Karamay in Brief: Oil Town Turned Base Camp
Karamay (克拉玛依) is Xinjiang’s “Oil City” — China’s first major oil field, established in 1955. Today, it’s a modern city with unique attractions including the famous “Ghost City” (Devil’s City) wind-eroded landscape, making it a fascinating stop on any Xinjiang travel route.
Where is Karamay?
Karamay is in northern Xinjiang, about 300 km northwest of Urumqi, in the Dzungarian Basin.
| From | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Urumqi | 300 km | 3h drive / 2h train |
| Kanas | 500 km | 6-7h drive |
Best Time to Visit Karamay
- May-September: 15-32°C, pleasant, best for Ghost City
- October-April: Cold (-20°C in winter), but fewer tourists
Top Things to Do in Karamay
1. Ghost City (魔鬼城 / World Wind City)
A massive wind-eroded yardang landscape, looking like a ghost town. China’s largest yardang formation.
- Entrance: ¥50
- Best time: Sunset for dramatic shadows and colors
- Time needed: 2-3 hours
2. Karamay Oil Field Museum (克拉玛依油田博物馆)
Learn about China’s first major oil discovery and the city’s transformation.
- Entrance: FREE
3. Black Oil Mountain (黑油山)
A natural asphalt hill where oil seeps from the ground — the reason Karamay exists.
- Entrance: ¥20
How to Get to Karamay
- By Air: Karamay Airport (KRY) from Urumqi (1h, ¥300-600)
- By Train: Urumqi → Karamay (2h, ¥50-100)
- By Car: Urumqi → Karamay (300 km, 3h via G3014)
2-Day Karamay Itinerary
- Day 1: Arrive → Oil Field Museum → Black Oil Mountain → City tour
- Day 2: Ghost City (sunset is best) → Return to Urumqi or continue to Kanas
Where to Stay in Karamay
- Luxury: Karamay Hotel (¥400-600/night)
- Mid-range: Jinqian Hotel (¥200-300/night)
Karamay is the gateway to Kanas Lake from Urumqi. Spend a night and see the Ghost City at sunset — it’s unforgettable.
