Kuqa Grand Canyon in Xinjiang is a tourist destination that combines natural wonders and human history. Here is a detailed introduction to the scenic spot:?
Basic Overview:?
Location: Kuqa Grand Canyon in Xinjiang is located in the north of Kuqa City, Aksu Prefecture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, about 70 kilometers from the downtown area. It is a must-visit on the Duku Highway.?
Characteristics: The canyon is characterized by landforms developed in Cenozoic red sandstone, and also features Quaternary glacier relics and Yardang landscapes, showcasing the wonders of nature.?
Natural Landscapes:?
Canyon Landscapes: Kuqa Grand Canyon is renowned for its magnificent, steep, and deep features. The red rocks create a dreamlike scene, with towering peaks piercing the clouds, steep cliffs, and jagged rocks.?
Geological Features: The canyon has undergone tectonic movements, forming intricate geological landform types. The main landform is Yardang, with vertical climate distribution and arid climate characteristics of the northern temperate zone.?
Seasonal Changes: In winter, the valley bottom is covered with ice and snow, with water droplets freezing into ice, adding to the mysterious charm of the canyon.?
Human History:?
Historical Background: Kuqa was once the ancient kingdom of Qiuci among the ‘walled cities and states’ in the Western Regions and was an important post on the Silk Road and a military fortress in the Western Regions, with a profound historical and cultural heritage.?
Origin of the Name: The Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan is also known as Keziliya Grand Canyon. In Uyghur, Keziliya means ‘red cliffs’, as the grand canyon is composed of reddish-brown giant mountain groups.?
Travel Information:?
Ticket Price: According to the latest information, the ticket price for the scenic area is moderate, costing 40 yuan per person. The tourist experience is excellent, with not many tourists, making it convenient for taking photos.?
Transportation: From downtown Kuqa to the Grand Canyon, visitors can choose to take a shuttle bus or rent a car. The one-way trip takes about an hour. It takes approximately 2 hours to tour the scenic area.?
Nearby Facilities: There are dining facilities such as food courts and restaurants near the scenic area, as well as shopping venues, providing convenience for tourists to dine and shop.?
In summary, Kuqa Grand Canyon in Xinjiang attracts numerous tourists with its unique natural landscapes and rich human history. Whether self-driving or joining a tour group, visitors can have an unforgettable travel experience here.?