Koktokay is a highly worthwhile tourist destination and great fun. Here is a detailed travel guide:
I. Recommended Attractions
Skiing Experience:
Koktokay is a paradise for skiers, with a snow season lasting seven months. Even in the blooming April and May, visitors can still enjoy the speed and excitement brought by powder snow.
Koktokay International Ski Resort offers diverse ski slopes, suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers.
Natural Scenery:
Irtysh River Grand Canyon: It is the only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean. The scenery is closely related to this river, with more than a dozen attractions such as birch forests, Shuimogou, and Shenzhongshan distributed along the river.
Shenzhongshan: The terminal station of the shuttle bus, it is a large granite rock shaped like a bell and a popular photo-taking spot.
Birch Forest: Large areas of birch forests, rivers, and snow-capped mountains complement each other, making it a great place for photography.
Koktosu Wetland Park: Also known as Wild Duck Lake, it is a paradise for wildlife. The pedestrian path along the lake also has shaded grass huts, allowing visitors to enjoy the lake scenery while taking in the views.
Cultural Landscapes:
Mine No. 3: A veritable meritorious mine, producing 86 out of more than 140 minerals.
Jewelry Valley Hike: Experience more pristine canyon pasture scenery and have the chance to find sapphires.
II. Best Travel Time
Spring: Suitable for skiing, enjoy the fun brought by powder snow.
Summer: The average temperature ranges from 15-25℃, suitable for outdoor activities and hiking. At this time, Koktokay is covered with lush green grass, wildflowers are in bloom, and herds of cattle and sheep graze.
Autumn: Colorful scenery with golden birch forests, it is a paradise for photographers.
III. Transportation Tips
Airplane: First, fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, and then transfer to a coach to Koktokay.
Train: Take the train to Altay Station, and then transfer to a coach or taxi to Koktokay.
Coach: Take the coach from Urumqi Nianzigou Bus Station to Fuyun County, and upon arrival, transfer to a Fuyun County to Koktokay dedicated taxi.
Self-driving: Starting from Urumqi City, proceed along National Highway 216, passing through Wucaiwan, Karamaili Hooved Wildlife Reserve, Qiakuertu, and Fuyun County, ultimately arriving in Koktokay Town.
IV. Other Precautions
Exploration within the scenic area mainly relies on shuttle buses, which take a relatively long time, and traffic jams may be encountered.
There are some hiking routes within the scenic area, such as the plank road from the Shenzhongshan Viewing Platform to attractions like the Fossil Falls and Elephant Trunk Peak, with a one-way distance of about 3 kilometers.
There are limited dining options near the scenic area, so it is recommended to prepare food in advance or eat in Fuyun County.
In summary, Koktokay boasts not only beautiful natural scenery but also unique cultural landscapes, making it an ideal tourist destination.