The National Day Northern Xinjiang travel guide mainly includes multiple route options after arriving in Urumqi, covering famous attractions such as Kanas, Hemu, and Wucaitan. Here is a detailed guide:
I. Itinerary Planning
Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi
Upon arrival, you can arrange a 24-hour airport or train station pick-up service to ensure a smooth arrival.
After checking into the hotel, you can go to the International Grand Bazaar to experience the joy of ethnic integration in Xinjiang and taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine such as roasted mutton skewers, hand-grabbed rice, and large plate chicken.
Day 2: Urumqi – Burqin
Pass through the S21 Desert Highway, cross the Gurbantünggüt Desert, and enjoy the desert scenery along the way.
Visit the Kela Meili Desert Park to experience sand playing, off-roading, and other activities.
Arrive in Burqin and check in. Burqin is a romantic and mysterious town.
Day 3: Burqin – Kanas
Head to Kanas, known as "God’s Private Reserve", to admire the beauty of Kanas Lake.
Stay in a log cabin within the Kanas scenic area to feel the tranquility and mystery of nature.
You can visit the Sino-Kazakh border village of Baihaba to experience the peaceful and beautiful border scenery.
Day 4: Kanas – Hemu
Get up early and head to Kanas Three Bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay) to enjoy the morning mist and hiking scenery.
Then depart for Hemu Scenic Area, stay in Hemu, and gaze at the starry galaxy at night.
Day 5: Hemu – Burqin – World魔鬼城
Returning to Burqin from Hemu, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of Burqin again on the way.
Visit the World魔鬼城, take photos with Western Region-style portraits, and enjoy exotic afternoon tea.
Subsequent itinerary (optional)
Departing from Burqin, continue to visit other attractions in Northern Xinjiang, such as Sayram Lake, Guozigou Bridge, Lavender Fields, and Xiata Grassland.
Depending on your personal time and interests, you can choose different routes and attractions to visit.
II. Precautions
The ultraviolet rays in Xinjiang during summer are very strong, so be sure to do a good job of sun protection, apply sunscreen, and wear a hat and ice sleeves.
The climate in Northern Xinjiang is changeable, with a large temperature difference between morning and evening, so you need to bring enough warm clothing.
When visiting scenic areas, please abide by the regulations, do not litter, and protect the natural environment [not explicitly mentioned but a general travel notice].
III. Food Recommendations
The thin-skinned mutton bun in Burqin is a local specialty and worth trying.
During your trip in Xinjiang, you can also taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine such as roasted whole sheep, large plate chicken, and hand-grabbed rice.
By following the above guide, you can fully experience the natural scenery and cultural customs of Northern Xinjiang during the National Day holiday and enjoy an unforgettable trip.