Kanas is a famous freshwater lake in Burqin County, northern Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, China, and is known as ‘Eastern Switzerland, Photographer’s Heaven’. Here is a detailed travel guide to Kanas:?
1. Best Travel Time?
Autumn and Winter Seasons: In winter, the Three Bays are often shrouded in morning fog and covered in snow; in autumn, the forests are ablaze with colors. Kanas offers unique scenery in both seasons.?
September to October: The fame of Kanas in autumn echoes throughout China, with colorful forests and azure lake water, known as ‘The Most Beautiful Autumn Scenery in China’.?
2. Main Attractions?
Kanas Lake: The lake water is clear and blue, surrounded by mountains. You can take a boat ride or climb up to the Fish Viewing Platform for an overhead view of the entire lake.?
Three Bays: Including Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, and Shenxian Bay, each with its own unique characteristics. It is recommended to set aside half a day to appreciate them slowly.?
Hemu Village: Known as ‘God’s Private Reserve’, it maintains its primitive and natural landscape. The morning fog and chimney smoke intertwine, resembling a fairy tale world.?
Baihaba Village: Known as the ‘First Village in the Northwest’, it is located on the China-Kazakhstan border and is a great place to experience border customs.?
3. Accommodation Recommendations?
Within Kanas scenic area: There are various accommodation options, ranging from star hotels to homestays and inns. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.?
Hemu Village: Also offers various types of homestays and inns, such as Hemu Shuboris Hotel and Kanas Derong Hotel.?
4. Food Recommendations?
Local specialties: Grilled mutton, pilaf, milk tea, big plate chicken, etc.?
Chinese Restaurant: Zana Restaurant is the only Chinese restaurant in the scenic area, offering dishes suitable for Han Chinese taste.?
5. Transportation Information?
External transportation: You can choose to travel by plane, train, or car. It is recommended to take a plane for a time-saving journey.?
Internal transportation: Within the scenic area, mainly rely on shuttle buses. The bus ticket is included in the scenic area ticket and can be used multiple times.?
6. Precautions?
Large temperature difference between day and night: Remember to bring warm clothing. Even in summer, it can get quite chilly at night.?
Altitude sickness: Kanas scenic area is at a high altitude, so be aware of altitude sickness and consider taking medication to prevent it in advance.?
Respect local customs and habits: Do not take photos of local residents, especially the elderly and children, without permission. If you want to take photos, it is best to ask for their consent first.?
I hope this guide can help you plan an unforgettable trip to Kanas. Wish you a pleasant journey!?