The complete information for the Koktokay travel guide is as follows:
I. Best Travel Time
Summer (June to August): The temperature is moderate, with an average temperature of around 15-25℃, suitable for outdoor activities and hiking. At this time, the grass is lush and wildflowers are blooming, making it the best season to experience the grassland scenery and shepherd life.
Autumn (September to November): Colorful, with golden birch forests and picturesque scenery along the Irtysh River, it is a paradise for photographers.
II. Transportation Guide
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 the coach from Urumqi Nianzigou Bus Station to Fuyun County, and then take a dedicated taxi from Fuyun County to Koktokay.
Self-driving: Starting from Urumqi, follow National Highway 216, passing through Wucaiwan, Kalamaili Hoofed Wildlife Reserve, Qiakutu, and Fuyun County, and finally arrive at Koktokay Town.
III. Attraction Recommendations
Koktokay National Mine Park: With unique geological landscapes and rich wildlife resources, you can admire spectacular canyons, peculiar landforms, and clear lakes.
No. 3 Mine Pit: Known as the ‘Sacred Geological Pit’, it is one of the landmark attractions in Koktokay. It was once an important rare metal mining area in China and has now become a great place for tourists to learn about geological knowledge and experience mining culture.
Irtysh River Grand Canyon: The only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean, the scenery is closely related to this river.
Yileimu Lake: Located on the east side of Koktokay Town, it is a beautiful alpine lake with clear blue water surrounded by mountains. It is a great place for taking photos and relaxing.
Kekesuli: Located on the way to Koktokay, it has beautiful scenery and is suitable for taking photos. The fee is 28 yuan/person.
IV. Food Recommendations
In Koktokay, you can taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine, such as mutton skewers, hand-seized rice, and large plate chicken, as well as local specialty snacks like 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 mine is relatively low. It is recommended to bring your own clothes or rent a cotton-padded coat (20 yuan/piece).
The guide will let everyone adapt to the temperature at the entrance of the cave before entering. The tour time for the No. 3 Mine Pit is about half an hour.
The electric shuttles within the scenic area are very practical and can take you deep into the scenic spots. If you want a more in-depth experience, you can choose to hike into the primitive forest.
Above is the complete information for the Koktokay travel guide, hoping it will be helpful for your trip.