The best route for traveling in Xinjiang varies from person to person, depending on tourists’ preferences, travel time, and available duration. However, the following classic routes are widely praised and can be used for reference:?
Kanas Ring Road (5-7 days): This route mainly explores the Altay region, including famous attractions such as Kanas, Hemu, Koktokay, and the Devil’s City. Kanas Lake is as green as jade, and Hemu Village is as peaceful as a fairy tale. It is an excellent choice for experiencing the natural beauty of Xinjiang. The best travel time is from September to October.?
Ili Ring Road (6-10 days): This route covers the Ili River Valley at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, including places such as Sayram Lake, Nalati, and Xiata. The azure waters of Sayram Lake contrast beautifully with the snowy peaks of the Tianshan Mountains, while the vast and magnificent Nalati Grassland is breathtaking. It is suitable for visits from May to August, when the grasslands are lush and fragrant with blooming flowers.?
Kanas-Ili Ring Road (11-13 days): Combining the essence of the Kanas Ring Road and the Ili Ring Road, this is the most comprehensive natural scenery tourism route in Northern Xinjiang. Visitors can experience the mystery of Kanas and the beauty of Ili at one time. The best travel season is from May to October.?
Northern Xinjiang Grand Ring Road (13-17 days): Take a self-driving tour around the entire Northern Xinjiang. In addition to the scenic spots in Kanas and Ili, it also includes desert and Gobi landscapes in places such as Turpan, Hejing, and Hami in Eastern Xinjiang. This is a route that fully experiences the natural and human landscapes of Xinjiang, suitable for visits from May to November.?
Southern Xinjiang Grand Ring Road (13-17 days): Facing the Tianshan Mountains across from the Northern Xinjiang Grand Ring Road, this route focuses on experiencing human culture. It passes through places such as the Taklamakan Desert, Pamir Plateau, Kunlun Mountains, etc., allowing visitors to gain an in-depth understanding of Xinjiang’s multiculturalism. The best travel season is from September to November and March to May.?
In addition, there are more options such as the Southern Xinjiang Little Ring Road and the Xinjiang Grand Ring Road. Tourists can plan their itineraries according to their interests and time.?
. No matter which route you choose, the magnificent scenery and unique culture of Xinjiang will leave you with unforgettable memories.?