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Nurga Canyon is perfect for hiking, photography, and exploring the natural beauty of Xinjiang. The canyon's unique rock formations and scenic views provide a great opportunity for outdoor activities. Visitors can enjoy trekking through the canyon, experiencing its natural environment, and capturing the breathtaking landscapes along the way.
Nurga Canyon is located 35 kilometers southwest of Changji City, Xinjiang. The mountains on both sides of the canyon are steep and colorful. There are cliffs, strange peaks and rocks, thousands of ravines and gullies, strange gorges and dangerous gullies everywhere.
This group of canyons originates from Tiange Snow Peak, the second highest peak in the Tianshan Mountains. Centered on the Santun River Valley, it stretches over 10 kilometers from north to south and approximately 20 kilometers from east to west. Traveling south along the Santun River valley, one enters the Jurassic Scenic Belt, stretching over 100 kilometers in the central Tianshan Mountains. To the north, one can admire the crisscrossing fields and the towering skyscrapers of Changji City.
Standing on the shore of the Grand Canyon, you'll see the distant Tianger Snow Peak, the lush green mountains in the center, the vast expanse of grassland, and herds of cattle and sheep, weaving together a magnificent, long painting. Since this isn't a scenic area and there are shuttle buses to reach it, a four-wheel drive off-road vehicle is ideal for self-driving.
The Grand Canyon has a continental arid climate. The most beautiful time to visit the Grand Canyon is in May after the rain or in late autumn when the first snow falls.
1-2 days
No tickets required
All day
Nurga Canyon is a natural wonder in Xinjiang, known for its geological formations and dramatic landscapes. The canyon has not only geological significance but also holds cultural importance as a site of natural beauty, attracting outdoor enthusiasts and photographers from around the world.
Nurga Canyon is located in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang. It can be reached by taxi or private car from the city of Urumqi. There is no direct metro or public transport to the canyon, so private transportation is recommended.
Nurga Canyon is open year-round, though the best time to visit is during spring and autumn, when the weather is more temperate and the landscapes are at their most vibrant. The site can be visited during daylight hours, generally from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
Entrance fees are generally low, but it’s advised to check locally for specific prices as they may vary depending on the season or special events. Tickets are typically bought onsite, but it’s a good idea to confirm availability of online bookings for certain tours or guided visits.
Booking tickets in advance is not necessary for general entry, but if you’re planning to join a guided tour, it’s recommended to book a few days ahead, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Visitors typically spend 2 to 4 hours exploring the canyon, depending on their interest in hiking and photography. For a more relaxed visit, expect to take about 2 hours to enjoy the views and walk through the canyon.
The main highlights include the unique rock formations, the deep ravines, and the panoramic viewpoints that offer stunning views of the canyon’s terrain. Photography enthusiasts will especially enjoy the vibrant colors and textures of the canyon walls.
Guided tours are available in Mandarin, and some tours may offer English-speaking guides. Audio guides are not commonly available, but guides can provide an insightful explanation of the canyon's geological history and significance.
Some of the best viewpoints are located along the canyon’s edge, where visitors can capture sweeping panoramic shots of the canyon. The sunset and sunrise hours offer the most dramatic lighting for photography.
It is recommended to start at the canyon's main entrance and take the designated hiking trail. This route will lead you through the most scenic spots, including the overlook points and the natural rock formations. The trail is well-marked, making it easy to follow.
Night visits and light shows are not available at Nurga Canyon, as it is primarily a daytime attraction. However, during certain seasons, special tours might be organized, such as guided hikes or photography tours, which may extend into the early evening.
Weekends and holidays can be crowded, especially in the summer months. To avoid crowds, visit on weekdays, particularly in the morning or late afternoon, when the canyon is quieter.
The canyon has basic facilities, including toilets and rest areas. There are no major food outlets or shops inside the canyon itself, so it’s advisable to bring water and snacks. Food and supplies are available in nearby towns or villages.
The canyon may not be fully accessible for disabled visitors due to its rugged terrain and hiking trails. However, it is family-friendly, with well-maintained paths suitable for children and elderly visitors who are able to walk moderate distances.
Cash is often preferred at small local shops or for parking fees, but mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are increasingly accepted in the region. It’s recommended to carry both cash and a mobile payment option just in case.
There are no major restaurants inside Nurga Canyon, but small local eateries in nearby villages offer traditional Xinjiang dishes such as lamb kebabs, pilaf, and naan bread.
Halal food options are widely available in the region, as Xinjiang is home to many Muslim communities. Vegetarian and vegan options may be limited but can typically be found in local restaurants.
There are a few small hotels and guesthouses in the nearby towns and villages, including Changji city. For more luxury accommodations, you may need to stay in Urumqi, about an hour's drive away.
Nearby attractions include the Tianshan Mountains, Heavenly Lake, and the Erdaoqiao Grand Bazaar in Urumqi. These sites can be combined for a scenic day trip around Xinjiang.
There are small local souvenir shops selling items such as handmade jewelry, textiles, and local handicrafts. Traditional Xinjiang products like dried fruits, nuts, and spices are popular souvenirs.
After visiting Nurga Canyon, you can travel by taxi, bus, or private car to Urumqi or other nearby attractions. The highway network around Xinjiang is well-developed, making further travel easy by car or public transport.