Things To Do
in Guma
Guma is a remote town tucked in a highland valley of northwestern China, where rugged mountains meet pastoral plains. The town blends nomadic influences with Han Chinese hospitality, creating a quiet hub for explorers seeking authentic experiences. Narrow alleys wind between traditional courtyards, markets, and teahouses that come alive at dusk.
Beyond the town, dramatic gorges and alpine plateaus offer abundant photography and hiking opportunities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Wake up early to wander through Guma's winding ancient alleyways, where sunlit courtyards reveal centuries of history. Local vendors set up stalls offering handwoven textiles and fresh tea in the historic square. The peaceful atmosphere invites you to absorb the nuances of daily life in this preserved town center.
Visit the regional museum to admire Silk Road artifacts and intricate pottery shards excavated from nearby ruins. Gain insight into the blend of Han, Tibetan, and Uyghur influences that shaped Guma's unique cultural tapestry. Guided audio tours bring the past to life with vivid storytelling and historical context.
As dusk falls, join a cooking demonstration in a traditional courtyard setting to learn classic Guma recipes. Sample spiced lamb kebabs and hand-pulled noodles beneath lantern-lit archways. Conclude the night with a leisurely stroll through illuminated streets where local musicians play ancient melodies on the guzheng.
Travel to the remnants of an old Silk Route caravanserai set against the rugged landscapes. Explore stone foundations and carved reliefs that hint at centuries of trade and cultural exchange. Feel the wind whisper tales of merchants and pilgrims who once traversed this path.
Join an archaeologist for a hands-on excavation workshop to uncover pottery shards and ancient coins. Discover the techniques used in restoring fragile structures to their former glory. Discuss conservation efforts that preserve these ruins for future generations.
Set up camp under a canopy of desert stars with a local nomad family. Enjoy a simple meal cooked over an open fire as the campfire crackles. End the evening by gazing at the Milky Way with telescopes guided by a resident astronomer.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-3 |
| 🥟Street food snack | $1-4 |
| 🚎Public transport fare | $0.5-2 |
| 💧Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning highland scenery and peaceful atmosphere
- Rich cultural influences and markets
- Limited international connectivity and remote feel
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared to bigger cities
- "你好" - Hello
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "请问厕所在哪儿" - Where is the bathroom?
- "这个多少钱" - How much is this?
- "可以刷卡吗" - Do you accept card payments?
Places to Visit in Guma
Visit one of these nice places.
A golden moment when the morning light spills over jagged peaks and the town wakes below.
Dusty lanes, wooden balconies, and hanging lamps provide intimate portraits of daily life.
Soft light filtering into a limestone cave creates dramatic silhouettes for long-exposure shots.
Calm waters mirror the mountains at dusk for serene landscape photography.
Food in Guma
Guma Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Charcoal-grilled lamb skewers seasoned with cumin, chili, and garlic; best found at the Night Market and street stalls.
Must-Try!
Slippery noodles in a robust tomato-lamb broth topped with herbs; try at family-run noodle shops.
Thin, chewy flatbreads baked in a clay oven, perfect with dipping sauces and stews.
A warming traditional beverage; available in teahouses and some markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Morning to evening market where you can sample breads, dumplings, and grilled meats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect local customs in mosques and homes; dress modestly and remove shoes where required.
Ask permission before photographing people; avoid taking photos of private homes without consent.
A polite nod or a light handshake is common; avoid overly aggressive gestures and maintain respectful distance in conversation.
Safety
Tipping in Guma
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most restaurants; it is welcomed at some tourist-oriented venues (5-10%); otherwise round up the bill.
Cash is widely accepted; mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay) are common in towns and markets; some rural stalls may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming meadows; bring a light jacket for cool mornings.
Warm days with cooler evenings; sudden mountain storms can occur; stay hydrated.
Clear skies and colorful foliage; ideal for hikers and photographers.
Cold with snowfall possible; some trails may be closed; pack warm layers and traction.
Guma at Night
Hiking in Guma
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A circular hike across highland meadows with sweeping valley views; 4-6 hours depending on pace.
A scenic gorge walk with dramatic rock formations and petite waterfalls; moderate difficulty.
Airports
How to reach Guma by plane.
Major gateway for the region; about a few hours' drive from Guma when road conditions permit.
Regional hub in Qinghai; serves domestic flights and provides access to the northern routes.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Mainland Chinese ethnic group; diverse in language and customs.
Cultural influence visible in cuisine and markets; predominantly Muslim traditions.
Nomadic and agrarian influences present in some northwestern settlements.
Muslim minority with distinct culinary and cultural practices.
Historical presence in some valleys and pastoral communities.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular for exploring the surrounding plateaus and gorges.
Common in the rural valleys and pastures.
Preferred on limestone cliffs suitable for various skill levels.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Guma.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can enjoy vegetable dumplings, mushroom dishes, and noodle bowls—ask for oil-free or lighter sauces and to avoid meat-based broths.