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The Altun Mountains are best known for their stunning landscapes, including snow-capped peaks and expansive valleys. Hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography are the top activities. The area is also ideal for camping and exploring its remote, natural beauty.
The Altun Mountain Nature Reserve is located in Ruoqiang County, in the middle section of the Altun Mountains at the junction of Xinjiang and Tibet, with an altitude of about 4,000 meters. It is a mountain range in the southeastern part of China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region and one of China's four major uninhabited areas.
The natural scenery here is also very beautiful, including the world's highest altitude sand desert, the inland unfrozen lake on the plateau - Aqik Lake, the "Plateau Guilin Landscape" Xinqing Peak, the glacier-covered Muztagh Ice Peak, in addition to the Thousand Tears Spring, Yin Yang Lake, Devil Valley and other attractions; many Tantric mantras engraved on stones in Tibetan were also found in the mountains.
The Altun Mountain National Nature Reserve, due to its remote location, high altitude, and lack of oxygen, has preserved a rich tapestry of unique and rare wildlife in my country. The reserve is home to numerous endangered high-altitude animals, including wild yaks, Tibetan antelopes, Tibetan wild donkeys, and other large ungulates, creating a wildlife paradise.
The Altiplano region of the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau has a cold climate characterized by drought and little rainfall, with large temperature swings between seasons. Winters are long and cold, while summers are short. The snowy season lasts from mid-September to the end of May, making it difficult to enter the mountains.
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The Altun Mountains are located in the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture of Xinjiang. They are part of the Tien Shan mountain range and are known for their historical significance as part of the Silk Road. The region is rich in natural resources and biodiversity, providing habitat for various species of flora and fauna.
The Altun Mountains are located in the central part of Xinjiang, within the Bayingolin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture. The closest city is Korla, and from there, you can take a taxi or bus to reach the mountain region. There are no metro services in the area.
The Altun Mountains can be visited year-round. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and summer months (May to September), when the weather is more temperate. The winter months can be harsh, with heavy snow and cold temperatures.
Entrance fees vary depending on the specific areas of the Altun Mountains you plan to visit, but they are generally around 50-100 CNY. Tickets can be purchased on-site at designated entry points, and some may be available online through local travel agencies.
Booking tickets in advance is not typically required for the Altun Mountains, but it is recommended during peak tourist seasons (spring and summer). Booking a few days in advance is usually sufficient.
It is recommended to allocate at least 2-3 days to explore the Altun Mountains, depending on your interests in hiking, wildlife watching, and photography.
The main highlights include the Altun Mountain peaks, the surrounding valleys, and the wildlife, including snow leopards and rare birds. Also, the surrounding desert landscapes and nomadic Mongol cultures are worth exploring.
Guided tours are available, especially for hikers and photographers. These are typically in Mandarin, but some tour operators may offer services in English for international visitors.
The best photography spots are the Altun Mountain peaks, which provide panoramic views of the vast landscape. The valleys and cliffs are also popular for scenic photography, especially during sunrise or sunset.
Begin your visit by exploring the Altun Mountain base. If you're interested in hiking, consider a 2-day trek to the mountain peaks. Along the way, explore the valleys and enjoy wildlife spotting.
Night visits and light shows are not typical in the Altun Mountains, as the area is remote and focused on outdoor experiences. However, stargazing in the mountains is highly recommended due to the clear skies.
The Altun Mountains are relatively less crowded compared to other popular tourist spots in China. The least crowded times are during the winter months and early spring (March-April).
There are basic facilities available at major entry points and rest areas, such as toilets, small shops, and food stalls. However, for more remote hiking trails, be prepared to bring your own supplies.
The Altun Mountains are a rugged terrain and are not easily accessible for elderly or disabled visitors. Some areas may be more suited for experienced hikers or adventurous visitors.
Cash is typically needed in more remote areas of the Altun Mountains. In larger cities like Korla, mobile payments (Alipay, WeChat) and credit cards are accepted at most establishments.
There are a few basic local restaurants and food stalls in the nearby towns and at the entry points to the Altun Mountains. The food is mostly local Xinjiang cuisine, featuring lamb, pilaf, and kebabs.
Halal food is widely available in Xinjiang, as the region is predominantly Muslim. Vegetarian and vegan options can be found, but the choices may be more limited compared to meat-based dishes.
There are limited accommodation options directly in the Altun Mountains. However, Korla city offers a variety of hotels ranging from budget to mid-range options for those traveling to the mountains.
Nearby attractions include the Tianshan Mountains, which offer additional opportunities for hiking and photography. You can also explore the nearby Taklamakan Desert and the city of Korla itself.
Souvenir shops in the area sell local handicrafts, such as Uyghur carpets, textiles, and jewelry. Traditional Xinjiang items, like dried fruits and nuts, are also popular souvenirs.
After visiting the Altun Mountains, you can continue your journey by taking a bus or taxi to the city of Korla. From there, flights are available to other major cities in Xinjiang, such as Urumqi.
