The travel guide for May Day in Xinjiang mainly includes Altay and Yili in Northern Xinjiang, as well as Kashi in Southern Xinjiang. Here are some specific recommended attractions and itinerary planning:
Northern Xinjiang – Altay
Kanas: Known as the “Fairyland on Earth”, the lake water is green, and the surrounding snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and forests complement each other, making it one of the famous tourist attractions in Xinjiang.
Hemu: A fairy-tale-like village with extremely beautiful autumn and snow scenery, suitable for tourists who love pristine natural scenery.
Koktokay: Here you can appreciate the primitive beauty of nature and is a great place for exploration and photography.
Northern Xinjiang – Yili
Sayram Lake: Known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic”, its lake scenery and mountains are extremely beautiful and is one of the iconic attractions in Xinjiang.
Scenic spots such as Pine Tree Head and Dianjiang Platform near the lake are also worth visiting.
Nalati Grassland: With grasslands, valleys, forests, and other natural landscapes, it is a great place to experience grassland culture and relax.
Qiongkushitai: A primitive village nestled by mountains and waters, it is even more beautiful than popular grasslands such as Nalati. It is suitable for tourists who love pristine scenery.
Kalajun Grassland:Rated as the most beautiful 3D grassland by National Geographic, the scenery is particularly charming when flowers bloom in spring and summer.
Xiata Ancient Road: Suitable for tourists who love history and adventure, you can experience the charm of the ancient Silk Road.
Duku Highway: Experience four seasons in one day. The most beautiful scenery is on the road, and it is a paradise for self-driving tour enthusiasts.
In addition, the lavender fields in Yili (such as Huocheng Lavender) are also in full bloom in May. The ten-thousand-mu purple flower sea is romantic and dreamy, and is a great place for taking photos.
Southern Xinjiang – Kashi
Kashi Old Town: A historic town with exotic charm, full of Uyghur culture, and a great place to experience local customs.
Baisha Lake: The lake surface is like a mirror, and the mountains are covered with white sand. The scenery is spectacular and is a paradise for photographers.
Panlong Ancient Road: Visit the “From Here On, Life Is All Smooth Sailing” signpost and feel the charm of road trips
Itinerary Planning Suggestions
5-Day Yili Loop Route:
D1: Urumqi – Sayram Lake – Yining
D2: Yining – Kalajun – Tekes
D3: Tekes – Kuerdining – Nalati
D4: Nalati – Nalati Aerial Grassland – Yining
D5: Yining – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Urumqi
6-Day Yili Loop Route (Including More Attractions):
D1: Urumqi – Sayram Lake – Yining
D2: Yining – Lavender – Xiata – Zhaosu/Tekes
D3: Zhaosu/Tekes – Qiongkushitai – Tekes
D4: Tekes – Qiaxi – Nalati
D5: Nalati – Six-Star Street – Yining
D6: Yining – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Urumqi
When choosing an itinerary, you can arrange it according to your interests and time to ensure that you can fully experience the natural scenery and cultural charm of Xinjiang. At the same time, be sure to book accommodation and transportation in advance to avoid the crowds during the May Day holiday affecting your travel experience.