Which is more fun to visit, southern Xinjiang or northern Xinjiang?
Xinjiang travel consultation hotline: 0991-8585456 (same)
North and South of Tianshan Mountain in Xinjiang, the distinctive natural landscapes provide boundless visual experiences. The magnificent scenery and majestic natural landscapes nurture diligent people here. It combines the boldness of northwest China’s frontier regions with the gentleness of southern China’s picturesque landscapes. Every scene is like a breathtaking visual experience, allowing people to forget their current troubles and always inspiring those who strive to pause, return, and set out again.
Xinjiang offers breathtaking beauty that touches the soul at every glance. Its vibrant ethnic customs and splendid ancient civilization have long made Xinjiang renowned both domestically and internationally. Its magical natural landscapes, beautiful living environments, pristine natural scenery, and rich ancient culture have nurtured colorful humanistic tourism resources.
So, follow me to explore Xinjiang and enjoy a mobile visual feast. Dive in quickly!
I. Comparison of Scenic Spots Between Northern and Southern Xinjiang
Transportation
Northern Xinjiang: The transportation network is dense and well-connected, with relatively short distances and few limiting factors. Prefecture-level cities such as Yili and Altay have daily round-trip flights, buses, and trains from Urumqi, making travel convenient. It should be noted that trains do not reach scenic areas such as Kanas, so routes need to be planned in advance. Routes between scenic areas and cities can be switched freely for convenient travel.
Southern Xinjiang: It has comprehensive transportation routes and numerous township roads. Prefecture-level cities such as Kashgar and Hotan are relatively far away. While flying is quick, ticket prices are not cheap, and reservations need to be made in advance. Buses and trains take relatively longer, so it is recommended to choose comfortable sleeper berths for better rest. The distances between cities and scenic areas vary, so it is best to have someone familiar with the routes accompany you.
Due to the numerous attractions in Xinjiang, and each major scenic area charging corresponding admission fees, it is advisable to purchase a Kartong card, which is quite cost-effective for a worry-free 365-day annual pass to explore Xinjiang!
Climatic Conditions
Northern Xinjiang: It has a temperate continental climate with large diurnal temperature variations. With relatively high precipitation throughout the year, it is rich in grasslands, rivers, and other natural features, making it a major agricultural and livestock production base. The diurnal temperature variation is extremely large during the transitions between spring and summer, and autumn and winter, hence the saying, ‘Wear a fur coat in the morning, a gauze shirt in the afternoon, and eat watermelon by the fireplace’.
Southern Xinjiang: The temperature is higher compared to northern Xinjiang, with less precipitation, sufficient sunshine, and a relatively arid climate. It is an important producer of Chinese long-staple cotton.
Scenery of northern Xinjiang
Geographical division of southern and northern Xinjiang and scenic comparison
Geographical division:
Northern Xinjiang: The Tianshan Mountains divide Xinjiang into northern and southern Xinjiang. Northern Xinjiang is characterized by mountains and grasslands. Kanas and Nalati are typical northern examples, mainly inhabited by Kazakhs and Mongolians who are nomadic throughout the year. Therefore, the skies of northern Xinjiang are often filled with songs, as eagles fly swiftly and horses run freely.
Southern Xinjiang: South of the majestic Tianshan Mountains are deserts and gobi, the birthplace of agricultural civilization. Uyghurs and Tajiks live here year-round, with dancing and mugam being the main melodies of life here. It is lively and colorful, delighting the eyes.
Scenic comparison:
Northern Xinjiang: It has a vast territory and is dominated by mountains and grasslands. You can ride freely among blue skies and white clouds, wander in vibrant landscapes, and feel the expressions of the mountains, the generosity of the grasslands, and the inclusiveness of the landscapes. Every mountain, every river, every flower, and every tree all praise the uniqueness of life and the purity of nature.
Southern Xinjiang: It boasts mountains, deserts, and gobi, which are vast and magnificent. You can immerse yourself in the delicate culture and glimpse the waves of history, or roam freely in the desert and gobi, feeling the solitude of the desert and the poetic sentiment of the setting sun over a long river. Enjoy the vastness of heaven and earth, the past since ancient times, the tranquility of summer, and the charm of autumn.
Scenery of southern Xinjiang
Suitable travel seasons
Northern Xinjiang: The golden season for travel is from April to September each year. Starting in April, the wild apricot blossoms in Yili Valley’s Xinyuan County attract many tourists. Lavender, peony, and other flowers bloom successively, creating a sea of flowers. The Kanas scenic area experiences a peak tourist season from June to September. Nalati Grassland, a popular summer resort, is filled with cattle and sheep, while the beautiful Sayram Lake warmly embraces visitors who stop to admire its beauty.
Southern Xinjiang: The best travel season is from May to October each year. The crisp and refreshing wind on the majestic Pamir Plateau can sweep away all your fatigue. Golden Beach, Populus euphratica forests, and Lop Nor Village are indispensable visual feasts in autumn. Around August, the air is filled with the fragrance of fruits, and the grand Gurban Festival showcases nature’s bounty and culinary delights.
Travel recommendations and precautions for southern and northern Xinjiang
1. Northern Xinjiang
1. The natural landscapes are unique, so bring brightly colored clothes for photo taking, as well as commonly used items like glasses and insect repellent.
2. It is recommended to travel by self-driving or tourist bus. Due to uncertain road conditions, it is advisable to contact a professional travel agency or driver for travel arrangements.
3. Follow the advice of your tour guide or driver. Do not go to undeveloped areas of the scenic spot on your own, and do not stay or play in sparsely populated areas.
4. Do not casually call out to the cows, horses, etc., raised by herdsmen in the grasslands or scenic areas. If you want to ride a horse, you must first obtain their consent.
5. Some scenic spots require a border defense certificate, which can be processed by a tour guide on your behalf. Do not enter the scenic area without it.
Which is more fun to visit, southern Xinjiang or northern Xinjiang?
Xinjiang travel consultation hotline: 0991-8585456 (same)