Jirentai Gorge

　　Jirentai Gorge is situated 25 kilometers east of Nileke County. The Niqiao Highway cuts directly through the gorge, running parallel to the Kash River that flows alongside. On both sides of Jirentai Gorge, towering peaks rise steeply, jagged rocks jut out, and the mountain paths become increasingly rugged and narrow the further one goes. Riding a horse uphill can be dizzying, making it hard to even glance sideways. In some areas, landslides have even blocked the narrow trails, forcing travelers—under the guidance of local herders—to dismount and continue on foot. Beyond this treacherous stretch, however, a whole new world opens up: the Qiaoshi Mountain is covered in lush greenery, with herds of cattle, horses, and sheep grazing peacefully. On the northern side of Jirentai Gorge, there remain three ancient petroglyph sites, engraved with images of horses, cattle, sheep, camels, various wild animals, and human figures in diverse expressions. These carvings stand as historical testimonies of the region’s ancient nomadic peoples.