Flaming Mountains: Witness the Crimson Legends and Extreme Heat of the Silk Road

1.The Flaming: Mountains, known in Uyghur as "Kizil Tagh" (Red Mountain), are a spectacular geological masterpiece located approximately 10 kilometers northeast of Turpan City on the northern edge of the Turpan Basin. Stretching 100 kilometers long and 10 kilometers wide, this red sandstone range is famous for its dramatic ridges and gullies that, under the scorching sun, appear like licking tongues of fire rising toward the sky.

Geologically, the mountains were formed during the Cretaceous period of the Mesozoic era, consisting mainly of red sandstones and mudstones. Over millions of years, the extreme wind and water erosion of the Turpan Basin have sculpted the mountain's surface into intricate "fire-like" patterns. It is scientifically recognized as the "Heat Pole" of China, with summer ground temperatures often reaching as high as 89°C, and air temperatures frequently exceeding 40°C.

Culturally, the Flaming Mountains are inextricably linked to the Chinese classic "Journey to the West". According to the legend, the Monkey King (Sun Wukong) kicked over the Lao Jun’s furnace in heaven, causing embers to fall to earth and form these burning peaks. Another local Uyghur legend claims the red color comes from the blood of a dragon slain by a young hero to protect the people. Today, visitors can see statues of the Monkey King, the Iron Fan Princess, and other characters throughout the scenic area.

The scenic area features an underground museum where travelers can hide from the intense midday heat while learning about the region's history. A landmark attraction is the "Golden Cudgel" Thermometer, which holds a Guinness World Record as the largest of its kind, vividly displaying the extreme surface temperatures to amazed tourists. Exploring this barren yet majestic landscape offers a profound meditation on the power of nature and the enduring spirit of the ancient Silk Road.