Things to do in Urumqi
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Top 10 attractions in Urumqi
Tianshan Tianchi
Tianshan Tianchi, also known as Tianchi National Geological Park and called "Yaochi" in ancient times, is located in Fukang, Changji Prefecture, on the northern side of Bogda Peak. It is approx. 110 km from Ürümqi and is a famous tourist destination in Xinjiang. In ancient Chinese mythology, Tianchi was also the bathing place of the Queen Mother of the West. Tianchi Lake sits at an altitude of 1910 m, with a maximum depth of 105 m. The lake reflects the Bogda Peak, surrounded by spruce trees, creating a fairy-tale-like scenery. The attraction encompasses natural views such as alpine lakes, wetland meadows, and forested canyons. In 2013, it was designated as a national geological park. When visiting Tianchi, don't just explore the lakeshore—you'll miss many surprising sub-attractions. Recommended hiking routes, lakeside pier - Haixi beach, lakeside pier - East small heavenly pool (Flying dragon pool) The Tianchi attraction features three water bodies: the main lake plus two others on its eastern and western sides. The eastern one is "East Xiaotianchi," also called Heilong Pool, located 500 m east of Tianchi. Below the pool lies a sheer cliff where a waterfall plunges down like a rainbow, giving the site its name "Hanging spring and jade rainbow." On the west side lies "West Xiaotianchi," also known as Jade Maiden Pool, located approx. 2 km northwest of Tianchi Lake. The pool, shaped like a full moon and encircled by towering pines, earned its poetic name "Dragon Pool under the jade moon" from the serene moonlit reflections on its surface. A waterfall cascades beside the pool, plunging dozens of meters like a silver river descending from heaven, dubbed the "Jade belt with silver curtain." Above the pool stands the Sound of Waves Pavilion, offering a unique vantage point to admire the waterfall. All attractions within the scenic area are connected by boardwalks, accessible on foot. On the eastern shore of Tianchi Lake stands the Temple of the Queen Mother of the West, originally built during the Yuan Dynasty. The current structure was reconstructed in 1999 on the original temple site, dedicated to the worship of the Queen Mother of the West, hence also known as the "Queen Mother Temple". It can be reached by hiking along the lakeside boardwalk (approx. 2 hrs) or by taking a cruise. The temple offers excellent views of Tianchi Lake. Maya Mountain requires taking a shuttle bus + cable car. The towering cliffs and numerous stone peaks present a breathtaking sight; from afar, they resemble a row of horse teeth, while looking up, they appear as if jagged rocks are competing in grandeur and stacked cliffs are vying in beauty, creating a mesmerizing view. This view of Maya Mountain is formed by rock weathering.The summit of Maya Mountain is relatively flat, featuring lush grasslands covered with butter grass in summer and dotted with colorful flowers. Standing here, you can take in the panoramic view of Heaven Lake to the north, while the Bogda Peak to the east and the snow-capped mountains to the south seem within reach. To the west, the farmlands on the outskirts of Urumqi are also clearly visible.Fukang · 40.2km from Urumqi
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
The Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar in Ürümqi's Tianshan District is a favorite destination for visitors of Ürümqi. “Bazaar” is the Persian word for “marketplace”. The architectural style of the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar has a distinctive Islamic design, yet it combines culture, shopping and entertainment. There are many shops selling goods full of distinctive characteristics of the local ethnic population. Visitors can buy all sorts of local Xinjiang specialties such as raisins, dried apricots and essential oils. This is also a one-stop shop for all kinds of Xinjiang delicacies. You can taste nearly every kind of Xinijang fruit, rice pilaf, lamb and more.Urumqi · 5.1km from downtown
Urumqi Tianshan Grand Canyon
Urumqi Tianshan Grand Canyon is located in the northern foothills of the Tianshan Mountains' Tianger Peak, south of Urumqi city, with an average elevation of about 2 km. It is a large mountainous attraction integrating snow-capped mountains, glaciers, forests, grasslands, lakes, and canyons. Nestled deep in the arid inland mountains, the canyon features significant relative elevation differences, showcasing a clear and complete vertical natural zonation from shrub grasslands at the mountain base to ice and snow belts near the snowline. It is often described as "a condensed representation of Xinjiang's natural views, excluding deserts." The attraction consists of several areas: Tianshan Dam leisure zone, Zhaobi Mountain resort and recreation area, Jias Daban sightseeing zone, Swan Lake natural scenic area, Niu Mao Lake forest and pine waves sightseeing zone, Kazakh ethnic culture park, alpine grassland ecological zone, and snow mountain glacier sightseeing area. Two lakes, three waterfalls, four streams, and eighteen valleys connect the main views. At the entrance, Zhaobi Mountain is surrounded by water on three sides, with its pyramid-like steep slopes reflecting in