Glacier No. 1

Introducing Glacier No. 1

Glacier No. 1, located in Urumqi County, Urumqi, Xinjiang, nestles in the Tianger Mountains and is the world's closest glacier to a major city. Known as a "living fossil of glaciers," it is my country's best location for observing and studying modern glaciers and ancient glacial relics. Home to over 150 modern glaciers of varying sizes, the glacier also boasts well-preserved ancient glacial relics. It serves as the source of the Urumqi River. Here, the pale blue, crystal-clear Silver Waterfall resembles Snow White's fairytale palace. Marmots roam the surrounding cliffs, offering visitors a glimpse into the unique landscape of the Tianshan Mountains' vertical landscape belt.

Climate and best time to travel

Temperate continental climate, summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Urumqi River, Tianger Mountain, 1-3 hours

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

---

Most Popular FAQs for Glacier No. 1

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

Glacier No. 1 is part of the Tianshan Mountains near Urumqi and is the closest glacier to a major city in China. It serves as a key site for glaciology studies and environmental research, highlighting the region's unique alpine ecosystem and climate significance.

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

Located about 50 km east of Urumqi city center in the Tianshan Mountains. Access is via taxi, private car, or organized tour buses. Public transportation options are limited.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM. Best visiting months are June to September when the weather is milder and snow coverage allows easier access to viewing areas.

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

Tickets cost around ¥60–80 per person, with additional fees for cable car rides. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or online through official tourism platforms or travel apps.

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

Advance booking is recommended during peak summer months, ideally 3–7 days before visiting, especially for cable car access.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

3–5 hours are sufficient to take the cable car, walk along glacier viewpoints, and explore nearby alpine meadows.

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

• The glacier itself with visible ice flows and crevasses.
• Observation decks for panoramic mountain views.
• Alpine meadows and small glacial streams surrounding the glacier.
• Ice caves and snow formations (accessible via guided walks).

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

Guided tours are available mainly in Chinese. Some tour agencies provide English-speaking guides. Audio guides are generally not offered.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Cable car stations for panoramic shots of the glacier and surrounding peaks.
• Observation decks along the glacier trail.
• Alpine meadows for foreground scenery with glacier in the background.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Take the cable car to the glacier top, walk along the designated viewing paths, visit ice formations and observation points, explore nearby meadows, then return via cable car or trail.

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

No regular night visits or light shows are available. Special environmental or educational tours may be arranged by local agencies upon request.

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

Weekdays and early mornings are less crowded. Peak crowds occur on summer weekends and during public holidays.

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

• Public toilets at entrance and cable car stations.
• Snack stalls and small restaurants at base stations.
• Rest areas with benches along trails.
• Souvenir shops at the entrance area.

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

Base areas and cable car access are suitable for elderly and children. Some glacier trails may be challenging for disabled visitors.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) are widely accepted; cash is occasionally needed at small stalls.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

• Base station restaurants offering Xinjiang cuisine and snacks.
• Small cafes near parking areas and tour starting points.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food is common; vegetarian options are limited but may be available at larger restaurants near the base station.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

• Hotels and guesthouses in Urumqi city, 50 km away.
• Small mountain lodges near the base station for overnight stays.

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

• Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) Scenic Area.
• Red Hill (Hong Shan) in Urumqi city.
• Urumqi Nanshan Scenic Area for alpine hiking and forests.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

• Glacier-themed postcards, keychains, and snow globes.
• Xinjiang local crafts and dried fruits sold at base station shops.
• Mineral and rock souvenirs from the Tianshan region.

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

Return by taxi, private car, or organized tour bus to Urumqi city or nearby attractions such as Tianchi Lake or Nanshan Scenic Area.