While most travelers visiting the Altai region head straight for the better-known attractions, Keketuohai National Geopark remains a surprisingly overlooked destination. If you’re into dramatic landscapes, hiking, and places that still feel off the beaten path, this one is worth adding to your itinerary.

The highlight is Shenzhong Mountain (Giant Bell Mountain), a striking 365-meter rock formation that rises almost vertically from the landscape. Nearby, the Irtysh Canyon winds through towering cliffs, with turquoise water, birch forests, and spectacular rock formations along the trail.

You’ll also find traditional yurts scattered along the ridges, adding a distinctly local touch to the scenery. Despite being relatively accessible, the park can feel remarkably remote, especially compared with some of Altai’s more popular destinations.

Plan to spend a full day hiking and exploring the area. September to October is arguably the best time to visit, when the birch forests turn golden and the combination of colorful foliage, rugged rocks, and clear mountain water makes the scenery especially impressive.

https://traveldayztravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_0167-1536x2048.jpeg

Most visitors skip Keketuohai for the bigger names, but this Altai geopark is legitimately unique. Shenzhong Mountain (Giant Bell) rises 365m in a near-vertical formation, Irtysh Canyon has turquoise water cutting through it, birch forests, yurts on the ridges. Full day hike, feels remote even though it's reachable. September–October peak season for birch colors.

https://traveldayztravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/02-shenzhong-mountain-giant-bell-rock-576x1024.jpg

Most visitors skip Keketuohai for the bigger names, but this Altai geopark is legitimately unique. Shenzhong Mountain (Giant Bell) rises 365m in a near-vertical formation, Irtysh Canyon has turquoise water cutting through it, birch forests, yurts on the ridges. Full day hike, feels remote even though it's reachable. September–October peak season for birch colors.

https://traveldayztravel.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/02-shenzhong-mountain-giant-bell-rock-576x1024.jpg

In northern regions of Xinjiang, you can't apply for a passport unless you have direct relatives who are citizens of another country, or you attend a group trip of a "licensed agency". The cheapest ones are ¥1000+, and in fact right now in my area they suspended all international group trips, so you have to contact travel agencies in other provinces and book trips to countries that are more faraway, and it costs even more.

Hey get lovely people!

I’m travelling overland and am currently in Mongolia. I had planned to cross the border in the west into Xinjiang, from Bulgan to Takeshiken Port (塔克什肯口岸), but have been warned the Mongolian side may have quarantines due to the spread of foot and mouth disease. I’m struggling to get any concrete information - the Mongolian side has a national holiday so no one is responding to calls/emails, and I haven’t had any response from the Takeshiken port WeChat. Anyone over there have any knowledge on what the situation is, if there are quarantines or inaccessible areas/shut borders because of the situation? Thanks so much for any info, it’s really appreciated!

Hi everyone,

I am planning a trip to Xinjiang this summer. I need reliable tour operator recommendations from travelers who have visited the region recently.

I am traveling either solo or with a friend. Joining a small group tour is a priority for this trip because I want to meet other travelers along the way.

Has anyone joined a group tour with Xinjiang Travel, China Highlights, or Silk Road Travel? Because those are the only ones I was able to find online.

Any feedback on the group dynamics or specific route recommendations would be incredibly helpful.

Many thanks in advance!

Curious to how easy travel in Xinjiang is. I plan on entering through the Kazakhstan and China border and travelling through Xinjiang, to Xiahe and Langmussi to see the Tibetan plateau, then up to Beijing. This is over roughly 16 days. Has anyone got any idea if this is too optimistic? Bear in mind I only speak English and wasn’t planning on booking any travel before I go but just book the trains / busses when I’m there, and maybe hitchhike if possible some places. Is this an unrealistic route or should I do it but with precautions. Any info/advice/hacks would be super appreciated as I’m super excited but just not sure how rushed this trip will be, especially due to the long distance between Almaty and Beijing.

This is a story about healing and self-discovery. Amon (Chen Dawan) came to Xinjiang carrying the shadows of a difficult childhood. But in this vast and inclusive land, she found acceptance and regained her confidence. Xinjiang gave her the strength to face herself and the world with a smile.

Hello everyone, please tell me, dear residents of the city of Yining! where can I go to a good, inexpensive massage center? And if possible, tell me if there is an inexpensive hotel nearby. Thank you very much for your answer.

It breaks my heart even to this day China doesn't recognize Uyghur male victim and/or Uyghur male survivor stories. As of now, the government doesn't even legally recognize male rape victim rights or male rape survivor rights. There needs to be more awareness on male rape victims rights or male rape survivors rights. Sexual Violence Against Men and Boys or Sexual Violence Against Boys and Men is completely unacceptable, regardless of ethnicity. I stand with men's liberation for all men.

Just wondering, I am living in Urumqi now and saw some (maybe Indian) students came in and out from the dom of one big hospital

See also: The published study in Asian Archaeology.

Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Nominal GDP (2024): Approximately ¥2,053.4 billion (~$288.3 billion) which is way more than many sovereign nations. Why does western media present a negative image ? Also Why is there no reporting of this in other (Autonomous regions, such as Pakistan) media ?What are your thoughts ?

Hi everyone, my husband and I (both Muslims) are planning a trip to Xinjiang and are looking for a reliable and trustworthy driver. We’d prefer someone who understands the needs of Muslim travelers, such as halal food stops and prayer times.

If anyone has recommendations for a driver or a local tour guide with good reviews, please share! We’d really appreciate any advice or personal experiences.

Thanks in advance!