The July Xinjiang free-and-easy travel guide mainly includes weather preparation, must-visit attractions, and itinerary planning.
Weather preparation:
The average temperature in Xinjiang in July is between 20℃ and 31℃, but the diurnal temperature variation is large. The sunshine is intense during the day, and the wind is strong.
It is recommended to wear lightweight and breathable clothing during the day, such as dresses, short sleeves, thin shirts, etc.; warm clothing should be prepared for the night, such as raincoats, jackets, lightweight down jackets, etc.
Sunscreen and moisturizing are essential. Sunglasses, sunscreen clothing, parasols, and comfortable shoes are also necessary for the trip.
Must-visit attractions:
Sayram Lake: Known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, the lake water is azure and clear, making it a paradise for photographers.
Nalati Grassland: One of the four major grasslands in the world, known as the ‘Eastern Switzerland’. The grassland is vast and green, suitable for horse riding, grazing, and picnicking.
Kanas Lake: One of the most beautiful alpine lakes in China. The lake water exhibits different colors due to seasonal and weather changes, surrounded by dense primitive forests and magnificent snow-capped mountains.
Tianshan Heavenly Lake: Located at the foot of Mount Bogda in the middle section of the Tianshan Mountains, the lake water is emerald green and clear, surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal place for summer retreat.
Duku Highway: Experience four seasons in one day, with different weather every ten li (a traditional Chinese unit of length, approximately 0.5 kilometers). The scenery along the way is picturesque and is the first choice for self-driving enthusiasts.
Example of itinerary planning:
D1: Place of departure – Urumqi, adjust to the Xinjiang rhythm and engage in free activities.
D2: Urumqi – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Shuanghe/Bole, admire the magnificent works of nature.
D3: Shuanghe/Bole – Circumnavigate Sayram Lake – Guozigou – Yining, experience the romance of lake scenery, mountains, and lavender fields.
D4: Yining – Yizhao Highway – Zhaosu, traverse the alpine grassland and feel the charm of nature.
D5: Zhaosu – Qiongkushitai – Xinyuan, visit the historic and cultural village and admire the primitive natural scenery.
D6: Xinyuan – Nalati Aerial Grassland – Bayinbuluke’s Nine-Bend and Eighteen-Bay, experience the vastness and grandeur of the grassland.
D7: Bayinbuluke – Northern Section of the Duku Highway – Urumqi, drive along the Duku Highway and enjoy a visual feast.
D8: Urumqi – Place of departure, end your pleasant journey in Xinjiang
The above guide is for reference only. The specific itinerary needs to be adjusted according to personal interests and time. During the trip, please be sure to pay attention to safety, respect local customs and habits, and protect the natural environment.