24 Hours in Urumqi

Capital of Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, Urumqi has never had more press than in the last 12 months, thrusting the city into public consciousness. For those of you still curious, flight prices are at an all time low. The city is as diverse as it is sprawling, with a melting pot of traditional Chinese culture weaved into the local colors, aromas and hustle and bustle of Xinjiang’s markets and way of life. It’s beautiful, too. Head 30 minutes out of town and you’re surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains and glistening lakes.

Where to stay
Situate yourself in the bustling downtown area, as close to the night market as possible. The Hong Fu Hotel (RMB650 a night) is right next to the entrance to the market, or hit the best budget hostel in town, the White Birch Hostel (RMB70 a night) to meet some real characters.
www.yhaxinjiang.com

What to do
The Xinjiang Uyghur Museum in the heart of the city provides a good insight into the region and its past, with artifacts from all across the Silk Road.
The most famous site in the area is Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), which is about two hours out of town, with glistening waters high in the mountains.
For a slice of traditional crafts, some great silk rugs and just about anything – including tacky souvenirs and trinkets – hit the night market.
 
What to eat and drink
Perhaps the main reason to head to Urumqi is the food. The whole city smells amazing, wafts of cumin spices and lamb skewers will give your nostrils a workout. Start at the street vendors littered around, who offer an eclectic mix of meats, breads and just about anything you can do with a raisin and a walnut. Grab a Xinjiang black beer at one of the roadside tables and watch as musicians sing and local men get drunk.

The night market is lined with little alleyways of restaurants selling spicy flat noodles and lamb skewers. Try one and you’ll be back for more.

On from Urumqi
Urumqi is a perfect 24-hour stopover as it’s the best way to start to explore the region. The best of Xinjiang is to be found elsewhere, though. Head to Kashgar next to the border with Pakistan and experience its famous Sunday market and the Taklamakan Desert leading to the Karakoram Highway. Or head to Turpan in the southeast for China’s wine region and the hottest temperatures in the country.

Getting there
There are three direct flights to Urumqi from Hongqiao Airport every day operated by China Eastern, Shanghai Airlines and China Southern Airlines. It’s a long trip, over five hours – and you’re still in China. Prices are around RMB3,000 return.
 
Handy tip
Take two watches: set one on Beijing time and one on local time. While all the buses, trains and flights run on Beijing time, the rest of Urumqi starts two hours later, or everyone would be living in darkness!