the water on sunny days—a signature scene of the attraction. The high-altitude Swan Lake, known as "lover's tears" for its crystal-clear water, often hosts swans lingering by its shores during summer and fall. East of the lake, Qoya Grassland is dotted with yurts and herds of livestock, where visitors can ride horses into the mountains to experience the nomadic life of Kazakh herders. From the open vantage point of Tianmen viewpoint, both Swan Lake and Qoya Grassland unfold in panoramic views. The valley also preserves vast stretches of pristine Tianshan spruce forests on the northern slopes, with towering emerald-green spruces forming a continuous "sea" along the terrain—a highly distinctive feature of this area. A common round-trip route starts from Zhaobi mountain, goes inward along Tianshan dam, passes Swan lake and reaches Qiaoya grassland. Allowing half a day to a full day makes for a more leisurely visit, and travelers can complete the round-trip from the city in a single day. The mountainous area has high altitude and changeable weather - even in midsummer, the average temperature is only around 20°C, with cooler mornings and evenings, so it's advisable to bring a jacket. The deep valleys along Jingou valley and Wudao'ao area, accompanied by streams, are perfect for travelers who enjoy hiking and photography to slow down and appreciate the scenery.Urumqi County · 11.2km from downtown
Akhal-Teke Horse Base of Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park
Akhal-Teke Horse Base of Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park is located in Urumqi's Liyushan Park. Established in 2005, it spans nearly 300 acres and houses rare ecological resources such as petrified wood, populus euphratica, iron meteorites, grassland stone figures, Przewalski's horses, and Akhal-Teke horses. The site also features the Wild Horse-Silk Road Post cultural theme hotel. These views blend together to form the four core themes of Xinjiang's ancient ecological park: horses, art, gardens, and lodging. Currently, Akhal-Teke Horse Base of Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park has been designated as a "cultural tourism attraction" by the Autonomous Region Tourism Bureau and named a "demonstration base for cultural industries in the autonomous region" by the Autonomous Region Department of Culture.Member unit of Xinjiang Natural Museum AssociationIt is home to the National Ancient Fossil Museum Base and Xinjiang Ecological Civilization Education Base. In June 2016, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization designated Akhal-Teke Horse Base of Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park as a "SCO Cultural Industry Demonstration Base." As such, Akhal-Teke Horse Base of Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park serves not only as a cultural tourism attraction but also as a key hub for cultural exchange along the Belt and Road.Urumqi · 4.5km from downtown
Nanshan Ranch
Nanshan Scenic Area generally refers to the vast mountainous area located in the south of Urumqi, at the northern foot of the Karawucheng Mountain in the northern Tianshan Mountains. It was a hunting area in the Tang Dynasty and a famous pasture in the Qing Dynasty. The snow-capped peaks in the scenic area are towering, the trees are lush, the flowers and plants are everywhere, and there is a strong ethnic minority style. Nanshan Scenic Area is mainly composed of east and west Baiyang Valley, Houxia, Chrysanthemum Terrace, Miaoer Valley and Banfang Valley. In spring and summer, the chrysanthemums on the hillsides are golden, the buttercups and comfreys are in full bloom, the fragrance is overflowing, the bees and butterflies are flying, and the slopes are full of cattle and sheep. Walking on the grassland, you can watch Kazakh performances such as horse racing, sheep chasing, and girl chasing, which is a typical Tianshan grassland scenery. On the Zhongliang Platform on the east side of the Chrysanthemum Platform, there is the Urumqi Observatory, which is in line with the international observation level, and contains the largest radio telescope in my country with a diameter of 25 meters. Alfalfa Terrace in Tuoli Township is surrounded by mountains on three sides, and embraces the meadows. From spring to autumn, more than ten kinds of wildflowers are blooming one after another in the scenic area, with different colors, colorful and beautiful. There are also bubbling springs and wild animals appearing everywhere, showing an attractive primitive style everywhere. Xibaiyanggou is a well-known tourist resort in the Nanshan Scenic Area. In the scenic area, the pine forests are continuous with peaks, the peaks are abrupt, the creeks run through the strange rocks, the villas are hidden in the green forests, and the yurts are scattered. On the open lawn, the wildness is compelling. A clear and sweet mountain stream in East Baiyanggou sings and sings softly, upstream, the breeze blows, and the pine waves surge in the endless forest sea, which is spectacular. When it rains, the mist and rain are misty, like a dream; after the rain, the clouds are steaming and the clouds are splendid, like a poem and picturesque. There is a chrysanthemum terrace in Gangou Township, with a meandering stream at the bottom of the ditch, dense pines in the north and lush green grass in the south. On the flat and wide table, wild chrysanthemums are golden yellow, Zhaosu purple red, and fragrant colors. The cattle and sheep on the slope are decorated with bees and butterflies. Especially, the sunlight casts the shadow of white clouds on the green grass, flowing like water. The movement adds to the scenic spot - the scenery of saying goodbye.Urumqi County · 20.8km from downtown
