Three-day Recommended Itinerary for Traveling in Xinjiang
Xinjiang, this vast land occupying one-sixth of China’s territory, boasts rich natural landscapes and unique ethnic cultures. Here is a carefully arranged three-day recommended itinerary for traveling in Xinjiang, allowing you to experience the best of Xinjiang in a short period of time.
Day 1: Kanas – An Encounter with a Fairyland on Earth
Morning: Depart from Urumqi and arrive in Burqin County by plane or coach, then transfer to a scenic area bus to Kanas. The scenery along the way is already breathtaking, with golden birch forests and distant snow-capped mountains forming a natural picture scroll.
Noon: Upon arrival at Kanas, first visit Kanas Lake. The lake water is clear, and there is a legend that a ‘lake monster’ appears, adding a mysterious atmosphere to this lake. Walk along the栈道 (wooden walkway) beside the lake and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature.
Afternoon: If you have enough energy, climb up the Fish Viewing Platform to overlook the panoramic view of the entire Kanas Lake. The breathtaking feeling will be unforgettable for a long time.
Evening: Choose to stay in a small wooden cabin of the Tuvas. Taste local specialty dishes such as hand-grabbed mutton and milk tea, listen to the traditional musical instrument of the Tuvas called ‘Chuwuer’, and experience the unique ethnic customs.
Day 2: Tian Chi in Mount Tianshan – The Magnificent Beauty of a High-altitude Lake
Morning: Depart from Urumqi and head to Tian Chi in Mount Tianshan. Tian Chi is a high-altitude lake located in the northeast of Urumqi city. The lake water is clear and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, creating a spectacular view.
Noon: Enjoy lunch near Tian Chi and taste local specialty dishes.
Afternoon: After visiting Tian Chi, you can choose to hike, ride a horse, or take a shuttle bus to further explore the beautiful scenery of Tian Chi in Mount Tianshan. Then head to Nanshan Scenic Area, a famous summer resort with dense forests and fresh air.
Evening: Return to Urumqi city and stroll around the International Bazaar, where you can buy Xinjiang specialties, taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine, and enjoy a wonderful evening of singing and dancing performances.
Day 3: Sayram Lake – The Last Tear of the Atlantic
Morning: Depart from Urumqi and head to Sayram Lake. Sayram Lake is located in Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, China, and is known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic’. The lake water is clear and the mountains surround it, making you feel like you are in a fairyland.
Noon: Upon arrival at Sayram Lake, visit the viewing platform beside the lake and enjoy the scenery of the lake and mountains. Then take a boat tour on the lake to feel the tranquility and beauty of the lake water.
Afternoon: Enjoy lunch near Sayram Lake and taste local specialty dishes. Afterwards, you can take a walk along the lake, admire the beautiful scenery of Sayram Lake at night, or participate in a local bonfire party to feel the ethnic customs.
Evening: End your three-day trip to Xinjiang and return to Urumqi city or continue with other itineraries.
The above three-day itinerary covers three major famous scenic spots in Xinjiang, namely Kanas, Tian Chi (Heavenly Lake) in Mount Tianshan, and Sayram Lake, allowing you to experience the magnificent scenery and unique culture of Xinjiang in a short period of time. I hope this trip will leave you with unforgettable memories!