Xinjiang Travel Guide for May:
I. Weather and Dress Code
Weather: In May, Xinjiang has sunny weather, but the temperature difference between morning and night is large, with temperatures ranging from about 15-27 degrees Celsius
It is recommended to add or remove clothing according to the weather at any time.
Dress Code: It is recommended to wear multiple layers for flexible adaptation. For the inner layer, you can choose lightweight and breathable cotton T-shirts or shirts; for the middle layer, you can wear knitted sweaters/thin sweaters or hoodies; for the outer layer, you can choose windbreakers/denim jackets, and for high mountain areas or nights, you should bring along a rain jacket or lightweight down jacket
For bottom wear, you can choose jeans/casual pants or long skirts/skirts. Shoes should mainly be sneakers/hiking shoes, and you can change to casual shoes/sandals at noon
II. Popular Attractions
Sayram Lake: Located in Bortala Mongolia Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, it is one of Xinjiang’s famous tourist attractions. Pine Tree Hill, Commanding Heights, and other attractions by the lake are worth visiting
Nalati: It is a summer pasture for herdsmen, with wildflowers everywhere, as well as cattle and sheep
Qiaxi: In early May, the mountains are already covered with wildflowers, presenting breathtaking scenery
Xiata: You can admire the Muzart Glacier, primitive forest, and meadows
Jiongkushitai: You can enjoy the pristine scenery from the back mountain
Tianchi Lake: Located in Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang, it is one of China’s famous inland lakes. The lake water is clear, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, creating a picturesque scenery
Kanas Lake: Located in Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang, it is known as the ‘Fairyland on Earth’. The lake water is emerald green, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, meadows, and forests
III. Itinerary Planning
Northern Xinjiang Route: Urumqi – S101 Danxia National Defense Highway – Jinghe – Sayram Lake – Guozigou Bridge – Yining – Huocheng Lavender Field – Jiongkushitai – Tekes – Kurdining – Xinyuan/Nalati Town – Nalati Aerial Grassland – Gongnaisi Daban – Toksun – Turpan ‘Flame Mountain’ – Kumtag Desert – Urumqi
Southern Xinjiang Route: Urumqi – Lop Nur Village – Korla – Wensu Grand Canyon – Aksu – Kashgar Old Town – Muji Volcano – Baisha Lake – Taxkorgan County – Tasha Ancient Road – Xingfu No. 5 Bridge – Tal Village Apricot Blossom Village – Kukxiluk Township -盘龙古道 (Panlong Ancient Road) – Pamir Band-e-Amir Blue Lake – Karakul Lake
IV. Practical Tips
Transportation: Xinjiang has a vast territory, and you can choose various modes of transportation such as airplanes, trains, and long-distance buses. It is recommended to book your flight and train tickets in advance to avoid delaying your itinerary
Accommodation: During the peak tourist season in Xinjiang, hotel reservations are tight. It is recommended to book your hotel in advance to avoid accommodation difficulties
Diet: Xinjiang has a rich variety of cuisine, such as lamb skewers, spicy chicken, hand-grabbed rice, and large plate chicken. However, when enjoying the food, pay attention to food hygiene to avoid stomach discomfort
Sunscreen: Xinjiang has intense sunshine. When traveling, be sure to take sunscreen measures, such as applying sunscreen lotion and wearing sunglasses, to avoid sunburn
V. Precautions
Early summer in Xinjiang in May is already very beautiful. There are fewer tourists at this time, and the meadows and flower seas are in full bloom, but the Duku Highway is not yet open
If you are going to northern Xinjiang, it is recommended to land in Urumqi; if you are going to southern Xinjiang, landing in Kashgar is more convenient
Make sure to bring your ID card, as it may be checked at any time
I hope this guide can help you have an unforgettable holiday in Xinjiang in May!