Guhya Salt Lake
The Salt Lake Chemical plant in Daban city, Urumqi is where the Guhya Salt Lake is situated. The scenic spots in this place comprises of the salt sculpture art groups, baths for the soul, outdoor floats and other tourism projects. It also consists of recreational activities such as cruise ships, go-karts and grass skiing. To explore the lake, the visitors can take a small train from where they can gaze at the amazing scenes of the large salt mining boat of mining the salt. The different shapes of salt flowers can also be observed through the clear lake water.Urumqi · 64km from downtown
Silk Road International Ski Resort
Silk Road International Ski Resort is nestled in the Tianshan Mountains, located in Shuixigou Town of Urumqi County—one of China's first national sports and leisure towns. Conveniently accessible, it's just 58 km from the international airport and 40 km from the train station. As an SSSSS-rated ski resort in Xinjiang, it has earned certification from the International Ski Federation, establishing itself as a premier destination for hosting international competitions in China. In 2016, the resort was selected as the alpine skiing venue for the 13th National Winter Games and hosted its closing ceremony. Recognized by the General Administration of Sport of China, it has been honored with titles including "National Xinjiang Silk Road Sports Training Base" and "Snow Sports Branch of Beijing Sport University's Ice and Snow Sports College." Additionally, it has been awarded "National Sports Tourism Demonstration Base" and "National Sports Industry Demonstration Unit." Silk Road International Ski Resort is located inTianshan Mountain North SlopeNestled in an inverse temperature zone ecological valley at elevations ranging from 1,800 to 3,000 meters, this national AAAA-rated attraction offers a stunning alpine escape. Summers bring lush green meadows, towering pines, and refreshing coolness with average temperatures of 24°C. Winters boast a 90% sunny day rate, pristine powder snow, and abundant winter sports resources in this forest oxygen bar, with average temperatures of -10°C. With PM2.5 levels consistently between 0–4 year-round, it's the perfect destination for summer retreats and winter ski vacations. The Silk Road International Ski Resort spans 1.7 million square meters of ski terrain—China's most expansive ski area—featuring the country's most challenging slopes: #1 Xuanzang Trail, #2 Aven Trail, and #4 Extreme Trail. Its high-capacity lift system transports 9,000 skiers hourly, including an 8-person high-speed gondola that ascends directly to the 2,500-meter summit. This gondola holds the distinction of being China's longest and highest-altitude ski resort cable car with the greatest vertical drop. Silk Road International Ski Resort features a European red pine-built Aven Cabin at the 2,300m summit, along with the Silk Road Ecological Park offering a variety of local snacks, a Chinese cultural hotel, a snow saucer park, a terrain park, a ski service reception hall meeting European standards, and an international brand ski equipment store.Silk Road Cultural Film and Television CityThe resort features supporting facilities such as the Petrified Wood Museum, Meteorite Exhibition Hall, and Populus Euphratica Forest Park. It has been honored as a "China Ski Tourism Resort," one of "China's Top 10 Sports Tourism Attractions," a "National Forest Park Ice and Snow Tourism Model Unit," and a "National Tourism Standardization Demonstration Enterprise," as well as ranking among the "Top 10 Ski Resorts in China." Silk Road International Ski Resort leads the way in year-round tourism with its mountain resort and winter sports offerings, striving to create a smart, four-season travel experience that captivates visitors and establishes itself as an internationally renowned mountain resort destination.Urumqi County · 3.2km from downtown
Hongshan Park
Hongshan Park is an urban mountain park in the center of Urumqi, named after the solitary Hongshan peak within it. The ochre-red mountain rises abruptly among the city's buildings and has long been considered a landmark of Urumqi. Fossils of ancient fish, such as the ancient cod, have even been discovered in its rock strata. The mountain is not high. Climbing the more than 300 sandstone steps, you will be shaded by trees along the way, and it takes about 30 minutes to reach the summit at a leisurely pace. Hongshan Tower stands on the summit. It is a six-sided, nine-story solid brick tower that complements the ochre-red mountain rocks. The platform below the tower offers an expansive view, with the entire Urumqi city area in sight. In the evening, the setting sun makes the mountain look even redder, perfectly matching the park's "Tower Reflecting the Setting Sun" scene. Beside the tower stands a white marble statue of Lin Zexu, who was once exiled to Xinjiang. Halfway up the mountain, you will pass the three-story Distant View Pavilion, built in the style of the Qing Dynasty, which also offers views of the entire city. Walking down the mountain path, you will find the Great Buddha Temple, built into the mountainside, which houses statues of Sakyamuni, Guanyin, and the Eighteen Arhats. Near the South Lake at the foot of the mountain, there are stone arch bridges, zigzag bridges, and a lake pavilion, with an artificial waterfall hanging below the cliff. The Ferris wheel in the park, with a diameter of more than 40 m, is also one of the city landmarks of Urumqi.Urumqi · 2.1km from downtown
