When traveling in Xinjiang in early December, you can plan according to the following suggestions:
I. Pre-trip Preparations
Clothing Preparations: Due to the low temperatures in Xinjiang in early December, especially in northern Xinjiang, the daily maximum temperature is approximately -6°C. The temperature in northern regions such as Altay is even lower, around -20°C to -30°C.
. Therefore, it is recommended to wear thermal underwear, thermal shirts, sweaters or woolen sweaters inside, and pair them with down jackets, thick cotton coats, or waterproof jackets with linings outside. At the same time, prepare woolen pants or thermal pants, as well as high-cut, thick-soled, and non-slip snow boots or cotton shoes.
Other Essential Items: ID card, cash, power bank, camera (for capturing the beautiful scenery of Xinjiang), skin hydrating products (Xinjiang has a dry climate, so hydration is needed), and common medications (such as cold medicine, gastrointestinal medicine, motion sickness medicine, etc.).
II. Transportation and Accommodation
Transportation: The distances between attractions in Xinjiang are relatively far. It is recommended to query public transportation information in advance and reasonably arrange your itinerary. If conditions permit, self-driving is also a good choice, but be aware of winter road conditions and prepare anti-skid chains and snow tires.
Accommodation: It is recommended to choose rooms with underfloor heating to ensure comfort. Log cabins in Hemu Village and accommodations near Kanas Lake are good choices, allowing you to experience local unique accommodation and enjoy beautiful sunrises, sunsets, or starry skies.
III. Recommended Attractions
Kanas: This is one of the famous attractions in Xinjiang. Winter Kanas Lake is serene and beautiful, with trees and snow-capped mountains along the lake forming a stunning view. You can stroll through the Kanas scenic area and admire the charm of the Three Lakes (White Lake, Black Lake, and Color-Changing Lake).
Tian Chi in Tianshan Mountains: The magnificent scenery of this alpine lake is breathtaking. In winter, the lake surface freezes, and the surrounding mountains are covered in snow, resembling a fairyland.
Hemu Village: The Tuvan villages here are full of primitive charm. The cozy scene of log cabins, chimney smoke, and snowy landscapes is captivating. An early morning visit to watch the sunrise in Hemu is also a must-have experience.
Sayram Lake: Accommodation near the lake is convenient for capturing sunrises and starry skies. Sayram Lake is equally beautiful in winter, and you can take a walk around the lake to experience the charm of the icy snow world.
IV. Activity Experience
Skiing: Xinjiang has many ski resorts, such as the Tianshan Ski Resort in Urumqi and the Kanas Ski Resort in Kanas, which have complete facilities and are suitable for skiers of all levels.
Folk Culture Experience: In December, various traditional festivals and folk activities are held in cities and villages across Xinjiang, such as the “Hotan Jade Culture Festival” in Kashgar and the “Grape Festival” in Korla, allowing you to deeply understand and experience the folk culture of Xinjiang.
In summary, traveling to Xinjiang in early December requires thorough pre-trip preparations, including selecting suitable transportation and accommodation, visiting recommended attractions, and experiencing local unique activities. I hope these suggestions will help you plan an unforgettable trip to Xinjiang!