Things To Do
in Khutubi

Khutubi is a charming town in Xinjiang, China, known for its rich cultural heritage and picturesque landscapes. Nestled amidst stunning mountains and lush valleys, it serves as a gateway to traditional Uyghur customs and vibrant markets. The town is also famous for its diverse culinary offerings, reflecting a blend of Central Asian and Chinese influences.

Visitors can enjoy exploring historical sites, engaging with friendly locals, and savoring unique flavors that define this region.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Khutubi Mosque, an architectural marvel showcasing traditional Uyghur design. Spend time learning about the local Islamic culture and history.

afternoon
:

Head to the local bazaar where you can shop for handmade crafts, textiles, and spices. Don't miss sampling freshly made naan and kebabs from street vendors.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant specializing in Uyghur dishes, followed by a stroll along the river, where you can watch traditional performances.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Adventure
morning
:

Take a guided hike in the nearby Tianshan Mountains, exploring stunning landscapes and observing local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit a local tea house to experience traditional tea ceremonies and enjoy some local snacks. Afterward, relax in one of the town’s parks.

evening
:

Dine at a rooftop restaurant with views of the mountains, enjoying the sunset while savoring regional delicacies.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a Local Restaurant$4
🚌Public Transport Ticket$0.50
🏨Night in a Budget Hotel$20
Coffee at a Café$2
🍉Fruit at the Market$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and history.
  • Delicious and unique local cuisine.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Language barrier may pose challenges for communication.
  • Limited modern amenities compared to larger cities.
  • Transportation options may be less frequent.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "我不懂" - I don’t understand
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?
  • "厕所在哪里?" - Where is the bathroom?

Places to Visit in Khutubi

Visit one of these nice places.

Khutubi Mosque

An iconic structure with intricate tile work and minarets, perfect for capturing the essence of Uyghur architecture.

Tianshan Mountains

Breathtaking views of peaks and valleys, ideal for landscape photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.

Local Bazaar

Vibrant scenes of daily life, colorful stalls, and friendly locals, great for capturing the lively culture of Khutubi.

Culinary Guide

Food in Khutubi

Khutubi offers a delightful culinary experience characterized by its unique blend of Uyghur and Chinese cuisines, making it a food lover's paradise.

Khutubi Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Lagman

A hand-pulled noodle dish served with a rich, spiced meat sauce and vegetables, reflecting Central Asian flavors.

Must-Try!

Dapanji

Also known as 'Big Plate Chicken', this dish features chicken cooked with potatoes and wide noodles, seasoned with bold spices.

Kebabs

Skewered and grilled meat, often lamb or beef, seasoned with cumin and chili, a street food favorite.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Khutubi Night Market

A bustling market filled with street food stalls offering everything from kebabs to sweets, perfect for an evening snack.

Local Bazaar

An open-air market where you can find fresh produce, spices, and traditional Uyghur delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Khutubi experiences a continental climate with distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm to hot, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), while winters (December to February) can be quite cold, dropping to -10°C (14°F) or lower. Spring and autumn are mild, making these seasons ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is sparse, with most precipitation occurring in summer.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Show deference to elders in conversations and interactions, following traditional customs.

Dress Modestly

It’s respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to begin eating before you start, and use the right hand for food to show respect.

Safety Guide

Safety

Khutubi is generally safe for travelers, but it's advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in less populated areas and keep valuables secure. Always stay informed about local customs and potential political sensitivities.

Tipping in Khutubi

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated in restaurants; leaving a small amount is a kind gesture.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but mobile payment apps are gaining popularity; ensure you have some local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Spring sees mild temperatures and blooming flowers, making it a great time for outdoor activities and photography.

Summer

Summer can be hot, but it's perfect for hiking and exploring the mountains. Be prepared for occasional rain showers.

Autumn

Autumn offers cooler temperatures and stunning fall colors, ideal for scenic walks and photography.

Winter

Winters are cold with snowfall, providing opportunities for winter sports, but be prepared for chilly temperatures.

Nightlife Guide

Khutubi at Night

Khutubi's nightlife is vibrant, especially in the summer months when the streets come alive with locals and tourists alike. Numerous tea houses, restaurants, and night markets offer a variety of entertainment options, including traditional music and dance performances. Outdoor cafes provide a relaxed atmosphere to enjoy the warm evenings, while some venues feature live music and local artists, making it an inviting place to unwind after a day of exploration.

Hiking in Khutubi

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Karakol Valley Trail

A scenic trail offering views of lush valleys and towering peaks, suitable for intermediate hikers looking for adventure.

Tianshan Peak Trail

This challenging trail leads to breathtaking views from the summit of Tianshan Peak, rewarding hikers with stunning panoramas.

Airports

How to reach Khutubi by plane.

Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC)

Located about 200 km from Khutubi, this airport offers domestic and some international flights, serving as the main gateway for travelers to the region.

Getting Around

Walkability

Khutubi is quite walkable, with many attractions, markets, and restaurants located within a short distance of each other. The town's layout is pedestrian-friendly, making it easy to explore on foot. However, some areas may have uneven terrain, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Uyghur Community

The majority of Khutubi's population is Uyghur, known for their rich cultural traditions, language, and cuisine.

Han Chinese

There is also a significant Han Chinese population, contributing to the cultural diversity and economic activities in the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is popular among locals, with many informal matches played in parks and open spaces.

Basketball

Basketball courts can be found throughout the town, and it's a common sport enjoyed by both youth and adults.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Khutubi is generally light, with most residents using bicycles or walking to get around. Public transportation primarily consists of buses and shared taxis, which are reliable and affordable. Road conditions vary, so caution is advised when driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Khutubi.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While many dishes contain meat, there are vegetarian options available, especially in rice dishes and salads.

Halal Food

Most local eateries offer halal food, adhering to Islamic dietary laws.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Khutubi are basic, with a few local clinics available for minor ailments. For more serious medical needs, it may be necessary to travel to larger cities like Urumqi. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide