Things To Do
in Aketao
Aketao is a remote oasis town in Xinjiang along the ancient Silk Road. Nestled between desert dunes and palm groves, it preserves Uyghur traditions, crafts, and a hospitable, slow-paced rhythm. The town and its surroundings offer a window into desert life, camel trains, and market-day color.
Visitors come to wander quiet lanes, savor saffron-tinged dishes, and watch the land shift with the seasons.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the vibrant local markets of Aketao, where vendors showcase a variety of fresh produce and traditional handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds as you sample local delicacies like freshly baked bread and yogurt. Engage with friendly locals who are eager to share their stories and cultural insights.
After lunch at a nearby eatery, continue your exploration by visiting the Aketao Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's history and rich cultural heritage. The museum features various artifacts, including ancient textiles and pottery, providing a deeper understanding of the local traditions. Spend time chatting with the knowledgeable staff, who can share captivating tales of the area's past.
As evening descends, find a cozy spot at a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional Uyghur dinner, featuring dishes like laghman and kebabs. Bask in the warm ambiance and lively atmosphere as you savor your meal, accompanied by traditional music. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll through the town square, soaking in the vibrant energy and perhaps catching a local performance.
Prepare for an exhilarating day of trekking as you set out early into the breathtaking Tianshan Mountains. The crisp morning air is invigorating as you hike along well-marked trails, surrounded by stunning landscapes and unique flora. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including the majestic Marco Polo sheep, as you ascend towards higher elevations.
Stop for a packed lunch amidst the picturesque scenery, enjoying homemade sandwiches and fruit while taking in the panoramic views. Continue your trek, exploring hidden valleys and majestic peaks, with opportunities for photography at every turn. The tranquillity of the mountains provides a perfect backdrop for reflection and connection with nature.
After a rewarding day of hiking, return to Aketao and relax at a local teahouse, sipping on fragrant herbal teas. Share stories with fellow trekkers about your adventures and the beauty you've encountered. As night falls, enjoy a quiet evening under the starry sky, perhaps engaging in conversations about future travels.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water (0.5–1 L) | $0.5-1 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short) | $3-6 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural experiences and hospitable locals
- Stunning desert landscapes and oasis towns
- Remote and limited English will require patience
- Seasonal travel can be affected by heat, wind, or road conditions
- "Assalamu alaykum" - Hello
- "Rahmat" - Thank you
- "Qandaysan?" - How are you?
- "Bir nazar cheklep bering" - Please speak slowly
- "Yardem bering" - Please help me
- "Nerede?" - Where is it?
Places to Visit in Aketao
Visit one of these nice places.
A lush fringe of date palms along the river, especially photogenic at sunrise.
Historic religious and market precinct with white-washed walls and colorful stalls.
Crumbling stone structures echoing centuries of caravan trade.
Rolling dunes and dramatic light during dawn and dusk.
Vibrant textiles and faces lit by lantern glow after sunset.
Food in Aketao
Aketao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A fragrant rice dish with lamb, carrots, and onions, often cooked in a tall pot.
Must-Try!
Hand-pulled noodles in a rich meat and vegetable sauce.
Charred, cumin-kissed lamb skewers cooked over open flames.
Baked meat pastries with flaky crust and spiced filling.
Soft, sesame-studded flatbread baked in a clay oven.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A buzzing daily market where fresh produce, nuts, and hot street snacks are on offer.
Evening stalls offering roasted seeds, dried apricots, and warm tea.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially in religious sites; ask before taking photos of people; use the right hand for greetings and exchanges.
Uyghur culture is predominantly Muslim; observe prayer times and remove shoes where required in some mosques; avoid public displays of affection.
Safety
Tipping in Aketao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are appreciated but not mandatory; a small amount (2–5 USD) goes a long way.
Cash is widely accepted in rural areas; mobile payments (WeChat/Alipay) are growing in larger shops and hotels; foreign credit cards may not be accepted in small businesses.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days with mild to cool nights; carry water, sunscreen, and a hat. Desert winds can be strong; plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Pleasant temperatures and harvest colors; ideal for photography and market visits; nights begin to cool.
Cold nights with occasional snowfall on the outskirts; some routes may be slower to access; good for stargazing under clear skies.
Windy but flowering vegetation along oasis edges; light clothing and a windbreaker recommended.
Aketao at Night
Hiking in Aketao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle to moderate hikes with desert panoramas and oasis views.
Short desert treks around the dune fields, best at sunrise or sunset.
Scenic path along the edge of palm groves with irrigation canals.
Airports
How to reach Aketao by plane.
Nearby regional airport with domestic connections; access to major cities via short flight. Ground transport to Aketao can take several hours by road.
Larger regional hub with more frequent connections to major Chinese cities; longer drive to Aketao but acceptable for certain itineraries.
Another option in the region for regional connections; may require longer travel times to reach Aketao.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population with rich customs in music, cuisine, and crafts.
Smaller enclave communities involved in markets, trade, and services.
Includes migrant workers and some Central Asian minorities within the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular among local communities and school teams.
Common in town courts and community centers.
Cultural sport occasionally showcased at events and fairs.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Aketao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Options lean toward bread, yogurt, fruit, salads, and dumplings with vegetable fillings; inform cooks about no meat on request; many dishes can be prepared vegetarian.