Traveling to Xinjiang during winter vacation is an excellent choice. You can experience a variety of ice and snow activities, admire the magnificent natural scenery, and taste unique cuisine. Here is a detailed guide for traveling to Xinjiang during winter vacation:
1. Ice and Snow Activities
Skiing: Xinjiang has multiple high-quality ski resorts, such as Altay’s General Mountain International Ski Resort and Keketohai International Ski Resort. You can enjoy the fun of skiing here and challenge different ski slopes.
Snow activities: In addition to skiing, you can also try activities such as horse-drawn sledges, snow tubes, and snowmobiles to experience the charm of the ice and snow world.
2. Natural Scenery
Kanas Lake: The color of the lake water changes unpredictably, surrounded by dense forests and snow-capped mountains, making it a paradise for photographers.
Nalati Grassland: The vast grassland, flocks of sheep and cattle, and the traditional lifestyle of the Kazakhs make you feel the grandeur and tranquility of the grassland.
Tianshan Tianchi Lake: The lake surface covered with ice and snow and the surrounding snow-capped mountains create a magnificent scenery, as if you are in a fairyland.
Hemu Scenic Area: It feels like a fairy tale world here, with sledges, forests, snow-capped mountains, morning fog, and chimney smoke under the warm sun, making people reluctant to leave.
3. Food Recommendations
Xinjiang Large Platter Chicken: With large chunks of chicken that are delicious, served with wide noodles or rice, the taste is excellent.
Mutton Skewers: The mutton skewers in Xinjiang have tender meat and unique seasoning, making them a must-try delicacy at night markets.
Hand-Grabbed Rice: Made with main ingredients such as mutton, carrots, and onions, the rice is glossy and fragrant.
Nang: Nang is one of the staples of the local people in Xinjiang. It has a crispy crust and soft inside, and is easy to carry.
4. Recommended Tourism Routes
Altay Skiing Circuit Route: Urumqi – S21 – Altay – General Mountain Ski Resort – Hemu -吉克普林Ski Resort – Kanas – Baihaba – Keketohai International Ski Resort – Urumqi. This 5-day skiing circuit route allows you to fully experience the charm of ice and snow in Xinjiang.
Classic Northern Xinjiang Route: Urumqi – Tianshan Tianchi Lake – Hemu Scenic Area – Kanas Scenic Area – World Ghost City – Sayram Lake – Urumqi. This route covers many famous attractions in Xinjiang, allowing you to experience the diverse scenery of Xinjiang.
5. Precautions
Warm measures: The winter temperatures in Xinjiang are relatively low, especially in mountainous areas and ski resorts. Please be sure to take warm measures and bring enough warm clothing.
Safety awareness: When participating in ice and snow activities, please be sure to pay attention to safety and comply with relevant regulations and instructions.
Respect local culture: Xinjiang is a region inhabited by multiple ethnic groups. Please respect the local culture and customs.
I hope this guide can help you plan an unforgettable winter vacation trip to Xinjiang!