Keketuohai
Keketuohai Scenic Area, also known as Keketuohai National Geopark, is located in Fuyun County, Xinjiang, covering an area of 788 square kilometers. The scenic area consists of four main parts: the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Kekesuli, Yileimu Lake, and the Karasenger Earthquake Fault Zone. In 2012, Keketuohai Scenic Area was officially promoted to a national 5A-level tourist attraction.
Featuring spectacular canyons and rivers, mountains and forests, rich mineral resources, and unique geological landscapes, Keketuohai combines natural wonders, geological culture, and ethnic customs. If you are interested in geology, hiking, and exploring unique landscapes, Keketuohai is a wonderful place to visit in northern Xinjiang.
Recommended Tour Itinerary:
11 Days Northern Xinjiang Tour: Keketuohai, Kanas Lake and Turpan
11 Days North Xinjiang Group Tour to Kanas Lake and Sayram Lake
Classic Xinjiang Tour: Sayram Lake, Narat and Duku Adventure
Features:
Chinese Name: 可可托海 [kě kě tuō hǎi]
Location: 485 kilometers away from Urumqi and 53 kilometers away from Fuyun
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, hiking, scientific investigations, leisure and vacation
Suited to: everyone
Time-needed: 3-4 hours
Best Time to Visit Keketuohai:
The best time to visit Keketuohai Scenic Area is from late summer to early autumn, especially from August to October, when the weather is comfortable and the scenery is at its most beautiful. During this period, the mountains, forests, rivers, and valleys create beautiful natural scenery, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, photography, and outdoor activities.
☀️ August to September (15–25°C) — Comfortable Weather & Summer Scenery
Late summer is a comfortable time to explore Keketuohai. The weather is relatively cool compared with other areas of Xinjiang, making it suitable for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. The rivers flow through the valleys, the forests remain green, and the natural landscapes are full of vitality.
Minor downside:
Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly in the evening or on cloudy days due to the high altitude, so warm clothing is recommended.
🍂 September to October (5–20°C) — Best Season for Autumn Colors
Early autumn is considered the most beautiful time to visit Keketuohai. The forests around the Irtysh Grand Canyon gradually turn golden, creating a stunning contrast with the rocky mountains, clear rivers, and deep valleys. This season is especially popular among photographers and nature lovers.
Minor downside:
The weather becomes cooler, especially in the morning and evening, and visitors should prepare suitable warm clothes.
❄️ November to March — Quiet Winter Landscape
Winter transforms Keketuohai into a peaceful snow-covered world, with frozen rivers, snowy mountains, and fewer visitors. It is suitable for travelers who enjoy quiet winter landscapes.
Minor downside:
The temperature can be very low, and some outdoor activities may be affected by snow and icy conditions.
How to Get to Keketuohai from Urumqi:
Keketuohai Scenic Area is located in Fuyun County, Xinjiang, about 540 kilometers from Urumqi. Visitors can reach Keketuohai by bus or private car.
By Bus
Travelers can first take a bus from Urumqi to Fuyun County. There are daily shuttle buses departing from Urumqi Nianzigou Passenger Station at 11:00 and 19:30. The journey takes about 7 hours, and the fare is around 200 yuan.
From Fuyun County to Keketuohai Town, visitors can take a local shuttle bus from Fuyun Passenger Station. Buses depart at 11:00 and 17:00 every day, taking about 1.5 hours, with a fare of around 50 yuan.
By Car
Driving is a more flexible way to visit Keketuohai, especially for travelers exploring northern Xinjiang by road. Visitors can drive from Urumqi along National Highway 216, with a total distance of about 540 kilometers.
Along the way, travelers can pass through several scenic areas, including Five-Colored Bay, Karamaili, Chakurtu, and Fuyun, making the journey itself part of the Xinjiang road trip experience.
