Things To Do
in Kumul
Kumul, also known as Hami, is a city in eastern Xinjiang perched on the northern rim of the Tarim Basin. It serves as a gateway to desert landscapes and rugged mountain scenery surrounding the Gurbantünggüt Desert. The city is home to a mix of Uyghur, Han, Kazakh, and Hui communities, which you can feel in its markets, music, and cuisine.
Expect an arid climate with hot summers and cold winters, making seasonal planning essential.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll through the historic center of Kumul, where ancient architecture and vibrant local markets greet you. Visit the grand Kumul Mosque, an architectural masterpiece that reflects the region's rich Islamic heritage. Sip on traditional tea at a nearby café and soak in the lively atmosphere as locals go about their morning routines.
After lunch at a local eatery, delve into the history of Kumul by visiting the Kumul Museum, which showcases artifacts from the Silk Road. Wander through the fascinating exhibits that highlight the cultural exchanges that took place in this pivotal region. As the afternoon sun sets, take a leisurely walk around the city’s ancient walls, enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
As night falls, head to a local restaurant to enjoy a traditional Uyghur feast, complete with lamb skewers and hand-pulled noodles. After dinner, explore the night market, where the air is filled with enticing aromas and vibrant lights. Engage with local artisans selling handmade crafts and savor a sweet treat before returning to your accommodation.
Begin your day with a guided tour along a section of the ancient Silk Road, where merchants once traded silk and spices. Visit the ruins of ancient caravanserais, where travelers would rest and exchange goods, immersing yourself in the historical significance of this trade route. Capture stunning photographs of the surrounding desert landscapes as you travel towards the next stop.
Continue your adventure with a visit to the ancient city of Jiaohe, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where you can explore the remnants of this once-thriving city. As you wander through the ruins, imagine the bustling life of merchants and travelers that once filled the streets. Enjoy a picnic lunch with sweeping views of the surrounding valley and cliffs, taking in the serenity of the area.
Return to Kumul and unwind at a local teahouse, where you can relax with a warm cup of traditional tea. Share stories of your adventures with fellow travelers, creating lasting connections. As the stars light up the night sky, take a quiet moment to reflect on the day's discoveries and the rich history of the Silk Road.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🏨Budget hotel per night | $25-45 |
| 🚍Public transport (1-way ticket) | $0.5-1.5 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🧳Local souvenir | $5-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich desert landscapes and unique Xinjiang culture
- Relatively affordable compared to bigger cities with fewer crowds
- Limited public transportation within the city
- Language barrier for non-Chinese speakers
- "你好" - Hello
- "请问最近的地铁站在哪里？" - Where is the nearest metro station?
- "多少钱？" - How much is this?
- "谢谢" - Thank you
- "可以帮我拍照吗？" - Can you take my photo?
- "我不吃肉，请给我素食选项。" - I don't eat meat, please give me vegetarian options.
Places to Visit in Kumul
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful street scenes, traditional architecture, and bustling market life offer countless candid shots.
Silhouettes of minarets and a warm sky provide dramatic, peaceful compositions.
Rolling dunes and nomadic tents create sweeping desert landscapes perfect for wide-angle photography.
Vibrant stalls with spices, textiles, and dried fruits yield rich color studies.
Food in Kumul
Kumul Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A robust chicken dish with potatoes and peppers, traditionally shared on a large plate.
Must-Try!
Hand-pulled noodles with meat and vegetables in a fragrant sauce.
Spiced rice with meat, carrots, and onions.
Skewered lamb grilled over charcoal, a street-food staple.
Traditional flatbread used to scoop up dishes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A lively market with dried fruit, nuts, and fresh produce, ideal for street snacks.
Evening stalls offering grilled skewers, breads, and sweet treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites; shoulders and knees covered.
Be respectful at mosques and during Ramadan; ask before photographing people or religious rituals.
Greet with a polite nod or handshake; avoid loud public displays of affection; consider removing shoes when entering homes.
Safety
Tipping in Kumul
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in most places; a small tip for exceptional service or a tour guide is appreciated but not expected.
WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely used; cash in yuan is widely accepted; some smaller shops may take only cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry with long days; carry water, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon.
Clear skies and pleasant temperatures; ideal for city tours and desert photography.
Cold and windy with possible frost; pack warm layers and be prepared for chilly evenings.
Dry with fluctuating conditions and occasional dust; bring a light jacket and sun protection.
Kumul at Night
Hiking in Kumul
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Desert-edge hike with expansive horizons and dramatic sunset colors.
Moderate trails in the mountain foothills with sweeping views over plains.
Airports
How to reach Kumul by plane.
Regional airport serving eastern Xinjiang with connections to major Chinese cities.
Xinjiang's main international gateway; transfer hub for longer trips.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Major ethnic group with distinct language and cultural traditions.
Significant presence contributing to a bilingual and multicultural cityscape.
Smaller communities adding to regional diversity.
Muslim Chinese community present in the area.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Widely played in schools and parks; local leagues are common in the warmer months.
Popular community and school activity with pickup games at public courts.
Traditional sport in nomadic areas during festivals and special events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kumul.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Uyghur cuisine centers on meat, but you can find vegetable dishes, lentils, and dairy; request no meat broth and opt for dairy-based dishes.