In July, a 12-day travel guide for Xinjiang recommends taking the Northern Xinjiang Grand Circle Route, which is a relatively complete and classic self-driving route that allows you to appreciate the natural beauty and local culture of Xinjiang. Here is the detailed itinerary:
Day 1: Gather in Urumqi and explore the International Bazaar in the downtown area to feel the strong exotic atmosphere. Then visit the Xinjiang Museum to understand the history and culture of this land.
Day 2: Depart from Urumqi and head to Tianshan Tianchi to appreciate the scenery of Yaochi Lake and the峡谷风光 (gorges), then cross the pasture and visit Mineral Pit No. 3, among others.
. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the S101 National Defense Highway to appreciate the hundred-mile Danxia landscape before heading to Dushanzi Grand Canyon to watch the sunset.
Day 3: Head to Burqin, passing through the S21 Desert Highway and Wulungu Lake along the way.
. Alternatively, you can depart from Koktokay Scenic Area and head to Colorful Beach to appreciate the hill landscape at sunset.
Day 4: Visit Kanas Lake, including attractions such as Guanyuting Pavilion and the Three Bays, before heading to Hemu Scenic Area. In the evening, you can choose to stay in a wooden cabin within the Hemu scenic area to enjoy the starry sky.
Day 5: Get up early in Hemu to watch the sunrise and morning fog before visiting attractions such as Meili Peak and then returning to Burqin.
. Alternatively, you can choose to visit Baihaba and experience a fairyland-like haven.
Day 6: Depart from Burqin and visit the World Ghost City before heading to Kuitun for accommodation.
. Alternatively, you can choose to take a self-driving tour around Sayram Lake to appreciate all its scenery.
Day 7: Depart from Kuitun and visit Sayram Lake, passing through the Guozigou Bridge before heading to Yining. Along the way, you can enjoy lavender fields, among others.
. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the Yizhao Highway, which is only open for 3 months a year, before taking a light hike in Xiata.
Day 8: Visit attractions such as Kazanqi in Yining and then pass through the Yizhao Highway to explore Xiata Grassland and Xiata Ancient Road, staying overnight in Zhaosu.
. Alternatively, you can choose to visit Qiaxi Grassland, which is as beautiful as a movie scene.
Day 9: Depart from Zhaosu and visit attractions such as Human-shaped Grassland and Qiongkushitai before heading to Tekes.
. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the Nalati Grassland and step into the world of Hayao Miyazaki’s comics, enjoying the scenery of bridges, streams, meadows, cows, and sheep.
Day 10: Depart from Tekes and visit Qiaxi Forest Park and Nalati Aerial Grassland, among others.
. Alternatively, you can choose to first explore the Nalati Grassland and then head to Bayinbrook to witness the miracle of nine suns at sunset.
Day 11: Head to Bayinbrook Grassland and then cross the middle or northern section of the Duku Highway to visit attractions such as Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery.
Day 12: Visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon and then return to Urumqi to end the trip. Alternatively, you can choose to visit attractions such as the Kumtag Desert before returning to Urumqi.
This route covers many famous attractions and natural landscapes in Xinjiang, satisfying both photography enthusiasts and outdoor explorers.
. During the trip, please pay attention to safety and environmental protection, and abide by local regulations and customs.