Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb, Ili

The Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb (速檀·歪思汗麻扎) is located in Mazar Village (麻扎村), Mazar Township (麻扎乡), Yining County (伊宁县), within the Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture (伊犁哈萨克自治州) of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (新疆维吾尔自治区), China. Positioned about 60 kilometers from Yining County town, this sacred site is one of the most important Islamic mausoleums in Xinjiang.

Built in the late 19th century, the tomb was constructed in memory of Vais Khan (歪思汗), the 11th-generation descendant of Genghis Khan (成吉思汗). Over time, it has become both a religious pilgrimage site and a valuable cultural heritage landmark.

Historical Background of Vais Khan (歪思汗)

Vais Khan (歪思汗) ruled during the early 15th century in the region historically known as Moghulistan. He became khan in 1420 and strengthened political and military power in the region. His reign was marked by frequent conflicts with the Oirat Mongols, during which he fought numerous battles.

Although often engaged in warfare, Vais Khan also maintained diplomatic relations with the Ming Dynasty of China, receiving ceremonial gifts such as armor, bows, and silk from the imperial court. He played an important role in promoting Islam and strengthening Islamic governance in Central Asia.

He eventually died during a battle near Lake Issyk-Kul, and his legacy remains deeply tied to the Islamic and cultural history of the Ili region.

Architectural Features of Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb

The Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb (速檀·歪思汗麻扎) covers an area of approximately 14,000 square meters, with a main building area of about 271 square meters. The structure faces south and is built using a combination of earth, brick, and wood architecture, representing traditional Islamic and Central Asian design influences.

Multi-Layer Islamic Mausoleum Design

The mausoleum is a four-story structure:

• The first three levels are square-shaped with elegant overhanging eaves.
• The fourth level transforms into a hexagonal form.
• The roof features decorative dougong (bracket system) and glazed tiles.
• The top is crowned with a crescent-shaped spire, symbolizing Islamic faith.

The windows are circular with intricate carvings, and the ground floor is supported by 20 wooden columns. Inside, the structure uses a horizontal timber frame system, forming a stable and durable architectural design.

At the center lies an arched tomb chamber, where the burial site is covered with silk and satin offerings left by Muslim pilgrims.

Religious and Cultural Significance

The Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb (速檀·歪思汗麻扎) is not only a historical monument but also a living Islamic pilgrimage site. It continues to attract Muslim worshippers who come to pay respect and offer prayers.

Inside the mausoleum and surrounding cemetery, rows of Islamic graves create a solemn and peaceful atmosphere. The site reflects deep religious devotion and cultural continuity in the region.

Nearby, a separate earthen platform is believed to contain the tomb of Vais Khan’s mother, although only wooden pillar traces remain today.

Cultural Relics and Inscriptions

One of the important cultural relics preserved at the site is an Arabic inscription carved into bricks, located between the window structures of the mausoleum. This inscription reflects the strong Islamic cultural identity of the region during the historical period.

Historical Value and Research Importance

The Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb (速檀·歪思汗麻扎) is an important example of ancient Chinese Islamic architecture. It provides valuable material evidence for studying:

• The architectural styles of the Chagatai Khanate period
• The development of Islam in the Ili region
• Cultural exchanges between Central Asia and inland China

Because of its historical and architectural significance, it has become an essential site for scholars researching Silk Road civilization and Islamic heritage in Northwest China.

Protection and Cultural Heritage Status

In May 2006, the State Council of the People’s Republic of China listed the Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb (速檀·歪思汗麻扎) as a National Key Cultural Relic Protection Unit, highlighting its importance as a protected heritage site.

Travel Information – How to Visit Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb

The tomb is located in:
Mazar Village (麻扎村), Mazar Township (麻扎乡), Yining County (伊宁县), Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture (伊犁哈萨克自治州), Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region (新疆维吾尔自治区), China

Visitors traveling in the Ili region can include this site as part of a cultural heritage tour in Xinjiang, especially for those interested in Islamic history, Silk Road culture, and ancient Mongol-era heritage.

The site offers a quiet, solemn atmosphere surrounded by open landscapes, making it a meaningful stop for travelers seeking historical and spiritual depth in Northwest China.

Why Visit Sudan Vais Khan Mazar Tomb (速檀·歪思汗麻扎)?

• One of the most important Islamic heritage sites in Xinjiang
• Unique example of 19th-century mausoleum architecture
• Deep connection to Genghis Khan’s descendants
• Rich historical value linked to the Silk Road
• Peaceful and culturally immersive travel experience in Ili

Best Time to Travel Sudan Vais Khan Mazar

Every autumn, that is, August and September, is the best time to visit Ili.

At this time, the weather began to cool and the fruits began to mature. This is a very suitable time to travel. At this time, most scenic spots began to hang attractive gold. Let’s travel in the golden ocean. The natural scenery around Ili is very beautiful. In our spare time , we take our family to Ili to play, eat delicious fruits and enjoy different local conditions and customs. I believe this is a very beautiful moment and a very happy memory.

How to Get There

• According to the actual situation, different places of departure have different modes of transportation, please consult the staff for more information.

Useful Travel Tips

• The morning light in summer in Xinjiang is earlier, it is about 6:30 in the morning in the plain area and it will light up at about 7:00 in the mountain area, but breakfast in Xinjiang hotels usually starts at 8:30, lunch time is 13: 00-14: 30, dinner time is about 19: 30-20: 30, and the sun will not set until 22:30 in the evening, so pay attention to adjust the time difference when traveling to Xinjiang.
• Xinjiang has a large number of halal meals, mainly beef and mutton. Cities also have Sichuan, Hunan, Guangdong and other local restaurants with national characteristics. In remote areas and scenic spots, halal meals are the main food. Pasta is the main staple food in Xinjiang, but rice is the main food for group meals. Sheep meat is the main meat in Xinjiang, and the smell of mutton is very small, which is acceptable to the general public.

Nearby Attractions

• Site of Ancient Nilka Copper Mine
• Monument on the Gedeng Mountain
• Ancient Town of Mohe in Ili
• Sudan Vais Khan Mazar, Ili
• Jingyuan Temple in Qapqal, Ili
• The Bell Tower of Huiyuan City, Ili

Recommended Xinjiang Tour Packages

• 1 Day Urumqi City Tour with Xinjiang Museum and Nanshan Pasture
• 1 Day Urumqi City Tour with Heavenly Lake and Grand Bazaar
• 8 Days Silk Road Highlights Tour from Dunhuang to Urumqi
• 9 Days Silk Road Tour and Kanas Lake Adventure from Dunhuang to Urumqi
• 7 Days Northern Xinjiang Tour with Kanas Lake Adventure

Edited by Doreen/张洋