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Hike up to the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding valleys and mountain ranges. Visit the nearby Maya Temple, a cultural and spiritual site offering insight into the local heritage. Adventure enthusiasts can also explore the trekking routes that wind through the mountain’s scenic landscapes.
Maya Mountain, located in Fukang County, Urumqi, Xinjiang, lies within the Tianchi Scenic Area. Its name, meaning "butter mountain" in Kazakh, is the highest of the mountains. From its summit, visitors can admire the distant "Three Peaks of the Sea of Snow." The wind-blown waters of Tianchi Lake shimmer in the distance, while Bogda Peak, the main peak of the eastern Tianchi Mountains, looms large. Combined with the cedar trees on the mountain and the shrubs at its foot, the scenery is breathtaking. Another notable feature of Maya Mountain is its towering cliffs and numerous peaks. From a distance, the jumble of rocks and the overlapping formations create a unique spectacle.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Snow Sea Three Peaks, Tianchi Lake, 1-3 hours
Maya Mountain is known for its natural beauty and the Maya Temple located at its base. It holds cultural and historical significance, being part of the Silk Road region. The area is rich in geological formations and has been an important site for both spiritual and scientific exploration.
The mountain is located outside of Urumqi. To reach it, you can take a taxi or hire a private car from the city center. Public buses may also provide access, but they are less frequent. For the adventurous, walking from the city to the base is possible, but it's recommended to take transport for convenience.
The mountain is open to visitors all year round. The best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months (April to October), when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities like hiking and photography. Winter can be quite cold and snowy, which may limit access.
Entry to Maya Mountain is free, but some parts of the region, like the Maya Temple, may charge a small fee for access. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the temple entrance or any other specific attractions around the mountain.
Booking tickets in advance is generally not necessary, but it’s recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer). For special tours or events, booking 1-2 days in advance is advisable.
Plan to spend around 3 to 4 hours hiking the mountain and visiting the Maya Temple. If you prefer to enjoy a more relaxed visit, including time for photography and sightseeing, you may want to dedicate half a day to the trip.
The must-see highlights include the Maya Temple at the base, the various hiking trails with scenic overlooks, and the panoramic views from the top of the mountain. The surrounding valleys and the unique flora and fauna also add to the beauty of the area.
Guided tours are available, mostly in Mandarin, but some tour operators may offer services in English during the peak tourist season. It's recommended to check with local tour agencies in Urumqi for availability of English-speaking guides.
The summit of Maya Mountain offers the best viewpoints for panoramic shots of the surrounding landscapes. The trails leading up to the top also provide excellent photography opportunities, particularly during sunrise or sunset when the lighting is optimal.
Start your visit at the Maya Temple, then hike up the designated trails to the summit. Along the way, stop at various scenic spots to capture photographs. The summit offers the best panoramic view, where you can rest and enjoy the landscape before heading back down.
Night visits are not common due to the challenging terrain and the lack of lighting along the hiking paths. However, you may find special tours during the peak seasons, including cultural events and religious ceremonies at the Maya Temple.
The mountain can get crowded on weekends and during national holidays. To avoid the crowds, visit early in the morning during weekdays or during the off-peak months of the year (late autumn or early spring).
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available at the base of the mountain near the temple. There are no major shops or food stalls along the trails, so it’s recommended to bring your own water and snacks if you plan to hike.
The base of the mountain, where the Maya Temple is located, is accessible to elderly and children. However, the hiking trails may be challenging for elderly visitors or those with mobility issues. It’s recommended to plan accordingly based on individual needs.
Cash is commonly used in the area, although mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted at the Maya Temple and nearby shops. It’s always good to have some cash on hand for smaller transactions or at places without electronic payment options.
There are no restaurants directly on Maya Mountain. However, several local restaurants offering Xinjiang cuisine are located in Urumqi city, where you can try dishes like lamb kebabs, pilaf, and naan bread before or after your visit.
Yes, there are many halal food options available in Urumqi, including traditional Uyghur dishes such as vegetarian stews, kebabs, and bread. It’s easy to find vegetarian-friendly meals, especially in the city.
Several hotels in Urumqi offer easy access to Maya Mountain, including budget options and mid-range hotels. Some options include the Urumqi Grand Hotel and smaller boutique hotels in the city center.
Nearby attractions include the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar and the Urumqi Museum. These sites can be combined in a day trip to explore the cultural and natural beauty of the area.
Souvenir shops in Urumqi and around Maya Mountain offer a variety of local crafts, including Uyghur carpets, jade jewelry, and mineral samples. You can also find traditional Xinjiang spices and snacks.
Taxi, buses, and private car rentals are the best options for continuing your trip. The city center of Urumqi is well connected by public transport, and taxis are readily available for onward travel to nearby landmarks or the airport.
