Things to do in Tianshan Mountains
Discover the best attractions and experiences Tianshan Mountains has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore ancient Silk Road towns and enduring ruins that dot the Tian Shan region, revealing former trade routes and oasis civilizations.
Gaochang Ancient City
Silk Road-era fortress ruins near Turpan that once guarded caravans crossing the desert.
Jiaohe Ruins
Ancient city ruins carved into a hilltop plateau, offering a glimpse of early oasis settlements.
Karez Irrigation System
An ancient underground water network that brought life to desert towns along the oasis belt.
Museums
Learn about Xinjiang’s diverse cultures, empires, and landscapes through curated exhibits and regional artifacts.
Xinjiang Museum
The region’s largest museum with ethnography, archaeology, and Silk Road exhibits.
Turpan Museum
Local collection highlighting Turpan’s archaeology, oases, and ancient trade routes.
Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture Museum
Displays on Kazakh culture, regional history, and steppe life in Ili.
Religious Monuments
visit significant mosques, cave temples, and religious landmarks that reflect Xinjiang’s diverse faith traditions.
Kizil Caves
Ancient Buddhist cave complex with murals carved into red rock cliffs.
Emin Minaret
Iconic minaret in Turpan, a landmark of Silk Road Islamic architecture.
Id Kah Mosque
Major mosque in Kashgar, a central site for regional Muslim community life.
National & Theme Parks
A mix of protected alpine scenery and dramatic canyons that showcase the Tian Shan’s rugged beauty.
Tianshan National Park
Protects eastern Tian Shan foothills with alpine lakes, meadows, and wildlife.
Dushanzi Grand Canyon
A striking canyon with towering rock formations and sweeping viewpoints.
Sayram Lake Scenic Area
Azure highland lake framed by snow-capped peaks, ideal for walks and picnics.
Neighborhoods
Browse lively districts and historic quarters where mountain towns meet modern Xinjiang life.
Urumqi Old Town
Historic core with traditional courtyards, markets, and local life.
Kuqa Old Town
Ancient lanes and architecture reflecting Silk Road influences.
Turpan Old Town
Historic oasis streets with mosques, towers, and centuries of history.
Free Things to Do
Experience the scenery and culture of the Tian Shan without a ticket, from lakeside strolls to stargazing.
Hike the Tian Shan foothills near Sayram Lake
Accessible trails with panoramic mountain and lake views.
Stargaze in the clear Xinjiang skies
Experience high-altitude darkness ideal for astronomy.
Walk the Sayram Lake shore at sunset
Peaceful lakeside paths with dramatic mountain silhouettes.
Gastronomy
Xinjiang cuisine is famous for bold flavors and hearty dishes—great for outdoor enthusiasts and food lovers alike.
Da Pan Ji (Big Plate Chicken)
A crowd-pleasing, spice-kissed chicken dish served with noodles.
Laghman
Hand-pulled noodles with meat and vegetables in a fragrant broth.
Xinjiang Kebabs
Skewered mutton or beef grilled over open flames, smoky and rich.
Naan
Flatbreads baked in clay ovens, perfect for scooping up sauces.
Nightlife
After a day in the mountains, Xinjiang’s night markets and cultural venues offer lively evenings.
Urumqi Night Market
Bustling market with food stalls, entertainment, and local crafts.
Xinjiang Grand Theatre performances
Evening cultural shows featuring Uyghur music and dance.
Entertainment
Cultural performances and venues showcase Xinjiang’s vibrant arts scene.
Uyghur music & dance at Xinjiang Grand Theatre
Traditional performances combining song, dance, and storytelling.
Turpan cultural showcases
Local performances highlighting regional customs and heritage.
Sports
From winter sports to alpine adventures, the Tian Shan area offers active pursuits for all levels.
Tianshan Ski Resort
Snow-filled slopes for skiing and snowboarding.
Tian Shan foothill treks
Day treks and multi-day hikes with spectacular scenery.
Horseback riding near Sayram Lake
Ride through alpine meadows with mountain backdrops.
Off the Track
Get authentic with nomadic life and lesser-known corners of the Tian Shan region.
Nomad camping with Kazakh families near Sayram Lake
Overnight stays with traditional tents and hospitality.
Yurt stays in the Tian Shan foothills
Immersive overnight experiences in traditional yurts.
Photographing Ili River valley vistas
Scenic photoshoots along tranquil riverbanks and mountains.