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Tielimaiti Pass is known for its stunning natural beauty, with vast grasslands, rolling hills, and scenic views of the surrounding mountains. Visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and exploring the area’s diverse flora and fauna. It’s also a great place to experience local Mongolian culture and traditions.
Tielimaiti Pass, located in Hejing County, Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, sits at an altitude of over 3,200 meters. It serves as the watershed between northern and southern Xinjiang and the final barrier on the Duku Highway. Tielimaiti Pass is where National Highway 217 meets the main ridge of the Harketawu Mountains in the Tianshan Mountains. The snow on either side of the road is palpable, completely shielding the scorching July sun. After crossing the pass, one enters a long tunnel made of cement and rock, surrounded by towering and steep mountains, creating a breathtakingly scenic highway.
Temperate continental climate, summer
Tianshan Mountains, 3 hours
free
All day
Tielimaiti Pass has historical importance as a major transportation route across the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang. It played a crucial role in facilitating trade and travel between different regions, particularly during the Silk Road era. The pass is also notable for its natural landscapes and cultural significance to local Mongol communities.
Tielimaiti Pass is located in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang. It can be accessed by car from Korla, which is approximately 100 kilometers away. There are no metro or bus services directly to the pass, so driving or hiring a taxi is the most practical option.
Tielimaiti Pass is open year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild and the scenery is most vibrant. Summer can be hot, while winter is cold and may have snow, making access more difficult.
There is no official entrance fee for visiting Tielimaiti Pass. However, some local tours and guided activities may charge a fee. Tickets for these tours can typically be purchased offline through local tour operators in Korla or other nearby cities.
Booking tickets in advance is not required, but it is advisable to book tours ahead of time, especially during peak travel seasons (summer and holidays), to ensure availability.
A visit to Tielimaiti Pass typically takes 2 to 3 hours, allowing time to explore the pass, take photographs, and enjoy the natural surroundings. For those interested in hiking or taking part in longer tours, you may need 4-5 hours or more.
The main highlight of Tielimaiti Pass is the stunning panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and grasslands. Visitors should also check out the scenic spots along the pass, including a few local Mongolian villages and traditional yurts, which offer insight into the region’s culture.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, with some operators offering tours in English. Audio guides may not be widely available, so it’s recommended to hire a guide if you need information in other languages.
The best viewpoints are along the main pass where the Tianshan Mountains and vast grasslands stretch out. There are several spots along the route where you can capture breathtaking shots of the surrounding landscape, especially during sunrise or sunset.
The recommended route is to start at the entrance of Tielimaiti Pass and travel through the pass, stopping at various scenic viewpoints along the way. A guided tour often takes you to key spots like Mongolian villages and panoramic mountain overlooks. Be sure to take time to photograph the natural beauty at each stop.
Night visits are not available at Tielimaiti Pass as it is a natural attraction with no special nighttime lighting or shows. It is recommended to visit during the day to fully enjoy the views and natural beauty.
Tielimaiti Pass is less crowded compared to other popular tourist destinations in Xinjiang, but it can get busy during the summer months and public holidays. The least crowded times to visit are during the weekdays in spring and autumn when local tourists are fewer.
Basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas are available along the route. There are no large restaurants or shops, so visitors should bring their own water and snacks. Local vendors may sell snacks near the pass.
Tielimaiti Pass is accessible for elderly visitors and children, though some parts of the terrain may be challenging. It is best to consult with tour operators to see if specific areas of the pass are wheelchair-friendly or require more strenuous walking.
Cash is recommended for any small purchases or local interactions at Tielimaiti Pass, as not all vendors accept cards or mobile payments. It’s a good idea to carry cash, especially if you plan to buy snacks or souvenirs.
There are no formal restaurants or cafes at Tielimaiti Pass itself. However, visitors can find food in nearby towns like Korla, where a variety of local Xinjiang restaurants offer traditional dishes such as lamb skewers and pilaf.
Halal food is commonly available in Xinjiang, particularly in the nearby towns of Korla. Many restaurants serve traditional Uyghur and Mongolian dishes, including options for vegetarians and vegans.
There are several hotels in Korla, about 100 km from Tielimaiti Pass, ranging from budget to mid-range. Visitors looking for a more rustic experience can also find guesthouses or yurts in nearby Mongolian villages.
Other nearby attractions include the Taklamakan Desert, Karez Irrigation System, and the ancient city of Loulan. These sites can be combined into a day trip for those interested in exploring the region’s cultural and natural heritage.
There are no large souvenir shops at Tielimaiti Pass, but small local vendors may sell handmade crafts and Mongolian-style items like jewelry, wool products, and traditional clothing. It’s a good place to pick up unique local handicrafts.
The best transportation option to continue your trip after visiting Tielimaiti Pass is by car or taxi. Visitors can return to Korla for further travel by train, bus, or plane, depending on their destination.
