For a travel guide to Xinjiang on May 22nd, here are some detailed suggestions:?
1. Pre-trip Preparations?
Clothing: In May, Xinjiang, especially its northern regions, experiences increasingly warm spring weather but with large temperature differences between day and night. It is recommended to bring light long-sleeved or short-sleeved shirts, a warm coat, and sunscreen products. Additionally, as Xinjiang is windy, it is advisable to prepare hats, scarves, and other windproof items.?
Documents: ID cards are a must. Foreign tourists heading to some border areas such as Kashgar need to apply for a border pass in advance at their household registration location or locally in Xinjiang?
Skin care and sunscreen: Xinjiang’s climate is dry and has strong ultraviolet rays. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, moisturizing facial cream, lip balm, sunglasses, sun hats, etc.?
Medicine: Prepare common medicines such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, anti-motion sickness medicine, fever reducers, etc., to deal with possible physical discomfort.?
Others: Bring a thermos cup, neck pillow, power bank, headphones, etc. Prepare some snacks in the car for emergencies?
II. Transportation and Accommodation?
Transportation: Transportation in Xinjiang is very convenient, but it is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance to avoid traveling during peak hours. You can consider self-driving tours, chartered cars, carpooling, or taking public transportation to get there?
Accommodation: Xinjiang is vast, and scenic spots are scattered. It is recommended to book accommodation in advance. You can choose local specialty homestays or star hotels to experience different accommodation cultures. Stay in cities or towns near scenic areas for convenient travel?
III. Itinerary Arrangement?
Below is a one-week travel itinerary suggestion for Xinjiang:?
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, adapt to the plateau climate, stroll around the International Bazaar to feel the strong Western Regions atmosphere, and taste local specialty cuisine such as roast mutton kebabs and hand-grabbed rice?
Day 2: Urumqi-Tianshan Tianchi Lake, enjoy the lake scenery and mountain views of Tianshan Tianchi Lake and feel the tranquility and beauty of nature?
Day 3: Tianshan Tianchi Lake-Kanas Lake, head to Kanas Lake, known as the ‘Switzerland of China’. The lake water shows different colors, and wildflowers bloom along the lakeside, contrasting beautifully with the green lake water?
Day 4: Kanas Lake-Ili Valley, visit the Ili Valley to appreciate the rich ecological resources and unique natural landscapes such as the Nalati Grassland and Kalajun Grassland?
Day 5: Ili Valley-Sayram Lake, head to Sayram Lake, known as the ‘last tear of the Atlantic Ocean’. The lake water is as blue as a gem. Drive along the lakeside and enjoy the lake scenery from different angles?
Day 6: Sayram Lake-Turpan, visit Turpan’s Flaming Mountain, Grape Valley, and other scenic spots to experience the unique red mountains and landforms?
Day 7: Turpan-Urumqi, return to Urumqi and end your pleasant journey?
IV. Precautions?
Respect local customs: Xinjiang is a multi-ethnic region. Respect the religious beliefs and customs of all ethnic groups. For example, when entering a mosque, dress appropriately and do not take photos casually.?
Protect the environment: Xinjiang’s natural environment is fragile. Do not litter during your trip and keep the scenic areas tidy.?
Taste local cuisine: Xinjiang cuisine is rich and diverse. Besides the common roast meat and naan bread, there are also special dishes such as hand-grabbed rice, big plate chicken, and yogurt rice cakes. Make sure to try them, but pay attention to dietary hygiene to avoid gastrointestinal discomfort.?
The above guide is for reference only. The specific itinerary needs to be adjusted according to personal interests and actual situations. Wish you a pleasant trip in Xinjiang!?