Urumqi Travel Guide

Experience the unique culture and natural beauty of Urumqi with our comprehensive tour guide. Plan your itinerary, find the best places to stay and eat, and learn about local customs and safety tips.


Introduction to Urumqi

Welcome to Urumqi - the largest city in Xinjiang and a gateway to the stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Northwest China. Set against the backdrop of the Tianshan Mountains, Urumqi boasts a unique combination of modernity and tradition, with its bustling streets, thriving food scene, and preserved historical landmarks.

Whether you’re an adventurer in search of outdoor activities or a history buff eager to explore ancient sites, Urumqi has something for everyone. In this comprehensive tour guide, we’ll introduce you to the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay and eat in Urumqi, as well as provide tips on local customs and safety.

List of Places to Visit in Urumqi

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Urumqi has a rich cultural heritage that is reflected in its museums and historical sites. Here are some of the must-visit places:

Xinjiang Regional Museum

With over 50,000 artifacts, the Xinjiang Regional Museum is the best place to learn about the ethnic diversity and history of Xinjiang. The exhibits range from Bronze Age artifacts to mummies and textiles from the Silk Road era.

Id Kah Mosque

The largest mosque in China, Id Kah Mosque is an impressive example of Islamic architecture in Urumqi. The mosque is located in the heart of the city’s Old Town and is also an important center of religious activities.

Red Hill

Located in the western part of Urumqi, Red Hill is a symbol of the city’s revolutionary history. A relatively easy climb to the top rewards visitors with stunning panoramic views of the city.

Southern Pastures

A vast expanse of grassland located 75 kilometers south of Urumqi, Southern Pastures is a great place to experience the traditional nomadic way of life of the Kazakh minority. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, yurt stays, and cultural performances.

Natural Attractions of Urumqi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Urumqi is not just a cultural hub but also a nature lover’s paradise. Its diverse natural landscapes provide a host of outdoor activities and stunning views. Here are some of the top natural attractions:

Heavenly Lake

Set amidst the Tianshan Mountains, Heavenly Lake is a pristine alpine lake that offers breathtaking views and numerous hiking trails. Visitors can also go boating or take a cable car up to the peak of the mountain.

Tianshan Grand Canyon

A true hidden gem of Urumqi, Tianshan Grand Canyon is a spectacular gorge that features towering cliffs, crystal-clear streams, and lush forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and rappelling while taking in the stunning scenery.

Grape Valley

Located at the foothills of Flaming Mountains, Grape Valley is a picturesque oasis that boasts an abundance of grape vines, mulberry trees, and apricot orchards. Visitors can enjoy wine tasting, fruit picking, and local Uighur cuisine in the valley.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Urumqi

Baiyanggou Trek

A challenging but rewarding 3-day trek that takes you through the lush forests, alpine meadows, and crystal-clear lakes of Baiyanggou Natural Reserve.

Silk Road Cycling Tour

A 6-day cycling tour that follows the ancient Silk Road route from Urumqi to Turpan, passing through scenic landscapes, historical sites, and traditional Uighur villages.

Best Things to Do in Urumqi: Activities and Tours

Uighur Food Tour

Discover the exotic flavors and spices of Uighur cuisine on a guided food tour of Urumqi’s night markets and local restaurants.

Silk Road Adventure Tour

Experience the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Xinjiang on a 7-day adventure tour that takes you to Urumqi, Kashgar, and the Karakoram Highway.

Week-Long Itinerary for Urumqi

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Xinjiang Regional Museum, Grand Bazaar
Day 2 Hike Heavenly Lake, visit Kazakh yurt
Day 3 Explore Ancient City of Jiaohe, Karez Well System
Day 4 Visit Red Hill, Nanhu Square, Nanshan Pasture
Day 5 Visit Id Kah Mosque, Sunday Bazaar, Grape Valley
Day 6 Hike Tianshan Grand Canyon, rock climbing
Day 7 Take a day trip to Turpan, visit Flaming Mountains, Emin Minaret

Food and Drink Scene of Urumqi

Must-Try Dishes

  • Laghman (hand-pulled noodles with meat sauce)
  • Da pan ji (big plate chicken with potatoes and vegetables)
  • Pilaf (rice dish with lamb, carrots, and raisins)

Local Beverages

  • Kaoliang: A strong spirit made from sorghum and wheat
  • Yak milk tea: A traditional drink made from tea leaves, salt, and yak milk

Where to Stay in Urumqi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Urumqi has a wide range of accommodation options to fit any budget and preference. Here are some of our recommendations:

  • Kempinski Hotel Urumqi: A luxury hotel located in the heart of the city with stunning views of the Tianshan Mountains.
  • Sayram Lake Hotel: A cozy lakeside hotel that offers comfortable rooms and scenic views of the Sayram Lake.
  • Old Town Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel located in Urumqi’s Old Town that offers clean rooms and a friendly atmosphere.

What to Buy in Urumqi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Xinjiang handicrafts: Carpets, rugs, antique brassware, and ethnic clothing make great souvenirs.
  • Dried fruits: Urumqi is famous for its dried grapes, apricots, and nuts.
  • Silk Road spices: Aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and saffron are a must-buy for foodies.

Local Culture and Customs of Urumqi

The unique culture of Xinjiang is shaped by its diverse ethnic groups, including Uighur, Han, Kazakh, and Hui. Respect for local customs and traditions is important when visiting Urumqi, particularly in religious sites and rural areas.

Best Time to Visit Urumqi

The best time to visit Urumqi is from May to October when the weather is mild and the scenery is at its best. Summer is the busiest time of year, so plan accordingly.

Do’s and Don’ts of Urumqi

Do:

  • Dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites.
  • Try the local cuisine, including Uighur barbecue, pilaf, and hand-pulled noodles.
  • Bargain when shopping at local markets.

Don’t:

  • Drink tap water, stick to bottled water.
  • Take pictures of local people without their permission.
  • Criticize Chinese governmental policies or engage in political discussions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Urumqi

Urumqi is generally a safe city for tourists, but be aware of pickpockets in crowded areas and avoid political demonstrations.

Health in Urumqi

Consult your doctor before traveling to Urumqi and make sure to get necessary vaccinations. Bring any medications you may need as some medicines may not be readily available in local pharmacies.

Getting to Urumqi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Urumqi

Urumqi has one major airport - Urumqi Diwopu International Airport - which is well-served by both domestic and international airlines.

Bus Stations Near Urumqi

Urumqi has several bus stations that connect it to nearby cities and destinations, including Turpan, Kashgar, and Dunhuang.

Other Options

Train services are also available, connecting Urumqi to major Chinese cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Xi’an.

How to Get Around in Urumqi

Buses, taxis, and car rentals are all viable transportation options in Urumqi. Taxis are relatively cheap and convenient while buses are the cheapest option but may not be very comfortable for longer journeys.

Where to Go Next from Urumqi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kashgar

Known as the “pearl of the Silk Road”, Kashgar is a cultural and historical hub that features an old city, markets, and mosques.

Turpan

Famous for its Grape Valley and Karez irrigation system, Turpan is a desert oasis that offers a unique blend of natural and cultural attractions.

Conclusion

Urumqi offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and modern city life, making it an ideal destination for travelers who seek unique experiences. With this comprehensive tour guide, you can plan your itinerary, find the best places to stay and eat, and learn about local customs and safety tips to ensure an unforgettable trip to Urumqi.

City skyline from Hongshan Park City skyline from Hongshan Park People's Square People's Square The Grand Bazaar at night. The Grand Bazaar at night. Urumqi city scene Urumqi city scene A mosque in Urumqi A mosque in Urumqi