Astana Tombs

Introduction to Astana Tombs (阿斯塔那古墓)

Astana Tombs are located at 40 kilometers (25 miles) southeast of Turpan, 6 kilometers (3.7 miles) from the ancient city of Gaochang, this Tang-dynasty burial ground known as the "Underground Museum" attracts stream of archaeologists both at home and abroad. Astana means "capital" in Uigur and Karakhoja is the name of a legendary hero of the ancient Uigur Kingdom who expelled the evils by killing a vicious dragon. 

The tombs range 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) from north to south and 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) from east to west. Gravel boundaries separate the tombs by family. Generally speaking, husband and wife were buried together. In some cases, one man was accompanied by two or three women. The imperial dead of Gaochang and noble officials were buried here. However, curiously, the tomb of King Gaochang has been found nowhere in the tombs. 

Currently only three chambers are open to the public. Visitors are not allowed to touch the mural inside the chambers.

Location

Asitana Village, Huoyanshan Country, Turpan

Main Sights

Astana Tombs

Travel Information

Admission Fee: 40 Yuan
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the Astana Tombs is in autumn.

Travel Tips 

1. Try to avoid visiting during the summer holidays and Golden Week in October. There are many tour groups and local tourists during national holidays.

Tour including Visiting Astana Tombs (Turpan)

Urumqi Turpan and Kashgar 8 Days Tour