Tianshan Tomur Grand Canyon
天山托木尔大峡谷
Also known as the Wensu Grand Canyon or Kuduluk Grand Canyon, this is the largest group of red-bed canyons at the southern foot of the Tianshan Mountains. It is part of the Tomur area of the Tianshan World Natural Heritage site in Xinjiang.
The canyon lies about 70 km northeast of Wensu County at the southern foot of the Tianshan Mountains. It is formed by Danxia landforms, yardangs, salt karst and salt dome structures. The main canyon and more than ten side canyons wind for tens of kilometres, and the red rock walls feature sights such as the Millennium Love Cave, the Tianshan Sleeping Beauty and the Salt Cap, earning it the nickname “King of Canyons.” It became part of the Xinjiang Tianshan World Natural Heritage site in 2013 and, together with Ta Village and Bozidun, is now known as the Tianshan Tomur Scenic Area (AAAAA-rated). Admission costs about 36 yuan and the shuttle bus about 60 yuan, subject to the scenic area's official prices. Visits mainly involve the shuttle bus and walking trails, so wear non-slip shoes and bring plenty of water and sun protection. It is about 1.5 hours' drive from Aksu city. There is no direct public transport, and the canyon closes after rain to prevent flash floods.
Opening hours
Roughly 09:30–19:30 (Beijing time; seasonal adjustments)
Nearby sights
- Bozidun Scenic Area
- Tagelake Village (Ta Village)
- Hongqipo Apple Orchards
- Kekeya Memorial Hall
- Aksu Prefecture Museum
- Duolang River Scenic Belt
- Aksu National Wetland Park
- Dolan Tribe Scenic Area