What to Explore in Keketuohai:
Keketuohai is a hidden gem in northern Xinjiang, known for its spectacular natural landscapes and unique geological features. The name "Keketuohai" means "green jungle" in Kazakh and "blue river bay" in Mongolian, reflecting the beautiful scenery of this land.
The scenic area combines canyons, rivers, forests, grasslands, strange rocks, and geological wonders, making every corner full of surprises. Although Keketuohai is not as widely known as some other destinations in Xinjiang, its stunning landscapes and unique geological formations have attracted many nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Keketuohai Scenic Area consists of four main attractions: the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Kekesuli, Yileimu Lake, and the Karasenger Earthquake Fault Zone. Visitors can admire the magnificent mountains, explore mysterious geological landscapes, and discover natural masterpieces shaped by millions of years of geological changes.
Irtysh Grand Canyon
The Irtysh Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic areas in Keketuohai. The clear Irtysh River flows through the canyon, surrounded by steep mountains, forests, and unique rock formations. The combination of the river, cliffs, and forests creates a spectacular landscape, especially in autumn when the leaves turn golden.
Visitors can enjoy the peaceful scenery along the canyon, admire famous rock formations such as Dazhong Mountain, Elephant Trunk Mountain, and Shougui, and experience the charm of this geological wonderland.
Kekesuli
Kekesuli is a beautiful wetland area featuring clear lakes, grasslands, and surrounding mountains. The quiet lake scenery provides a relaxing atmosphere and is an ideal place for sightseeing and photography.
The combination of blue water, green grasslands, and distant mountains creates a beautiful natural picture, making Kekesuli a great stop for travelers who want to enjoy the peaceful side of Keketuohai.
Yileimu Lake
Yileimu Lake is a large lake located in the Keketuohai area, with an altitude of about 1,120 meters. From above, the lake has a unique "8" shape, formed by geological movements in the area.
The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers different views from different angles. Visitors can hike around the lake, climb nearby viewpoints, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the clear water, mountains, and valleys.
Karasenger Earthquake Fault Zone
The Karasenger Earthquake Fault Zone is one of the most complete earthquake fault zones in the world today. It records the powerful geological movements that shaped the landscape of Keketuohai and provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the region's geological history.
Things to Do in Keketuohai:
Photography
Keketuohai is an excellent destination for photography, with deep canyons, crystal-clear rivers, dramatic peaks, and beautiful forests creating stunning views throughout the year.
Among all seasons, autumn is especially recommended for photography. During this period, large areas of birch, poplar, and pine forests turn golden, while snow begins to appear on the mountain peaks behind the forests. The contrast between colorful forests, rocky mountains, and clear rivers creates unforgettable scenery.
Hike and Enjoy the Natural Scenery
For travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, hiking is one of the best ways to experience Keketuohai. Walking through the canyons, forests, and lakes allows visitors to get closer to nature and appreciate the unique landscapes at a slower pace.
Visitors can hike around Yileimu Lake, explore viewpoints overlooking the lake, and enjoy different perspectives of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The peaceful environment and untouched scenery make Keketuohai a wonderful destination for nature lovers.
Experience Local Kazakh Culture
Keketuohai is also home to many Kazakh herdsmen. The local lifestyle, traditional culture, and connection with nature add another layer of charm to the destination. Visitors can experience the simple pastoral atmosphere and learn more about the ethnic culture of northern Xinjiang.
Travel Tips for Keketuohai:
Prepare Warm Clothes
Keketuohai has a cool climate due to its location in the mountains. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly in the morning, evening, or on cloudy days. It is recommended to bring a jacket or warm clothing, especially for visitors planning to stay outdoors for a long time.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many areas of Keketuohai Scenic Area require walking or hiking, especially around the canyons, forests, and viewpoints. Comfortable and non-slip shoes are recommended to make the trip safer and more enjoyable.
