Turpan Karez Folk Park

Introducing Turpan Karez Folk Park

The Turpan Karez Folk Park, located in Gaochang District, Turpan Prefecture, Xinjiang, is a unique water conservancy project in desert regions and the third greatest engineering project in ancient China. The park features the Karez, the Karez Museum, a folk street, a guesthouse, and a vineyard. Turpan's hot, dry climate and frequent strong winds lead to significant evaporation. The Karez consists of four parts: a vertical shaft, a culvert, an open channel, and a reservoir. The construction of the Karez allows water to flow through the culvert, preventing evaporation and significantly conserving water resources. This demonstrates the ingenuity of the ancient working people.

Climate and best time to travel

Continental arid desert climate, summer

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Karez, Karez Museum, Folk Street, 1-3 hours

Tickets

Adult tickets are 40 yuan, children 1.2-1.4 meters tall, seniors 60-69 years old with ID cards or senior citizen cards, and students with student cards are half price, children under 1.2 meters tall and seniors 70 years old and above are free with ID cards or senior citizen cards.

Attraction opening hours

08:00-20:00 (peak season) (Monday to Sunday, April 21st - October 20th)

10:00-18:30 (off-season) (October 21st to April 20th of the following year, Monday to Sunday)

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Most Popular FAQs for Turpan Karez Folk Park

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

The Turpan Karez Folk Park showcases the unique Karez irrigation system, which is a series of underground water channels that have been used for thousands of years to bring water from the mountains to the desert regions of Turpan. This system is vital for the local agriculture and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park provides insight into the ancient methods of water distribution in one of China's driest regions.

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

Turpan Karez Folk Park is located in Turpan, Xinjiang Province, China. The park is about 10 km from the city center. It can be reached by taxi, tour buses, or private car. Public buses to the park are also available from the city center.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The park is typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. The best time to visit is in spring or autumn when the weather is cooler. Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, so visiting in the early morning or late afternoon is advisable.

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

The entrance fee is usually around 40-60 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at the entrance, and there are no significant online booking options for individual visitors.

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

Booking in advance is not necessary for individual visitors. However, for group tours, it is advisable to book tickets ahead of time, especially during peak seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A visit to the Turpan Karez Folk Park usually takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your interest in learning about the irrigation system and exploring the surrounding areas. Additional time may be needed if you plan to visit the nearby attractions.

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

• The underground Karez irrigation channels that have been historically significant to the region.
• The traditional Uyghur houses and cultural exhibits that give insight into local life.
• The exhibition showcasing the techniques of water transportation and the role of Karez in local agriculture.

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

Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and in some cases, English-speaking guides can be arranged in advance. Audio guides may be available in Mandarin for self-guided tours.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Near the Karez channels where you can photograph the underground water system and surrounding landscape.
• The traditional Uyghur houses make for great cultural photography, capturing the essence of local architecture.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start by visiting the main exhibition center to understand the history of the Karez system.
• Walk along the underground channels and learn about their construction and importance in agriculture.
• End your visit by exploring the cultural displays of traditional Uyghur houses.

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

Night visits and light shows are not available. The park mainly operates during daylight hours, so a visit during the day is recommended for a full experience.

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

The park can get crowded during national holidays and the summer season. The least crowded times are during weekdays and in the morning hours, especially during the spring or autumn months.

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

Basic facilities are available at the park, including toilets, water stations, and rest areas. There are small food vendors selling local snacks, but for a full meal, it is better to visit nearby restaurants in Turpan city.

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

The park is fairly accessible for children and elderly visitors, as the walking paths are mostly flat. However, some parts of the underground Karez channels might be challenging for those with mobility issues. It is best to check with the staff for accessibility support before your visit.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is accepted for tickets and purchases at the park, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are commonly used. Credit cards are not widely accepted.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are several small food stalls near the park that serve local snacks. For more dining options, it's best to head back to the city center of Turpan, where you can find a variety of restaurants offering Uyghur and Chinese cuisine.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Halal food is widely available in the area, particularly in Turpan city. Vegetarian options are also available at local eateries.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are a few budget and mid-range hotels in Turpan, such as the Turpan Hotel and the Grand Turpan Hotel, where visitors can stay and easily access the Karez Folk Park. Most accommodations are located within 10-15 km of the park.

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

• The Flaming Mountain, a well-known attraction for its fiery red rocks and historical significance.
• The Jiaohe Ancient City, an ancient city built on a plateau, offering ruins and a glimpse of historical life.
• The Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, a short drive away, offering a rich Buddhist heritage and stunning cave art.

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

There are small souvenir shops around the park selling traditional Uyghur crafts, such as textiles, jewelry, and local pottery. Visitors can also find postcards and other mementos related to the Karez system.

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

After visiting the Karez Folk Park, taxis or private cars are the best options to continue your trip. The park is located about 10 km from Turpan's city center, and buses or taxis are available for further travel.