Audio Guide of the Tianshan Mountain Trail at Heavenly Lake

The Tianshan Mountain Trail is generally open from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM during the high season (May to October), and from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM in the low season. To get there, you first need to access the Heavenly Lake scenic area, usually by bus from Urumqi, and then take the park's sightseeing bus, which will bring you to the starting point of the trail. You can find more details about transportation and opening hours here.

Yes, the Tianshan Mountain Trail itself does not have a separate entrance fee if you are already inside the Heavenly Lake scenic area. However, you must pay the general entrance fee for Heavenly Lake, which is usually around CNY 125 per person, plus a CNY 90 sightseeing bus ticket. We recommend checking the official Heavenly Lake information page for the most up-to-date prices.

To fully enjoy the Tianshan Mountain Trail, we recommend allowing at least 3 to 5 hours. This includes time for walking, enjoying the views, taking photos, and perhaps having a picnic. If you want to explore additional paths or climb to higher viewpoints, you may need a full day.

The Tianshan Mountains and Heavenly Lake have deep cultural and spiritual significance in China and are considered sacred by several ethnic groups and in Taoist legends. It is said to be the site of a banquet held by the Queen Mother of the West. The trail allows you to connect with this rich natural and cultural history while experiencing the majesty of the 'Heavenly Mountains.' Discover more about the history of the Tianshan Mountains.

The best time to visit is during summer and autumn (June to September), when the weather is pleasant and the landscape is lush. Early morning is ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying the peace and the best light for photography. In winter, the lake freezes and the snowy scenery is also spectacular, although less accessible.

Unfortunately, much of the Tianshan Mountain Trail is not fully accessible for people with reduced mobility or wheelchair users because of its natural terrain and stairs. However, the areas around the Heavenly Lake pier offer more facilities. We recommend contacting the park's visitor center for specific accessibility information for your visit: +86-994-2521199.

Once at Heavenly Lake, you can enjoy boat rides on the lake, visit the Temple of the Queen Mother of the West, or explore other shorter trails. Outside the park, Urumqi offers attractions such as Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar and the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum. Find more attractions in Urumqi.

For the best experience, bring comfortable walking clothes and shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and enough water. Temperatures in the mountains can change quickly, so it is a good idea to dress in layers. Consider arriving early to avoid crowds, and do not forget your camera to capture the spectacular scenery. Enjoy nature at its most majestic!