China

Barkol

Barkol

Barkol is a city located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of northwestern China. It is situated in the Bayin'gholin Mongol Autonomou…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Exploring with transit or a car
  • Hiking travelers
  • Sightseeing travelers
  • Visiting in Summer
Recommended stay
5 days
Best time
Summer
Walkability
Spread
Guide depth
Solid guide
More about this guide

Barkol is a strong pick for hiking & sightseeing — plan about 5 days; group places into half-day loops. Peak season: Summer.

Solid guide guide · about 3 min to read · depth score 58/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Spread density — Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops. (≈340 km span)

5 Recommended days
Summer Best season
6 Nearby places

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When to go

High season: Summer

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: March · April · September · October

Weather

Autumn

10°C - 20°C

Spring

10°C - 20°C

Summer

20°C - 30°C

Winter

-10°C - 0°C

How to get there

How to reach Barkol in China

Barkol, also known as Barköl Kazakh Autonomous County, is located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China. Here's how you can reach Barkol:

  1. By Air:
  2. The nearest major airport to Barkol is the Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport (URC). From the airport, you can take a domestic flight to Kumul Airport (KRL) in Hami City, which is the closest airport to Barkol.

  3. By Train:
  4. You can also reach Barkol by train. The nearest railway station is Hami Railway Station, which is well-connected to major cities in China. From Hami, you can take a taxi or hire a car to reach Barkol.

  5. By Road:
  6. If you prefer a road trip, you can drive to Barkol from nearby cities. The G216 National Highway passes through Barkol, making it accessible by road. You can rent a car or hire a driver to reach Barkol by road.

It's important to note that Barkol is located in a remote area, and transportation options might be limited. It's advisable to plan your journey in advance and check for any travel restrictions or permits required to visit the region.

Getting to know Barkol

Barkol is a city located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of northwestern China. It is situated in the Bayin'gholin Mongol Autonomous Prefecture and is known for its stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Barkol is nestled in the eastern part of the Tianshan Mountains, surrounded by vast grasslands, deserts, and snow-capped peaks.

The city of Barkol is home to various ethnic groups, including the Uyghur, Kazakh, and Mongolian people. This cultural diversity is reflected in the vibrant traditions, customs, and festivals celebrated in the area. Visitors to Barkol can immerse themselves in the local way of life, experiencing traditional dances, music, and cuisine.

One of the major attractions in Barkol is the Barkol Grassland, also known as the "Jiangbulak Scenic Area." This vast expanse of grassland stretches as far as the eye can see and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The grassland is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, providing opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, and camping.

In addition to its natural beauty, Barkol is famous for the Barkol Lake, a stunning body of water located in the heart of the city. The lake is surrounded by lush greenery and is a popular spot for boating, fishing, and picnicking. The crystal-clear waters of Barkol Lake reflect the surrounding landscapes, creating a picturesque setting that attracts visitors from far and wide.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Carry warm clothing during winter
  • Stay hydrated during summer
  • Book accommodation in advance during high season

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Barkol?

Most travelers spend about 5 days in Barkol, China.

When is the best time to visit Barkol?

High season is typically Summer.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Barkol?

Travelers often find better value in March, April, September, October.

What kind of trip is Barkol good for?

Barkol suits Hiking, Sightseeing, Camping.

Is Barkol walkable?

Wide area — group nearby places into half-day loops.

Any local tips for Barkol?

Carry warm clothing during winter

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