Best Time for Photography
Keketuohai is especially beautiful in autumn, when the birch, poplar, and pine forests turn golden and create a stunning contrast with the mountains and rivers. Visitors who enjoy photography should prepare cameras or other equipment to capture the colorful landscapes.
Allow Enough Time to Explore
Due to the large area of Keketuohai Scenic Area and its diverse landscapes, it is recommended to spend at least half a day to one full day exploring the main attractions. Travelers who enjoy hiking and photography may consider staying longer to fully experience the scenery.
Bring Personal Essentials
The temperature difference between day and night can be significant, and the mountain environment can be dry. Visitors are advised to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and personal necessities during outdoor activities.
Travel Information:
Opening Time: Year-round 09:30-19:30
Customer Service Phone: 0906-8781188;0906-8728810
Tickets:
Admission fee
90CNY/PP
Scenic shuttle bus
36CNY/PP
Nearby Attractions:
Keketuohai Geological Exhibition Hall
Located near Keketuohai Scenic Area, the Keketuohai Geological Exhibition Hall is a great place to learn about the unique geological resources of the region. The two-story exhibition hall displays a large collection of mineral specimens, including 84 types of minerals discovered in Keketuohai.
Visitors can learn about the formation and value of these rare minerals, especially the beautiful aquamarine, which is one of the most representative and precious mineral resources found here. It is an ideal stop for travelers interested in geology, minerals, and the natural history of Keketuohai.
Keketuohai Rare Metal National Mine Park
The Keketuohai Rare Metal National Mine Park is a cultural and geological attraction combining scientific research, geological education, industrial heritage, and sightseeing.
Besides enjoying the unique mining landscape, visitors can explore the history of the former mining area and learn about the important role of Keketuohai in China's mineral industry. The park also tells the stories of the early generations of builders who contributed to the development of this remote region.
Keketuohai Scenic Area, also known as Keketuohai National Geopark, is located in Fuyun County, Xinjiang, covering an area of 788 square kilometers. The scenic area consists of four main parts: the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Kekesuli, Yileimu Lake, and the Karasenger Earthquake Fault Zone. In 2012, Keketuohai Scenic Area was officially promoted to a national 5A-level tourist attraction.
Featuring spectacular canyons and rivers, mountains and forests, rich mineral resources, and unique geological landscapes, Keketuohai combines natural wonders, geological culture, and ethnic customs. If you are interested in geology, hiking, and exploring unique landscapes, Keketuohai is a wonderful place to visit in northern Xinjiang.
Recommended Tour Itinerary:
11 Days Northern Xinjiang Tour: Keketuohai, Kanas Lake and Turpan
11 Days North Xinjiang Group Tour to Kanas Lake and Sayram Lake
Classic Xinjiang Tour: Sayram Lake, Narat and Duku Adventure
Features:
Chinese Name: 可可托海 [kě kě tuō hǎi]
Location: 485 kilometers away from Urumqi and 53 kilometers away from Fuyun
Popular activities: sightseeing, photography, hiking, scientific investigations, leisure and vacation
Suited to: everyone
Time-needed: 3-4 hours
Best Time to Visit Keketuohai:
The best time to visit Keketuohai Scenic Area is from late summer to early autumn, especially from August to October, when the weather is comfortable and the scenery is at its most beautiful. During this period, the mountains, forests, rivers, and valleys create beautiful natural scenery, making it an ideal time for sightseeing, photography, and outdoor activities.
☀️ August to September (15–25°C) — Comfortable Weather & Summer Scenery
Late summer is a comfortable time to explore Keketuohai. The weather is relatively cool compared with other areas of Xinjiang, making it suitable for hiking, sightseeing, and outdoor activities. The rivers flow through the valleys, the forests remain green, and the natural landscapes are full of vitality.
Minor downside:
Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly in the evening or on cloudy days due to the high altitude, so warm clothing is recommended.
