Koktokay Travel Guide: Discover Natural Wonders and Cultural Charms

🎊 "The Shepherd of Koktokay" is a song that depicts the beautiful scenery and touching love story of Koktokay in Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang. The place names mentioned in the lyrics, such as "Koktokay" and "Irtysh River," have become popular tourist destinations. 👍Best Time to Visit • Summer (June–August): During this time, the temperature in Koktokay is relatively high, with an average temperature of around 15°C–25°C, making it suitable for outdoor activities and hiking. Koktokay is lush and green, with wildflowers in full bloom and herds of cattle and sheep. It is the best time to experience the grassland scenery and the life of shepherds. • Autumn (September–October): In autumn, Koktokay is colorful, with golden birch forests and picturesque scenery along the Irtysh River, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts. 🚉Transportation Guide: • By Air: Fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, then take a car to Koktokay. • By Train: Take a train to Altay Station, then transfer to a long-distance bus or taxi to Koktokay. • By Long-distance Bus: Take a long-distance bus from Urumqi Nianzigou Bus Station to Fuyun County. After arriving in Fuyun County, take a taxi from Fuyun County to Koktokay (at Fuyun Passenger Station). • By Car: Depart from Urumqi, follow National Highway 216, pass through Wucaiwan, Kalamaili Nature Reserve, Chagurtu, and Fuyun County, and finally arrive at Koktokay Town. 🌟Recommended Attractions • Koktokay National Mine Park (No. 3 Pit): This is one of the most famous attractions in Koktokay and the location mentioned in the song "The Shepherd of Koktokay." It is a huge mine pit that repaid 47% of China's foreign debt and made important contributions to China's "Two Bombs, One Satellite" and aerospace projects. It is known as the "Hero Mine" and "Meritorious Mine." Visitors can learn about the history and geology of the mine here. • Koktokay Scenic Area: The scenic area is home to the world-famous Koktokay granite landform, attracting many visitors with its unique geological landscape. Visitors can stroll through the park, admire various unique landforms, and marvel at the wonders of nature. • Kanas Lake: Kanas Lake is a beautiful lake with crystal-clear water, surrounded by vast grasslands and wildflowers. Visitors can enjoy the lake and mountain scenery and experience activities such as horseback riding and boating. • Gem Valley: The valley is crisscrossed with streams, fragrant wildflowers, and lush trees, as well as natural landscapes such as the "Couple Tree." Visitors can hike and explore for treasures, collecting gems such as aquamarine, tourmaline, and crystal, and experience the charm of the "Gem Town." 4. Recommended Food • Lamb Skewers and Lamb Offal: Xinjiang's lamb skewers and lamb offal are local specialties, with tender meat and delicious flavors. • Big Plate Chicken: Big Plate Chicken is a classic Xinjiang dish, with tender and juicy chicken, soft potatoes, and a spicy but not overpowering flavor. • Noodles: Xinjiang has a variety of noodles, such as hand-pulled noodles and mixed noodles, with a chewy texture and rich flavor. 5. Recommended Accommodation • Fuyun Town: Fuyun Town is the gateway to Koktokay, with many homestays and hotels to choose from. The accommodation conditions here are relatively good, and the prices are reasonable. • Accommodation in the Scenic Area: There are also some accommodation facilities in the scenic area, but they are relatively few and expensive. If you want to visit the scenic area more conveniently, you can choose to stay in the scenic area. 6. Precautions • Weather Changes: Koktokay is located in a mountainous area, and the weather changes frequently. Visitors are advised to pay attention to the weather forecast and bring rain gear and warm clothing. • Altitude Sickness Prevention: Koktokay is at a high altitude, and some visitors may experience altitude sickness. Visitors are advised to take altitude sickness medication in advance and get plenty of rest. • Environmental Awareness: Koktokay is a nature reserve, and visitors should protect the environment and not litter during their visit. We hope this guide helps you plan your trip to Koktokay and experience the beauty and culture of this land.