Flaming Mountains Guide
Blazing Beauty: Explore the Fiery Landscapes of the Flaming Mountains Guide
The Flaming Mountains, or Gaochang Mountains, are a striking range of barren, red sandstone hills located near Turpan in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China. This dramatic landscape, known for its intense heat and unique geological formations, offers visitors a glimpse into a truly otherworldly environment. The mountains are a popular tourist destination, drawing visitors with their stark beauty and the legends that surround them. The Flaming Mountains owe their fiery appearance to the iron oxide content of the sandstone, which, when exposed to the sun, creates a vibrant red hue. The mountains are also deeply embedded in Chinese folklore, most famously as a key location in the classic novel *Journey to the West*. According to the story, the mountains were created when Sun Wukong (the Monkey King) kicked over a furnace in heaven, causing embers to fall to earth and ignite the landscape. The extreme heat of the mountains is also a significant factor, with surface temperatures reaching scorching levels during the summer months. Visitors to the Flaming Mountains can enjoy a variety of activities. Scenic viewpoints offer stunning panoramic vistas of the landscape. Camel rides provide a unique way to experience the desert environment. Some areas have been developed with tourist facilities, including observation platforms and small museums showcasing the geology and folklore of the region. While there are restaurants catering to tourists, the culinary traditions of Turpan are best experienced in the city itself, where you can savor Uyghur cuisine like *laghman* (hand-pulled noodles), *polo* (pilaf), and succulent grilled meats.
Transportation
The most common way to reach the Flaming Mountains is by taxi or private car from Turpan city. Buses also operate from Turpan to nearby towns, but you may need to arrange onward transportation to the specific viewpoints within the mountain range. Consider hiring a driver for the day to explore the area at your own pace.