Xinjiang Travel Guide: Southern and northern Xinjiang each have their unique characteristics. Here, we provide you with a detailed travel guide to southern and northern Xinjiang.
Northern Xinjiang Travel Guide
Best Travel Time: From May to October, especially from July to August, is the peak tourist season in northern Xinjiang. The temperature is pleasant and the scenery is beautiful during this time, but there are also relatively more tourists. From May to June is suitable for enjoying the natural scenery of grasslands and lakes, while from September to October is the best time for autumn foliage viewing.
Must-visit Attractions:
Kanas Lake Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, the lake is clear and the scenery is charming. You can climb up the Fish Viewing Platform to overlook the beauty of Kanas Lake or stroll along the lakeside footpath to feel the tranquility of nature.
Ili Region: Includes attractions such as Sayram Lake, Gongnais Grassland, and Nalati Grassland. Sayram Lake is known as the "Last Tear of the Atlantic," and the Nadamu Festival held annually on the grassland by the lake attracts countless tourists.
Koktokay: Comprises the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Koksu River, and Yilemute Lake, among others, and is suitable for hikers and photography enthusiasts.
Southern Xinjiang Travel Guide
Best Travel Time: Southern Xinjiang is suitable for travel throughout the year, but the best times are during the apricot blossom season at the end of March and the Tarim Poplar Forest viewing period in October.
Must-visit Attractions:
Old Town of Kashgar: As a strategic hub on the ancient Silk Road, the Old Town of Kashgar retains a large number of traditional Uyghur houses and handicraft workshops, making it a great place to experience southern Xinjiang’s culture.
Pamir Plateau: Offers breathtaking views of Baisha Lake, Mount Muztagh Ata, and the盘龙 Palace Road (translated literally, but often called Dragon’s Spine Road in English). The best times to visit are during the apricot blossom season at the end of March and the poplar forest viewing period in October.
Kuqa Region: Includes attractions such as the Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan, Kizil Grottoes, and Kuqa王府 (王府 can be translated as王府 Palace or王府 Mansion, depending on context, but here it’s retained as is for clarity). The Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan exudes a desolate atmosphere that is thrilling, while the Kizil Grottoes offer a glimpse into the historical origins of ancient Kucha.
Transportation Guide
Airplane: Urumqi Diwopu International Airport is Xinjiang’s aviation hub, with direct flights from major cities across the country.
Train/Car: From Urumqi, you can take a train or car to major attractions such as Kashgar, Korla, and other places.
Precautions
Xinjiang is vast, with significant distances between attractions. It is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance and allocate time reasonably.
Temperatures in some areas are low, especially in southern Xinjiang during winter. It is necessary to stay informed about road conditions and take proper warmth measures.
Respect local ethnic cultures and customs to avoid unnecessary conflicts and misunderstandings.
Hope this travel guide to southern and northern Xinjiang can help you better plan your trip to Xinjiang!