An 8-day trip to Xinjiang is an excellent opportunity to deeply explore the beautiful scenery of Xinjiang. Here is the recommended travel itinerary**:?
Highlights of the Itinerary?
Sayram Lake: Known as the ‘Last Tear of the Atlantic’, the lake is as blue as a gem, with picturesque scenery.?
Tianshan Tianchi: It is said to be the place where the Queen Mother of the West held the Peach Banquet in the Jade Pool. It boasts charming natural scenery.?
Koktokay: The actual filming location of ‘The Shepherd of Koktokay’. It is a fairyland on earth, the garden of gods.?
Kanas: The lake is colorful with surrounding forests. It is breathtakingly beautiful in autumn.?
Hemu Village: A small village inhabited by the Tuvans with a strong primitive atmosphere, like a haven of peace and tranquility.?
Itinerary Arrangement?
Day 1: Urumqi – Tianshan Tianchi – Fuyun/Koktokay?
Visit Tianshan Tianchi in the morning and head to Fuyun or Koktokay in the afternoon.?
Day 2: Fuyun/Koktokay – Colorful Beach – Burqin?
Visit the Koktokay Scenic Area in the morning, and then head to Colorful Beach in the afternoon to admire the Danxia landform. Arrive in Burqin in the evening.?
Day 3: Burqin – Kanas?
Head to Kanas Scenic Area to visit Kanas Lake and its surrounding natural landscapes.?
Day 4: Kanas – Hemu?
Visit Hemu Village to admire the rural scenery and primitive wooden houses. Hiking or horseback riding activities are available.?
Day 5: Hemu – Ghost Town – Urho?
Explore the unique Ghost Town and marvel at the wonders of nature.?
Day 6: Urho – Sayram Lake – Yining?
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Sayram Lake, experiencing its tranquility and beauty, and then head to Yining.?
Day 7: Yining – Nalati Grassland – Bayinbuluke/Kuitun?
Visit Nalati Grassland to experience its vastness and grandeur. In the evening, you can choose to go to Bayinbuluke or Kuitun.?
Day 8: Bayinbuluke/Kuitun – Duku Highway – Urumqi?
Cross the Duku Highway, enjoy the magnificent scenery along the way, and return to Urumqi to end the trip.?
Practical Tips?
Book your itinerary and accommodation in advance to ensure a smooth journey.?
Carry necessary travel supplies and medications with you, and pay attention to sunscreen and warmth.?
Respect local customs and habits, protect the natural environment, and do not litter casually.?
You can choose to join a small group tour with a regular travel agency to enjoy a freer and more comfortable travel experience.?
I hope this 8-day Xinjiang travel guide can provide valuable reference for your trip!?