Traveling to Xinjiang in August, both northern and southern Xinjiang are good choices, but the specific choice depends on your travel preferences.
In August, northern Xinjiang is dominated by lakes, grasslands, Yardang landforms, and other landscapes, with lush greenery, making it an excellent destination to relax. Recommended attractions include Yili and Kanas, where you can enjoy the beauty of Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, Kanas, Hemu Village, and other scenic spots. You can also go to魔鬼城 (Ghost Town) to take photos. Additionally, in early to mid-August, Altay or Yili in northern Xinjiang are good choices. Although the grass in Yili has started to turn yellow, you can still see green scenery; and from late August to mid-September, the Altay scenic area will present a breathtaking beauty of yellow, red, and green colors.
Southern Xinjiang is characterized by deserts, valleys, plateaus, Populus euphratica forests, and alpine lakes. Although temperatures are higher in August, if you like less crowded scenic spots, southern Xinjiang is also a good choice. At this time, you can visit the Taklamakan Desert, Wensu Grand Canyon, Pamir Plateau, Tarim Populus euphratica Forest, and other places, and experience the exotic flavor of Kashgar Old Town. However, note that the best time to view the Populus euphratica forests in southern Xinjiang is from September to November.
In general, traveling to Xinjiang in August, whether you choose the northern or southern Xinjiang, you can appreciate the unique natural scenery and cultural charm of Xinjiang. If you prefer lush grasslands and lakes, then the northern Xinjiang will be a better choice; and if you are more interested in deserts, valleys, and plateaus, then southern Xinjiang is worth visiting.