Urumqi

Urumqi, China

The capital of "Wild Wild West" China's Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region is set against lofty mountains to its east, west and south and faces vast, gently sloping meadows to its north. The melting pot of 40 different ethnic groups like the Han, Uyghur, Kazakhs and Hui open visitors' eyes to a kaleidoscope of intriguing ethnic customs and traditions.

Urumqi might not be the top highlight of Xinjiang, but it’s always the wonderful starting point to explore the nature and experience the immense ethnic charms of an extremely expansive region.

See and Do

• Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar

  It's the country's largest Islamic-flavored bazaar. Here, distinctive local wares, trinkets and gewgaws are stacked high. It brings to life the ancient Silk Road which cut through Xinjiang. The intricate carvings and exhibits housed in the 100-meter-high sightseeing tower provide a snapshot of the history of the ancient Silk Road, and its top affords views of the city. Fortify yourself with a local meal after your feet become sore.

• Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum

  Work yourself through its remarkable collection of exhibits for a snapshot of Xinjiang's history and ethnic customs, including 3800-year-old Loulan Mummy, the painting which depicts Fuxi and Nuwo credited with creating the sky and the earth in ancient Chinese mythology and bronze sculptures which depict Han dynasty warriors.

• Hongshan Park

  The soil of its hill is red, hence the name of the park which means “Red Hill” in Chinese. A red masonry tower rises over its surrounds and is now the city's landmark. The park is a local leisure spot and is best for catching Urumqi's glorious sunrise and sunset.

• Geographical Center of Asia

  The spot 30 kilometers southwest of Urumqi has been recognized as the very center of the Asia based on the measurements and calculations of geographers. An 18 - meter - high tower resembles the English letter "A" which denotes the English word "Asia". It's crowned with a hollowed stainless steel ball 25 meters in diameter which represents the earth. A steel weight suspended from the ball directly points to Asia's very center on a map of Asia on the ground.

• Tianchi

  It's a crescent-shaped alpine lake on the northern hill of Bogeda Peak of the 2500-kilometer - long, 7400 - meter - high Tianshan Mountain Range. Its engrossing crystal clear water catches the reflections of the equally engrossing surrounding hills covered with firs and pines.

  
  
  
• Nanshan

  An undulating ocean of green is tinged with white - that's because white sheep are grazing peacefully on vast green meadows. Wild flowers sweep across the landscape. Creeks gurgle. Around are green hills and further back are snow-clad peaks. Fluffy clouds hover overhead. The scenic area south of Urumqi is best visited in April and May. Horse riders, come in July when grass looks its best.