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Hashilegenda Pass offers scenic drives, hiking, and photography. The pass is famous for its breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains and lush valleys. It is ideal for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape. Exploring the area by foot allows visitors to witness local flora and fauna, and capturing the panoramic views from the pass is a must for photographers.
Located in Nileke County, Ili Prefecture, Xinjiang, Hashilegend Pass (Hashilegend means "insurable" in Mongolian) stands at 3,400 meters above sea level, boasting exceptionally steep and treacherous terrain. The winding road takes visitors through deep canyons, offering breathtaking scenery along the way. Hashilegend Pass serves as the dividing line between Ili and Tacheng Prefectures. From the north entrance, visitors can overlook the source of the Kuitun River Grand Canyon in Tacheng, while from the south, they can admire the captivating beauty of the Kashgar River Valley in the Ili Basin.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Ili Basin, Kashgar Valley, 1 day
free
All day
Hashilegenda Pass is an important mountain pass in the Yili region of Xinjiang, providing access to some of the region’s most scenic landscapes. It has historical significance as a trade route and played a key role in connecting various parts of Xinjiang. The area’s rugged terrain and unique geography also make it an important site for conservation and biodiversity.
Hashilegenda Pass is located in the Yili region of Xinjiang, about a 3-4 hour drive from the city of Yili. It can be accessed by private car, taxi, or through guided tours. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or booking a tour is the most convenient way to reach the pass.
Hashilegenda Pass is open year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to September, when the weather is warmer and the views are clear. Winter can bring heavy snowfall, making some areas less accessible, though it can offer a beautiful winter landscape for photography.
The entrance fee is typically around 40-60 CNY per person. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the pass entrance, though it’s advisable to check for any online booking options or seasonal price changes. In peak seasons, it’s recommended to buy tickets in advance if possible.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not required, but it is highly recommended during peak tourist seasons, especially in the summer months, to avoid delays or limited availability. A few days in advance should be sufficient.
Visitors typically spend 2-3 hours at Hashilegenda Pass, depending on the activities. If you plan to hike or explore nearby areas, you may want to allocate a half-day or more. For photography enthusiasts, an additional hour or two may be required to capture the stunning landscapes.
The must-see highlights include the sweeping views from the pass, the surrounding snow-capped peaks, and the lush valleys below. The area is also home to various wildlife, and the diversity of plant life makes it an excellent spot for nature walks and photography.
Guided tours are available, typically in Mandarin. It’s recommended to arrange for a guide if you want detailed information about the area, especially since some tours may also include visits to nearby cultural sites or historical landmarks. Audio guides are less common but may be available on request.
The best photography spots are along the main viewing areas on the pass, where you can capture the panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The vantage points offering views of the snow-capped peaks and lush meadows are particularly stunning at sunrise or sunset.
Start your visit by stopping at the main viewpoint to take in the expansive views of the surrounding area. Afterward, take a short hike through the nearby trails that lead to smaller viewpoints and offer up-close views of the flora and fauna. If you are interested in a more extensive visit, consider a guided tour that includes nearby attractions.
Night visits are not typically available at Hashilegenda Pass due to its remote location and lack of infrastructure for nighttime activities. However, during special seasons, there may be photography or nature tours offered at sunrise or sunset to capture the best light conditions.
Hashilegenda Pass can be quite busy during the summer months and public holidays. The least crowded times are weekdays during the off-season (spring and autumn), particularly in the early mornings or later afternoons. Visiting in the shoulder seasons helps avoid the largest crowds.
The area has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no major restaurants or food stalls within the pass area, so it’s best to bring your own food and water. There may be small kiosks selling snacks near the entrance or popular stops along the pass.
The pass is accessible to elderly visitors and children, but some areas may require a short walk or climb to reach the best viewpoints. For disabled visitors, it may be challenging to access certain parts of the pass, particularly the hiking trails, as the terrain can be rugged.
Cash is accepted at the entrance, but mobile payment methods like WeChat Pay and Alipay are also widely used in the region. It’s recommended to carry some cash as a backup in case of issues with mobile payments.
There are limited dining options inside the pass area. Nearby towns like Yili have a variety of restaurants offering local Xinjiang cuisine, including lamb dishes, pilafs, and naan. It’s recommended to plan meals before heading to the pass or pack food for the trip.
Halal food is widely available in the region, particularly in nearby towns. Xinjiang cuisine offers various meat-free dishes, though options may be more limited on-site. It’s best to check restaurants or bring vegetarian-friendly snacks.
There are several accommodations in Yili and Zhaosu County, located about a 3-4 hour drive from the pass. These areas offer a range of guesthouses, hotels, and local inns. For a more rustic experience, you can also stay in smaller accommodations near the pass or in nearby towns.
Nearby attractions include the Zhaosu Tianma Cultural Park and the Yili River. The region also has several scenic spots and cultural landmarks that are worth visiting, making it easy to combine the Hashilegenda Pass visit with other attractions in a day trip.
Souvenir shops around the area typically sell local handicrafts such as textiles, jewelry, and woven goods. You can also find products made from local ingredients like honey and dried fruits. Traditional Xinjiang items such as carpets and spices are also popular souvenirs.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are private car or taxi. You can hire a car or arrange for a guided tour that continues to nearby attractions. Public transportation is limited, so it’s best to rent a car or travel by taxi if you're planning to explore further.
