Silk Road International Ski Resort
丝绸之路滑雪场
A large ski resort in the Nanshan area of Urumqi, with Tian Shan powder snow, a 5 km run and a summit restaurant. It is one of Xinjiang's most popular winter ski destinations.
Silk Road International Ski Resort is on the northern slope of the Tian Shan in Shuixigou Town, Urumqi County, about 40 km from the city centre, roughly one hour by car. It is one of the largest and best-equipped ski resorts in Xinjiang, at an elevation of 1,800–2,500 m, with a vertical drop of about 700 m. It has dozens of beginner, intermediate and advanced runs, the longest about 5 km, as well as a snowboard park and backcountry areas. It is served by high-speed chairlifts and magic carpets and has hosted national winter sports events. The northern slope has a long snow season, heavy snowfall and dry 'powder' snow, and its snow quality is among the best in China.
Facilities include ski rental (about 150–300 yuan per day), ski schools (instructors about 300–600 yuan per two hours), a summit restaurant and viewing platform with views of Bogda Peak, and hotels and hot spring resorts within the resort. Shuixigou Town at the foot of the mountain has many guesthouses and farmhouse restaurants.
Admission: Lift tickets cost about 200–400 yuan per day, with time-slot pricing. For peak weekends, buy tickets online in advance.
In summer (June–September) the resort becomes a mountain holiday area, where you can take the cable car up to see spruce forests and meadows, go tobogganing and ride mountain bikes.
Getting there: During the ski season, shuttle buses run from locations such as People's Square and Hongshan in the city. You can also take a taxi or chartered car. If you drive yourself, bring snow chains.
Tips: Always wear a helmet and protective gear when skiing, and beginners should take lessons with an instructor. The altitude brings strong UV, so wear ski goggles. Winter temperatures in the mountains can drop below -20°C, so dress warmly. The coordinates are an estimate of the resort's location.
Opening hours
Ski season 09:30–17:30 (night sessions until 21:00)
Nearby sights
- Tianshan Grand Canyon (Zhaobishan)
- Nanshan Pastures (West Baiyang Valley)
- Geographical Centre of Asia
- Wulabo Ancient City
- Memorial of the Eighth Route Army Office in Xinjiang
- Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
- Erdaoqiao & Bazaar Food Street
- Xinjiang Geological and Mineral Museum