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Mulei Singing Sand Mountain, located 5 kilometers north of Hainar in Mulei County, Changji Prefecture, is known to local Kazakhs as "Ayi Akumu," meaning "sounding desert." The mountain rises majestically from a sea of sand, boasting five ochre-red dunes, the largest of which is about 500 meters tall. The mountain's vertical height exceeds 100 meters, and it runs from southwest to northeast.
Strong winds blow here year-round, carrying sand from the Gurbantunggut Desert to the Beita Mountains. Over time, these sand dunes form. Each strong wind creates a rumbling sound, and the strong winds cause the sand dunes to constantly change shape. These wind-created "Singing Sand Mountains" are a unique natural wonder.
According to experts, Mulei's Singing Sand Mountain is the largest known in my country, surpassing even the Dunhuang Singing Sand Mountain in both height and area. There are only a handful of such captivating deserts in the world, but Mulei's Singing Sand Mountain boasts the loudest and most captivating sounds, earning it the nickname "Mulei's Singing Sand Mountain, the Loudest on Earth."
Here you can enjoy sandboarding, feel the thrilling roar, and experience the magic of Mingsha Mountain.
Recommended play time: more than 3 hours
70 yuan/person, including Mingsha Mountain and Populus euphratica forest
All day
Mulei Mingsha Mountain is a desert landscape known for its singing sand dunes, where the sand produces a humming sound when disturbed. It has cultural importance as part of the Silk Road area and is linked to local legends and nomadic traditions.
It is located in Mulei County, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. Visitors can reach Mulei by bus or car from Urumqi (about 200 km). From Mulei town, taxis or local transport can take you to the scenic spot.
Typically open all day. Best times to visit are spring and autumn for cooler weather, and early morning or late afternoon for photography and comfort.
Entrance fees vary seasonally (around 40–60 RMB). Tickets can be bought at the gate or through local travel agencies and some Chinese travel apps.
Not strictly necessary except during peak holidays. Booking 1–2 days in advance is recommended in busy seasons.
2–4 hours is usually enough to explore, longer if you join desert activities.
Local guides are available in Chinese. Limited English-speaking guides may be arranged via tour operators.
The top of the highest dune for panoramic desert views, and dune ridges at sunset for golden light photography.
Start at the main entrance → hike/climb dunes → sand sliding area → camel ride → sunset viewing spot → exit.
Night visits are possible; stargazing is a highlight due to clear desert skies. No regular light shows.
Less crowded than major deserts like Dunhuang. Avoid Chinese holidays (Golden Week, May Day). Weekdays and mornings are quieter.
Basic facilities like toilets, drinking water, and small shops near the entrance. Limited food options inside.
Moderately challenging due to soft sand and climbing. Elderly and children can enjoy camel rides or stay at base areas. Not fully wheelchair accessible.
Mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat Pay) widely accepted. Carry small cash for rural stalls or camel rides.
Small local eateries near Mulei town serving Xinjiang specialties like kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and pilaf.
Halal food is common due to Hui and Uyghur communities. Vegetarian options like noodles, bread, and vegetable stir-fry are available.
Basic guesthouses in Mulei town, and hotels in Changji or Urumqi for more comfort.
Local souvenirs include Uyghur handicrafts, embroidered textiles, dried fruits, and desert-themed trinkets.
Return to Urumqi for flights or trains. Buses and private cars connect Mulei with nearby counties and tourist sites.