Visiting Xinjiang in July and August, you will experience the most beautiful scenery and unique culture of Xinjiang. Here are some suggestions and must-visit attractions to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Xinjiang.
I. Pre-Trip Preparation
Accommodation Reservation: July and August are the peak tourist seasons in Xinjiang, and accommodation resources are tight. It is recommended to book in advance and prioritize accommodations that allow free cancellation.
Car Rental Choice: For car rentals in Xinjiang, there is no need to insist on an off-road vehicle; an ordinary SUV can meet most needs. Remember to choose a large platform and purchase full insurance.
Clothing Preparation: Xinjiang’s weather changes quickly, so it is recommended to bring thick leggings, jacket with linings, sunscreen clothes, and photogenic dresses.
II. Must-Visit Attractions
Sayram Lake
Known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean”, it boasts stunning blue lakes, flower seas, and grasslands.
The self-driving ticket is valid for 24 hours, and it is recommended to drive around the lake to fully appreciate its beauty.
Nalati Grassland
One of the world’s four major alpine valley grasslands, it has a large area with grasslands, snow-capped mountains, streams, and herdsmen, satisfying all your imaginations of grasslands.
Trekking is the most beautiful way, and horse riding is the coolest, making it an excellent place to experience grassland scenery.
Duku Highway
A limited beauty open for only four months a year, with snow-capped mountains, grasslands, canyons, and lakes along the way, experiencing four seasons in a day and different weather within ten li.
Driving safety and speed limits should be noted, but it is definitely worth taking.
Kanas
Known as China’s most beautiful lake, a fairyland on earth, and the garden of the gods.
The legend of the lake monster adds to its mystery, making it a scenic spot not to be missed in Xinjiang tourism.
Hemu
The Garden of the Gods, with village chimney smoke rising and peaks covered in green blankets, it is primitive and serene.
Experience wooden cabins, grasslands, birch forests, and horse riding activities, and feel “My Altay”.
Qiaxi
A niche destination with fewer people and beautiful scenery, it feels like walking into a comic book scene.
Suitable for trekking and camping, you can enjoy waterfalls amidst snow-capped mountains and forests.
III. Itinerary Recommendation
Here is an 8-day itinerary recommendation for your reference:
D1: Urumqi – S21 Desert Expressway – Colorful Beach – Burqin
D2: Burqin – Kanas Tour – Kanas
D3: Kanas – Trek the Three Bays of Kanas – Hemu
D4: Hemu – Stroll in the Ancient Village of Hemu – Wuerhe
D5: Wuerhe – Devil’s City – Bole
D6: Bole – Sayram Lake – Manxin Forget-Worries Valley Flower Field – Xinyuan
D7: Xinyuan – Nalati – Middle Section of Duku Highway – Bayanbulak Grassland
D8: Return to Urumqi and end the trip.
IV. Precautions
Sunscreen and Mosquito Repellent: Xinjiang has dry weather and strong ultraviolet rays, so remember to hydrate and apply sunscreen; there are many mosquitoes in summer, especially in the mountains, so be careful to prevent mosquito bites.
Border Defense Permit: When going to border areas such as Tajikistan County, Baihaba, and Horgos Port, remember to apply for a Border Defense Permit in advance.
Ticket Information: Some scenic spots have higher ticket prices, so it is recommended to understand and purchase in advance.
I hope these suggestions and itinerary can help you plan a delightful trip to Xinjiang!