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Explore the stunning red stone formations, take photos of the unique landscapes, and enjoy short hikes through the rocky terrain. It's a perfect spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.
The Kizil Red Stone Forest Scenic Area in Baicheng County is located in Kizil Township, Baicheng County. It can be reached by a 20km gravel road north of the Kizil Township section of the Ku-Bai 307 Provincial Highway. The scenic area is 70km west of Baicheng and 60km southeast of Kuqa City.
Geographical coordinates: 81°52′16″ East longitude, 41°47′34″ North latitude, 1300m above sea level.
The Kizil Red Stone Forest Scenic Area is located in the Dishan Hilly Area between the Baicheng Basin and the Heiying Mountains to the northeast. The terrain, with its elevation rising in the north and falling in the south, covers a total area of approximately 6.2 square kilometers. The terrain is composed of a network of gullies and valleys, intersected by ridges, terraces, and isolated hillocks, formed by erosion, wind erosion, and water flow. The elevation differences between the hillocks, terraces, ridges, and valleys vary, generally ranging from 2 to 35 meters. The width of the valleys varies greatly, ranging from 100 to 350 meters in width to 10 to 50 meters in narrow gullies.
The valley is steep and sloping. The lithology is mudstone, sandstone and conglomerate of the Upper Tertiary System, and the colors are mainly brown-red, yellow-green, gray-green and ginger-yellow.
Located in an arid region with little rainfall and high winds, the area has exposed rocks. Heavy rains and strong winds have eroded the rock layers, creating various shapes, including those of a man, a turtle, a camel, and a carp. Strong winds create all sorts of strange noises in the valley, often described as the howling of ghosts. This imbues the landscape with a mysterious and terrifying quality. All of this is a masterpiece of nature.
The Kizil Red Stone Forest is a geological wonder featuring vibrant red rock formations. It's an important site for studying the erosion patterns and natural history of Xinjiang. The area also holds historical significance as it has been a part of ancient trade routes.
Located near the city of Aksu, Xinjiang, the Red Stone Forest can be reached by taxi or private car. There are no direct public transportation options, so taxis or guided tours are recommended for visitors.
The site is open year-round from 9 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring and autumn when the weather is cooler, and the landscape is particularly beautiful with vibrant colors.
The entrance fee is approximately ¥30-¥50, which can be purchased on-site at the entrance. There is no online ticketing available for this attraction.
Booking in advance is not required as the site is not usually crowded. However, if visiting during peak tourist seasons, it's advisable to check for availability or secure a spot through a local tour agency.
A visit typically takes 1-2 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend exploring the trails and taking photos.
The standout feature of this site is the breathtaking red rock formations. Be sure to visit the central part of the forest, where the rocks are most vivid, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer services in English with prior arrangement. Audio guides are not typically provided.
The best viewpoints are from elevated spots within the forest that offer a panoramic view of the entire area. Sunrise and sunset offer the best lighting for capturing the vibrant red hues of the rocks.
Start by entering the central area and exploring the rock formations. Then, take the hiking trails that lead to higher vantage points for the best views. Spend time taking photos before heading back to the entrance.
Night visits and light shows are not available at the Kizil Red Stone Forest. The attraction is typically visited during daylight hours.
The Red Stone Forest is usually not crowded, making it ideal for a peaceful visit. Weekdays and off-peak seasons are the least crowded times to visit.
The site has basic facilities, including toilets and water stations. There are no food shops or restaurants at the location, so it's advisable to bring your own snacks and water.
The terrain at Kizil Red Stone Forest can be uneven and rocky, which may make it difficult for elderly or disabled visitors to navigate. However, children can explore the site easily with supervision.
Cash is generally required for ticket purchases. Mobile payments such as Alipay and WeChat Pay may be accepted, but it is recommended to carry cash just in case.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly within the Red Stone Forest. However, nearby towns such as Aksu offer a variety of restaurants where you can enjoy Xinjiang cuisine, including lamb skewers and naan bread.
Halal food options are abundant in Aksu, where you can find traditional Xinjiang dishes such as pilaf, lamb skewers, and vegetarian-friendly items like stuffed flatbreads.
There are a few hotels in Aksu, ranging from budget to mid-range options. Popular hotels include the Aksu Hotel and Kizil Hotel, which are convenient for travelers heading to the Red Stone Forest.
Other nearby attractions include the Aksu Grand Canyon and the Kizil Caves, which are also geological wonders and can be combined with the Red Stone Forest for a scenic day trip.
There are no souvenir shops at the Red Stone Forest itself, but Aksu offers a variety of local handicrafts such as textiles, carpets, and jewelry, which can be great souvenirs.
After visiting the Red Stone Forest, you can take a taxi or private car to continue your journey. Aksu has bus and taxi services that can take you to other parts of the region.
