To experience a perfect Xinjiang tour, you can refer to the following comprehensive guide, which covers main attractions, cuisine, and accommodation recommendations:?
Main Attractions and Best Travel Times?
Tianshan Tianchi: From May to October is the best time to visit, where you can enjoy the beautiful lake scenery surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pleasant views.?
Koktokay: From late August to early October is the best time to visit, when the natural scenery is particularly enchanting.?
Kanas: From late May to early October, the lake and mountain scenery here are breathtakingly beautiful.?
Sayram Lake: From mid-May to early September, the lake surface sparkles and complements the surrounding scenery.?
Lavender Fields: From mid-May to the end of July is the best time to view lavender, with a mesmerizing sea of purple flowers.?
Karajun Grasslands, Ili Nalati Grasslands: From mid-May to early August, the grasslands are lush and green, making it a good time for grazing and viewing.?
Bayanbulak Grasslands: From June to early October, the grasslands, lakes, and snow-capped mountains here form a breathtakingly beautiful picture.?
Duku Highway: From mid-June to early October, it is the best choice for self-driving tours, with picturesque scenery along the way that makes people reluctant to leave.?
Food Recommendations?
Mutton Skewers: Xinjiang’s mutton skewers are famous for their unique grilling method and delicious flavor.?
Big Plate Chicken: A special dish of Xinjiang, with tender chicken meat and a strong flavor.?
Hand-Grabbed Rice: A traditional cuisine of Xinjiang, it is fragrant and has a rich flavor.?
There are also other delicacies such as spicy chicken with pepper, which are a taste buds feast not to be missed.?
Recommended Itinerary Routes?
Eight-day tour itinerary: Departing from Urumqi, passing through attractions such as Tianshan Tianchi, Kanas, and Sayram Lake, and finally returning to Urumqi, experiencing the customs and beauty of Xinjiang throughout the journey.?
Seven-day tour itinerary: On the first day, visit Tianshan Tianchi in Urumqi and return to the city in the evening to taste Xinjiang cuisine; over the next few days, you can arrange visits to Kanas, Sayram Lake, lavender fields, Karajun Grasslands, etc., to experience the natural scenery and cultural charm of Xinjiang; on the last day, return to Urumqi to end your pleasant journey.?
Accommodation Guide?
Urumqi: It is recommended to stay near the Grand Bazaar in Hongshan District or in the Youhao Business District, where eating, drinking, and transportation are very convenient.?
Hemu Village: The log cabins are a special feature for accommodation, where you can view the starry sky at night and watch the sunset in the evening.?
Kanas: The old village is closer to Kanas Lake and can be reached on foot; the new village is near the Fish Viewing Terrace.?
There are also accommodation recommendations for places like Sayram Lake, Bayanbulak Grasslands, and Nalati Grasslands, which you can choose based on personal preferences and itinerary arrangements.?
Tourism Pitfalls Guide?
Xinjiang is vast in territory, with southern Xinjiang focusing more on cultural customs and northern Xinjiang on natural scenery. Choose your travel route based on personal preferences.?
It is recommended to start your trip in Urumqi, whether you are joining a tour group or driving yourself, as almost all transportation options depart from here. The airport bus only costs 10 yuan; be careful not to take an unlicensed taxi.?
Hope this perfect Xinjiang travel guide can help you plan an unforgettable trip and enjoy the scenery, cuisine, and culture of Xinjiang to your heart’s content!?