The tourist conditions in Altay, Xinjiang, may not be ideal in early May. At this time, snow has not fully melted, roads may be muddy, temperatures may be abnormal, and the scenery, which is just recovering, may not be ideal.?
In contrast, the Ili region of Xinjiang is more recommended in May, where the scenery is even more charming.?
Specifically, the Altay region is located in the northern part of Xinjiang, bordering Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia, with complex and diverse landform types. Due to Altay’s unique geographical location and climate, the winter is long and the spring is short, so early May may not be the best time to travel.?
Traveling at this time may encounter unfavorable weather and less-than-ideal scenery.?
However, other regions of Xinjiang, such as Ili, usher in their most beautiful season in May. The floral meadow scenery of the Ili region is praised as the Jiangnan (a region south of the Yangtze River known for its picturesque scenery) beyond the Great Wall on horseback, and this is the perfect time to appreciate it. For example, Sayram Lake, where the grassy areas along the lakeside are filled with various wildflowers in May, creating a colorful scene, is an excellent choice for tourists to hike, bike, and picnic.?
Therefore, if you plan to travel to Xinjiang in early May, it is recommended to consider regions such as Ili for a better travel experience. Of course, if you have a special interest in specific attractions or activities in the Altay region, you can also make a choice based on your personal situation, but you may need to be prepared for unfavorable weather.?