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At the Silk Road Ski Resort, visitors can enjoy skiing and snowboarding on a variety of slopes for all levels. Other activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and tubing. The resort also offers a scenic chairlift ride for panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.
The Silk Road International Ski Resort, located in the Tianshan Mountains, is one of the three largest ski resorts in China. Located at an altitude of 1,800 to 2,500 meters, it offers abundant sunshine, fresh air, and pristine snow in winter.
The ski resort can accommodate 10,000 skiers simultaneously and features eight slopes for beginners, intermediate, and advanced skiers. It also boasts the Northwest region's only three dedicated ski and sightseeing cable cars that provide direct access to the pristine forest . There are also two comfortable magic carpets in the children's and adult ski instruction areas, and an 1,100- meter four-person ski and sightseeing cable car that reaches the 2,280- meter summit.
At the same time, there are a 6,000- square-meter ecological hotel, a snow saucer amusement park, a snowboard park, a powered hangar member flight experience base, an international standard alpine skating rink, a ski comprehensive service reception hall, an international brand ski equipment store, a 1,200- square-meter leisure wooden platform sunny food street and other ski supporting service facilities.
The air is fresh and the average temperature is around -10°C.
Recommended play time: more than 3 hours
Monday to Friday: 2 hours 80 yuan / 4 hours 100 yuan / full day 140 yuan
Saturday-Sunday: 2 hours 140 yuan / 4 hours 160 yuan / full day 200 yuan
The ski resort has been temporarily closed and the opening time is to be determined
The Silk Road Ski Resort is located in Xinjiang and is a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts. The resort is named after the ancient Silk Road trade route, symbolizing the region's historical significance as a cultural and commercial hub.
Located in the Tianshan Mountain Range, the Silk Road Ski Resort is about a 40-minute drive from Urumqi city center. The best way to get there is by taxi or private car. Public transportation options are limited, and walking is not practical due to the resort's location.
The resort is typically open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM during the ski season (December to March). The best time to visit is during the peak winter months when the snow conditions are ideal for skiing and snowboarding.
The entrance fee for the resort varies based on the activities. Ski lift tickets and equipment rental typically cost around 150-300 RMB per day. Tickets can be purchased on-site or through the resort's official website for convenience.
It is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially during the peak winter season. Booking at least a week ahead ensures availability, particularly for equipment rental and ski passes.
For a complete experience, plan to spend a full day at the resort. This allows time for skiing, snowboarding, and enjoying other winter activities such as the scenic chairlift ride and snowmobiling.
The must-see highlights include the various ski slopes for different skill levels, the panoramic views from the chairlift, and the snow-covered mountain peaks surrounding the resort. The resort also offers excellent photo opportunities, especially during sunset.
Guided tours are available at the resort, typically in Chinese. English-speaking guides may be available on request, but it's recommended to book them in advance to ensure availability.
The best viewpoints are from the chairlift and the top of the ski slopes. The surrounding Tianshan Mountains provide stunning backdrops for photos, particularly during early morning or late afternoon when the light is softer.
Start the day with a scenic chairlift ride to get a sense of the resort's layout. Then, spend the rest of the day skiing or snowboarding. Don’t forget to take breaks at the designated rest areas and enjoy the beautiful snow-covered views. End the day with a ride on the lift at sunset.
Currently, there are no night skiing or light shows at the Silk Road Ski Resort. The resort operates primarily during daylight hours, but some areas may remain open for late-night dining or relaxation.
The resort can get crowded during weekends and public holidays, especially during peak ski season. The least crowded times are typically weekdays, especially early in the season or just after the New Year holiday.
The resort has various facilities including rest areas, toilets, a ski shop, and places to buy food and drinks. However, the options are somewhat limited compared to larger resorts, so bringing your own snacks or water is a good idea.
The resort is generally accessible, but some areas may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors due to the snow and elevation. It's advisable to inquire about specific accommodations for mobility needs before your visit.
Both cash and mobile payments (such as Alipay and WeChat Pay) are widely accepted at the resort. Credit cards are also commonly accepted for larger purchases like lift tickets or ski rentals.
There are basic food options available inside the resort, including a cafeteria and small restaurants serving local dishes. For more diverse dining options, you’ll need to head back to Urumqi city.
Halal food is available at some of the resort’s restaurants, reflecting the region's cultural diversity. Vegetarian and vegan options are also offered, though the selection may be limited.
There are a few hotels near the Silk Road Ski Resort, including basic mountain lodges and mid-range accommodations in Urumqi. For more luxury options, consider staying at hotels in Urumqi city and driving to the resort each day.
Nearby attractions include Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), the Xinjiang Regional Museum, and Urumqi's bustling markets. These can easily be combined in a day trip from the resort.
There are small souvenir shops at the resort selling typical items such as winter sports gear, local handicrafts, and souvenirs related to the Silk Road. Visitors can find unique items like scarves, hats, and traditional Uyghur crafts.
The best transportation options to continue your trip are by taxi or private car. For longer distances, public buses are available from Urumqi city. Taxis are convenient for getting around the ski resort area.
