If you travel to Xinjiang in July, you can experience abundant natural landscapes and unique cultural customs. Here is a detailed travel guide to help you better plan your itinerary.
I. Best travel routes
Depending on personal interests and time, you can choose from the following classic routes:
Circle of Tianshan Mountains (10-12 days)
Recommendation reason: Covers the main attractions of Xinjiang, balancing natural scenery and cultural experiences.
Route arrangement: Urumqi (2 days) → Turpan (1-2 days) → Korla (1 day) → Kashgar (2-3 days) → Aksu (1 day) → Bayanbulak Grassland (1-2 days)
Classic Northern Xinjiang Route (7-8 days)
Recommendation reason: Suitable for tourists who like natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
Route arrangement: Urumqi (1 day) → Changji (1 day) → Altay (2-3 days) → Ili (2-3 days)
East Xinjiang Natural Journey (5-6 days)
Recommendation reason: Suitable for tourists who like desert landscapes and adventure.
Route arrangement: Urumqi (1 day) → Hami (2 days) → Korla (1 day) → Dunhuang (1-2 days)
II. Must-visit attractions
Sayram Lake
Known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, the lake water is azure and clear, making it an excellent location for taking photos.
Reservations need to be made through the [Sayram Lake Tourism] platform.
Nalati Grassland
One of the four major grasslands in the world. In July, the grassland is greener, and small flowers still bloom everywhere. Every photo you take will be stunning.
Reservations need to be made through the [Xinjiang Nalati National Tourism Resort].
Kanas
The most beautiful lake in China, a fairyland on earth, picturesque and poetic. In July, Kanas is amidst lush greenery, with birch forests verdant and morning fog swirling.
Duku Highway
The self-driving experience is excellent. You can experience four seasons in one day, with different weather every ten miles, as if you are in a dreamlike world.
Tianshan Tianchi Lake
The lake water is azure blue, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it an ideal location for photography and hiking.
III. Practical travel tips
Weather and clothing
Average temperature in July: 20℃～31℃, with a large temperature difference between morning and night. The sunlight is intense during the day, and the wind is strong.
During the day, it is recommended to wear lightweight and breathable clothing, such as dresses, short-sleeved shirts, thin blouses, etc.; for the night, you need to prepare warm clothing, such as windbreakers, jackets, lightweight down jackets, etc.
Essential items
Documents: ID card is a must, and bring a small amount of cash as well.
Electronics: mobile phone, power bank (due to battery consumption from taking photos), camera, etc.
Daily necessities: moisturizing lotion, lip balm, insect repellent, sunglasses, sunscreen clothes, sun umbrella, etc.
Others: backpack, water bottle, etc.
About joining tours
Before traveling to Xinjiang, be sure to make a detailed plan and route planning. Do not casually join tours from other regions or low-price tours to avoid a superficial travel experience.
If you are not familiar with the local area, it is not recommended to self-drive, as the scenic spots in Xinjiang are far apart, and there are many cultural taboos and restrictions.
Other precautions
Xinjiang has a two-hour time difference with the mainland. It doesn’t get dark until after 10 PM in summer, and it gets light at 7-8 AM. You need to adjust your schedule.
The distances between scenic spots are far, and you will spend most of the day in the car, so you can bring some snacks.
Following this guide, you can fully experience the beautiful scenery and culture of Xinjiang and enjoy an unforgettable trip.