The following is a suggested 9-day itinerary for traveling in Xinjiang:
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi. After checking in, you can proceed to Tianshan Grand Canyon to feel the charm of Xinjiang’s nature. In the afternoon, visit the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum to deeply understand the history and culture of Xinjiang. Enjoy Xinjiang’s special cuisine such as roasted whole sheep and hand-grabbed rice in the urban area at night.
Day 2: Depart from Urumqi and proceed to Koktokay to enjoy the magnificent scenery of Northern Xinjiang. After arrival, visit attractions such as Koksu Lake and Yiremu Lake. In the afternoon, proceed to the Colorful Beach to admire the perfect combination of the Yadan landform and the Irtysh River. Stay in Burqin County at night and taste the local fish feast.
Day 3: Depart from the Colorful Beach and proceed to Hemu Village to feel the simplicity of the Tuwa people’s life. At night, you can take photos of the starry sky in Hemu Village and experience the fun of camping.
Day 4: Depart from Hemu Village and proceed to Kanas. Visit the Kanas Three Bays (Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, Shenxian Bay) to enjoy the stunning scenery of Kanas Lake. In the afternoon, climb up the Fish Viewing Tower to overlook the panoramic view of Kanas Lake. Stay in a log cabin within the Kanas scenic area at night to experience a unique idyllic life.
Day 5: Leave Kanas and proceed to the魔鬼城 (Urho Devil’s City) in Urho to admire the masterpiece of nature – the Yadan landform. After that, you can proceed to Kuitun to prepare for the next part of the itinerary.
Day 6: Depart from Kuitun, visit the Sayram Lake to feel the beauty of its blue water. Then proceed to Yining City, and on the way, you can visit the Lopnur Village to experience a peaceful lifestyle.
Day 7: Take a one-day tour in Yining City. You can visit the Nalati Aerial Grassland to feel the vastness of the grassland. In the afternoon, you can head to the Liuxing Street to experience the unique local customs.
Day 8: Depart from Yining, visit the Lavender Manor, and then proceed to the Nalati Grassland to enjoy the grassland scenery. After that, take the Duku Highway back to Urumqi.
Day 9: End your pleasant itinerary in Urumqi. According to your flight schedule, you can choose to have free activities in the urban area, buy some unique souvenirs from Xinjiang, and then prepare for your return trip.
Above is a basic 9-day itinerary for Xinjiang. Of course, the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and needs. I hope this itinerary can help you plan an unforgettable trip to Xinjiang!