The western Xinjiang travel guide mainly includes the best travel time, must-visit attractions, and self-driving tour route planning.?
I. Best Travel Time?
Xinjiang is vast, and the best travel times differ by region. However, generally speaking, May to October is the prime time to visit Xinjiang. From May to June, the grasslands in the Yili region are lush and wildflowers bloom, making it an excellent opportunity to enjoy natural scenery; from July to August, temperatures rise across Xinjiang, and fruits ripen, making it the peak season to visit northern Xinjiang attractions such as Kanas and Hemu; from September to October, autumn in Xinjiang is colorful, with the trees and poplar forests in Kanas displaying a charming golden hue, making it a paradise for photographers.?
II. Must-Visit Attractions?
The western route of Xinjiang boasts numerous fascinating attractions, including but not limited to:?
Sailimu Lake: Known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, it is the largest and highest-altitude lake in Xinjiang, with its unique blue lake water.?
Guozigou Bridge: The first steel truss cable-stayed bridge in China and part of Asian Highway 5, it is called the ‘Bridge of Life Over the Abyss’?
Kanas Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, it is known as the ‘God’s Back Garden’, with picturesque scenery throughout the four seasons, especially in autumn.?
III. Self-driving Tour Route Planning?
Below is a typical 11-day, 10-night self-driving tour route plan for the western route of Xinjiang:?
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi and begin the Xinjiang tour.?
Day 2: Head to Bole to explore the local customs and scenery.?
Day 3: Visit Sailimu Lake, cross the Guozigou Bridge, visit the Princess Jieyou Lavender Farm, and arrive in Yining.?
Day 4: Visit Liuxing Street, explore the Kazanqi Folk Tourism Area, and cross the Yili River Bridge.?
Day 5: Climb the Baishi Peak Observation Deck, cross the Angeliete Daban, explore the Wolf Valley Viewing Road, and arrive in Zhaosu.?
Day 6: Hike the Xiata Ancient Road, visit Jade Lake, explore the Grassland Stone Man scenic area, and arrive in Qiongkushitai.?
Day 7: Spend the day in Qiongkushitai, enjoying tranquility and beauty.?
Day 8: Visit the Tai Chi Altar, stroll through Lijie Street, and explore Bagua Park.?
Day 9: Traverse the Tangbula-Mengkete Ancient Road to experience natural scenery.?
Day 10: Visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon and return to Urumqi.?
Day 11: End the Xinjiang tour and prepare for the return journey?
This route covers multiple essential attractions on the western route of Xinjiang, providing an unforgettable self-driving tour experience. During the trip, you can also taste local cuisine such as big plate chicken, hand-grabbed rice, baked stuffed buns, and more, to feel the unique folk customs of Xinjiang?