🍂 September to October (5–20°C) — Best Season for Autumn Colors
Early autumn is considered the most beautiful time to visit Keketuohai. The forests around the Irtysh Grand Canyon gradually turn golden, creating a stunning contrast with the rocky mountains, clear rivers, and deep valleys. This season is especially popular among photographers and nature lovers.
Minor downside:
The weather becomes cooler, especially in the morning and evening, and visitors should prepare suitable warm clothes.
❄️ November to March — Quiet Winter Landscape
Winter transforms Keketuohai into a peaceful snow-covered world, with frozen rivers, snowy mountains, and fewer visitors. It is suitable for travelers who enjoy quiet winter landscapes.
Minor downside:
The temperature can be very low, and some outdoor activities may be affected by snow and icy conditions.
How to Get to Keketuohai from Urumqi:
Keketuohai Scenic Area is located in Fuyun County, Xinjiang, about 540 kilometers from Urumqi. Visitors can reach Keketuohai by bus or private car.
By Bus
Travelers can first take a bus from Urumqi to Fuyun County. There are daily shuttle buses departing from Urumqi Nianzigou Passenger Station at 11:00 and 19:30. The journey takes about 7 hours, and the fare is around 200 yuan.
From Fuyun County to Keketuohai Town, visitors can take a local shuttle bus from Fuyun Passenger Station. Buses depart at 11:00 and 17:00 every day, taking about 1.5 hours, with a fare of around 50 yuan.
By Car
Driving is a more flexible way to visit Keketuohai, especially for travelers exploring northern Xinjiang by road. Visitors can drive from Urumqi along National Highway 216, with a total distance of about 540 kilometers.
Along the way, travelers can pass through several scenic areas, including Five-Colored Bay, Karamaili, Chakurtu, and Fuyun, making the journey itself part of the Xinjiang road trip experience.
What to Explore in Keketuohai:
Keketuohai is a hidden gem in northern Xinjiang, known for its spectacular natural landscapes and unique geological features. The name "Keketuohai" means "green jungle" in Kazakh and "blue river bay" in Mongolian, reflecting the beautiful scenery of this land.
The scenic area combines canyons, rivers, forests, grasslands, strange rocks, and geological wonders, making every corner full of surprises. Although Keketuohai is not as widely known as some other destinations in Xinjiang, its stunning landscapes and unique geological formations have attracted many nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
The Keketuohai Scenic Area consists of four main attractions: the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Kekesuli, Yileimu Lake, and the Karasenger Earthquake Fault Zone. Visitors can admire the magnificent mountains, explore mysterious geological landscapes, and discover natural masterpieces shaped by millions of years of geological changes.
Irtysh Grand Canyon
The Irtysh Grand Canyon is one of the most iconic areas in Keketuohai. The clear Irtysh River flows through the canyon, surrounded by steep mountains, forests, and unique rock formations. The combination of the river, cliffs, and forests creates a spectacular landscape, especially in autumn when the leaves turn golden.
Visitors can enjoy the peaceful scenery along the canyon, admire famous rock formations such as Dazhong Mountain, Elephant Trunk Mountain, and Shougui, and experience the charm of this geological wonderland.
Kekesuli
Kekesuli is a beautiful wetland area featuring clear lakes, grasslands, and surrounding mountains. The quiet lake scenery provides a relaxing atmosphere and is an ideal place for sightseeing and photography.
The combination of blue water, green grasslands, and distant mountains creates a beautiful natural picture, making Kekesuli a great stop for travelers who want to enjoy the peaceful side of Keketuohai.
Yileimu Lake
Yileimu Lake is a large lake located in the Keketuohai area, with an altitude of about 1,120 meters. From above, the lake has a unique "8" shape, formed by geological movements in the area.
The lake is surrounded by mountains and offers different views from different angles. Visitors can hike around the lake, climb nearby viewpoints, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the clear water, mountains, and valleys.
