Live Your Best Lives
The Kuche Grand Mosque is located in the old city of Kuche, at the highest point of the Black Dun Bazaar, 4 kilometers from the new city of Kuche. It is the second largest mosque in Xinjiang, second only to the Id Kah Mosque in Kashgar. It is said to have been built in the 16th century by Ishaq Uli, the leader of the Black Mountain sect of Islam in Xinjiang, during his stay and missionary work in Kuche from Kashgar.
Originally built as an earthen monastery, it was converted to a wooden structure in the 17th century and destroyed by fire in 1923. The current monastery was built in 1931. It is worth mentioning that to the north of the small mosque lies the prestigious "Religious Court," a product of the integration of religion and politics, and one of the few remaining remains of Islamic judicial institutions in Xinjiang.
The mosque's gatehouse, built entirely of blue brick, stands 18.3 meters tall. Its towering gatehouse and minaret are majestic and imposing. The minaret's columns are carved with Islamic motifs, and its dome-shaped roof resembles the heavens. The prayer hall, covering 1,500 square meters, can accommodate 3,000 people for worship. Sixty-four hexagonal columns arranged in eight rows, adorned with painted patterns, support the magnificent ceiling composed of 102 checkered patterns.
Suitable for all seasons
Recommended play time: 1-2 hours
15 yuan/person
10:30-18:30
Kuche Grand Temple is an important Buddhist temple located in Kuqa, Aksu Prefecture. It dates back over a thousand years and was a major religious center on the Silk Road, reflecting the cultural and spiritual exchanges between China and Central Asia.
The temple is located in Kuqa County, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang. It can be reached by taxi or local bus from Kuqa city center. Walking is required to explore the temple complex itself.
The entrance fee is modest, payable at the site. Tickets may sometimes be available via local travel agencies or online booking platforms.
Advance booking is not generally required, but recommended for large groups or peak seasons, ideally 1–2 days ahead.
About 2–3 hours to tour the temple complex, view the main halls, and visit any exhibitions.
Guided tours are available in Chinese. English or other language guides may be arranged through local travel agencies.
Start at the main entrance, visit the primary prayer halls, explore courtyards and gardens, then finish at exhibition halls or museum areas.
Night visits are not typically allowed. Special cultural tours may be offered with advance booking.
The temple is generally not crowded. Weekdays and off-peak seasons are the least busy times.
Most areas require walking on uneven ground. Elderly and children should be cautious; wheelchair access may be limited.
Cash is preferred for entrance fees and small purchases; some vendors may accept mobile payments.
Restaurants and cafes are limited at the temple; Kuqa city offers more dining options nearby.
Halal food options are widely available; vegetarian or vegan choices may be limited.
Hotels and guesthouses in Kuqa city center provide convenient access for visiting the temple.
Private car, taxi, or local buses are recommended for traveling to other Kuqa area attractions or returning to the city.
