Kurdnin

Introducing Kurdnin

Kurdening is located in the eastern mountainous area of ​​Gongliu County. Kurdening Ecological Tourism Area is located in the eastern mountainous area of ​​Gongliu County. It is a wide valley running from north to south, about 14 kilometers long and 1 kilometer wide. The average altitude of the valley bottom is 1,500 meters. Usually, most ravines flow down the mountain, but this wide valley is parallel to the snow-capped mountains.

Kurdenin is surrounded by mountains, crisscrossed by rivers, crisscrossed by ravines and ridges, and interwoven with grasslands and forests. It combines the graceful beauty of Jiangnan's mountainous countryside with the vastness and ruggedness of grassland scenery. The scenic area boasts spruce forests, a rare resource per unit area, a diverse animal species, and captivating scenery, making it a renowned scenic spot and summer resort.

Tikkaragayi Forest Sea is one of Kurdenin's most scenic spots. Spruce trees grow thickly on the steep, wall-like mountains, towering tall and reaching the sky. Watching the sunrise over the forest in the early morning is a breathtaking spectacle; watching the sunset over the forest at dusk, the mountains are bathed in crimson, the forests ablaze with color.

Climate and best time to travel

There is no summer here all year round, making it a great place to relax and escape the heat.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

The scenic spots in the area include Tikkala Gayi Forest Sea, Hecang Canyon Waterfall, Hecang Pass, Kurdening Grassland, etc.

Recommended play time: 1 day

Tickets

60 yuan/person

Attraction opening hours

Open from April 20th to October 15th every year, 9:00-20:00

You can enter at other times, but there may not be any reception services such as catering and accommodation.

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Most Popular FAQs for Kurdnin

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

Kurdnin is a natural area in Yili valued for its ecological diversity, pristine landscapes, and insight into Xinjiang’s mountainous terrain and Kazakh heritage.

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

Located near Yining in Xinjiang. Accessible by taxi or private car; hiking is required to explore the trails.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Best visited from May to September for mild weather and clear trails.

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

Entrance fees are low, around 20–30 CNY. Tickets are purchased at the entrance; online booking is uncommon.

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

Advance booking is usually unnecessary except during peak summer weekends.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

2–4 hours for main trails; longer if exploring side paths or resting at scenic spots.

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

• Mountain viewpoints with panoramic vistas
• Rivers, valleys, and small waterfalls
• Forest clearings and wildflower areas
• Nearby Kazakh villages

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

Guided tours are rare and usually in Chinese; audio guides are not available.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Trail peaks
• River and waterfall sections
• Forest and wildflower clearings

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the trailhead, follow the main path through key viewpoints and rivers, rest at designated spots, then return to the entrance.

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

Night visits are not recommended; no light shows or special tours exist.

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

Least crowded on weekdays; weekends and summer holidays are busier.

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

Basic toilets and rest areas are available; food and shops are limited—bring water and snacks.

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

Moderately challenging trails; not suitable for wheelchairs. Elderly and children should take precautions.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred; mobile payments may be limited in remote areas.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Small local restaurants near the trailhead serve Xinjiang cuisine and tea.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food is widely available; vegetarian options are limited.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations are mainly in Yining city; limited options near the trailhead.

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

• Nalati Grassland
• Huiyuan Ancient Town
• Yining River and surrounding parks

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Few shops nearby; souvenirs include local crafts, dried fruits, and Kazakh wool items.

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

Taxis or private cars to Yining city; buses connect to other Xinjiang destinations.