Summer is one of the golden times to visit Xinjiang, especially from July to August. Temperatures rise across the region, and fruits and vegetables ripen, making it a great season to taste local delicacies and enjoy the scenery. Below is a detailed guide to self-guided travel in Xinjiang during summer:
I. Best Travel Time
The summer temperatures in Xinjiang are moderate, with mostly sunny and cloudy weather, making it ideal for tourism. Specifically, temperatures in June range from 19~29℃, in July from 21~31℃, and in August from 19~29℃.
During this time, you can fully enjoy the natural scenery and cultural landscapes of Xinjiang.
II. Modes of Transportation
Self-driving: Xinjiang has a vast territory, and self-driving is a very flexible way to travel. You can choose to rent a car and drive yourself, enjoying the scenery along the way and freely arranging your itinerary.
Airplane: Large cities such as Urumqi have a well-developed aviation network, allowing for direct or connecting flights to various parts of Xinjiang. For tourists with limited time, flying is a good option.
Train: Xinjiang’s railway network is also relatively developed, and the train is another economical choice. You can travel across Xinjiang by train to experience different scenery and culture.
III. Must-Visit Attractions
Kanas Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, it is known as ‘the God’s Backyard’. Here, there are mountains, lakes, and forests, with picturesque scenery throughout the four seasons, especially in autumn. The scenery of the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay) is superb. You can climb up to the Fish Viewing Terrace to overlook the beauty of the entire Kanas Lake.
Sayram Lake: Known as ‘the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, the lake has clear water and charming scenery. You can drive around the lake to look for wild white swans and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature.
Nalati Grassland: Under the fluffy clouds, herds of cattle and sheep graze. It is a great place for afternoon tea. Here, you can enjoy the vastness and tranquility of the grassland and feel the charm of nature.
Duku Highway: It is only open for 4 months a year, and you can experience four seasons in a single day, with different weather every ten li. This highway is a paradise for self-driving enthusiasts, with breathtaking scenery along the way.
IV. Food Recommendations
Xinjiang boasts a wide variety of cuisine, including grilled mutton, hand-grabbed rice, and laghman noodles. During your trip, you might as well try the local cuisine and experience the unique flavors of Xinjiang. Especially in the Ili region, you can taste delicious dishes such as hand-grabbed rice with lamb chops and legs, and Arctic char.
V. Accommodation Suggestions
Xinjiang has well-equipped accommodation facilities, ranging from budget hotels to luxury hotels. When choosing accommodation, you can select based on your budget and needs. Additionally, you can consider staying in local homestays or inns to experience the lifestyle and cultural atmosphere of the locals.
VI. Precautions
Xinjiang has a vast territory, and the distances between attractions are relatively far. It is recommended to plan your itinerary and mode of transportation in advance.
The climate in Xinjiang is dry, and the UV rays are strong. It is recommended to take sunscreen and moisturizing measures.
Xinjiang is a region where multiple ethnic groups live together. Please respect the local customs and religious beliefs.
I hope this guide to self-guided travel in Xinjiang during summer can be helpful for your trip!