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Located in Barkol, Hami Prefecture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, the Strange Rock Mountain boasts a unique shape that evokes awe at nature's uncanny craftsmanship. Strange Rock Mountain is dotted with small, diversely shaped grottoes, and several peaks are riddled with holes from summit to base. Some are known as Honeycomb Cliffs, others as Thousand Buddha Caves, Ten Thousand Buddha Niches, or Thousand Cave Cliffs. Honeycomb-like patterns on the mountain's peaks create lines resembling the texture of a sheep's belly, each creating a unique visual impact and experience. Famous attractions include "Mirror Spring Susu Moon" and "Honeycomb Cliff," which attract tourists.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Mirror Spring, Moonlight, Honeycomb Cliff, 1 hour
10 yuan
All day
The Hami Strange Rock Mountain is famous for its uniquely shaped rock formations, which have been shaped by years of natural erosion and geological processes. These formations have captured the interest of geologists and nature enthusiasts alike. It is a popular natural landmark in the Hami region of Xinjiang, offering a window into the area's rich geological history.
The Hami Strange Rock Mountain is located on the outskirts of Hami city in Xinjiang, China. Visitors can reach the site by taxi or private vehicle from Hami city center. It is not easily accessible by public transport, so a car rental or guided tour is recommended.
The site is generally open all year round, with visiting hours from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. The best times to visit are in spring or autumn when the weather is mild, and the scenery is particularly striking.
The entrance fee is usually around 20 to 30 RMB. Tickets can typically be purchased on-site, but it’s advisable to check with local tour operators for any updates on availability or changes to pricing.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary unless you are part of a large group or wish to arrange a guided tour. For individuals, purchasing tickets at the site is sufficient.
A visit to the Hami Strange Rock Mountain typically takes about 2 to 3 hours, depending on how much time you spend exploring the area and taking photographs.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some guides may speak basic English. It is recommended to book a guide in advance if you require assistance in languages other than Mandarin.
The best viewpoints are along the hiking paths, where you can capture the full scale of the strange rock formations. Sunrise and sunset provide the best lighting for dramatic photographs.
Start at the main entrance and follow the marked trail around the rock formations. The path provides various vantage points for photos and allows you to explore the area’s unique geological features.
Night visits and light shows are not available at this attraction. Visitors should plan to visit during daylight hours for the best experience.
The site is generally not crowded, especially on weekdays. Weekends may see more visitors, particularly from local tourists. Early mornings are typically quieter.
Basic facilities, including restrooms, are available at the site. However, there are no food stalls or shops directly on the mountain, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks and water.
The site may be difficult to navigate for elderly visitors or those with mobility impairments due to rough terrain. Children should be supervised, especially near the rock formations.
Cash is preferred, but some vendors may accept mobile payments like Alipay or WeChat Pay. It’s advisable to carry cash for entry fees and small purchases.
There are no restaurants or cafes at the site itself. Visitors can find local dining options in Hami city, which is about a 30-minute drive from the mountain.
Halal food options are available in Hami city, reflecting the region's ethnic diversity, including Uighur and Hui populations.
There are no souvenir shops directly at the site. However, visitors can find traditional handicrafts, local textiles, and dried fruits in Hami city markets.
