Xinjiang Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon Travel Guide

The Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon is located about 64 kilometers north of Kuqa City in the Aksu region of Xinjiang, adjacent to the southern section of the Duku Highway. It is a must-visit spot for self-driving tours along the Duku Highway. The canyon is composed of reddish-brown sandstone and is hailed as "China's Colorado," combining breathtaking landscapes with millennia-old cultural history, making it a paradise for photography and adventure enthusiasts. Basic Information Tickets: Off-season 40 RMB/person, peak season 50 RMB/person (opening hours approximately 10:00-18:30, may extend to 19:00 in summer). Transportation: It is recommended to rent a car or drive yourself. From Kuqa City, take National Highway 217 (Duku Highway) for about an hour to reach the canyon. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Kuqa Bus Station to Dongfeng Coal Mine. Best Time to Visit: June to October, with the best lighting in the afternoon when the canyon's colors are most vibrant. Avoid the rainy season (June-September) due to potential flash floods. Highlights Unique Landforms: The canyon stretches 5 kilometers, with the narrowest section only 0.4 meters wide, requiring visitors to pass sideways. The reddish-brown mountains have been shaped by wind erosion over billions of years, forming wrinkled textures that display golden, crimson, and other gradient colors under sunlight, resembling burning flames. Cultural Relics: At the 1,400-meter mark inside the canyon lies the Tang Dynasty "A'ai Grotto," which preserves 1,300-year-old murals in the Kucha style. Although currently closed for protection, visitors can still admire its mysterious appearance from afar. Classic Attractions: Key spots include "Divine Dog Guarding the Canyon," "Skyline," and "Maiden Spring." The trails inside the canyon are flat, and the entire route can be explored on foot in about 2-3 hours. Practical Tips Clothing Suggestions: The canyon's dominant red tones pair well with white, blue, or denim outfits for stunning photos. In summer, the canyon is cool, so bring a jacket. Safety Precautions: Avoid entering during the rainy season and follow the safety island instructions provided by the scenic area. There are no restrooms inside the canyon, so plan accordingly. Equipment Preparation: Comfortable non-slip shoes (some sections may have water), a sun hat, sunglasses, and sufficient drinking water. Nearby Attractions Duku Highway: Along the self-driving route, you can visit attractions like Xiaolong Pool and Bayinbuluke Grassland, experiencing "four seasons in one day." Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves: Located about 70 kilometers from Kuqa, explore Buddhist art along the Silk Road. Kashgar Old Town: The cultural hub of southern Xinjiang, perfect for experiencing the fusion of diverse cultures. Accommodation and Food In Kuqa City, "Wuzhou Grand Hotel" is recommended for its comprehensive facilities. Must-try dishes include "Ma Xiaozu Hand-Grasped Meat," featuring rack of lamb and lamb skewers with authentic flavors. The Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon combines natural wonders and historical depth. Plan your trip wisely, avoid the rainy season, and immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of this red-hued secret land!