The best routes for autumn tourism in Xinjiang mainly revolve around the natural scenery of northern Xinjiang and the human landscape of southern Xinjiang. Here are two recommended routes:
I. Northern Xinjiang Kanas + Hemu Little Ring Route (from early September to early October)
This route focuses on appreciating the autumn scenery of northern Xinjiang and covers several of Xinjiang’s most famous attractions:
Kanas: The lake water is clear and the scenery is captivating. In autumn, the trees turn golden, making it a paradise for photographers. You can climb up the Fish Viewing Terrace to overlook the beauty of Kanas Lake as a whole, or stroll along the lakeside plank road
Hemu: An ancient village with a long history and plenty of charm in autumn. You can enjoy the sunrise and morning fog here and feel the tranquility and beauty of the countryside
Koktokay: A 5A national geological park with equally charming scenery in autumn
Colorful Beach: Famous for its colorful landscape, it is a great place for taking photos
Sayram Lake: Known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic", the lake water is azure, contrasting beautifully with the surrounding snow-capped mountains
Tian Chi, Mount Tianshan: The beautiful scenery of the Jade Pool, which has a unique charm in autumn
The specific itinerary can be referenced as:
D1: Urumqi – S21 Desert Highway – Ulungur Lake – Colorful Beach Sunset – Burqin
D2: Burqin – Hemu Bridge – Hemu Village Sunset Viewing Platform – Hemu Village Cabin
D3: Hemu Sunrise and Morning Fog – Kanas Three Bays – Kanas Lake – Jiadenyu Hotel
D4: Jiadenyu – Urho World Devil City – Poplar Forest – Karamay
D5: Karamay – Dushanzi Grand Canyon or Anjihai Grand Canyon – Urumqi
II. Southern Xinjiang Kashgar + Pamir Plateau Little Ring Route (from October to early November)
This route focuses more on the human landscape and unique geomorphology of southern Xinjiang:
Kashgar Old Town: Explore the ancient city of Kashgar and feel its profound historical and cultural heritage
Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves: Appreciate ancient Buddhist murals and sculptures, and experience the charm of ancient art.
Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon: Experience the awe-inspiring work of nature and feel the depth and mystery of the canyon.
盘龙古道: A winding road with picturesque scenery along the way, it is a great destination for self-driving tours.
Tarim Poplar Forest: In autumn, the poplar forest turns golden, making it a great place for photography and enjoying autumn.
Mount Muztagh Ata: View this majestic snow-capped mountain up close and feel the grandeur of nature.
Baisha Lake: The lake water is clear, and the dunes stretch continuously, forming a beautiful picture scroll.
The specific itinerary can be referenced as:
D1: Kashgar – Baisha Lake – Karakul Lake – Muji Volcano – Tajik Autonomous County
D2: Tajik Autonomous County – Wahkan Corridor Starting Point – Stone City Golden Grass Beach – Tajik Autonomous County
D3: Tajik Autonomous County – Xiabandi Reservoir -盘龙古道 – Kashgar
D4: Kashgar – Shache Amanisha Khan Mausoleum – Yarkand Khan Palace – Yingjisha Pottery Village, Yingjisha Dagger – Kashgar
D5: Kashgar – Kashgar Old Town – Id Kah Mosque – Xiangfei Garden – Kashgar
These two routes cover the highlights of northern and southern Xinjiang respectively. Visitors can choose a suitable route for sightseeing based on their interests and time.