Xinjiang Travel Guide?
Xinjiang, this vast land in the northwest of China, attracts countless tourists with its magnificent natural scenery, rich historical culture, and unique folk customs. Here is a detailed Xinjiang travel guide to help you better plan your itinerary.?
I. Best Travel Time?
May to October: This is the golden period for visiting Xinjiang.?
May to June: The grasslands in the Yili region are lush and green, with wildflowers blooming in competition. The ice and snow on Sayram Lake begin to melt, making it an excellent opportunity to admire natural scenery.?
July to August: Temperatures rise in various parts of Xinjiang, and fruits and melons ripen one after another, making it a great time to savor local delicacies. Meanwhile, it is also the peak season for visiting northern Xinjiang scenic areas such as Kanas and Hemu.?
September to October: Autumn in Xinjiang is colorful, with the trees and poplar forests in Kanas displaying a mesmerizing golden yellow, making it a paradise for photographers.?
II. Must-visit Attractions?
Kanas Scenic Area?
Located in the Altay Mountains, it is known as the "Garden of the Gods". Here, there are mountains, lakes, and forests, picturesque throughout the four seasons, especially in autumn. The scenery at the Three Bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay) is superb.?
Sayram Lake?
Sayram Lake is the largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, with clear and transparent water reflecting the snow-capped mountains, making it an excellent spot for photos.?
Tuergen Apricot Flower Valley?
A globally renowned gathering place for primitive wild apricot forests. From early March to mid-April each year is the peak blooming season, with tens of thousands of acres of wild apricot forests waiting for you to admire.?
Hemucun Village?
The settlement of the Tuwa people, with curling smoke rising, combined with snowy scenery, looks like a fairyland on earth.?
III. Itinerary Planning?
1. 7-day Northern Xinjiang Tour?
D1: Urumqi – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Kuitun/Jinghe?
D2: Kuitun/Jinghe – Sayram Lake – Liuxing Street – Yining?
D3: Yining – Xiata/Kurdening – Tekes?
D4: Tekes – Qiongkushitai – Tekes?
D5: Tekes – Qiaxi Forest Park – Xinyuan/Nalati?
D6: Xinyuan/Nalati – Nalati Grassland – Tangbula/Mengteke?
D7: Tangbula/Mengteke – Hundred-mile Gallery – Northern Section of Duku Highway – Urumqi?
2. 7-day Yili Loop Tour?
D1: Urumqi – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Kuitun/Jinghe?
D2: Kuitun/Jinghe – Sayram Lake – Liuxing Street – Yining?
D3: Yining – Kurdening – Tekes?
D4: Tekes – Qiongkushitai?
D5: Qiongkushitai – Qiaxi Forest Park – Xinyuan/Nalati?
D6: Xinyuan/Nalati – Tuergen Apricot Flower Valley – Yining?
D7: Yining – Urumqi?
(Adjustable according to the blooming period of apricot flowers in Xinghua Valley)?
IV. Transportation and Accommodation?
Transportation: Xinjiang is a vast territory, so it is recommended to choose flights, trains, or self-driving. Urumqi is the transportation hub of Xinjiang, with direct flights and trains to various places. If self-driving, pay attention to road conditions and safety.?
Accommodation: The accommodation conditions in various parts of Xinjiang are relatively complete, ranging from budget hotels to high-end hotels. It is recommended to book in advance according to your itinerary.?
V. Precautions?
Xinjiang has strong UV rays, so be sure to take proper sun protection measures.?
The temperature difference between morning and evening is large, so bring warm clothing.?
Respect local customs and treat others politely.?
Pay attention to protecting the environment and do not litter.?
I hope this Xinjiang travel guide can help you better plan your itinerary and enjoy an unforgettable trip to Xinjiang!?