Qiongkushitai

Introducing Qiongkushitai

Qiongkushitai Village, meaning "large platform" in Kazakh, is located in Kaladala Township, Tekes County, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. The crisscrossing Qiongkushitai evokes a masculine beauty amidst the grasslands. Countless gullies carved into the plateau transform the tranquil grassland into waves on the sea.

Nearly all the houses in Qiongkushitai Village are wooden structures. Some are built from single logs, while others are constructed by splitting logs in half and constructing them using various techniques, such as hollowing, mortising, and arching. The village is surrounded by mountains, and the houses are built along the water. The villagers' drinking water, livestock, and daily life all come from the Kuerdai River, a wide valley with constant water flow.

Here you can see blue sky, white clouds, and beneath the white clouds are silver snow-capped mountains, dark green fir forests, light blue grasslands, and a sea of ​​colorful flowers. The distinct layers of colors and harmonious tones form a natural painting. To put it another way, you can say: beneath the blue sky and white clouds are snow-capped mountains, beneath the snow-capped mountains and fir forests is Qiongkushitai, and beneath Qiongkushitai is Karajun.

Climate and best time to travel

In midsummer, when the grass is green and the weather is warm, local Kazakh herders usually drive their cattle and horses to graze on the fertile grasslands. The snow-capped mountains, grasslands, river valleys, and forests create a beautiful scenery all year round, like a paradise.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 day

Tickets

free

Attraction opening hours

All day

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Most Popular FAQs for Qiongkushitai

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Qiongkushitai is known for its distinctive geological landscapes and rich natural environment. It is significant for geological research, ecological conservation, and as a destination for eco-tourism in Xinjiang.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

It is located in Yili, Xinjiang, China. Visitors can reach the site by taxi or private car from nearby towns. Public transport options may be limited, so self-driving or tour buses are recommended.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

The site is generally open from early morning to late afternoon. The best times to visit are from late spring to early autumn when the weather is mild and the scenery is most vibrant.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

Entrance fees vary seasonally and are typically available at the park entrance. Tickets can be purchased offline at the gate; some local travel agencies may offer online booking options.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For peak season or group tours, advance booking is recommended, usually 1–2 weeks ahead. For individual visitors in off-peak periods, advance booking is not necessary.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

Half a day to one full day is sufficient for most visitors to explore the main attractions and enjoy the scenery.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• Qiongkushitai plateau and rock formations.
• Surrounding grasslands and forested areas.
• Panoramic viewpoints for landscape photography.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Local guided tours are available in Mandarin; multilingual options may be limited. Visitors can arrange guides through travel agencies.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• High points overlooking the plateau for sunrise or sunset shots.
• Rock formations and valleys along the main trails.
• Open grasslands with mountain backdrops.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

Start at the main entrance, follow the marked trails to key rock formations and viewpoints, and loop back via the scenic grasslands for a complete experience.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are generally not available. Special ecological or cultural tours may be arranged by local tour operators.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

The site is less crowded on weekdays and outside national holidays. Visiting in late spring or early autumn avoids peak tourist periods.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Basic facilities such as toilets, small food stalls, and rest areas are available near the entrance and main viewpoints. Shops are limited.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Main areas are accessible with some walking required. Steeper trails may be challenging for the elderly or disabled. Children can visit with supervision.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is preferred, but some larger vendors may accept mobile payments such as Alipay or WeChat Pay.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

Limited food options inside; small local restaurants and cafes are available in nearby towns or at the entrance.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Vegetarian and vegan options may be available in local restaurants; halal food options exist but may require inquiry in advance.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

Accommodations are available in Yili city or nearby towns, ranging from guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Booking in advance is recommended during peak season.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• Hanas Lake Scenic Area
• Yili River Valley
• Nearby cultural villages and local markets

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Small souvenir stalls near the entrance offer local handicrafts, dried fruits, and Xinjiang specialty items.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Private car or taxi is recommended to continue exploring nearby scenic spots. Some areas may have shuttle buses or tour buses connecting major attractions.