Northern and Southern Xinjiang each possess unique tourist charms. Northern Xinjiang focuses on natural landscapes, while Southern Xinjiang pays more attention to cultural customs.?
The natural landscapes of Northern Xinjiang are rich and diverse, mainly including alpine lakes, forests and grasslands, and geological wonders. For example, alpine lakes such as Kanas Lake, Sayram Lake, and Tianshan Heavenly Lake have clear waters like mirrors, surrounded by beautiful scenery, making them popular attractions for tourists.?
Forests and grasslands such as Xiata and Nalati are lush and green, with grasslands and forests intertwining, like a natural green poem.?
In addition, geological wonders such as Devil’s City in Northern Xinjiang showcase the incredible workmanship of nature.?
The best travel time in Northern Xinjiang depends on the scenery one wishes to see. For example, from May to August is suitable for viewing flower fields and grasslands, while from mid-to-late September to early October is the most beautiful autumn scenery season along the Altay region.?
Southern Xinjiang is famous for its rich historical culture and unique desert scenery. Kashgar Old Town is a living ancient city with a thousand years of history, filled with rich Uyghur customs. The ancient streets and traditional houses make people feel like they have traveled back to the glorious era of the Western Regions.?
The Taklamakan Desert is the largest desert in China. Tourists can experience exciting desert off-road driving here and feel the vastness of the sandy sea.?
In addition, ancient sites such as Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves have witnessed the prosperity of Buddhism in ancient Western Regions, with exquisite murals that are truly breathtaking.?
The travel time in Southern Xinjiang is relatively flexible. Besides the golden autumn season of Populus euphratica forests in mid-to-late October, beautiful scenery can be enjoyed at other times as well.?
In general, both the natural landscapes of Northern Xinjiang and the cultural customs of Southern Xinjiang are worth exploring and experiencing in depth by tourists. When planning an itinerary, one can choose suitable tourist areas and attractions based on their interests and time availability.?