Shuimo Valley Scenic Area
Shuimo Valley Scenic Area is located in the eastern part of Urumqi. It consists of five mountains—Qingquan Mountain, Hongqiao Mountain, Shuita Mountain, Wenquan Mountain, and Xuelian Mountain—and the Shuimo River. It is a rare leisure destination in the city where mountains and water meet. The river originates from Longkou Spring, where schools of koi and goldfish are clearly visible in the water, and wild ducks often come here to spend the winter after winter begins. At the entrance, the "Huiying Qingshi" area features a statue of Ji Xiaolan; this talented scholar, who was once exiled to Urumqi, left poems here. The Hanwen Ridge, over 300 m long, features poems about Shuimo Valley by writers throughout history carved onto stone walls, complemented by garden features such as miniature rock paintings and a chessboard square. Qingquan Temple, located on the hillside of Qingquan Mountain, is a major Han Buddhist temple in Xinjiang and attracts crowds of pilgrims during traditional temple fairs. Climbing Shuita Mountain, you can see the "Yipao Chenggong" battery and a statue of Zuo Zongtang, commemorating the battle where the Qing army set up cannons to recover Urumqi. The antique-style white tower on the summit lights up at night; to the east, you can see Bogda Peak, and to the south, you can overlook a panoramic view of the city. The area around the Arrow Pavilion and the arched bridge in the lake district features willows swaying with the sound of orioles in summer and weeping willows covered in rime ice in winter, making it a popular photography spot. The scenic area is quite large, with sightseeing vehicles available for transport within the park, as well as amusement facilities suitable for children, making it perfect for the whole family to explore at a leisurely pace.Urumqi · 3.3km from downtown
Dazhangcheng Bai Shui Jian Ancient Town
Baishui Town, Dabashan City is located at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, at the southern end of the Dabashan Basin. It is the gateway to and from the Tianshan Mountains and the dividing line between southern and northern Xinjiang. It has been a must-pass place on the Silk Road since ancient times. Baishui Town is a wind outlet. There is a local folk song saying: "Dabancheng, Laofengkou, strong and small winds are every day. Small winds bend trees and strong winds fly stones." People joke that the wind here only blows once a year, from winter to spring. Due to the long-term wind in winter, the trees in this area do not grow tall, and the trunks are all tilted to the southeast, forming one of the characteristic "three wonders" of Dabancheng, also known as "saber tree" and "wind direction tree", which is unique. But once summer comes, the strong wind stops. The climate is suitable and the breeze blows. As an important post station on the Silk Road, Baishui Town has related exhibitions such as the Folk Customs Exhibition Hall, Wang Luobin Art Museum, Baishui Post Station, teahouses, stables, etc. There are also imitation Tang Dynasty Western Region style buildings, moats, suspension bridges, beacons, and weapon platforms, which vividly reproduce the majestic appearance of the border military town in the heyday of the Tang Dynasty when "the ancient garrison was built on dangerous terrain, high buildings could see the five cool places, post roads were winding around the roots of the mountains, and the river water flooded the city walls."Urumqi · 80.2km from downtown
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Free things to do in Urumqi
The Xinjiang Museum
Urumqi · 2.7km from downtownXinjiang International Grand Bazaar
Urumqi · 5.1km from downtown
Liyushan Park
Urumqi · 4.1km from downtownHongshan Park
Urumqi · 2.1km from downtownShuimo Valley Scenic Area
Urumqi · 3.3km from downtown
Urumqi Museum
Urumqi · 5.1km from downtown
Urumqi Cultural Center
Urumqi · 5.1km from downtown
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar Pedestrian Street
Urumqi · 5km from downtown
Urumqi Botanical Garden
Urumqi · 8.7km from downtown
People's Park
Urumqi · 3.2km from downtown
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What travellers say about Urumqi
300***9511 October 2026
5.0
We arrived at the scenic area gate at 9:00 AM. The advantage of arriving early was fewer people; there were no queues at all. On the shuttle bus ride, our guide gave a detailed explanation of the classic tour routes. We chose the cable car and the mountain climb. The view of Tianchi Lake from the observation platform, with the distant Bogda Peak, was fantastic.
