See the famous Loulan Beauty(楼兰美女): View the impressive collection of artifacts, including the 3,800-year-old mummified body, known as the Beauty of Loulan.
Explore ancient art and textiles: Learn about the diverse cultures that have shaped Xinjiang throughout history.
Learn about diverse ethnic groups: Discover the traditional clothing, tools, and household items of Xinjiang's diverse ethnic groups including Uyghar, Han, Tajik, Sibe..
Admire the "Fuxi and Nüwa" mural(伏羲女娲壁画): See this exquisite masterpiece symbolizing Chinese mythology. Excavated in Astana, Turpan, Xinjiang, China, this mural is believed to have been painted during the Tang Dynasty.
Look closely at the figures, whose serpentine tails intertwine like a DNA spiral. The subject matter may be Chinese, but the faces of Fuxi and Nüwa bear the features of Central Asian people, reflecting the cultural merging of Han and ethnic groups in Xinjiang since the establishment of the Silk Road.
Tip: This museum in Urumqi boasts a wide selection of various genres and cultural interests. To make the most of your time and gain authentic insights, a guide is essential.
Join a Xinjiang tour with Asia Odyssey Travel; our guide will share the best insights and the best-planned visiting route.
2. Visit Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, SPA Centre for Goddess of Chinese Mythology
- Location: Tianshan Mountains, 110 km east of Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- Attraction Highlights: Panoramic Bogda Mountain views, UNESCO World Heritage Site, boat ride, cable car.
- Recommended Time: Half a day to a full day
One of the most scenic things to do in Urumqi is visiting the Heavenly Lake of Tianshan(天山天池). This stunning high-altitude Tianshan Tianchi lake, nestled in the Tianshan Mountains, offers breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks, including the iconic Bogda Mountain.
For many travelers accessibility for nature attraction comes as a priority. The Best Thing about this Urumqi Attractions is that it is easily reachable from Urumqi city and hiking experience is beginner-friendly with a altitude of only 1,980 meters (6,500 feet).
Things to Do at Heavenly Lake of Tianshan
Visit Heavenly Lake: Enjoy the serene waters and stunning Bogda mountain views.
Take a boat ride or cable car: Get a different perspective of the lake and its surroundings.
Hike around the lake: Explore the natural beauty of the area up close.
Learn about Chinese mythology: The Urumqi Attraction serves as a backdrop for many mythological stories. According to one tale, the powerful goddess in Chinese mythology, Xi Wangmu (西王母), is said to reside in a palace within the Tianshan Mountains. And the lake, nicknamed the Jade Pond(瑶池), has been the SPA for the Goddess.
Tip: There's no public transportation to this Urumqi attraction. Join a Xinjiang tour with Asia Odyssey Travel for easy transportation.
3. Eat, Shop & Have Fun at Urumqi Grand Bazaar
- Location: Urumqi Grand Bazaar, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- Attraction Highlights: Traditional Uyghur architecture, vibrant market, handmade crafts, food.
- Recommended Time: 1-2 hours, more if opt for a dining experience with cultural performances at themed eateries
A visit to Urumqi wouldn't be complete without exploring the Urumqi Grand Bazaar, also known as the International Bazaar of Xinjiang, the iconic attraction of Urumqi. This vibrant market is a hub for local culture and trade, housed in stunning Uyghur-style buildings.
With renovations and updates, part of this attraction looks practically like a Xinjiang Cultural Theme Park, which attracts many family travelers to Urumqi.
Things to Do at Urumqi's Grand Bazaar
Connect with elastic vibe: Wander through the bustling market and enjoy the lively Urumqi atmosphere.
Shop for handicrafts and souvenirs: Find authentic items to take home as mementos.
Sample Xinjiang cuisine: Try delicious food stalls offering everything from lamb kebabs to naan bread. Find more Xinjiang Food options at nearby Hetian 2nd Street.
Immerse yourself in the Xinjiang culture: Watch shows and performance offered by eateries and street artists.
Take a selfie with The Effendi: Take a selfie with the cartoon statue of Effendi, the beloved Narusdin from Morocco to Xinjiang, who gained even more popularity throughout China due to the cartoon series The Tales of Effendi in the 1990s.
4. Hike Red Hill Park for Panoramic View of Urumqi & Unwind
- Location: Red Hill Park, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- Attraction Highlights: Nature walk, easy mountain hike, panoramic view of Urumqi City.
- Recommended Time: 1-2 hours
One of the most calming things to do in Urumqi is visiting Red Hill Park, a popular local attraction known for its natural beauty and historical significance. The park's centerpiece is Red Hill, a reddish-brown sandstone formation that stands as a landmark in the Urumqi.
Things to Do at Urumqi's Natural Landmark - Red Hill Park
Hike to the top of Red Hill: Get panoramic views of Urumqi's skyline and surrounding mountains.
Explore the park's pavilions and scenic spots: Enjoy a leisurely walk or family outing.
5. Relax at Southern Pasture and Explore Kazakh Culture
- Location: Southern Pasture, 75 km south of Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- Attraction Highlights: Grassland scenery, Kazakh yurts, Wulasitai Grassland, Shenbulake Waterfall.
- Recommended Time: Half a day to a full day
The central and southern regions of Xinjiang offer travel experiences that primarily focus on cultural and historical tourism. Are you looking for more natural grandeur without spending too much time heading to northern Xinjiang?
