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At Zhaobi Mountain, visitors can enjoy hiking, photography, and picnicking while taking in the panoramic views of Urumqi and the surrounding areas. The mountain is also popular for its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere, making it ideal for nature lovers and those looking for a scenic escape.
Zhaobi Mountain, nestled deep in the dense forests of Banfanggou, 40 kilometers south of Urumqi, is a towering ridge covered in pure forests of Tianshan spruce. Running northeast - southwest, it is surrounded by water on three sides, forming a pyramidal shape rising 400 meters high. Nanshan Zhaobi Mountain gets its name from the massive cliff at its entrance, which resembles the screen wall of an ancient mansion.
The valley boasts vast grasslands and dense forests, with the surging Tongtian River running through it, creating a uniquely wild and picturesque atmosphere. Visitors are invited to enjoy a range of activities, including Tongtian River rafting, archery, cockfighting , horse racing , picnics , and tent tours . The valley also boasts guesthouses with buildings and tents, providing accommodation and food for hundreds of people.
On the south side of Zhaobi Mountain, on both sides of the river valley, cliffs face each other, with only a strip of blue sky visible, forming a famous water gorge that is more than ten kilometers long. Among them, the Wudaoao section of the gorge in the back mountain has deep forests and dense grass, cliffs close to the water, stone gates stand in rows, mountains wind around and water turns around. The environment is extremely quiet and dangerous, and red deer, roe deer, wild boars and other animals are often seen. It is a good place for adventure and ecotourism.
June to September is the best hiking season, but avoid rainy days.
Recommended play time: 2-3 hours
free
All day
Zhaobi Mountain is a scenic area near Urumqi, known for its natural beauty and peaceful surroundings. The mountain is historically significant as a popular hiking and leisure spot for locals, offering stunning views of the city and nearby landscapes.
Zhaobi Mountain is located on the outskirts of Urumqi. The most convenient way to get there is by taxi or private car. There is no metro service nearby, and public buses may be limited, so it's best to use a taxi for direct access.
The mountain is open year-round, with the best times to visit being during the spring and autumn months, when the weather is mild and the scenery is particularly beautiful. Summer can also be a good time, but it may be warmer, and winter might have snow coverage.
There is no entrance fee to Zhaobi Mountain, making it an accessible destination for visitors. While there are no online ticketing options, visitors can access the mountain freely without purchasing a ticket.
No tickets are required, so there is no need to book in advance. Visitors can explore the area freely without prior arrangements.
A visit to Zhaobi Mountain typically takes about 2 to 3 hours. This allows time for hiking, enjoying the views, and taking photographs. If you're planning a picnic or simply relaxing, you might want to spend longer.
The must-see highlights include the main hiking trails that offer panoramic views of Urumqi and the surrounding mountains, along with peaceful spots for resting and enjoying nature. The area is ideal for photography, especially in the early morning or late afternoon light.
Guided tours are generally not available at Zhaobi Mountain. Visitors can explore the area independently. However, if you're visiting in a group or during peak times, it's possible to hire a local guide, though language may be a barrier as most guides speak Chinese.
The best viewpoints are from the summit and along the main hiking trails, where visitors can capture panoramic views of Urumqi and the surrounding valleys. The mountain provides excellent opportunities for landscape photography, especially in the early morning light.
Start your visit by hiking up the main trail, which offers the best views of the city. Along the way, take breaks at scenic spots to enjoy the views and photograph the surrounding nature. At the summit, spend some time relaxing and taking in the panoramic scenery before descending the trail.
Zhaobi Mountain does not offer night visits or light shows. It is best visited during the day when you can enjoy the natural scenery and views of Urumqi. The peaceful atmosphere is perfect for daytime exploration.
The mountain is not usually crowded, especially during weekdays or in the early mornings. Weekends and holidays can attract more visitors, but it generally remains a calm and peaceful destination.
There are basic facilities available, including rest areas and toilets. However, there are no food or drink shops on the mountain itself, so visitors should bring their own snacks and water. It's recommended to pack supplies before arriving.
Zhaobi Mountain has some hiking trails, which may be difficult for elderly or disabled visitors due to uneven terrain. However, the area is generally accessible for families with children, and there are places to rest along the way.
No payment is required to enter Zhaobi Mountain, so there is no need for cash or mobile payments. However, visitors should bring cash if they plan to buy anything from nearby shops in Urumqi.
There are no restaurants or cafes directly on the mountain. However, there are several options for dining in Urumqi city, where visitors can enjoy local Xinjiang cuisine and international dishes.
In Urumqi, there are plenty of vegetarian, vegan, and halal food options available, reflecting the region’s diverse culture and Muslim population. Visitors can find these options in many restaurants in the city.
There are various hotels in Urumqi, ranging from budget to mid-range options, that serve as a base for visitors to Zhaobi Mountain. Popular choices include hotels in the city center, which are about a 30-minute drive from the mountain.
Nearby attractions include Tian Shan Mountains, the Xinjiang Regional Museum, and Heavenly Lake (Tianchi). These can be easily combined in a day trip from Zhaobi Mountain, offering more scenic and cultural experiences.
There are no souvenir shops on Zhaobi Mountain itself. However, visitors can find souvenirs in Urumqi city, including traditional Uyghur handicrafts, carpets, and local spices.
The best transportation options after visiting Zhaobi Mountain are by taxi or private car to continue exploring other attractions. Public transportation is available in Urumqi city, which is easily accessible by taxi.
