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Located in Jimunai County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, the Jimunai Divine Stone City Geopark is a winter pasture in Tost Township, covering a total area of 68 square kilometers and situated at an altitude of 1,148 meters. It is a unique steppe stone city. Once the grazing grounds of Prince Irene, the Jimunai Divine Stone City Geopark is steeped in Kazakh steppe culture, with its magnificent, bizarre rock formations dotting the hillsides and ridges. Also known as the Earth's Museum of Strange Stones, the park boasts a diverse array of unique stone shapes, including lifelike depictions of animals and humans.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Winter pasture, 1-3 hours
All day
Jimunai Shenshicheng Geopark is renowned for its unique desert landscape, shaped by millions of years of geological processes. The park showcases distinctive red rock formations, canyons, and striking desert views, making it an essential location for geology enthusiasts and nature lovers.
The park is located in Jimunai County, Xinjiang, in the western part of China. To get there, visitors typically travel by car or taxi from nearby cities such as Urumqi. Public transportation options are limited, so hiring a private vehicle or joining a tour is recommended for convenience.
The park is open year-round, but the best time to visit is during the spring and autumn months when the weather is milder. Early mornings or late afternoons offer the best light for photography and less crowded conditions.
The entrance fee varies depending on the tour and activities. On average, tickets cost around 60-80 RMB. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the park entrance or through local tour operators.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary for individual visits, but it is recommended if you plan to join a guided tour or visit during peak tourist seasons. Booking at least 1-2 days in advance is ideal.
Exploring the park and its main attractions typically takes 2-3 hours. If you plan to hike or explore more remote parts of the park, you may want to allocate a full day for your visit.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin and sometimes in English, depending on the tour provider. Audio guides may be available on request, but it’s best to confirm in advance.
Night visits and light shows are not available. The park is best visited during the day, with sunset being a particularly popular time for photography.
The park is not typically crowded except during peak holiday seasons. To avoid crowds, it is best to visit during weekdays or in the off-season months, especially in spring and autumn.
The park has basic facilities including toilets and rest areas. There are no large shops or extensive dining options, so it's advisable to bring snacks and water with you.
The park's main trails and viewpoints are generally accessible, but some of the terrain may be uneven. Elderly visitors and those with mobility challenges should take caution when exploring certain areas.
Cash is accepted, but mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are more commonly used, especially for entrance fees and small purchases.
There are a few small local eateries near the entrance, offering traditional Xinjiang food like lamb kebabs and pilaf. For a wider selection, you can visit Urumqi or nearby towns.
Halal food options are widely available due to the local Muslim population. Vegetarian and vegan options may be more limited but can still be found in the area.
There are a few basic guesthouses and hotels in nearby towns like Jimunai or Urumqi. For more luxurious options, you may need to travel to Urumqi.
There are small souvenir stalls selling local handicrafts, textiles, and food items like dried fruits and nuts. Popular souvenirs include Uyghur carpets, traditional jewelry, and spices.
After visiting the park, the best option for continuing your trip is by private car or taxi back to Urumqi. Alternatively, you can explore nearby attractions like Heavenly Lake by arranging a local tour.
