The travel guide for Northern and Southern Xinjiang mainly includes the best travel time, must-visit attractions, and unique experiences.
I. Best Travel Time
Xinjiang has a vast territory, and the best travel times for Northern Xinjiang and Southern Xinjiang differ, but overall, from May to October is the golden period for visiting Xinjiang.
Northern Xinjiang: From May to June, the grasslands in the Yili region are lush green, with wildflowers blooming in competition, which is the best time to admire natural scenery; from July to August, temperatures rise, fruits and vegetables mature, making it suitable for tasting local cuisine, and it is also the peak season for scenic areas in Northern Xinjiang; from September to October, autumn in Xinjiang is colorful, with Kanas, Populus euphratica forests, and other places displaying enchanting scenery, making it a paradise for photographers.
Southern Xinjiang: There is no obvious off-season throughout the year, but from March to April, you can enjoy the apricot blossoms in Pamir and Yili; from September to October, the Populus euphratica forests in Southern Xinjiang also display a charming golden yellow, with a harvest of fruits and vegetables.
II. Must-visit Attractions and Unique Experiences
Northern Xinjiang
Kanas Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, it is known as the ‘God’s Backyard’, with high mountains, lakes, and forests, picturesque throughout the four seasons, especially in autumn. The scenery at the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay) is superb. Climbing up the Fish Viewing Terrace, you can overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Kanas Lake.
Hemu Village: A small village filled with primitive charm, surrounded by mountains, vast grasslands, and dense forests. In the morning, curling smoke rises, forming a picturesque view with the distant snowy mountains and grasslands. Here, you can experience traditional Tuwa culture.
Sayram Lake: Xinjiang’s largest alpine lake, known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’. The lake water is azure blue, surrounded by vast grasslands and snowy mountains. Driving along the lakeside to admire the lake and mountain scenery, you can also camp by the lake to feel the charm of nature.
Southern Xinjiang
Old Town of Kashgar: China’s only labyrinthine urban block featuring Islamic culture. The architecture within the old town is filled with a strong Uyghur style. Walking through the ancient streets and alleys feels like a journey back to ancient Western Regions.
Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon: As a scenic spot within Kuqa, a national historical and cultural city, the Grand Canyon is filled with an awe-inspiring desolate atmosphere and is a great place for exploration and photography.
In addition, the Nalati Grasslands and Bayinbuluke Grasslands in Northern Xinjiang are also scenic spots not to be missed; the historic sites such as Kuqa王府 (王府 is a title but here it refers to Kuqa王府 as a tourist attraction) and Kizil Grottoes in Southern Xinjiang are also worth visiting.
During the trip, you can also taste the specialty cuisines of Xinjiang, such as roast whole lamb, hand-grabbed mutton, naan, and more, to feel the unique folk customs and regional culture of Xinjiang.