Keketuohai

Historical Overview
Mining activities here date to the Qing Dynasty (18th century), but systematic development began in 1935 under the Soviet-aided Xinjiang Mining Bureau. The Koktokay Mine No. 3 supplied 70% of China’s rare earth metals during the Cold War, playing a critical role in nuclear and aerospace industries. In 2005, mining ceased, and the site transformed into a geological museum. Today, it balances industrial heritage preservation with eco-tourism, earning titles like "National Mine Park" and "China’s Top 10 Geological Wonders."

Structural Layout
The park is divided into three core zones:

• Geological Heritage Zone: Features the 2-km-wide Koktokay Mine No. 3 pit, mineral exhibition halls, and the "Geological Monument" wall.
• Ecological Adventure Zone: Includes the Erqis River Grand Canyon, Iris Valley, and Karaery Lake.
• Cultural Experience Zone: Highlights Kazakh yurts, traditional blacksmith workshops, and the "Mine Workers’ Village" museum.
  Key landmarks include the 1,560-meter-long "Mine Tunnel of 1935" and the seasonal Iris Valley flower fields.

Major Attractions

1. Koktokay Mine No. 3: A 200-meter-deep mining pit with viewing platforms and exhibits on rare earth extraction.
2. Erqis River Grand Canyon: A 10-km-long canyon with emerald waters, ideal for rafting and photography.
3. Iris Valley: A 3,000-hectare wildflower reserve with over 60 species of iris (May–June blooms).
4. Mine Workers’ Village: A restored 1950s settlement showcasing mining tools and workers’ daily life.
5. Karaery Lake: A glacial lake with crystal-clear waters, surrounded by spruce forests.
6. Geological Monument Wall: A 200-meter-long mural depicting 4.2 billion years of regional geological history.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (3–4 hours):
   Entrance → Koktokay Mine No. 3 → Geological Monument Wall → Mine Workers’ Village → Exit
   Highlights: Industrial heritage, mining history, and geological displays.
2. Nature & Adventure Route (5–6 hours):
   Entrance → Erqis River Cruise → Iris Valley Hike → Karaery Lake Picnic → Exit
   Highlights: Canyon rafting, wildflower photography, and lakeside relaxation.
3. Comprehensive Route (Full Day):
   Dawn at Iris Valley → Morning Mine Tunnel Tour → Afternoon Canyoning → Evening Kazakh Cultural Show
   Highlights: Sunrise blooms, underground exploration, and traditional music/dance.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via the official WeChat mini-program (up to 7 days in advance).
• On-Site: Limited tickets available; queues average 30–60 minutes.
• Prices:
  • Peak Season (May–October): ¥120 (adults), ¥60 (students/seniors).
  • Off-Season (November–April): ¥90 (adults), ¥45 (students/seniors).
  • Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors, and military personnel.

Transportation

• By Car: Self-drive from Urumqi (500 km, 6 hours) via the G216 National Highway.
• By Bus: Daily buses from Urumqi North Station to Fuyun County (7 hours), then taxi to Keketuohai.
• Guided Tours: Available from Kanas Lake or Hemu Village (3–4 hours’ drive).

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Seasons: May–June (iris blooms), September–October (fall foliage).
• Avoid Crowds: Arrive before 9 AM or after 4 PM; weekdays are quieter.
• Weather: Layer clothing (mountain temperatures vary 10–15°C daily); carry rain gear.
• Essentials:
  • Sturdy shoes for mining site tours.
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting (eagles, marmots).
  • Respect Kazakh customs (remove shoes indoors, accept kumys (fermented mare’s milk) politely).
  • Prohibited: Climbing on mining equipment, littering, and drone use without permits.