Tianshan, Kanas, Ili Travel Guide?
I. Travel time planning?
Tianshan, Kanas, Ili, and other places are located in Xinjiang. The best travel time is generally from May to October:?
May to June: The grasslands in the Ili region are lush and wildflowers bloom. The ice and snow on Sayram Lake melt, making it an excellent time to appreciate natural scenery.?
July to August: Temperatures rise across Xinjiang, fruits ripen, making it a good time to taste local cuisine. It is also the peak season for scenic areas in Northern Xinjiang, but there will be many tourists.?
September to October: Xinjiang enters autumn, with colorful scenery, especially the golden trees and poplar forests in Kanas, making it a heaven for photographers.?
II. Recommended must-visit attractions?
Tianshan Mountains?
Nalati Grasslands: Located in the hinterland of the Tianshan Mountains, it boasts vast grasslands, dense forests, and majestic snow-capped mountains. Ride horses, experience Kazak culture, and taste local cuisine.?
Kanas?
Kanas Lake Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, the lake water is clear and the scenery is charming. Climb up to the Fish Viewing Terrace for a panoramic view or stroll along the lakeside trail.?
Hemu Village: A small village with a strong primitive atmosphere, surrounded by mountains. Experience Tuwa culture, enjoy songs and dances.?
Ili?
Sayram Lake: The largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, known as ‘the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean’. The lake water is blue, surrounded by grasslands and snow-capped mountains, creating a picturesque scene.?
III. Self-driving tour route suggestions?
9-day self-driving tour of Kanas + Ili?
Day 1: Depart from Urumqi, visit Tianchi, and head to Koktokay.?
Day 2: Explore the Koktokay No. 3 Mine Pit, head to Wulungu Lake, and spend the night in Burqin.?
Day 3: Head to Kanas, visit Kanas Lake, Moon Bay, and other attractions, and arrive at Jiadenyu.?
Day 4: Stargaze at Jiadenyu.?
Day 5: Welcome the dawn in Hemu, visit the observation deck, and return to Burqin.?
Day 6: Head to the Devil’s City in Wuhe and spend the night in Kuitun.?
Day 7: Visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon, proceed along the southern section of the Duku Highway, and watch the sunset at Bayinbuluke Grasslands.?
Day 8: Head to the Nalati Grasslands to experience the grandeur of the aerial grasslands, and visit the Kazangqi Folk Street in Yining to experience local culture.?
Day 9: Visit Sayram Lake and return to Urumqi.?
7-day 6-night in-depth tour?
Day 1: Depart from Urumqi, cross the S21 Desert Highway, visit Colorful Beach, and arrive in Burqin.?
Day 2: Travel from Burqin to Kanas.?
Day 3: Hike the Three Bays in Kanas and head to Hemu.?
Day 4: Head from Hemu to the Devil’s City and arrive in Wuhe.?
Day 5: Travel from Wuhe to Bayinbuluke via the Duku Highway.?
Day 6: Travel from Bayinbuluke to Nalati and arrive in Yining.?
Day 7: Visit Sayram Lake in Yining and return to Urumqi.?
IV. Precautions?
Xinjiang has a vast territory with long distances between attractions. For self-driving tours, plan your route and accommodation in advance.?
Pay attention to weather changes, especially in mountainous areas where the weather is changeable. Bring enough warm clothing.?
Respect the local ethnic culture and customs to avoid unnecessary troubles.?
Through the above guide, I hope to provide useful references for your trip to Tianshan, Kanas, and Ili. Wish you a pleasant journey!?
