The best travel routes in Xinjiang vary depending on the duration of the trip, preferred types of attractions (natural scenery or cultural landscapes), and the travel season. However, the following classic routes cover the diverse beauty of Xinjiang and can be used as a reference.?
1. Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop Route?
Introduction: This route is one of the most comprehensive self-driving routes in Xinjiang, covering various natural landscapes such as grasslands, snow-capped mountains, and lakes.?
Recommended Travel Time: May to November, especially July to September, when the grasslands are lush and the lakes are clear.?
Main Attractions: Kanas, Hemu, Koktokay, Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, etc.?
2. Yili Loop Route?
Introduction: Mainly focusing on the Yili River Valley surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains, it is an excellent route to appreciate the grassland scenery of Xinjiang.?
Recommended Travel Time: May to August, when the grassland flower fields are in full bloom and the scenery is delightful.?
Main Attractions: Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, Xiata, Tangbula, Duku Highway, etc.?
3. Kanas Loop Route?
Introduction: Dedicated to the natural beauty of the Altay region, it is a paradise for photographers.?
Recommended Travel Time: September to October, when Kanas Lake and its surrounding scenery are breathtakingly beautiful in autumn.?
Main Attractions: Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Koktokay, Devil City, etc.?
4. Southern Xinjiang Grand Loop Route?
Introduction: Mainly focusing on experiencing cultural customs, crossing the Taklamakan Desert, and exploring the Pamir Plateau.?
Recommended Travel Time: September to November and March to May, with suitable temperatures in spring and autumn, and the opportunity to experience different ethnic customs.?
Main Attractions: Taklamakan Desert, Pamir Plateau, Kunlun Mountains, Kashgar Old Town, etc.?
5. Kanas-Yili Loop Route?
Introduction: Combining the essence of Kanas and Yili, this is the most spectacular natural scenery tourism route in Northern Xinjiang.?
Recommended Travel Time: May to October, during which you can enjoy different natural scenery according to the seasonal changes.?
Main Attractions: Kanas Lake, Yili Grassland, Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, etc.?
In addition, there are also some special routes such as the Tashikuergan Basin Summer Leisure Tourism Loop, the East Tianshan Self-driving Boutique Tourism Loop, and the Pamir Plateau In-depth Experience Tourism Route, which are also worth exploring.?
. When choosing a route, it is recommended to arrange according to your own interests and time, while also paying attention to local weather and road condition information to ensure a smooth journey.?