For a three-day trip to Xinjiang, you can choose to visit the classic attractions in Urumqi and its surrounding areas. Here is a detailed three-day itinerary:?
Day 1: Urumqi city and outskirts?
Morning: Upon arrival in Urumqi, first head to Hongshan Park. It integrates natural and cultural landscapes, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful cityscape of Urumqi, feel the rich folk customs, and take photos at attractions such as Hongshan Tower and Yuantao Tower.?
Noon: Have lunch in the city and try Xinjiang’s specialty mutton kebabs, which are popular among tourists for their unique taste and rich nutrition.?
Afternoon: Head to the International Bazaar, the world’s largest bazaar with a strong Islamic architectural style. Here you can purchase various Xinjiang specialties and handicrafts, taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine, and enjoy wonderful singing and dancing performances in the evening.?
Evening: If time permits, visit the Xinjiang Museum (free, advanced reservation required) to learn about the history and culture of Xinjiang and admire treasures such as the dried body of a Loulan beauty and the Five-Star Textile from the East.?
Day 2: Mount Tianshan Tianchi and Nanshan Scenic Area?
Morning: Rent a car or drive to Mount Tianshan Tianchi, a high-altitude lake with clear water surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The scenery is breathtaking. You can choose to hike, ride a horse, or take a shuttle bus to explore Tianchi.?
Noon: Have lunch near Tianchi and try local delicacies such as freshly squeezed milk and black honeycomb honey.?
Afternoon: Head to Nanshan Scenic Area, a famous summer resort with dense forests and fresh air. The scenic area features waterfalls, streams, meadows, and other natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for leisure and vacation. You can choose to hike or take a sightseeing bus to explore.?
Day 3: Free activities in Urumqi city or explore hidden gems.?
Morning: You can choose to have free activities in Urumqi city, visit local markets, and purchase some specialty dried fruits such as raisins and almonds as souvenirs.?
. Alternatively, visit Xinjiang Salt Lake, the Chinese version of the ‘Sky Mirror’. It is recommended to wear bright-colored dresses for photos.?
Noon: Have lunch in the city and try local specialties such as meat-stuffed naan from Lingguan Alley and Weijia lamb meat.?
Afternoon: If you choose to explore the hidden gems, you can head to Haxiong Valley for a hike. This is a primitive forest oxygen bar where you may encounter marmot families. The recommended route is the Cuigu Falls Loop, which is suitable for beginner hikers.?
Evening: Depending on your return schedule, you can take a stroll around the city to experience the nightlife of Urumqi before preparing for your return trip.?
This itinerary covers the classic attractions and hidden gems of Urumqi and its surrounding areas, featuring both natural landscapes and cultural customs. It also offers the opportunity to taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine. I hope this itinerary can provide useful reference for your three-day trip to Xinjiang.?