Name: Don’t look down | Trekking Across Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China
Start: 2024-06-14T22:00:00+04:00
End: 2024-06-20T17:30:00+04:00
Location: Dubai International Airport

$Don\u2019t look down | Trekking Across Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, China$

Nestled between far reaches of Western China and the end of the world, lies a province of immense beauty and cultural significance: Xinjiang.
Its capitol Urumchi stands right on the Silk Road between the Gobi Desert and the snow-covered peaks of Tien Shan – but nowadays, in the middle of nowhere, you will find here glass skyscrapers, mute monuments of Chinese economy. The polished granite walls of these tombs still reflect the colorful, exotic street life. Nomads from countless mountain tribes still play their wild melodies, Uyghurs trade in markets, ride donkeys, wear moccasins and colorful sweaters.
It is here, where over a thousand years ago the Uyghurs established their tribal confederation - the Uyghur Khaganate. Once a powerful empire profiting from silk road trade between China and Western Asia and Europe, they have been developing culture and science in their own script. Conquered by others, mainly Mongols and Chinese, Uyghurs forgot about their former glory, calling themselves "Turks". However, they never lost their sense of identity.
However, Xinjiang, located at the southern base of the Tianshan Mountains, has some little-known mountain beauties waiting to be discovered. The Tian Shan Mountains contain the largest area of glaciers in China, accounting for approximately 16% of the total in the country. These glaciers act as reservoirs, melting in the summer and supplying water to the valleys, rivers, and lakes in the region, while also contributing to the erosion of the canyons.
One of the striking attractions in this area is Tian Shan Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), an alpine drift lake located 30km from Fukang city. It has scored a classification of “highest level scenic area” by the China National Tourism Administration.
Tianshan Grand Canyon sitting at 1600 m, with its highest peak at 2050m is composed of ranges of rufous massifs, known also as Keziliya - in the Uyghur language, red cliff. This geological wonder stretches for some 6km. In the sunlight, the mountains appear as burning flames but in fact its peacefulness, mystery, and serenity became legendary.
Located deep in Shawan county, Anjihai Grand Canyon is one real call for adventure. Carved by the the Anjihai River, is also known as the Hongshan (yet another Red Mountain, this time in Chinese). If you're afraid of heights, it's probably best to keep your eyes forward. Towering red sandstone cliffs act here as guardians, their vibrant colors shifting from fiery oranges to deep crimsons as the sun sets. Valleys so narrow that sunlight struggles to penetrate through, casting dramatic shadows on the canyon floor. The earth opens up, revealing stunning views that stretch as far as the eye can see. The silence, broken only by the whisper of the wind, enhances his majesty.
Lets’s go!
Day 1: Urumchi
Evening arrival, immigration formalities, rest or explore the town.
Day 2: Tian Shan Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), trek 4 hrs.
Breakfast and a drive 110km. Lake area offers different alpine zones depending on altitude, including glacier snow belt, alpine sub-alpine belt, mountain conifer forest belt, and low mountain zones. We will take a cable car to Maya Mountain, ascent for 2 hours, and indulge in the mountain panoramas.
Day 3: Nanshan Ulas Tai, trek 5 hrs
The Urumchi Wulastai is located in the West Poplar Gully of Nanshan Ranch cultural and ecological scenic spot. It is named for its flat terrain at an altitude of nearly 2,500m. We will hit 5 hrs trek to discover this beauty. In the afternoon, we will head to Dushanzi, 250 kilometers away (2h 30m drive).
Day 4: Anjihai Grand Canyon, trek 4hrs
Checking out from Dushanzi and drive on the legendary road to Anjihai Grand Canyon for 1hour. Hike around the canyon for 10 kilometers. In the late afternoon, return to Urumchi.
Day 5: Tianshan Grand Canyon, full day trek
The Tianshan Grand Canyon is located in Urumqi County, 48km from the city. The area offers a variety geological landforms. Beside 2 lakes, 3 waterfalls, 4 streams, and 18 valleys, it is also known for its snow ridge spruce forests, high towering walls and narrow passages. Chinese refer it as “The return of the five Mountains”, “Do not look at the mountain” or "strange pines, strange rocks, and the sea of clouds", however what can go wrong in “hundred-mile golden tourism corridor” and “the outdoor paradise of leisure vacation” ?
Day 6: Departure
Level: easy to moderate.
Activities: trekking, sightseeing, experience of indigenous Uyghur culture, optional horse riding 120 USD, day 3+4.
Accommodation & meals: 4 star hotels, double sharing. Restaurant meals excluded.
Cost: 4,900 AED excl. flights / 8700 AED incl. flights via Beijing.
Visas: Any expenses related to visas / permits are not included. Visas – support available through third party only.
See yah in the Canyons x
Trekkup Crew
Whatsapp 050 4848238