The October travel guide for Xinjiang mainly includes recommended attractions, itinerary planning, precautions, etc.
I. Recommended Attractions
Kanas + Hemu + Sayram Lake Loop: This is a classic route in northern Xinjiang, where you can feel the gorgeous autumn scenery. Kanas is known as the ‘God’s Backyard’, while Hemu is a village surrounded by colorful forests. The morning fog and starry skies are breathtakingly beautiful. Sayram Lake is a large alpine lake in Xinjiang, known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic’.
Kashgar + Pamir Plateau Little Loop: This is a recommended route in southern Xinjiang, where you can experience different exotic flavors.
Colorful Beach: Formed by wind erosion and water erosion, it exhibits typical colorful hill landforms, which contrast beautifully with the valley scenery on the south shore.
Urho Populus Euphratica Forest: Ten thousand acres of Populus Euphratica Forest shimmer with golden light in autumn, creating a breathtaking scene.
II. Itinerary Planning
Classic Seven-Day Tour:
DAY1: Departure – Urumqi
DAY2: Urumqi – S21 Desert Highway – Colorful Beach – Burqin
DAY3: Burqin – Kanas – Hemu Village
DAY4: Hemu Village – Free time in Hemu – Urho
DAY5: Urho – Ghost City – Baiyang River Grand Canyon – Jinghe/Bole
DAY6: Jinghe/Bole – Sayram Lake – Xinyuan
DAY7: Xinyuan – Nalati Aerial Grassland – Campsite – Nalati
Other itineraries: You can also freely combine based on your own time and interests, such as departing from Urumqi, passing through Kanas, Baihaba, Hemu Village, and other places, before returning to Urumqi.
III. Precautions
Large temperature difference: In October, the diurnal temperature variation in Xinjiang can reach over 20°, so wear a thick coat in the morning and evening, which you can take off at noon. It is recommended to bring layered clothing, windbreakers, jackets, thin sweaters, cotton-padded clothes, or winter coats for warmth.
Dry climate: The climate is dry in autumn, so be sure to bring highly moisturizing skincare products. Don’t forget sunscreen either, as UV rays are still very strong.
Medicine preparation: If you are going to be away for more than four days, remember to bring common medications such as cold medicine, antidiarrheals, etc., for unexpected needs.
Food and water: Bring enough dry food and water, as there may not be sufficient catering services within the scenic area. It is recommended to carry some energy bars, chocolates, and other high-calorie foods, as well as some fruits and nuts.
The above information is for reference only. Specific itinerary and precautions need to be adjusted according to personal actual circumstances. Wish you a pleasant journey!