August is the best time to visit Xinjiang, where tourists can enjoy rich natural landscapes and cultural customs. Here are some recommended travel routes and attractions:?
I. Recommended Travel Routes?
Yili Grand Loop:?
Route feature: Traveling along the Tianshan Mountains, crossing the Yili River Valley, covering grasslands, snow-capped mountains, canyons, rivers, and glacial zones.?
Route attractions: Sayram Lake, Nalati, Guozigou, Huocheng Lavender Field, Jongkushitai, etc.?
Self-driving time: About 7-10 days, covering a total distance of 2,100 kilometers.?
Kanas-Yili Loop:?
Route feature: Combining Yili and Kanas scenic areas, suitable for tourists with plenty of time.?
Route attractions: Tianshan Heavenly Lake, Koktokay, Burqin, Hemu, Kanas, etc.?
Self-driving time: About 9-13 days, covering a total distance of 3,000 kilometers.?
Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop:?
Route feature: It covers the main attractions in Northern Xinjiang, including Turpan’s fruit hometown and desert landscapes.?
Route attractions: Gongnais Forest Park, Bosten Lake, Lop Nur Village, Flaming Mountain, etc.?
Self-driving time: About 13-17 days, covering a total distance of 4,800 kilometers.?
II. Must-visit Attractions Recommendations?
Sayram Lake:?
Attraction feature: Known as ‘the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, it boasts blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, and grasslands with blooming flowers.?
Touring suggestion: The green grass, little yellow flowers, and the blue lake under the snow-capped mountains make it a great place for photos.?
Nalati Grassland:?
Attraction feature: One of the four largest grasslands in the world, with blooming wildflowers and herds of cattle and sheep.?
Touring suggestion: It feels like stepping into the real-life Wizard of Oz, suitable for hiking and picnicking.?
Kanas Lake:?
Attraction feature: One of the most beautiful lakes in China, a fairyland on earth and a garden of gods.?
Touring suggestion: The lake water is as blue and green as jade, surrounded by picturesque scenery, perfect for lingering appreciation.?
Duku Highway:?
Attraction feature: A fantastic journey through the four seasons, with different weather in every ten li (a traditional Chinese unit of length).?
Touring suggestion: Experience the amazing feeling of ‘four seasons in one day’ and pay attention to road conditions and weather changes.?
Jongkushitai:?
Attraction feature: A historic and cultural village in China, a log cabin hidden deep in the Tianshan Mountains.?
Touring suggestion: It feels like the real-life version of ‘Heidi’ and experiencing Hayao Miyazaki’s summer.?
III. Practical Tips?
Plan your itinerary in advance: Xinjiang has many attractions and they are far apart, so it is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance.?
Pay attention to weather changes: The weather in Xinjiang is changeable in August, so it is recommended to bring suitable clothing and sunscreen products.?
Choose suitable transportation: Self-driving is a good choice, but attention should be paid to road conditions and vehicle requirements; joining a tour group is also a hassle-free option.?
In summary, traveling to Xinjiang in August is an unforgettable experience. No matter which route or attractions you choose, you can appreciate the beauty and charm of Xinjiang.?