One of the most relaxing things to do in Urumqi is visiting Southern Pasture, located on the northern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains.
Southern Pasture has been a popular attraction for Urumqi people, serving as a summer retreat for locals for centuries due to its cool climate, fresh air, and beautiful landscapes. It's the perfect escape from fast-paced city life, with its lush grasslands, scattered Kazakh yurts, and stunning mountain views.
Things to Do at Southern Pasture as a Getaway from Urumqi
Visit Southern Pasture: Explore the stunning natural beauty of the surrounding area of Urumqi.
Discover the West Baiyanggou Scenic Area: Enjoy the thick forests and meandering streams.
See the vibrant wildflowers and endless green fields: Explore the Wulasitai Grassland.Marvel at the Shenbulake Waterfall: Witness the beauty of this 70-meter waterfall.
Go horseback riding: Enjoy the thrill of riding across the grasslands.
Watch local Kazakh performances: Experience the rich culture of the region...
Note: For nature attractions visiting time does matter in Xinjiang. Check Best Time to Visit Xinjiang for different travel interests.
Or simply talk to your Travel Expert at Asia Odyssey Travel to enrich your Xinjiang Trip to the fullest! Contact us now!
6. Stop at Dabancheng Wind Power Station to Take Photo & Reflect
- Location: Dabancheng Wind Power Station, 70 km southeast of Urumqi, Xinjiang, China
- Attraction Highlights: Scenic views, wind turbines, clean energy showcase.
- Recommended Time: 0.5-1 hour
For a unique and modern Urumqi attraction, visiting the Dabancheng Wind Power Station(达坂城风力发电站) is a top thing to do. Located in the Dabancheng(达阪城) Pass, right on your way from Turpan to Urumqi.
This massive wind farm is one of China's largest, with hundreds of wind turbines spread across the landscape. So it became a Tourist Attraction aside from being a clean energy site. The power station highlights Xinjiang's, and China's efforts in general, to harness clean energy and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys.
Things to Do on Your Way From Urumqi to Turpan at Dabancheng Wind Power Station
Visit the Dabancheng Wind Power Station: Learn about renewable energy and its impact on Xinjiang.
Take photos: Capture the impressive sight of towering wind turbines against the Xinjiang landscape.
Reflect on the balance between human development and nature: Consider the relationship between renewable energy and the environment.
The Dabancheng Wind Power Station is an interesting stop for travelers who are curious about renewable energy and its role in shaping Xinjiang's future.
Note: Seeing the wind farm, you would probably guess it. Yes, it can be quite windy along the way to this Urumqi attraction.
On your way from Turpan to Urumqi, there are numerous attractions worth visiting, most of which are located near Turpan. To explore more side trip options, check Turpan Attractions for a Xinjiang Road Trip.
Join a Xinjiang tour to visit the best attractions along the journey with our seamless transportation arrangements.
Travel Ideas for Xinjiang Tour
Urumqi (1-2 days): Start your journey in Urumqi. Visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum and explore the Grand Bazaar. Consider a day trip to the scenic Heavenly Lake for hiking and relaxation.
Kashgar & Tashkurgan (3-4 days): Explore the Old Town, dazzling Bazaars. Take a day trip to Tashkurgan to see the stunning scenery of the Pamir Plateau and visit Tajik family.
Turpan & Korla (2-3 days): Travel to Turpan, famous for its unique desert landscape and historical sites like the Karez irrigation system and the Flaming Mountains. Then, head to Korla to explore the ancient Iron Gate Pass and enjoy local Xinjiang Food.
Kuqa & Hotan (2-3 days): Next, visit Kuqa to explore the Kizil Caves and local culture. Continue to Hotan, known for jade, silk production and the ancient ruins of the Hotan Kingdom.
Aletai, Hemu Village & Kanas Lake (3-4 days): Venture north to Aletai, where you can explore picturesque valleys and enjoy outdoor activities. Visit Hemu Village for rural experiences, and head to Kanas Lake for breathtaking sunrise/sunset views.
Burqin & Karamay (2 days): Visit Burqin to see the Rainbow Mountains and enjoy outdoor activities. Then, explore Karamay, known for its unique geological formations and the Ghost City.
Yining & Naraty Grassland (2-3 days): Travel to Yining, explore local markets and attractions. visit Naraty Grassland for horseback riding and a taste of pastoral culture.
When planning your Xinjiang Itinerary, do consider how vast Xinjiang is as a travel destination. So allocate your time to maximize your Xinjiang Trip.
Browse more Xinjiang tours with Asia Odyssey Travel or simply get in touch with your Travel Expert; tell us your travel interest, we have you covered. Contact us now!
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel, Culture & Nature Xinjiang Tour
First-time visitor or not, Xinjiang is Not What You Think. It's More Than What You Imagine!
Looking for natural grandeur? Experience the the sunrise at pristine Kanas Lake, the sky-touching Naraty Grassland, the boundless Taklamakan Desert along the acient Xinjiang Silk Road.
Looking to broaden your horizons? Discover exquisite Uyghur crafts at the bazaars at Kashgar, the nomadic dances of Tajiks on the Pamir Plateau at Tashkurgan, and the finest vineyards at Grape Valley at Turpan. You can even visit the oldest Buddha Grottoes in China!
Your Xinjiang Trip will be an eye-opening adventure and a soul-touching journey!
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