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Explore the ancient ruins and historical architecture of Luntai Ancient City, walk along its preserved city walls, and visit the cultural exhibits that highlight the region's history. A visit to the nearby desert landscapes is also recommended for scenic views.
Luntai Ancient City is located in Korla City, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Locals call it "Kuiyu Kexiehai'er," which roughly means "City in Ashes." It is a historical relic of Luntai County. Within Luntai Ancient City, a building constructed of large adobe bricks, covering an area of four mu (approximately 1.5 acres), consisted of a main hall and side rooms, but has since burned down. Based on unearthed artifacts, archaeologist Huang Wenbi confirmed that Luntai Ancient City is Luntou City, the capital of the Luntou Kingdom in the Western Regions during the Han Dynasty. This has attracted many adventure enthusiasts and archaeology enthusiasts.
Temperate continental climate, summer
1 hour
free
All day
Luntai Ancient City was an important military and trade hub along the ancient Silk Road. Its ruins reflect the rich history of the region, showcasing architecture from various dynasties and the cultural exchanges that occurred through trade and migration.
Luntai Ancient City is located in Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. The most common way to get there is by taxi or private car from Korla. Public transportation options are limited, so using a private vehicle is recommended.
The site is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The best time to visit is during the spring or autumn months when the weather is pleasant and the crowds are fewer.
The entrance fee is around 30-40 CNY. Tickets can be purchased at the site entrance or through online tourism platforms.
Booking tickets in advance is not strictly necessary, but it is recommended during peak seasons (spring and summer). A day or two in advance should suffice.
It usually takes 1-2 hours to explore the main ruins and surrounding areas. If you plan to take a deeper dive into the history and cultural significance, allocate 3-4 hours.
The main highlights include the ancient city walls, the ruins of traditional buildings, and the exhibits on the history of Luntai and its role along the Silk Road. Don't miss the panoramic views from the old city gates.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and occasionally in English during peak tourist seasons. Audio guides may also be offered in Chinese and English.
The best viewpoints are from the city gates, offering a wide view of the surrounding desert and mountains. The old city walls also provide fantastic framing for photos of the ruins and the landscape.
Start by entering through the main city gate, explore the ruins and walls, then visit the cultural exhibit hall. Finish your visit with a walk around the surrounding desert area for scenic views of the landscape.
Night visits and light shows are not typically offered at Luntai Ancient City. It is best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the historical features of the site.
The site is generally not very crowded, except during Chinese public holidays. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, especially in the off-season (fall and winter).
Basic facilities like public toilets and rest areas are available. There are small shops selling souvenirs and snacks, but there are limited dining options on-site. It’s advisable to bring water and snacks.
The attraction is accessible for elderly and children, but some areas may be challenging for visitors with mobility issues due to uneven terrain and steps. It's recommended to check for accessibility options before visiting.
Mobile payments such as WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted, as well as credit/debit cards. It’s also advisable to carry cash, especially for small purchases or in case of technical issues with mobile payment systems.
There are limited dining options directly near the ancient city ruins. However, in Korla, you will find various restaurants serving Uyghur and Xinjiang cuisine, including lamb skewers, pilaf, and naan bread.
Halal food options are widely available in Korla, given the Uyghur population. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available in some local restaurants.
Accommodation options can be found in Korla, the nearest city. Popular hotels include the Korla International Hotel and the Shanshui Hotel. Both offer comfortable stays and are within a reasonable distance from Luntai Ancient City.
Other attractions nearby include the ancient city of Loulan, Taklamakan Desert, and the Desert Culture Park. These sites can easily be combined in a day trip from Luntai.
Souvenir shops are available, offering traditional Uyghur handicrafts, carpets, and textiles. Local spices, dried fruits, and handmade jewelry are also popular souvenirs.
The best transportation options to continue your trip include taxis and private cars. Public buses and trains from Korla connect to other major cities in Xinjiang, including Urumqi.
