Western China

Western China is a region of incredible natural contrasts, ancient cultures, and unique landscapes. It is home to some of the highest mountain systems in the world, deep canyons, sacred lakes, and Buddhist monasteries. This overview covers the main attractions of the mountainous regions of Xinjiang, Tibet, Qinghai, Sichuan, and Yunnan.

Northwestern China: Xinjiang and the Tian Shan Mountains

Tian Shan Mountain Range ("Heavenly Mountains") stretch across Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Xinjiang. Key sites in the Chinese part include:
- Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) – a picturesque alpine lake at the foot of Bogda Peak.   
- Narat Valley – alpine meadows and Kazakh nomadic yurts.   
- Victory Peak (7,439 m) – one of the most challenging summits for climbers.

Pamir Mountains (Kunlun and Kashgar Ranges). At the junction of the Tian Shan, Pamir, and Kunlun lies Kashgar—an ancient Silk Road city.   
- Karakoram Pass (China-Pakistan) – one of the world’s highest-altitude roads.   
- Kongur Tagh (7,719 m) – the highest peak of the Pamirs in Chinese territory.

Taklamakan Desert and Kunlun Mountains. The Kunlun Mountains are considered sacred in Daoism. Notable sites:   
- Hotan Oasis – a center of jade mining.   
- Yarkand Canyon – stunning gorge landscapes.

Urumqi – Capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region is the largest city in northwestern China and a key transport hub on the ancient Silk Road, blending Uyghur, Kazakh, Han Chinese, and other cultures:   
- Erdaoqiao International Bazaar – the heart of Uyghur trade and cuisine.   
- Heavenly Lake (110 km from the city) – a scenic mountain lake in the Tian Shan foothills.   
- Xinjiang Museum – exhibits on regional history and the Taklamakan mummies.

Tibetan Plateau and the Himalayas

Lhasa and Surroundings. The heart of Tibet and its spiritual capital, situated at an altitude of 3,650 meters. The city maintains a unique atmosphere where ancient Tibetan traditions blend with modernity.
- Potala Palace – the Dalai Lama’s former residence and a symbol of Tibet.   
- Jokhang Temple – a sacred pilgrimage site.   
- Lake Namtso – a high-altitude salt lake (4,700 m).

Mount Everest (Qomolangma). The northern slope of Everest lies in Tibet:   
- Base Camp (5,200 m) – the starting point for climbers.   
- Rongbuk Monastery – the world’s highest-altitude monastery.

Nyenchen Tanglha Mountains and Mount Kailash (Kangrinboqe)   
- Mount Kailash (6,714 m) – a sacred mountain for Buddhists, Hindus, and Jains. The kora (ritual circumambulation) takes three days.   
- Lake Manasarovar – a pristine freshwater lake at Kailash’s base.

Southwestern China: Sichuan and Yunnan

Sichuan Alps (Hengduan Mountains)   
- Jiuzhaigou Valley – turquoise lakes and waterfalls (UNESCO site).   
- Mount Siguniang (6,250 m) – known as the "Eastern Alps of China."   
- Leshan Giant Buddha – a 71-meter-tall stone statue.

Yunnan: Mountains and Gorges   
- Tiger Leaping Gorge (Hutiao Xia) – one of the world’s deepest gorges (3,800 m from river to peak).   
- Mount Kawagarbo (6,740 m) – Yunnan’s highest peak.   
- Shangri-La (Zhongdian) – Tibetan culture and landscapes that inspired the "lost paradise" myth.

Qinghai and the Amdo Mountains

- Lake Qinghai (Koko Nor) – China’s largest saltwater lake.   
- Labrang and Kumbum Monasteries – centers of Tibetan Buddhism.   
- Sources of the Yangtze and Yellow Rivers – located in the Bayan Har Mountains.

Western China is a land of extreme altitudes, spiritual sanctuaries, and untouched nature. From the desert ridges of Xinjiang to the snow-capped peaks of Tibet and the subtropical valleys of Yunnan, each region is unique. Travel here requires preparation due to high altitudes, but the experiences will last a lifetime.

If planning a trip, be aware of permit requirements for Tibet and allow time for altitude acclimatization. The best time to visit is from May to October.