Karasenger Earthquake Fault Zone
The Karasenger Earthquake Fault Zone is one of the most complete earthquake fault zones in the world today. It records the powerful geological movements that shaped the landscape of Keketuohai and provides visitors with a deeper understanding of the region's geological history.
Things to Do in Keketuohai:
Photography
Keketuohai is an excellent destination for photography, with deep canyons, crystal-clear rivers, dramatic peaks, and beautiful forests creating stunning views throughout the year.
Among all seasons, autumn is especially recommended for photography. During this period, large areas of birch, poplar, and pine forests turn golden, while snow begins to appear on the mountain peaks behind the forests. The contrast between colorful forests, rocky mountains, and clear rivers creates unforgettable scenery.
Hike and Enjoy the Natural Scenery
For travelers who enjoy outdoor activities, hiking is one of the best ways to experience Keketuohai. Walking through the canyons, forests, and lakes allows visitors to get closer to nature and appreciate the unique landscapes at a slower pace.
Visitors can hike around Yileimu Lake, explore viewpoints overlooking the lake, and enjoy different perspectives of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The peaceful environment and untouched scenery make Keketuohai a wonderful destination for nature lovers.
Experience Local Kazakh Culture
Keketuohai is also home to many Kazakh herdsmen. The local lifestyle, traditional culture, and connection with nature add another layer of charm to the destination. Visitors can experience the simple pastoral atmosphere and learn more about the ethnic culture of northern Xinjiang.
Travel Tips for Keketuohai:
Prepare Warm Clothes
Keketuohai has a cool climate due to its location in the mountains. Even in summer, temperatures can drop quickly in the morning, evening, or on cloudy days. It is recommended to bring a jacket or warm clothing, especially for visitors planning to stay outdoors for a long time.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Many areas of Keketuohai Scenic Area require walking or hiking, especially around the canyons, forests, and viewpoints. Comfortable and non-slip shoes are recommended to make the trip safer and more enjoyable.
Best Time for Photography
Keketuohai is especially beautiful in autumn, when the birch, poplar, and pine forests turn golden and create a stunning contrast with the mountains and rivers. Visitors who enjoy photography should prepare cameras or other equipment to capture the colorful landscapes.
Allow Enough Time to Explore
Due to the large area of Keketuohai Scenic Area and its diverse landscapes, it is recommended to spend at least half a day to one full day exploring the main attractions. Travelers who enjoy hiking and photography may consider staying longer to fully experience the scenery.
Bring Personal Essentials
The temperature difference between day and night can be significant, and the mountain environment can be dry. Visitors are advised to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, water, and personal necessities during outdoor activities.
Travel Information:
Opening Time: Year-round 09:30-19:30
Customer Service Phone: 0906-8781188;0906-8728810
Tickets:
Admission fee
90CNY/PP
Scenic shuttle bus
36CNY/PP
Nearby Attractions:
Keketuohai Geological Exhibition Hall
Located near Keketuohai Scenic Area, the Keketuohai Geological Exhibition Hall is a great place to learn about the unique geological resources of the region. The two-story exhibition hall displays a large collection of mineral specimens, including 84 types of minerals discovered in Keketuohai.
Visitors can learn about the formation and value of these rare minerals, especially the beautiful aquamarine, which is one of the most representative and precious mineral resources found here. It is an ideal stop for travelers interested in geology, minerals, and the natural history of Keketuohai.
Keketuohai Rare Metal National Mine Park
The Keketuohai Rare Metal National Mine Park is a cultural and geological attraction combining scientific research, geological education, industrial heritage, and sightseeing.
Besides enjoying the unique mining landscape, visitors can explore the history of the former mining area and learn about the important role of Keketuohai in China's mineral industry. The park also tells the stories of the early generations of builders who contributed to the development of this remote region.
 | Northern Xinjiang Tour: Keketuohai, Kanas Lake and Turpan Urumqi - Fuyun - Burqin - Kanas - Hemu - Turpan 11 Days (over 200+ Booked) |
