XIY → URC

Qilian Mountain Range

A continuous stretch of high-altitude, snow-covered peaks that define the southern edge of the Hexi Corridor.

Hexi Corridor

The vital oasis belt of the ancient Silk Road, appearing as a green ribbon between the mountains and the desert.

Shule Nanshan

Dramatic glacial landscapes and high plateaus visible as you cross into the Gansu-Qinghai border region.

Jiayuguan Pass

The westernmost terminus of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall, identifiable by its fort structures near the city of Jiayuguan.

Eastern Tianshan Peaks

As the flight approaches Urumqi, the rugged southern slopes of the Tianshan range become visible during descent.

Badain Jaran Desert

Vast stretches of some of the tallest stationary sand dunes in the world, showing intricate wind-blown patterns.

Hami Wind Farms

Massive arrays of wind turbines scattered across the Gobi landscape, highlighting China's green energy expansion.

Flaming Mountains

Red sandstone hills near Turpan that appear to glow under the sun, located just east of the final approach path.

Bogda Peak

The 5,445-meter high iconic peak of the eastern Tianshan, often visible on the right during the descent into Urumqi.

Turpan Basin

Views of one of the lowest points on Earth, characterized by its extreme arid landscape and unique irrigation patterns.