Introduction Urumqi (乌鲁木齐), the vibrant capital of Xinjiang at 800 meters elevation, serves as your gateway to some of China's most spectacular desert and mountain landscapes. From the bustling Grand Bazaar to the remote beauty of Ulungur Lake, this cosmopolitan city blends Uyghur, Kazakh, and Han cultures into an unforgettable Central Asian experience.
Must-Visit Attractions
Urumqi City Center
Explore the International Grand Bazaar, Central Asia's largest market featuring Uyghur carpets, dried fruits, and traditional handicrafts. The Red Mountain Park offers panoramic city views, while Xinjiang Regional Museum houses 3,800-year-old mummies and Silk Road artifacts.
G216 Desert Highway (formerly S21)
This engineering marvel cuts through the Gurbantunggut Desert for 500 kilometers, offering otherworldly landscapes of rolling sand dunes and oil derricks. Stop at desert observation platforms for stunning photography opportunities.
Ulungur Lake (乌伦古湖)
Located 300km north in Altay Prefecture, this pristine freshwater lake spans 827 square kilometers. Known for excellent fishing and bird watching, it's surrounded by grasslands where Kazakh nomads maintain traditional lifestyles.
Tianshan Grand Canyon (天山大峡谷)
Just 48km from downtown, this red sandstone canyon features dramatic cliffs, natural arches, and Kazanqi Folk Village showcasing traditional Uyghur architecture.
Local Flavors & Culture
- Cuisine: Savor hand-pulled lagman noodles, polo (pilaf with lamb), and grilled kebabs. Don't miss naan bread from traditional tandoor ovens.
- Markets: Erdaoqiao Market offers the freshest Xinjiang grapes, walnuts, and dates.
- Events: Time your visit for the Grape Festival (August) celebrating harvest season.
Travel Tips
- Best Season: May-October for comfortable weather
- Language: Mandarin, Uyghur, and Kazakh spoken; English limited
- Currency: Chinese Yuan; credit cards accepted in major establishments