Travel Guide for Xinjiang in July: The Best Time to Explore Stunning Scenery
July is the golden season for traveling in Xinjiang, with warm weather and picturesque scenery. Natural landscapes are particularly enchanting. Here is a recommended travel guide for July in Xinjiang, covering must-visit attractions, best travel routes, and practical travel tips.
I. Must-Visit Attractions
Nalati Grassland: In July, the grassland is even greener, with flowers blooming everywhere. It is a paradise for horse riding, grazing, and picnics. Here, you can gallop on horseback, taste authentic Kazakh cuisine, and experience traditional folk activities such as wrestling and archery.
Sayram Lake: The lake and mountains offer a stunning landscape. The mesmerizing blue scenery makes it an excellent spot for photos.
Kanas Lake: In July, Kanas is surrounded by verdant greenery, with white birch forests and morning mist. The lake’s color changes with the seasons and weather, creating a breathtaking view.
Duku Highway: An excellent self-driving experience, from deserts to grasslands, from gobies to seas of flowers, the scenery along the way is picturesque.
Tian Chi Lake in Tianshan Mountains: Known as the "Fairyland on Earth", the lake’s water is emerald green and clear, resembling a huge jade inlaid in the valley. Surrounded by mountains, it is an ideal place to escape the heat.
II. Best Travel Routes
Recommended classic travel route around the Tianshan Mountains (10-12 days):
Urumqi (2 days): Visit Tianshan Grand Canyon, Urumqi Museum, and Hongshan Mountain.
Turpan (1-2 days): Visit Flaming Mountain, Kanerjing, and Grape Valley, and taste the locally famous grapes and wine.
Korla (1 day): Visit Bosten Lake and taste Korla fragrant pears.
Kanas (2-3 days): Enjoy the beauty of Kanas Lake, explore the Tuwa villages, and experience the rich ethnic customs.
Depending on personal interests and time, you can also choose to visit other regions such as Kashgar and Ili to experience Xinjiang’s diverse culture and natural scenery.
III. Practical Travel Tips
Weather and Clothing: In July, the average temperature in Xinjiang ranges from 20℃ to 31℃, with a large temperature difference between day and night. It is recommended to wear lightweight and breathable clothing during the day, such as skirts, short-sleeved shirts, and thin blouses. For the night, prepare warm clothing like windbreakers, jackets, and lightweight down jackets.
Essential Items: An ID card is a must. It is also advisable to carry a small amount of cash, a mobile phone, a power bank, a camera, and other electrical devices, as well as daily necessities like moisturizing lotion, lip balm, and mosquito repellent. Additionally, sunglasses, a backpack, and a water bottle are also helpful companions during the trip.
Health and Safety: It is recommended to bring common medications such as stomach medicine, mosquito repellent, and cold medicine. Also, pay attention to sunscreen and moisturizing to cope with Xinjiang’s intense sunlight and dry climate.
In July, Xinjiang captivates visitors with its natural scenery and cultural landscapes. This travel guide aims to help you better plan your trip and enjoy an unforgettable journey in Xinjiang.