The self-driving travel guide to Northern Xinjiang mainly includes the best travel time, must-visit attractions, and detailed itinerary planning.?
Best Travel Time: From May to October is the prime time to visit Northern Xinjiang. From May to June, the grasslands in the Yili region are lush and wildflowers are in full bloom, providing an excellent opportunity to appreciate natural scenery; from July to August, temperatures rise and fruits are ripe, making it the peak season to visit Kanas, Hemu, and other scenic spots; from September to October, autumn in Xinjiang is colorful and a paradise for photographers.?
Must-Visit Attractions:?
Kanas Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, it is known as the ‘God’s Back Garden’; it is picturesque throughout the four seasons, especially in autumn, when the Three Bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay) offer superb scenery.?
Hemu Village: A primitive village with neatly arranged wooden houses; the morning mist and snowy scenery make people feel like they are in a fairy tale world.?
Colorful Beach: Unique Yadan landform, with different landscapes on the north and south banks of the river; the south bank is lush with trees, while the north bank is colorful with rocks.?
Detailed Itinerary Planning (7 days as an example):?
Day1: Depart from Urumqi, visit the Colorful Beach to admire the Yadan landform, and stay overnight in Burqin.?
Day2: Depart from Burqin, head to Kanas, take a leisurely walk along Kanas Lake, admire the emerald-green lake water, and stay overnight within the Kanas scenic area.?
Day3: Hike the Three Bays (Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, Shenxian Bay) in Kanas, and proceed to Hemu Village for accommodation in the afternoon.?
Day4: Explore Hemu Village, admire the scenery of the primitive village, and arrange for a Hemu hot pot dinner in the evening.?
Day5: Watch the sunrise in Hemu Village, then set off back to Altay City, enjoying the snowy scenery along the way.?
Day6: Explore the surroundings of Altay City, such as visiting Keketuohai National Geological Park.?
Day7: Return to Altay, ending a delightful self-driving trip in Northern Xinjiang?
In addition, self-driving travel also requires attention to road conditions, safe driving, and advance booking of accommodation. During the trip, you can taste local cuisine such as roasted sheep hooves, yogurt zongzi, and baked stuffed buns, to experience the unique charm of Northern Xinjiang.?
The above guide is for reference only, and the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and time. Wish you a happy self-driving trip in Northern Xinjiang!?