Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Ürümqi, Xinjiang, China

1. Tianshan Grand Canyon

A breathtaking canyon with colorful cliffs and hidden oasis, offering unique hiking experiences.

Natural Beauty: Features striking landscapes unlike any other canyon in China.
Off-Grid Adventure: A remote location providing an authentic escape from the city.
Hidden Oasis: Contains secluded oasis, perfect for a refreshing break during hikes.

A remote lake with pristine waters and incredible sunsets, surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Natural Wonder: Boasts stunning natural beauty that is not to be missed.
Remote Location: Located far from the city, providing a tranquil escape.
Sunset Views: Offers breathtaking sunset views over the snow-capped mountains.

An ancient underground irrigation system that dates back to the Han Dynasty.

Historical Significance: Provides a fascinating glimpse into Ürümqi's rich history.
Engineering Marvel: Demonstrates the ingenuity of ancient civilizations.
Irrigation System: Still functioning today, supplying water to farms and towns.

An ancient city dating back to the Gaochang Kingdom, showcasing Buddhist architecture.

Historical City: Offers insights into the Gaochang Kingdom's culture and history.
Buddhist Architecture: Features well-preserved Buddhist temples and structures.
Desert Setting: Set amidst the desert, providing a unique and picturesque backdrop.

A 13th-century minaret that stands as a testament to the region's rich Islamic history.

Islamic History: Highlights the influence of Islam in Ürümqi's history.
Architectural Wonder: Features intricate designs and beautiful craftsmanship.
Photo Opportunities: Offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

A sprawling grassland with grazing livestock and picturesque mountain vistas.

Natural Scenery: Features stunning natural beauty and wide-open spaces.
Cultural Experience: Provides an opportunity to interact with local nomadic herders.
Off-Road Adventure: Offers a unique off-road driving experience through the grassland.

A vast desert with unique rock formations and sand dunes that can be explored on a camel trek.

Natural Landscape: Offers a chance to explore one of China's lesser-known deserts.
Camel Trekking: Allows visitors to experience desert travel in traditional fashion.
Stargazing Opportunities: Provides excellent opportunities for stargazing at night.

A sea of flowers that bloom in the spring, creating a vibrant and colorful landscape.

Natural Beauty: Offers a stunning display of nature's beauty during the blooming season.
Seasonal Attraction: Blooms for a limited time each year, providing a unique opportunity to visit.
Photo Opportunities: Provides ample opportunities for stunning photos and memories.

A Buddhist monastery located in the remote mountains, known for its tranquil atmosphere.

Tranquil Setting: Offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of Ürümqi.
Buddhist Culture: Provides insights into Tibetan Buddhism and its practices.
Hiking Opportunities: Surrounded by beautiful mountains, ideal for hiking enthusiasts.

A vast grassland with nomadic herders and stunning mountain views.

Nomadic Culture: Offers an opportunity to learn about the life of local nomads.
Stunning Scenery: Features picturesque mountains and vast grasslands.
Off-Road Adventure: Provides a unique off-road driving experience through the grassland.

A planned city modeled after Soviet architectural style, showcasing unique urban design.

A beautiful alpine lake located in the Tian Shan Mountains, surrounded by glaciers.

Alpine Beauty: Features stunning alpine scenery with glaciers and mountains.
Natural Wonder: Boasts a breathtaking natural setting unlike any other destination.
Photo Opportunities: Provides ample opportunities for memorable photos.

A forest park with diverse flora and fauna, including rare species of birds.

Natural Diversity: Features a variety of plants and wildlife.
Hiking Opportunities: Offers hiking trails through the dense forest.
Wildlife Spotting: Provides opportunities to spot rare bird species in their natural habitat.

An abandoned city that was once a booming mining town, now eerily silent and deserted.

Abandoned City: Offers a glimpse into the past when it was a bustling town.
Historical Insights: Provides insights into the mining industry and its impact on the region.
Photo Opportunities: Offers unique photo opportunities in this eerie, abandoned setting.

A beautifully-designed mosque with intricate carvings and a peaceful atmosphere.

Religious Significance: Holds religious and cultural significance for the local Muslim community.
Architectural Marvel: Features stunning carvings and craftsmanship.
Peaceful Atmosphere: Provides a tranquil environment for reflection and prayer.