Snowboarding and Skiing in Xinjiang: Best Resorts Reviewed

When winter arrives in China’s far northwest, Xinjiang transforms into a paradise for snow lovers. With its vast mountain ranges, powdery snow, and world-class ski resorts, it has quietly become one of Asia’s most exciting new destinations for skiing and snowboarding.

As a local guide from Xinjiang, I’ve explored most of the region’s major ski areas — from Altay to Urumqi — and here’s my honest review of the best resorts for every type of traveler.

Why Ski in Xinjiang?

While most international travelers think of Japan or Europe for snow holidays, Xinjiang offers something truly different:

• Uncrowded slopes with fresh powder almost every day.

• Long ski season (November to March, sometimes April).

• Affordable prices compared to Europe or Japan.

• Stunning scenery — snow peaks, frozen lakes, and nomadic winter camps.

If you’re looking for both adventure and cultural depth, Xinjiang is your next ski destination.

1. Altay General Mountain International Ski Resort — The Birthplace of Chinese Skiing

📍 Location: Altay City, Northern Xinjiang
🎿 Best for: Powder lovers, long runs, authentic snow culture

Altay is known as the “cradle of skiing”, where local Kazakh herders have been sliding down snowy hills on wooden skis for thousands of years.
Today, Altay General Mountain Resort has modern lifts, wide slopes, and excellent natural snow — often more than 200 snow days a year.

Highlights:

• Over 30 runs for all levels

• Reliable natural snow (no need for artificial snow)

• Deep connection to local ski heritage

• Local Kazakh villages nearby for cultural experiences

Insider tip: Try night skiing and stay in a traditional yurt for the full Altay experience.

2. Koktokay International Ski Resort — Hidden Gem in the Mountains

📍 Location: Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture
🎿 Best for: Intermediate to advanced skiers, photographers

Nestled in the Altay Mountains, Koktokay offers spectacular alpine scenery — dramatic cliffs, frozen rivers, and untouched backcountry snow.
It’s smaller and quieter than Altay General Mountain, but that’s exactly why experienced snowboarders love it.

Highlights:

• High-altitude runs with excellent powder quality

• Great for freeriding and off-piste skiing

• Fewer crowds — perfect for a peaceful snow holiday

Insider tip: Visit the nearby Koktokay Scenic Area for ice waterfalls and winter hikes.

3. Silk Road International Ski Resort — Best for Beginners

📍 Location: Near Urumqi (about 40 minutes by car)
🎿 Best for: Beginners, families, short winter trips

This is the most accessible ski resort in Xinjiang — great for travelers who want to experience snow sports without going too far.
The facilities are modern, with multiple lifts, rentals, and ski schools offering English-speaking instructors.

Highlights:

• Easy access from Urumqi City

• Gentle slopes for learning

• Snowboarding park for tricks and jumps

• Restaurants and hotels nearby

Insider tip: Combine your ski trip with a visit to Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), which is stunning in winter.

4. Tianshan Tianchi International Ski Resort — Skiing with a View

📍 Location: Near Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), about 1 hour from Urumqi
🎿 Best for: Scenic skiing, couples, nature lovers

This resort gives you a breathtaking view of Heavenly Lake and snow-covered Tianshan Mountains.
Though smaller than Altay or Silk Road, it’s perfect if you want a mix of skiing and sightseeing.

Highlights:

• Beautiful natural scenery

• Smooth slopes for relaxed skiing

• Less crowded during weekdays

Insider tip: Visit in late December or January when the frozen lake and snow peaks look magical under clear skies.

5. Sayram Lake Area — Backcountry Skiing & Snow Adventures

📍 Location: Bortala Prefecture, near Ili
🎿 Best for: Adventure seekers, photographers, private tours

While not a formal ski resort, the area around Sayram Lake offers incredible backcountry skiing and snow trekking opportunities.
You can explore frozen lakes, snow-covered forests, and nomadic Kazakh villages — all with a guide.

Highlights:

• Untouched snow landscapes

• Perfect for photography and filming

• Customizable private experiences

Insider tip: Go with a local guide who knows the terrain — the area is remote and conditions can change quickly.

When to Visit

The ski season in Xinjiang runs roughly from late November to early April.

• December–February: Best snow quality

• March–April: Sunny weather, softer snow

If you’re into snowboarding or off-piste skiing, aim for January to March for the most reliable powder days.

Travel Tips for Skiing in Xinjiang

✅ Dress for dry cold: Temperatures can drop below -20°C, but the air is dry — so it’s bearable with proper gear.
✅ Book early: Resorts like Altay fill up fast during Chinese New Year.
✅ Go with locals: They’ll help you navigate, find the best photo spots, and introduce you to authentic winter food (try hot lamb soup after skiing!).
✅ Try cultural activities: Dog sledding, ice fishing, and visiting winter markets are all part of the fun.

Final Thoughts

Xinjiang is China’s best-kept secret for winter sports — vast, wild, and filled with heart.
Whether you’re carving down the slopes of Altay or sipping tea by a frozen lake, you’ll experience a side of Xinjiang that few travelers have ever seen.

If you’ve been dreaming of an authentic, uncrowded, and scenic ski trip, make Xinjiang your next destination.

❄️ Once you ride Xinjiang’s powder snow, you’ll never look at winter the same way again. ❄️