The one-day travel guide for Koktokay is as follows:?
Core Attractions:?
Third Mine Pit: The fee is 80 yuan (ticket + shuttle bus). It is a landmark attraction in Koktokay where you can learn about geological knowledge and mining culture.?
Irtysh River Grand Canyon: The fee is 90 yuan. With a total length of about 20 kilometers, it is composed of birch forests, grasslands, rivers, and snow-capped mountains. It is known as a "fairyland on earth" and offers rafting or hiking trails.?
Shenzhong Mountain: A 351-meter-high stone peak with a unique shape. From the top, you can overlook the beautiful valley scenery.?
Transportation Guide:?
Private Car: You can drive directly to the self-driving parking lot and then take a sightseeing bus or hike to the attractions. The sightseeing bus has two routes, one up the mountain and one down. The journey takes about half an hour, and the cost is 36 yuan per person. The scenery along the way is average, but the sightseeing bus is not one-way, and you can board for free at any stop.?
Public Transportation: You can first fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport and then transfer to a car or train to Koktokay. From Urumqi, drive north along National Highway G216, passing through Fuyun County to reach Koktokay Town. The total distance is about 500 kilometers, and the journey takes about 6-7 hours.?
Travel Suggestions:?
Book tickets and sightseeing bus tickets in advance to avoid wasting time queuing on-site.?
Choose an appropriate hiking route based on your physical strength and interests. The hike to Shenzhong Mountain is relatively long, so be mentally prepared.?
Pay attention to sunscreen and warmth. Bring enough drinking water and snacks.?
Respect local culture and the environment. Do not litter or destroy vegetation.?
Food Recommendations:?
In Koktokay, you can taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine such as mutton skewers, hand-grabbed rice, big plate chicken, and other classic dishes. You can also try local specialty snacks such as nang (a type of flatbread) and yogurt lumps.?
The above guide is for reference only. Specific itinerary arrangements need to be adjusted according to personal preferences and actual conditions. Wish you a pleasant journey!?