Exploring Keketuohai | The Most Detailed Travel Guide

| The Most Detailed Travel Guide. Keketuohai, this magical land located in the northeast of Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, is like a hidden gem in northern Xinjiang. With its magnificent granite canyons, the source of the Irtysh River, primeval forests, and the famous No. 3 Mine Pit, it integrates natural scenery and cultural history, attracting countless tourists to explore. Best Time to Visit 🌞Summer (June - August): The climate is cool and pleasant, with green grass and blooming wildflowers, making it an excellent summer resort. 🍁Autumn (September - October): The mountains and forests are ablaze with color, with golden and fiery red autumn leaves intertwined, as beautiful as an oil painting, making it a paradise for photographers. ❄️Winter (November - March): The snow-covered landscape is breathtaking, and you can also enjoy skiing at the Keketuohai International Ski Resort. Transportation Guide External Transportation ✈️Airplane: Arrive at Fuyun Airport, about 50 km from the scenic area, and then choose a chartered car or taxi to the scenic area. 🚗Self-driving: • From Urumqi, drive north along G216, passing through Fuyun County to the scenic area, the journey takes about 6-7 hours. • From Altay, it takes about 4 hours to arrive. 🚌Long-distance bus: Take a bus from Nianzigou Passenger Station in Urumqi to Fuyun County, the journey takes about 8 hours, and then transfer to the scenic spot shuttle bus. Internal Transportation 🎫 The ticket includes the shuttle bus fee, and major attractions such as the Irtysh Grand Canyon require a shuttle bus. In addition, some areas can also be explored on foot or horseback, allowing you to experience the charm of nature up close. Must-See Attractions Irtysh Grand Canyon ⛰️Mount Shenzhong: A landmark landscape, resembling a huge inverted bell, made of granite, majestic and spectacular. 💧Irtysh River: The only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean, with clear blue water winding through the canyon. 🌳Birch Forest: Golden in autumn, with sunlight pouring down, it feels like being in a fairy tale world, perfect for taking photos. Keketuohai No. 3 Mine Pit Known as the "Meritorious Mine Pit," it is rich in rare metals such as lithium and beryllium, and made great contributions to repaying the Soviet Union's foreign debt. You can also visit the mine exhibition hall to learn more about its mining history. Kokosuli (Wild Duck Lake) A beautiful wetland lake, with lotus flowers in full bloom in summer and many birds inhabiting it. Take a stroll along the lake and enjoy the tranquility. Lake Iremu A high-altitude lake with crystal-clear water reflecting the snow-capped mountains and forests, tranquil and beautiful, intoxicating. Kalazhola Waterfall A waterfall hidden in the canyon, with abundant water flow in summer. As you approach the waterfall, cool mist greets you. Tickets and Opening Hours 🎫Tickets: Peak season (April - October) approx. CNY 90, off-season approx. CNY 60. 🚌Shuttle bus ticket: approx. CNY 36-50 (priced according to different routes). 🕙Opening hours: 9:00 - 19:00 (subject to change depending on the season, it is recommended to confirm in advance before traveling). Accommodation Recommendations Inside the Scenic Area 🏠Characteristic homestays or yurts: Experience the unique Kazakh customs, prices range from CNY 200-500/night. ♨️Hot spring hotels: Some hotels have natural hot springs, where you can relax and unwind after a day of exploring. Fuyun County A wider range of choices, from budget hotels to high-end hotels, with prices ranging from CNY 150-800/night. Food Recommendations 🥩Kazakh cuisine: Hand-grabbed mutton, horse intestines, fragrant milk tea, baursaki (a kind of fried dough). 🍲Xinjiang specialties: Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken), baked buns, nang pit meat. 🍴Recommended dining spots: Restaurants in the scenic area or the local food street in Fuyun County. Things to Note Climate and Equipment • The temperature difference between day and night is large, so it is recommended to bring a jacket even in summer, and down jackets are essential in winter. • Don't forget sun protection, sunglasses, hats, and high-SPF sunscreen are essential. • If you plan to hike, remember to wear non-slip shoes and bring rain gear. Altitude and Health • The altitude of the scenic area is 1200-1500 meters, and altitude sickness is generally not a problem, but strenuous exercise should still be avoided. Environmental Protection and Safety • Protect the environment, please do not litter. • Rocks are loose in some areas of the canyon, follow warning signs and do not risk climbing. Cultural Respect • The local area is mainly inhabited by Kazakhs. Respect their customs and traditions, and always ask for permission before taking photos of people. Itinerary Suggestions (2-3 days) 2-Day Tour • Day 1: Arrive at Keketuohai → Visit No. 3 Mine Pit → Lake Iremu → Stay in a scenic homestay. • Day 2: Irtysh Grand Canyon (Mount Shenzhong, Birch Forest, Waterfall) → Hiking or horseback riding → Return to Fuyun County in the evening. 3-Day Tour • Day 1: Arrive at Keketuohai → No. 3 Mine Pit → Lake Iremu → Stay in a scenic homestay. • Day 2: Irtysh Grand Canyon (Mount Shenzhong, Birch Forest, Waterfall) → Hiking or horseback riding → Return to Fuyun County in the evening. • Day 3: Kokosuli Wetland → Experience nomadic life in the surrounding pastures. Nearby Attractions 🚗Kanas: About 5 hours by car. In autumn, you can combine Keketuohai and Kanas for a tour to experience the beautiful scenery of northern Xinjiang. 🏡Hemu Village: Experience the unique charm of Tuvan villages, enjoy skiing in winter, and admire the fairy-tale snow scenery.