The best time to visit Xinjiang is generally from May to October each year, especially from September to October. Here is a detailed analysis:
May to June: Late spring and early summer, with moderate temperatures, is a good time to appreciate spring flowers and grasslands. Lavender in Yili and wildflowers at the foot of Mount Tianshan are in full bloom, creating a pleasant scenery. In addition, the number of tourists in spring in Xinjiang is relatively small, allowing you to avoid the crowds during peak periods.
July to August: Although temperatures are higher, it is also the season with the most abundant fruits of the year, such as哈密瓜 (Hami melons) and grapes. At this time, you can experience the "fragrant fruits" of Xinjiang. In addition, Xinjiang’s nightlife is rich in summer, with various food festivals and ethnic festivals frequently held, allowing for an in-depth experience of local culture.
September to October: Autumn is the golden season for traveling to Xinjiang. The weather is sunny, temperatures are pleasant, fruits and vegetables are still sweet, and the autumn colors are splendid, making it a paradise for photographers. In Northern Xinjiang, places like Kanas and Hemu Village, with golden birch forests, green lakes, and distant snow-capped mountains, form a beautiful picture scroll. In addition, the number of tourists in autumn decreases relatively, providing a better travel experience.
In addition, June is also a good choice for traveling to Xinjiang. At this time, Northern Xinjiang is like a dream, the Duku Highway is also open, and there are relatively fewer tourists, with relatively lower airfare and local reception costs.
Although winter temperatures are low and some attractions are closed, the snowy scenery of Kanas, among other things, has a unique charm, and prices are low, with discounts on some scenic area tickets.
In summary, the best time to visit Xinjiang varies by season and attraction, but generally speaking, from May to October is a relatively suitable choice.