
Most Scenic Road Trips in Longba, Gansu, China
1. Tulufan Scenic Highway
Experience the breathtaking desert landscapes and ancient ruins along this highway connecting Turpan and Urumqi.
- Desert Landscapes: Drive through towering sand dunes, rocky cliffs, and vast grasslands.
- Ancient Ruins: Discover ancient Silk Road relics such as Jiaohe Ancient City and Astana Tombs.
- Endangered Flora & Fauna: Spot the rare wild Taklimakan camel, a subspecies native to the Taklimakan Desert.
2. Karakorum Highway
Marvel at the stunning Karakoram mountain range while traversing between China and Pakistan.
- Mountain Peaks: Behold the majestic peaks of Himalayas, Hindu Kush, and Karakorum.
- Cultural Encounters: Experience diverse cultures as you cross through various regions in China and Pakistan.
- Historical Significance: Follow the ancient Silk Road path with stops at legendary sites like Hunza Valley and Gilgit Baltistan.
3. Gaochun Scenic Area
Discover the traditional Hui village of Gaochun with its picturesque canals and farmlands.
- Traditional Architecture: Appreciate well-preserved Uighur mosques, houses, and traditional courtyards.
- Cultural Activities: Learn about local crafts such as paper-making and pottery during your visit.
- Seasonal Beauty: Enjoy the changing scenery, especially during autumn when trees turn vibrant shades of red and gold.
4. Kashgar Ancient City
Explore the historic center of Kashgar with its bustling bazaars and ancient architecture.
- Bustling Bazaars: Experience the hustle and bustle of Central Asia's largest market, selling everything from spices to carpets.
- Architectural Wonders: Discover landmarks such as Id Kah Mosque, Apak Hoja Tomb, and the Old City Wall.
- Cultural Interactions: Meet local Uighur artisans and learn about their customs and traditions.
5. Tianshan Tianchi
Experience the crystal-clear alpine lake nestled among the Tianshan Mountains.
- Alpine Lake: Marvel at the stunning views of the blue lake reflecting the snowcapped mountains.
- Hiking Opportunities: Take a hike to explore the surrounding valleys and glaciers.
- Wildlife Sightings: Spot rare wildlife such as snow leopards and argali sheep.
6. Hami Gaochang Ruins
Explore the ancient city ruins of Hami Gaochang with its impressive tombs and museum.
- Ancient City Ruins: Walk among the remnants of this important Silk Road trading post.
- Tomb Expeditions: Discover ancient tombs, some dating back over 2000 years.
- Museum Insights: Learn about the area's history and cultural artifacts at the Hami Museum.
7. Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) of Xinjiang
Marvel at this stunning alpine lake nestled among the Tianshan Mountains with breathtaking views.
- Alpine Lake: Behold the crystal-clear blue waters reflecting the snowcapped mountains.
- Hiking Opportunities: Take a hike to explore the surrounding valleys and glaciers.
- Wildlife Sightings: Spot rare wildlife such as snow leopards, marmots, and argali sheep.
8. Kumtag Lake Scenic Spot
Discover this picturesque lake surrounded by verdant mountains in the Taklimakan Desert.
- Desert Oasis: Experience a unique desert oasis with lush greenery and crystal-clear waters.
- Cultural Encounters: Meet local Kyrgyz herders and learn about their nomadic lifestyle.
- Seasonal Beauty: Enjoy the changing scenery, especially during summer when the lake is at its fullest.
9. Hami Ancient City Ruins
Explore the ancient city ruins of Hami with its impressive tombs and museum.
- Ancient City Ruins: Walk among the remnants of this important Silk Road trading post.
- Tomb Expeditions: Discover ancient tombs, some dating back over 2000 years.
- Museum Insights: Learn about the area's history and cultural artifacts at the Hami Museum.
10. Korla Lake Scenic Spot
Discover this scenic lake surrounded by verdant mountains and farmlands.
- Lake & Mountain Views: Enjoy the stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
- Seasonal Beauty: Experience the changing scenery, especially during autumn when leaves turn vibrant colors.
- Cultural Encounters: Meet local Uighur farmers and learn about their agricultural practices.
11. Karamay Tianshan Mountain Scenic Area
Discover the beautiful scenery of the Tianshan Mountains with its forests, grasslands, and lakes.
- Mountain Peaks: Behold the majestic peaks of the Tianshan Mountains.
- Hiking Opportunities: Take a hike to explore the surrounding valleys and lakes.
- Wildlife Sightings: Spot rare wildlife such as snow leopards, marmots, and argali sheep.
12. Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture
Experience the Mongolian culture and landscapes in this remote region of Xinjiang.
- Mongolian Culture: Learn about traditional Mongolian customs, architecture, and nomadic lifestyle.
- Grassland Scenery: Enjoy the vast grasslands dotted with colorful yurts.
- Wildlife Sightings: Spot rare wildlife such as Mongolian gazelles and Argali sheep.
13. Turpan Flame Mountain Scenic Spot
Experience the fiery red cliffs and caves of this unique geological formation.
- Geological Marvels: Marvel at the unique red cliffs formed by mineral deposits.
- Cultural Significance: Discover the cultural and historical significance of this area.
- Hiking Opportunities: Take a hike to explore the caves and cliffs.
14. Hami Ancient City Underground Museum
Explore this unique museum built underground showcasing ancient artifacts and tombs.
- Underground Museum: Walk through a labyrinth of tunnels displaying artifacts from ancient Hami.
- Ancient Tombs: Discover ancient tombs and burial sites.
- Archaeological Insights: Learn about the history and culture of this important Silk Road city.
15. Kashgar Old Town
Discover the ancient city center of Kashgar with its bustling bazaars and traditional architecture.
- Bustling Bazaars: Experience the hustle and bustle of Central Asia's largest market, selling everything from spices to carpets.
- Architectural Wonders: Discover landmarks such as Id Kah Mosque, Apak Hoja Tomb, and the Old City Wall.
- Cultural Interactions: Meet local Uighur artisans and learn about their customs and traditions.