
The Red Valley Scenic Area is located in Tuoyun Township, Wuqia County, 30 kilometers from the township government and 155 kilometers from Atushi and Kashgar, at an altitude of 3,300 meters. The scenic area features a Yadan landform, a rare mountain landscape in China, sculpted by hundreds of thousands of years of wind and sand.
The unique Yardang landform has created a variety of bizarre mountain shapes in the Red Valley. Some look like mountains, some like various animals, and some like reliefs. The entire scenic area is a beautiful oil painting, which makes people marvel at the wonders of nature.
Wuqia Red Valley is known for its remarkable red sandstone cliffs and unique landscapes. It is an important natural attraction in Xinjiang, offering visitors a glimpse into the geological history of the region. The valley has been shaped by centuries of erosion, making it a perfect spot for nature enthusiasts and photographers.
Wuqia Red Valley is located in Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China. To get there, fly into Urumqi and take a combination of bus or taxi to reach the valley, which is about 400 km away from Urumqi.
The valley is accessible year-round, but the best times to visit are during the spring and autumn months when the weather is mild. The area is particularly stunning at sunrise and sunset when the red hues of the valley come to life. There are no specific opening hours for the valley as it is a natural attraction.
The entrance fee to Wuqia Red Valley is around ¥60. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance or through local tour operators. It is advisable to book tickets in advance during peak seasons.
Booking tickets in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons (spring and autumn). It is best to book at least 1-2 weeks ahead to ensure availability.
You can fully explore Wuqia Red Valley in 2-3 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend hiking, photographing, or relaxing in the area.
Guided tours are available in Chinese and English, with local guides providing insights into the valley’s geology and culture. Audio guides are not commonly available.
Start by hiking up to the main viewpoint for panoramic views of the red rock formations. Then, explore the nearby hiking trails for a closer look at the geological features. Finish the visit by relaxing at a scenic spot and taking photographs during the golden hour.
Night visits are not typically available, and there are no light shows. However, visiting during sunset offers a magical experience as the valley’s colors change dramatically.
Wuqia Red Valley can get busy during national holidays and the peak tourist seasons in spring and autumn. The least crowded times to visit are during weekdays or in the off-season, such as late autumn or winter.
The valley has basic facilities, including public toilets and water stations. There are no food stalls or restaurants inside the valley, so it’s advisable to bring your own food and water. There are rest areas along the hiking trails.
The valley involves some hiking, so it may not be ideal for elderly or disabled visitors. However, children can enjoy the valley with some assistance, as the trails are not very difficult. Be sure to check the accessibility of specific trails before visiting.
Cash is accepted at the entrance for ticket purchases, though mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also commonly accepted.
There are no restaurants or cafes within the valley itself. However, there are dining options in the nearby towns and in Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture.
Vegetarian and halal food options are available in the nearby towns. Xinjiang’s food culture includes a variety of halal dishes due to the predominance of Uyghur culture in the region.
There are several guesthouses and hotels in Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture and the nearby towns. It’s best to book accommodations in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
There are souvenir shops in the nearby towns where visitors can buy traditional Uyghur handicrafts, such as woven rugs, textiles, and jewelry. There are also local products like dried fruits and spices.
After visiting Wuqia Red Valley, you can take a taxi or bus back to Urumqi, from where you can continue your journey by train, flight, or bus to other parts of Xinjiang or China.