The detailed itinerary for the Northern Xinjiang Route includes multiple schedules, covering a wealth of natural landscapes and cultural experiences. Here is a typical detailed itinerary for traveling on the Northern Xinjiang Route:
I. Itinerary Arrangement
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi
Morning: After arriving in Urumqi, check in and take a short rest.
Afternoon: Visit Tianshan Grand Canyon and feel the charm of Xinjiang’s nature.
Evening: Enjoy Xinjiang specialty cuisine such as roast whole lamb and hand-grabbed rice in Urumqi downtown.
Day 2: Explore Koktokay and Wucai Beach
Morning: Depart from Urumqi and head to Koktokay to visit Koksu Lake, Yileimu Lake, and the No. 3 Mine Pit.
Afternoon: Head to Wucai Beach to admire the perfect combination of Yardang landform and the Irtysh River.
Evening: Check in Burqin County and taste the local fish banquet.
Day 3: A Dreamlike Trip to Hemu Village
Full Day: Depart from Wucai Beach and head to Hemu Village. Take a walk in the ancient village of Hemu, feel the honest life of the Tuvans. In the evening, you can watch the sunrise at Hadeng Observation Deck or the sunset at the entrance of the old village, and experience the traditional Kazak cuisine, songs, and dances.
Day 4: A Fairyland Trip to Kanas
Morning: Depart from Hemu Village and head to Kanas to visit the Kanas Three Bays (Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, Shenxian Bay).
Afternoon: After arriving in Kanas, climb up the Fish Viewing Terrace to overlook the panoramic view of Kanas Lake.
Evening: Stay in a log cabin within the Kanas scenic area to experience idyllic pastoral life.
Day 5: Cross the魔鬼城 and arrive in Karamay
Morning: Leave Kanas and head to the魔鬼城 of Wuerhe to admire the unique Yardang landform.
Afternoon: Continue to Karamay, enjoying the scenery of Northern Xinjiang on the way.
Evening: Check in and rest in Karamay City.
(The subsequent itinerary can be explored based on personal interests and schedule arrangements, such as Burqin, Bahaba, Nalati, and other places in Northern Xinjiang)
II. Scenic Spot Recommendations
Kanas Lake Scenic Area: Located in the Altai Mountains, the lake water is clear, and the scenery is charming. You can climb up the Fish Viewing Terrace to overlook the beauty of the entire Kanas Lake or take a stroll along the lakeside栈道.
Wucai Beach: A must-visit on the Northern Xinjiang Route, it is like a
Koktokay National Geological Park: Here is the shepherd’s fairy tale, where you can admire the magnificent scenery of Northern Xinjiang and unique geological landscapes.
Hemu Village: The settlement of the Tuvans, with primitive wooden houses and honest folk customs, is an excellent location for astrophotography and camping.
III. Food Recommendations
Xinjiang’s specialty dishes such as Big Plate Chicken, Hand-Grabbed Rice, Roasted Buns, Pot Meat, and Lamb Kebabs can be tasted in restaurants in Urumqi, Kanas, Hemu, and other places.
IV. Precautions
Xinjiang is vast, and the best travel times vary in different regions. Generally speaking, May to October is the prime time to visit Xinjiang.
Some areas in Xinjiang have high altitudes, so please be aware of altitude sickness prevention.
Respect the local ethnic customs and habits to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
The above itinerary is for reference only, and the specific schedule can be adjusted according to personal interests and time. Wish you a happy trip on the Northern Xinjiang Route!