The best time to travel to Xinjiang varies by region and travel preferences. Here are the recommended travel times based on seasonal and regional characteristics:
Spring (March to May)
Best Time for Flower Viewing: At this time, flowers begin to bloom across Xinjiang, such as peach blossoms and apricot blossoms in southern Xinjiang, as well as wild apricot blossoms in Turpan and Shanshan, which are highlights of spring.
Yili Region: Although the weather may be unpredictable in early spring, from May to June, the grasslands of Yili are lush and green, with wildflowers blooming in competition, making it a great time to enjoy natural scenery.
Summer (June to August)
Peak Season: Summer is the peak tourist season in Xinjiang, especially from July to August. Temperatures rise, and fruits like哈密瓜 (Hami melons) and grapes ripen, making it a great time to taste Xinjiang’s cuisine.
Scenic Areas in Northern Xinjiang: Places like Kanas and Hemu are breathtakingly beautiful in summer, but there are also relatively many tourists.
Yili and Along the Yili River Valley: The grasslands are lush and fertile, making it an excellent destination for escaping the heat and enjoying natural scenery such as snow-capped mountains, lakes, and wildflowers.
Autumn (September to October)
Golden Season: Autumn is the golden period for tourism in Xinjiang, with sunny weather, pleasant temperatures, and still sweet fruits. The colorful autumn scenery is a paradise for photographers.
Northern Xinjiang: Places like Kanas and Hemu Village, with golden birch forests, emerald lakes, and distant snow-capped mountains, form a beautiful picture scroll.
Southern Xinjiang: Around mid-October, the Populus euphratica forests enter their best viewing period, making it another great destination to experience Xinjiang’s unique natural scenery.
Winter (November to February of the next year)
Paradise for Ski Enthusiasts: Although Xinjiang is cold in winter, the ski resorts in Altay attract many ski enthusiasts.
Off-peak Season: Many places are closed due to mountain and road closures, and attractions may be shut down. However, prices are low, some scenic spot tickets are discounted, and some can even be viewed free of charge.
Summary: The best time to travel to Xinjiang varies by season and region. You can enjoy flowers in spring, escape the heat and taste fruits in summer, admire autumn scenery in autumn, and go skiing in winter, each with its own unique characteristics. It is recommended to choose the most suitable season based on your travel preferences and schedule.