Tianshan Tianchi
毛哥牛逼9 June 2026
4.0
It's a great place to experience the rich ethnic culture of Xinjiang. The architecture is very unique, and the atmosphere is especially wonderful when the lights come on at night. The food, handicrafts, and song and dance performances are all quite local. If it's your first time visiting Xinjiang, it's definitely worth a visit. However, the area is quite commercialized, and many goods and restaurants are on the expensive side. I suggest you shop around and compare prices before making any purchases. It's better to treat it as a place to experience local culture and take photos.
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
M25***6222 August 2026
5.0
The Tianshan Grand Canyon boasts magnificent scenery, with steep and precipitous reddish-brown cliffs and a deep, winding canyon, showcasing the wonders of nature. Crystal-clear streams flow through the valley, creating a picturesque scene with the rugged rocks. Hiking through the canyon offers both tranquility and a sense of awe. With convenient transportation and excellent facilities, it's an ideal destination for getting close to nature and taking photos, well worth a visit.
Urumqi Tianshan Grand Canyon
gggzj7 October 2026
5.0
It was fantastic! The horses were all very handsome, the shows were varied, and buying a double ticket was even cheaper. You could also visit the stables and feed the horses. It was fun for both adults and children. P.S. The owner is incredibly wealthy!
Akhal-Teke Horse Base of Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park
M27***499 August 2026
5.0
The driver of the new AW9 N 7* was excellent and very patient.
He called ahead to pick everyone up from the hotel, the itinerary was well-planned, he was very responsible, and his driving skills were superb. The car was spacious and comfortable.
The drive to the destination was also very pleasant. We passed a field of sunflowers and he even asked if we wanted to take photos.
Scenery: At this time of year, the grass wasn't as green, more yellow, and there were lambs grazing on the hillsides. The unique scenery was beautiful. The sky was high and the clouds were white, with eagles circling overhead. Luckily, we even encountered some chubby marmots sunbathing along the way!
Value for Money: Overall, I had a great time. There was no forced spending; it was all voluntary!
Nanshan Ranch
M51***2125 October 2025
5.0
The driver was very nice and professional. He also gave us explanations along the way. His driving skills were first-class and the car was clean and tidy. He was attentive to answer our questions from the moment he picked us up to the scenic spot and on the way back. We had a great time! Highly recommended
Guhya Salt Lake
Yujeee4 January 2026
5.0
The night session was fantastic, absolutely amazing! The slopes were long, and the snow quality was great.
I skied a few runs on the intermediate slope to get used to it, then went on two runs on the advanced slope. I finally got to see the Happy Valley I'd been looking forward to – it was so beautiful!
⚠️Note: Happy Valley is on the advanced slope. Before reaching Happy Valley, there are two big hills. Beginners are advised to gently push down the hills or walk down them, as it's easy to fall on those slopes.
Silk Road International Ski Resort
摩羯食杂记16 September 2026
4.0
Hidden in the heart of the city, this park boasts the best sunset viewing platform in Urumqi 😃😃. Unfortunately, the sky wasn't cooperating today, with only dark clouds ☁️☁️. However, the view of Urumqi's city lights from the top was still quite nice 👌🏻👌🏻
Park Tips:
① The park is named for the reddish-brown color of the mountain.
② The Red Mountain Pagoda at the summit, built in the 53rd year of the Qianlong Emperor's reign (1784), is a worthwhile spot for photos.
③ Entry to the park is free, but admission to the Yuanwang Tower requires a fee.
Hongshan Park
YoYo_9H7U5N1A1 September 2026
5.0
Shuimogou is a rare tranquil haven in the city, with babbling mountain springs, lush forests, and ancient temples. The gentle trails are perfect for leisurely strolls and relaxing in the cool air. It's free to visit and offers a great experience, although it can get quite crowded with local tourists during holidays.
Shuimo Valley Scenic Area
Anonymous user5 October 2025
5.0
The order was delivered on time, easy to use, fast and convenient, and overall it was OK. The order was delivered on time, easy to use, fast and convenient, and overall it was OK. The order was delivered on time, easy to use, fast and convenient, and overall it was OK. The order was delivered on time, easy to use, fast and convenient, and overall it was OK.
Dazhangcheng Bai Shui Jian Ancient Town
