
Baihaba Village is located on the river bank bordering China and Kazakhstan. It is located in Tierekti Township, Habahe County, the northwesternmost corner of China. It is the village with the highest concentration of Tuva people in Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang. It is known as the No. 1 village in western China and one of the eight most beautiful towns in China. The unique national costumes, religious worship and customs of the Tuva people are favored by more and more people.
Baihaba is a village where pristine natural ecology blends with ancient traditional culture. Everything still retains its original style that has existed for hundreds of years. It is mainly inhabited by Tuvans and is located on the valley plain of the Altai Mountains, facing the mountains of Kazakhstan in the distance. The dense golden pine forests on the Altai Mountains extend all the way to Baihaba Village. The wooden houses where the villagers live and the fences for raising livestock are scattered in the pine and birch forests in an orderly manner, creating a peaceful and harmonious atmosphere.
As it is far away from the hustle and bustle, this place has always maintained its ancient and simple folk customs for a long time. The natural scenery here, especially in autumn, is so beautiful that people just want to indulge in it.
Temperate continental climate,
The best time to travel is from August to October
Recommended play time: half a day
Ticket price: 50 yuan,
Kanas to Baihaba shuttle bus: 124 yuan
8:30-19:30
Baihaba is a remote natural area in northern Xinjiang, known for its pristine lakes, dense forests, and multi-ethnic cultural heritage. It represents ecological preservation and showcases traditional Kazakh and Tuva lifestyles.
Located in Burqin County, Xinjiang. Reachable by bus or taxi from Burqin town, followed by local shuttle or walking paths inside the scenic area.
Entrance fees are usually around 100–150 RMB depending on season. Tickets can be purchased online or at the entrance gate.
Booking 1–3 days in advance is recommended during peak season. Low season visitors can often buy tickets on-site.
One to two days are sufficient to explore Baihaba Lake, surrounding forests, valleys, and local villages.
Guided tours are mainly in Chinese. Audio guides are limited; private guides may offer English explanations.
Start at Baihaba Lake, explore viewpoints around the lake, hike nearby trails, and visit local villages. Overnight stays allow sunrise or sunset photography.
Night visits are generally not offered due to remoteness. Special tours may occur during local festivals but are limited.
Peak season (July–September) is crowded, especially on weekends. Visiting weekdays in May or late September is less crowded.
Main viewpoints and village areas are accessible for elderly and children. Some forest trails are uneven; wheelchair access is limited.
Cash is useful in remote areas. Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly accepted at village shops and restaurants.
Halal options are widely available; vegetarian choices are limited but possible in larger guesthouses.
Private cars, taxis, or buses back to Burqin or Altay city. Road connections allow onward travel to Kanas Lake or other northern Xinjiang attractions.