Turks

Introducing Tekes

Tekes County is located in northwestern Xinjiang, in the eastern section of the Tekes River Valley, on the upper reaches of the Ili River, and on the Wusun Plateau, the westernmost point of the ancient Chinese Silk Road. "Tekes" means "many wild goats" in Dzungarian, and transliterated from Mongolian as "wild wilderness with abundant water sources."

Its unique "Eight Diagrams" layout truly showcases the mysterious principles of the Eight Diagrams. It is the only complete and formal Eight Diagrams City in China. Tekes County was awarded the "Guinness World Record" for being the "world's largest Eight Diagrams City."

Bagua City is surrounded by Tekes Osaka, Kalajun Grassland and Wusun Mountain. To the west, the Tekes River, which originates from Khan Tengri Peak, known as the "Father of Tianshan Mountains" in Zhaosu County, flows around the city, adding a mysterious beauty of beautiful mountains, lush grass, steep passes and misty waters to Bagua City.

Climate and best time to travel

Tekes has a typical northern temperate continental climate, with no severe cold or heat, no dry heat, and four distinct seasons.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Akkule Lake

This alpine lake is a moraine-dammed cold lake on the northern slope of the Southern Tianshan Mountains. Its water is crystal clear, with a blue-green appearance. Its extremely low temperature causes it to freeze over in winter, creating a smooth, mirror-like surface. Located in the high mountains south of the upper reaches of the Koksu River, the lake offers a cool, fresh air in the summer, and is home to many rare wildlife.

Tekes Grassland

In Tekes and Zhaosu counties west of the Ili Valley in Xinjiang, there are the most beautiful grasslands in Xinjiang. As it has not yet been developed, the Kazakh and Kyrgyz people here have unique customs, beautiful mountains and rivers, and rich cultural heritage.

Tekes Cave Stone Forest

Experts have identified this as Xinjiang's only natural underground limestone cave and the westernmost karst cave in my country. The explored section of the cave is approximately 3 kilometers long, 18 meters wide at its widest point, and only wide enough for one person to crawl through at its narrowest. The stalactites, stalagmites, and stone mushrooms within the cave are mostly milky white and creamy yellow, with a few green and black, creating a dazzling array of shapes and colors.

Recommended play time: 1-2 days

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Most Popular FAQs for Turks

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Turks in Xinjiang, Yili, is an important cultural and historical region in China. It is home to the Turkic-speaking Uyghur people and has a rich history as a key point along the ancient Silk Road. The area is known for its unique blend of Central Asian, Persian, and Chinese cultural influences. It is also significant for its natural landscapes, including mountains, rivers, and deserts.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Turks is located in the Yili region of Xinjiang, western China. The nearest major city is Urumqi, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Turks. There are also flights from Urumqi to Yining, which is close to Turks. Local taxis and buses can take you around within the region.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The opening hours for various attractions in Turks generally range from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is mild. Summer can be hot, and winter can be cold, so it’s better to visit during these more temperate seasons.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees to most tourist attractions range from 20 to 50 CNY. Tickets can typically be bought at the entrance to each site, though some larger tourist sites may allow you to buy tickets online through Chinese travel apps.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

Booking tickets in advance is not typically required for most attractions, but it’s advisable for popular sites like the Tianshan Grand Canyon or guided tours. You can book tickets a few days in advance through local travel agencies or online platforms.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

You will need around 2 to 3 days to explore the main attractions, including the Tianshan Mountains, Yili River Valley, and cultural sites. A day trip to nearby cities like Yining can be added if you have more time.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

Key highlights include the Yili River Valley, the Tianshan Mountains, the Turks Cultural Museum, and ancient mosques. The Tianshan Grand Canyon offers fantastic hiking opportunities and beautiful landscapes.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in Mandarin and occasionally in English. Audio guides are available at certain major attractions such as the Tianshan Grand Canyon or historical sites in the region. It’s recommended to arrange a local guide for the best experience.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

Best viewpoints include the Tianshan Mountain range, especially from the Grand Canyon area. The Yili River Valley offers sweeping views of the plains and mountains. The sunset views from the surrounding hills are also a popular spot for photography.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

A recommended itinerary starts with exploring the historical sites and Uyghur culture in Turks, followed by a hike in the Tianshan Mountains. End your visit with a trip to the Yili River Valley for beautiful natural landscapes.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

There are no regular night visits or light shows in the region, but stargazing is popular due to the clear desert skies. Special tours, such as desert tours or trips to remote villages, can be arranged with local tour agencies.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Turks is generally not as crowded as other major tourist spots in China. The least crowded times are during the shoulder seasons (spring and autumn), especially weekdays. Summer is the peak season, so it can get busier during that time.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most tourist sites have basic facilities like toilets, food stalls, and water. Larger attractions may have cafes or restaurants, and there are souvenir shops selling local crafts. It’s recommended to carry water, especially if visiting during the summer months.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Many attractions are accessible to families with children and elderly visitors, although hiking areas like the Tianshan Grand Canyon may not be suitable for everyone. Some cultural sites and museums are well-equipped for visitors with disabilities.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash (in Chinese Yuan) is widely accepted, but cards and mobile payments (e.g., WeChat Pay, Alipay) are also commonly used, especially in urban areas and larger tourist sites.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a variety of local Uyghur restaurants serving dishes such as lamb skewers, hand-pulled noodles, and pilaf. Cafes and smaller eateries are also available in the town center.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, most of the food options in Turks are halal due to the large Uyghur Muslim population. Vegetarian dishes are also available, including vegetable stews, flatbreads, and salads.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range hotels and guesthouses near the main tourist attractions in Turks. For a more luxurious stay, you can find resorts and hotels in nearby Yining or Urumqi.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

Nearby attractions include the city of Yining with its beautiful landscapes, the Ili River, and the nearby city of Urumqi with the famous Heavenly Lake. A trip to the Tianshan Mountains or the Sayram Lake can also be combined in a day trip.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Yes, there are souvenir shops selling traditional Uyghur crafts such as carpets, silk fabrics, pottery, and jewelry. The region is also known for its dried fruits and nuts, which make for great souvenirs.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

After visiting Turks, you can travel to Yining by bus or taxi for more sightseeing. To continue to other major cities like Urumqi or Kashgar, you can take a flight or use high-speed rail and buses for longer distances.