Traveling to Xinjiang in March offers both the lingering charm of snowy landscapes and the blooming apricot blossoms of early spring, making it a season full of changes and surprises. Below is a detailed travel guide for Xinjiang in March:?
I. Recommended Attractions?
1. Altay Region?
Snowscape Experience: In early March, there are still snowy landscapes to enjoy in the Altay region, especially at Sayram Lake, which is less crowded, scenic, and has relatively lower accommodation and transportation costs.?
Skiing Activities: Catch the tail end of the snowy season and enjoy skiing at Jikepulin Ski Resort.?
2. Pamir Plateau, Southern Xinjiang?
Apricot Blossoms in Full Bloom: From mid- to late March, apricot blossoms gradually bloom on the Pamir Plateau in southern Xinjiang. Datong Township, Kukxiluk Township, and Tartajik Ethnic Township are all great places for flower viewing.?
Early Spring Scenery: Here, apricot blossoms cover the mountains, contrasting beautifully with the local natural scenery, making it a heaven for photographers.?
3. Toksun, Turpan?
Earliest Blooming Season: The blooming season in Toksun, Turpan, is the earliest, usually starting in late March. It’s a relatively lesser-known but scenic place.?
4. Ili Region?
Apricot Blossom Valley: Although the apricot blossom season in Tulgen, Ili, is relatively late, usually blooming in April, you can start planning your trip in late March to prepare for flower viewing.?
Other Attractions: Within Yining City, the Ili River, Six Star Street, and Hanren Street are also worth visiting.?
II. Activity Suggestions?
Self-Drive Travel: In March, self-drive travel is a good choice in Xinjiang. You can follow routes such as G318 and G219, cross the Himalayas, embrace sacred mountains and lakes, and encounter the secret apricot blossom gardens of southern Xinjiang.?
Skiing and Snowscapes: In the Altay region, in addition to enjoying snowscapes, you can also participate in winter sports such as skiing to experience a different ice and snow world.?
Photography and Sketching: Whether it’s the apricot blossoms in southern Xinjiang or the snowy landscapes in northern Xinjiang, they are both excellent themes for photographers.?
III. Precautions?
Sunscreen and Warmth: In March, Xinjiang has strong UV rays, and the snow on Mount Tianshan has not yet melted, with low night temperatures. Therefore, take necessary measures for sun protection and warmth.?
Advance Booking: During the blooming season, flights and hotels may be in high demand, so be sure to book in advance.?
Outdoor Activity Safety: If you plan to engage in outdoor activities such as hiking and horse riding, please pay attention to safety and avoid accidents.?
In summary, traveling to Xinjiang in March offers both the romance of snowy landscapes and the splendor of apricot blossoms, making it a season worth looking forward to. I hope this guide can provide useful reference for your trip to Xinjiang.?