Atushi Tianmen

Historical Overview

• Ancient Times: A pivotal stop on the Northern Silk Road, linking Kashgar to Fergana Valley (modern Uzbekistan).
• 19th Century: Explored by Russian geologists, who documented its karst formations.
• 20th Century: Developed as a tourist site in the 1990s, with infrastructure upgrades for modern travelers.
• 2018: Recognized as a national geological park, emphasizing conservation and education.

Structural Layout
The site is divided into three zones:

1. Arch Zone:
   • Sky Gate Arch: A 130-meter-high limestone arch with a 60-meter span, accessible via a 1.5-hour hike.
   • Viewing Platforms: Three elevated platforms offering panoramic vistas of the Pamir Plateau.
2. Wetland Ecosystem:
   • Artux River: A glacial-fed river with reed beds and migratory bird habitats.
   • Karst Caves: Explore the "Fairy Cave" system, featuring stalactites and underground streams.
3. Cultural Zone:
   • Silk Road Relics: Ancient caravan routes and petroglyphs near the arch base.
   • Uyghur Villages: Traditional adobe houses and weekly bazaars showcasing local crafts.

Major Attractions

1. Sky Gate Arch Trek: A 3-hour guided hike to the arch’s summit, with views of the Pamir peaks.
2. Fairy Cave Exploration: Spelunking in a 500-meter-long cave system (helmets and guides provided).
3. Silk Road Caravan Trail: Follow ancient paths used by merchants, with stops at Uyghur tea houses.
4. Artux River Rafting: Seasonal white-water rafting (May–September) for adventure seekers.
5. Uyghur Cultural Experience: Visit local homes to learn traditional bread-making and dance.

Suggested Itineraries

1. Classic Route (3–4 hours):
   Entrance → Arch Viewing Platforms → Silk Road Relics → Uyghur Village Visit → Return.
   Highlights: Arch vistas and cultural interactions.

2. Adventure Route (5–6 hours):
   Entrance → Sky Gate Trek → Fairy Cave Exploration → Artux River Rafting → Sunset at Pamir Viewpoint.
   Highlights: High-altitude trekking and cave exploration.

3. Cultural Immersion (Full Day):
   Entrance → All zones above + Homestay Dinner → Night Sky Photography → Early Morning Yoga.
   Highlights: Nomadic lifestyle experience and stargazing.

Ticket Purchase

• Online: Book via Ctrip or the official Xinjiang Tourism Bureau website.
• On-Site: Tickets at the entrance (¥45 adults, ¥25 students; 2025 prices).
• Packages:
  • Adventure Bundle: ¥200 (arch trek, cave tour, and rafting).
  • Cultural Bundle: ¥120 (Uyghur homestay and meal).
• Free: Children under 1.2m, disabled visitors.

Transportation

• By Car: Self-drive from Kashgar via G3012 Highway (90 km, 1.5 hours).
• By Bus: Daily buses from Kashgar South Station to Artux City (¥25, 2 hours).
• By Taxi: Direct ride from Kashgar Airport (¥300, 1.5 hours).
• Local Transport: Electric carts (¥20/hour) within the park area.

Best Time & Tips

• Peak Season: April–October (mild weather, clear arch views).
• Avoid Crowds: Visit in May or September for fewer tourists.
• Essentials:
  • Wear sturdy hiking boots for rocky trails.
  • Carry sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle.
  • Respect Uyghur customs (e.g., remove shoes before entering homes).
• Prohibited: Climbing the arch without a guide, drone flights without permits.