Urumqi Glacier No.1, Mountain glacier in Tianshan Mountains, China
Urumqi Glacier No.1 is an ice formation in the Tianshan Mountains, positioned roughly 120 kilometers southwest of the city. The glacier displays two distinct branches that together make up this mountain ice field.
Scientific monitoring of the ice formation began in 1959 at an observation station on the mountain. During the 1990s, the original mass separated into two distinct sections, marking a significant shift in the glacier's condition.
The ice formation serves as a visible marker of environmental change for people in the region. When you stand here, you can directly observe how climate shifts affect the mountain landscape.
The site is best reached on foot using established pathways and research stations as reference points. It is wise to wear warm clothing and sturdy footwear, as temperatures are low and the ground can be uneven.
The ice formation is regularly measured and documented, making it a key reference point for understanding climate trends across central Asia. These continuous records offer a rare window into long-term changes in glacier coverage across this region.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
