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Explore the remains of the ancient city walls, visit the ruins of temples and residential structures, and marvel at the archaeological finds that offer insight into the history of the region. Walking tours of the site allow for a deep dive into the city's rich past.
The ancient city of Qiemo, located in Qiemo County, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous County, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, is steeped in mystery. The site, devoid of vegetation and shrouded in desertification, lies at an altitude of 1,273 meters. Qiemo, one of the Thirty-Six Kingdoms of the ancient Western Regions, boasts wind-eroded ground in its central area, along with the remains of several houses and other structures. Excavations have also yielded ancient woolen textiles and corpses. The site is littered with burial chambers, pottery fragments, and bows and arrows, proving it was once a garrisoned city for the Han army. This makes it a sought-after destination for both the general public and adventure enthusiasts.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Loulan Ancient City, Milan Ancient City, 1 hour
All day
Qiemo Ancient City, also known as "Chia Mu" in historical texts, was once a key hub on the ancient Silk Road. It was a bustling center of trade, culture, and religion before it fell into disrepair. The ruins offer a glimpse into the urban planning and architecture of ancient Chinese civilizations.
Qiemo Ancient City is located in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture in Xinjiang. The nearest major city is Korla, from where you can take a taxi or private vehicle to reach the site. Public transport is limited.
The site is open year-round, typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is milder, and the crowds are fewer.
The entrance fee is around 40 RMB. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, as there are no online booking options available for the site.
No, tickets do not need to be booked in advance. They can be bought on-site. However, during peak tourist seasons, it may be beneficial to book in advance if guided tours are required.
A visit typically takes around 2-3 hours, depending on your pace and the level of detail you want to explore regarding the ruins and artifacts.
The most notable features include the well-preserved city walls, the ruins of ancient temples, and the various archaeological sites scattered throughout the area. The remnants of residential structures and the ancient irrigation systems are also significant highlights.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally, English-speaking guides can be arranged with prior notice. Audio guides are not typically offered.
The best photography spots are near the city walls and from elevated points where you can capture the panoramic view of the surrounding desert landscape. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for photos.
Start by visiting the city walls and then make your way to the ancient temples. Explore the residential ruins and archaeological finds before finishing with a walk through the nearby desert to appreciate the vastness of the region.
No night visits, light shows, or special tours are currently available at the site. It is best to visit during daylight hours.
The site is generally not crowded. Weekdays, especially in the early morning, are the least crowded times to visit.
Basic facilities like toilets are available. There are no food or water vendors on-site, so visitors should bring their own supplies. Rest areas are limited, and there are no souvenir shops at the site.
The site has some uneven terrain, but it is accessible for children and elderly visitors who are able to navigate through it. However, there are no specific provisions for disabled access.
Cash is required for entrance fees. Mobile payments like WeChat Pay and Alipay may be accepted in Korla, but not at the site itself, so it’s advisable to carry cash.
There are no restaurants or cafes at the site, but in Korla, you can find several dining options offering local Xinjiang cuisine.
Yes, Xinjiang's cuisine is primarily halal, and there are vegetarian options available in nearby restaurants in Korla.
There are several hotels in Korla, including the Korla Hotel and other mid-range options. These are located about an hour's drive from the ancient city site.
Nearby attractions include the Keriya River, the Loulan Ruins, and the Tomb of the General. These can be easily included in a day trip from Korla.
There are no souvenir shops at the ancient city, but in Korla, you can find traditional handicrafts, dried fruits, and textiles as souvenirs.
After visiting, taxis or private vehicles are the best way to continue your trip. Korla offers bus and train services to other destinations in Xinjiang.
