Kalateke Mountain

　　Within the territory of Artux, there are 134 peaks of varying sizes spread across the region, including 22 peaks with elevations above 4,000 meters. The most famous among them is Kalateke Mountain.

　　Kalateke Mountain is an offshoot of the Southern Tianshan range, extending from northeast to southwest. It connects to the west with Maidantag and stretches eastward into the territories of Wushi and Keping counties, while also running across the northern part of Artux and serving as the boundary mountain with Akqi.

　　Kalateke Mountain acts as a natural barrier in northern Artux. This solid, over 100-kilometer-long natural shield first blocks the howling cold winds from the north, shielding Artux from icy storms and harsh weather. As a result, the area enjoys a mild, sunny climate with distinct seasons, creating an environment that has made it a renowned fruit-producing region across the Tianshan Mountains. The region boasts abundant crops, sweet fruits, and enchanting floral scents. This is the first great contribution of Kalateke Mountain to the people of Artux — a blessing that lasts for generations. Stretching from east to west, the mountain blocks the cold northern winds, fostering unique climatic conditions on its northern and southern sides, forming an ecological environment that remains largely unchanged. It has also given rise to differing cultural traditions between grassland and oasis cultures, as well as distinct production and lifestyle habits between nomadic and agricultural societies.

　　Kalateke Mountain is not only a spectacular tourist destination, but its fossil belt of seashells also holds significant value for geological research. Moreover, the mountain is rich in mineral resources, making it an ideal investment opportunity. Its lead-zinc and copper mines have been mined for many years and still hold substantial reserves. Natural gas has also been extracted and supplied to markets in the autonomous prefecture and Kashgar.

　　Kalateke Mountain, with its numerous peaks and rugged rocks scattered across the landscape, is a popular tourist spot in the Southern Tianshan range. To truly experience the mountain’s depths, visitors should come with their own vehicles to explore freely. Alternatively, those who trek through valleys, climb mountains, and ford streams with backpacks in tow will find the journey both enjoyable and rewarding.