The travel tips for a self-guided tour to Xinjiang mainly include the best travel time, must-see attractions, transportation options, and travel preparations.?
I. Best Travel Time?
Xinjiang has a vast territory, and the best travel times vary in different regions. However, generally speaking, the golden period for visiting Xinjiang is from May to October. From May to June, the grasslands in the Ili region are lush green, and wildflowers bloom competitively, making it an excellent time to appreciate natural scenery; from July to August, temperatures rise throughout Xinjiang, and fruits and vegetables ripen, making it the peak season for visiting northern Xinjiang attractions such as Kanas and Hemu; from September to October, autumn in Xinjiang is colorful, with the trees and poplar forests in Kanas displaying a mesmerizing golden hue, making it a paradise for photographers.?
II. Must-See Attractions?
There are numerous must-see attractions in Xinjiang, including Kanas Scenic Area (known as the "Garden of Eden"), Hemu Village (a village resembling a fairy tale world), Sayram Lake (described as the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean), Nalati Grassland (one of the four major grasslands in the world), and Karajun Grassland (voted as the most beautiful 3D grassland by National Geographic). These attractions each have their own unique characteristics, with some famous for their natural scenery and others filled with cultural and historical charm.?
III. Transportation Options?
Transportation in Xinjiang is very convenient, with access by plane, train, high-speed rail, and car. Due to the large distances between attractions, it is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance and choose suitable transportation methods based on actual conditions. If you have ample time and financial resources, you can choose to rent a car for a higher degree of freedom; if your budget is limited, you can choose to carpool or join a group tour, which is economical and has guarantees; in addition, self-driving is also a good choice, but it is necessary to familiarize yourself with road conditions and navigation routes in advance.?
IV. Travel Preparations?
Before departure, thorough preparations need to be made. In addition to essential documents (such as ID cards), it is also necessary to bring skincare products, cosmetics, sunscreen, and daily toiletries; electronic devices such as chargers, power banks, headphones, selfie sticks, and cameras; as well as both thin and thick clothing to adapt to Xinjiang’s large temperature differences. Additionally, you can prepare some motion sickness medication, insect repellent, masks, and umbrellas for unexpected needs.?
In summary, when taking a self-guided tour to Xinjiang, it is necessary to make adequate preparations and plans, including selecting the appropriate travel time, visiting must-see attractions, choosing suitable transportation methods, and preparing for the trip. I hope these tips can help you better enjoy the beautiful scenery and customs of Xinjiang.?