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The Baisha Mountain Desert Scenic Area, located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, offers visitors a glimpse into the vast desert. While the area is relatively small, it offers a variety of recreational activities, such as dune buggies, sandboarding, and sand scooters, offering a unique experience for visitors, especially those from mainland China. Standing atop the sand dunes, you can gaze out across the Gobi Desert in the distance, with nearby oases. The unique landscape of the Baisha Mountain Desert, a unique Xinjiang destination, attracts a large number of tourists for both recreation and sightseeing.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Next door, Baisha Mountain, 1-3 hours
Baisha Mountain Desert Scenic Area is renowned for its unique desert landscape, which contrasts sharply with the surrounding mountain terrain. It holds historical significance as it is located in a region that has been a part of the ancient Silk Road, linking China with Central Asia. The area offers insight into the local culture and the role the desert has played in the development of trade and travel across the region.
Located in the Xinjiang Autonomous Region of China, Baisha Mountain Desert Scenic Area is about 50 km south of the city of Urumqi. The most convenient way to reach the site is by taxi or private car. There are no metro or direct public bus routes, but you can arrange a tour or hire a car for the trip.
The scenic area is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) for mild temperatures. Summer can be extremely hot, while winter offers a chance to experience the desert in a quieter, cooler atmosphere. The area is open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily.
The entrance fee to the scenic area is approximately 50 to 100 RMB, depending on the specific activities you wish to participate in. Tickets can be purchased on-site, and some tour agencies offer packages that include transportation and guided tours. Online ticket purchasing may be available during peak seasons through travel platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not mandatory but recommended during peak seasons (summer and holidays) to avoid long lines or limited availability for special tours. Booking 1-2 days in advance should be sufficient.
A full exploration of the scenic area, including sand dune activities and hiking, typically takes about 4 to 5 hours. If you're interested in visiting nearby ruins or engaging in more in-depth desert exploration, you may want to spend a full day.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some tour operators offering English-speaking guides during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides in Mandarin are also available for some areas of the park.
Night visits are not typical, but the desert at dusk is a stunning sight. Some tours may offer stargazing opportunities or cultural performances at night. However, there are no light shows in the area.
The site can get crowded during holidays, especially in the summer. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays during the off-season (fall or spring).
Basic facilities such as toilets, food stalls, and rest areas are available within the park. You can purchase snacks and drinks, but it's advisable to carry extra water and food during your desert activities. Limited souvenir shops are also available.
The desert terrain may not be suitable for elderly or disabled visitors, especially in the sand dune areas. However, there are accessible paths and viewing areas in the park. It’s important to check with the tour operator for special accessibility arrangements if required.
While mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay are commonly accepted, it’s always a good idea to carry cash, especially in remote areas or smaller stalls that might not accept cards.
There are a few local restaurants near the park offering Xinjiang-style cuisine, including lamb kebabs, pilaf, and other regional specialties. Inside the park, there are food stalls selling snacks and beverages.
Yes, there are halal food options available in the area, as the region is home to a large Muslim population. Vegetarian options can also be found, but it's recommended to check with the restaurant in advance.
There are a few hotels and guesthouses in Urumqi, about 50 km away, where most visitors stay. For a more unique experience, some tour operators offer desert camps or accommodations near the scenic area.
Souvenir shops are available near the park entrance, selling items like desert-themed crafts, traditional Xinjiang textiles, and local snacks such as dried fruits and nuts.
The best option for continuing your trip is to return to Urumqi by taxi or private car. For those traveling to nearby attractions, a private tour or rented vehicle is recommended for convenience and comfort.
