Tian Chi, Kanas, Hemu, Ili Travel Guide
Tian Chi, Kanas, Hemu, and Ili are famous tourist attractions in Xinjiang. Here is a detailed travel guide to help you plan this wonderful journey:
1. Tian Chi
Best Travel Time: It is recommended to visit between May and October, as the weather is suitable and the scenery is captivating.
Scenic Spot Introduction: Tian Chi (Heavenly Lake) is known as the "Dressing Mirror of the Queen Mother of the West". The lake water is clear, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it an excellent spot for photography and scenery appreciation. Here, you can feel the tranquility and grandeur of nature.
2. Kanas
Travel Route: The Kanas Loop Route is recommended. With 5-7 days, you can deeply explore Kanas, Hemu, Koktokay, and other places. Kanas Lake has captivating scenery. You can climb up to the Fish Viewing Terrace for a panoramic view or stroll along the lakeside boardwalk.
Must-Visit Attractions: Kanas Lake, Shenxian Bay, Wolong Bay, and Moon Bay—each is a fairyland-like existence.
3. Hemu
Travel Experience: In Hemu, you can experience the original wooden house lifestyle and taste authentic local cuisine with the residents. When the morning light shines, the curling smoke rises, making it feel like entering a fairy tale world.
Viewing Recommendations: The viewing platform in Hemu is an excellent spot to welcome the morning mist. Additionally, you can visit Devil’s City to watch the sunset.
4. Ili
Travel Suggestions: The Ili Loop Route is suitable for a 6-10 day trip, with Sayram Lake, Nalati, Xiata, and other places being unmissable attractions. The stunning scenery at the foot of Mount Tianshan will definitely make you reluctant to leave.
Scenic Spot Features: Sayram Lake is intoxicatingly blue, contrasting beautifully with the distant snow-capped mountains. You can rent a horse and ride along the lakeside, feeling the freedom of the wind brushing past your ears. The endless green fields of Nalati Grassland are dotted with colorful flowers, offering a moment of tranquility and comfort.
5. Transportation and Accommodation
Transportation Options: You can choose to travel by plane, high-speed rail, or self-driving. Planes are fast but have higher ticket prices. High-speed trains offer a comfortable riding environment and relatively cheaper ticket prices, but may require transfers. Self-driving is more flexible, but Xinjiang’s routes are complex, so it is recommended for drivers with some driving experience.
Accommodation Recommendations: There are high-quality accommodation options in Kanas, Hemu, Sayram Lake, and other places, such as lakeside hotels and characteristic wooden houses within scenic areas. You can choose a suitable accommodation based on your itinerary.
I hope this guide can help you better plan your trip to Xinjiang and enjoy every wonderful moment on this beautiful land.