The detailed travel guide for Koktokay is as follows:
I. Best Travel Time
Summer: The temperature is relatively high, with an average temperature of around 15-25℃. It is suitable for outdoor activities and hiking. At this time, Koktokay is covered with green grass, wildflowers are blooming, and herds of cattle and sheep are grazing, making it the best time to experience the grassland scenery and the life of shepherds.
Autumn: Colorful and vibrant, the birch forest is golden, and the scenery along the Erqis River is picturesque, making it a paradise for photographers.
II. Transportation Guide
Airplane: Fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport first, then transfer to a car to Koktokay.
Train: Take a train to Altay Station, then transfer to a long-distance bus or taxi to Koktokay.
Long-distance Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Urumqi Nianzigou Bus Station to Fuyun County. Upon arrival in Fuyun County, take a taxi to Koktokay on the special route.
Self-driving: Depart from Urumqi City and follow National Highway 216, passing through五彩湾 (Wucaiwan), Karamay Hooved Wildlife Reserve, Qiakuertu, and Fuyun County, ultimately arriving in Koktokay Town.
III. Scenic Spot Recommendations
Koktokay National Mine Park (No. 3 Mining Pit): One of the most famous attractions in Koktokay, and also the location of Koktokay mentioned in the song ‘The Shepherd of Koktokay’. It is a huge mining pit that repaid a large amount of foreign debt for New China and made significant contributions to China’s ‘two bombs and one satellite’ and aerospace projects.
Erqis River Grand Canyon: The only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean. Along the river, there are more than ten scenic spots such as birch forests, Shuimogou, God’s Bell Mountain, and hot springs. The beauty of these scenery is closely related to this river.
God’s Bell Mountain: A large granite block shaped like a bell, it is a popular spot for online celebrities to visit.
Birch Forest: Large areas of birch forest, rivers, and snow-capped mountains complement each other, making it a great place for taking photos.
Koktosuoli Wetland Park: Also known as Wild Duck Lake, it is a paradise for wildlife.
Yileimu Lake: Located on the east side of Koktokay Town, it is a beautiful alpine lake with clear and blue water, surrounded by mountains. It is a great place for taking photos and relaxing.
IV. Food Recommendations
In Koktokay, you can taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine, such as mutton kebabs, hand-grabbed rice, and large plates of chicken. You can also taste local snacks such as naan and yogurt lumps.
V. Accommodation Suggestions
There are various types of accommodation options in Koktokay Town, ranging from budget hotels to high-end hotels. It is recommended to book suitable accommodation in advance according to your budget and needs.
VI. Tips
The temperature inside the mining cave is relatively low. It is recommended to bring your own clothes or rent a cotton-padded coat (20 yuan/piece).
The tour guide will let everyone adapt to the temperature at the entrance before entering. The tour time is about half an hour.
You cannot pick up stones inside the No. 3 Mining Pit, but you can purchase them.
Above is the detailed travel guide for Koktokay, hope it is helpful to you!