This winter, Zhaosu County in Xinjiang is serving major ‘Game of Thrones’ vibes as herds of majestic Ili horses – nicknamed ‘Heavenly Horses’ – thunder across snow-blanketed valleys. Against the backdrop of the Tianshan Mountains, these powerful animals are reviving ancient Uygur equestrian traditions while boosting local tourism.
More Than Just Pretty Hooves
Why all the hype? These aren’t your average ponies:
🔥 Built different: Standing 1.48m tall and weighing 400kg+
💨 Winter warriors: Thrive in -30°C temperatures
📸 Insta-famous: Their snow-kicking gallops create viral-worthy ‘powder clouds’
Local guides tell us this year’s ‘Heavenly Horses Experience’ tours are booking fast, with travelers craving authentic cultural encounters beyond typical ski resorts.
From Silk Road to TikTok FYP
Once prized by Han Dynasty emperors for military campaigns, these horses now star in #TravelTok videos showcasing Xinjiang’s frozen landscapes. Tourism officials report a 40% spike in winter visitors since 2023, proving adventure travel is very much alive in 2026.
