The Xinjiang travel guide mainly includes the optimal travel time, must-visit attractions, and travel budget planning.?
I. Optimal Travel Time?
Xinjiang is vast in territory, with different optimal travel times for different regions. But overall, from May to October is the prime time to visit Xinjiang. From May to June, the grasslands in the Yili region are lush and wildflowers bloom competitively, making it an excellent opportunity to enjoy natural scenery; from July to August, temperatures rise across Xinjiang, and fruits ripen, making it the peak season to visit northern Xinjiang scenic spots such as Kanas and Hemu; from September to October, autumn in Xinjiang is colorful, with trees in Kanas and Populus euphratica forests displaying a charming golden hue, making it a paradise for photographers.?
II. Must-Visit Attractions?
Northern Xinjiang?
Kanas Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, it is known as the ‘God’s Back Garden’, featuring mountains, lakes, and forests, picturesque throughout the four seasons, especially the autumn scenery at the Three Bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay) which is superb.?
Hemu Village: A small village filled with primitive charm, surrounded by mountains, vast grasslands, and dense forests, where you can experience traditional Tuwa culture.?
Sayram Lake: The largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, with azure lake water surrounded by vast grasslands and snow-capped mountains.?
Nalati Grassland: Located in the hinterland of the Tianshan Mountains, it boasts vast grasslands, dense forests, and majestic snow-capped mountains. It is inhabited by the Kazakhs, where you can experience their folk culture.?
Southern Xinjiang?
Kashgar Old Town: The only labyrinth-like urban block in China featuring Islamic culture, the architecture within the old town is filled with a strong Uyghur style.?
In addition, the Nanshan Watermill Groove Scenic Area, Nanshan Pasture, Xinjiang Folk Street, Populus euphratica Forest, West Populus Grove, and Tianshan Heavenly Lake in Urumqi are also worth visiting.?
III. Travel Budget Planning?
Xinjiang is vast in territory, with great distances between scenic spots and relatively high transportation costs. Whether choosing to travel by air, train, or renting a car for self-driving, it will require a considerable expenditure. In terms of accommodation, during the peak tourist season, hotel and homestay prices in Xinjiang generally increase. Regarding dining, Xinjiang boasts rich cuisine, but the prices are not low. Considering transportation, accommodation, dining, as well as possible ticket and entertainment expenses, it is recommended to allocate a budget of over 1000 yuan per day for a more comfortable travel experience in Xinjiang.?
IV. Other Precautions?
A permit needs to be obtained in advance for visiting the border scenic spots in Xinjiang to avoid a wasted trip.?
The above is the main content of the Xinjiang travel guide, hoping it will be helpful to your trip.?