Turpan: The Flaming Mountains and Grape Valley

Turpan in Xinjiang sits in one of the hottest and lowest depressions in China, yet supports one of the most productive agricultural oases in Central Asia. The city is famous for its grapes, melons, and the nearby Flaming Mountains.

The Flaming Mountains

The Flaming Mountains are a 100-kilometer-long range of red sandstone hills that appear to glow in the afternoon sun. The surface temperature can reach 70 degrees Celsius in summer. The西游记 (Journey to the West) describes these as the realm of a fire-breathing bull demon. The V-shaped canyon is dramatic and photogenic.

Grape Valley

Despite the surrounding desert, Turpan produces abundant fruit thanks to the karez underground irrigation system. The Grape Valley is lined with vineyards producing seedless grapes, Hami melons, and pomegranates. The grape harvest in August transforms the valley.

Karez System

The karez is a network of underground channels bringing snowmelt from the Tian Shan mountains to Turpan. The system, with over 1,000 wells and 5,000 kilometers of channels, is a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering developed over 2,000 years. It allows agriculture in one of the driest places on earth.

Ancient Ruins

Turpan is surrounded by ancient sites. Jiaohe was a prosperous city from the 2nd century BCE to the 14th century, when it was destroyed by the Mongols. The ruins, atop a plateau, include streets, wells, and cave dwellings. Gaochang was another Silk Road city, destroyed in the 14th century.

Getting There

Turpan is on the railway line between Urumqi and Kashgar, reachable in 2 hours. The Flaming Mountains and Grape Valley are near the city. Plan 2 days. Spring and autumn are pleasant; summer is extremely hot.