Koktokay Travel Guide (Individual Traveler Version):
I. Best Travel Time
The best travel time to Koktokay is from May to October each year. In summer (July-August), the temperature is relatively high, with an average temperature of around 15-25℃, suitable for outdoor activities and hiking. At this time, the grass is lush, and wildflowers are in bloom, making it the best season to experience the grassland scenery and shepherd’s life. In autumn (September-October), the colors are vibrant, with golden birch forests and picturesque scenery along the Irtysh River, making it a heaven for photographers.
II. Transportation Guide
Individual travelers heading to Koktokay can choose various modes of transportation such as airplanes, trains, coaches, or self-driving.
Airplane: First, fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, and then transfer to a car to Koktokay.
Train: Take a train to Altay Station, and then transfer to a coach or taxi to Koktokay.
Coach: Take a coach from Urumqi City’s Nianzigou Bus Station to Fuyun County, and then take a special taxi to Koktokay.
Self-driving: Depart from Urumqi City and follow National Highway 216, passing through五彩湾 (Wucaiwan), Karamay Wildlife Reserve for Hooved Animals, Qiakuertu, and Fuyun County, ultimately arriving at Koktokay Town.
III. Recommended Attractions
Koktokay National Mines Park: The No. 3 Mine Pit is one of the most famous attractions in Koktokay and is also the location of Koktokay mentioned in the song ‘The Shepherd of Koktokay’. It is a huge mine pit that repaid a large amount of foreign debt for New China and has extremely high historical value.
Koksuli Lake: Located on the way to Koktokay, it has beautiful scenery and is suitable for taking photos. The fee is 28 yuan per person.
Irtysh River Grand Canyon: The only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean. The scenery is closely related to this river, with a fee of 90 yuan.
Dashenshong Mountain: A landmark attraction in the Irtysh Grand Canyon. You can choose to take a sightseeing bus or hike there.
Geological Museum: Learn about the geological evolution, mineral resources, and biodiversity of Koktokay Geological Park.
IV. Practical Tips
The temperature inside the mine is low. It is recommended to bring your own clothes or rent a cotton-padded coat (20 yuan per piece).
The tour guide will let everyone adapt to the temperature at the entrance before entering. The No. 3 Mine Pit can be toured in half an hour.
You cannot pick up stones at the No. 3 Mine Pit, but you can purchase them.
There are abundant accommodation options in Koktokay Town and Fuyun County.
V. Cost Budget
Ticket prices vary depending on the attraction. For example, the ticket price for Koktokay Geological Park is 90 yuan per person, with a shuttle bus fee of 26 yuan per person; the cost for the No. 3 Mine Pit is 80 yuan (ticket + shuttle bus), etc.
In addition, you also need to consider transportation, accommodation, dining, and other expenses.
The above is the main content of the Koktokay Travel Guide (Individual Traveler Version), hoping it will be helpful for your trip.