Qiongkushitai｜Step into the fairytale haven deep within the Tianshan Mountains.

The car winds along the asphalt road, crossing a red bridge and passing through layers of spruce forests. When the dirt road stretches beneath your feet and the neighing of horses echoes in the wind, you know the true Qiongkushitai is about to unfold before your eyes.

Many mistakenly start horseback riding from the village, but this route, which overlaps with the car path, offers dull scenery and requires enduring five to six hours of bumpy rides. The real hidden gem lies in navigating to the "Qiongkushitai Back Mountain Grassland." After passing the village committee and the red bridge, turn left at the roadblock. When the dirt road and horse herds appear, you've reached the correct starting point for the back mountain. From here, horseback riding takes just about an hour to reach the famous swing, where you can soar into the sky surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Horseback riding options are flexible, charged by the hour or as packages that include round trips and photo time. If your goal is simply to capture unforgettable moments on the swing, the basic round-trip package will suffice.

For travelers who prefer not to ride horses, the Wusun Ancient Trail warmly welcomes you. Park your car at the village committee, follow the iconic giant rock, and walk along the river. No professional gear is needed, and there's no fear of getting lost. A short three-hour round-trip hike is enough to experience the charm of this thousand-year-old trail. Along the way, you'll hear the jingling of horse bells and encounter fellow travelers, making the journey both safe and adventurous.

The scenery here unfolds in three layers: the yurts on the front mountain grasslands are perfect for stargazing at night, the century-old wooden houses in the village hold secrets of time, and the vastness of the back mountain offers an unparalleled stage for sunrise and sunset views. If time permits, let the horses take you further to the alpine lakes, where the tranquility will make you forget all your worries.

Staying in Qiongkushitai is a scenic experience in itself. The village offers convenience and affordability, while the back mountain boasts unbeatable views at a higher price. From May to August, the area is as green as an overturned palette. By late August, the first snow decorates the mountains with silver edges, presenting a different kind of beauty. Remember, it's colder here than you might expect, so bringing an extra jacket is always a good idea.

This is not a traditional, fully developed tourist destination. Its pristine nature means inconvenient transportation and higher prices. But when you open your window to the first rays of sunlight on the snow-capped mountains, when evening smoke rises gently among the wooden houses, and when unexpected travelers share the same starry sky with you, you'll understand—this journey is worth every bit of it.

Post by Dr In | Sep 30, 2025