Kunlun Mountains

The Kunlun Mountains are one of the longest mountain chains in Asia, stretching for more than 3,000 kilometres (1,900 mi). They form the northern edge of the Tibetan Plateau, south of the Tarim Basin, and are located in Western China. In China, they are often called the "Forefather of Mountains."

The exact meaning of the Kunlun Mountains has changed over time. Older writings included areas such as the Altyn Tagh, the Qilian, and the Qin Mountains. More recent writings focus on the mountains south of the Tarim Basin. The name Kunlun may have come from ancient stories and texts, including the Classic of Mountains and Seas. Long ago, Emperor Wu of Han sent people to find the source of the Yellow River and named the mountains there Kunlun.

Extent

The Kunlun Mountains are one of the longest mountain chains in Asia, stretching for more than 3,000 kilometres (1,900 mi). They run from the Pamirs in Tajikistan eastward through southern Xinjiang to Qinghai. These mountains form the northern edge of the Tibetan Plateau and lie south of the Tarim Basin, which includes the Taklamakan Desert and the Gobi Desert.

Important rivers such as the Karakash River and the Yurungkash River begin in the Kunlun Mountains. The highest peak is Kunlun Goddess Peak, reaching 7,167 metres. The mountains have very few roads, with only two major highways crossing them.

Mythology

Main article: Kunlun (mythology)

The Kunlun Mountains have been part of Chinese stories and beliefs for a very long time. People thought of Kunlun as a special, magical place, almost like a paradise. It was believed to be close to where the Yellow River begins.

In old Chinese stories, the Kunlun Mountains are very important. They are described as a place where gods and important figures lived. Many famous tales, like the story of the Yellow Emperor and the Queen Mother of the West, happen here. These mountains were seen as a link between the earth and the sky, a special home for gods and heroes.