Traveling to Xinjiang in July is an excellent choice. At this time, Xinjiang has a pleasant climate, magnificent natural scenery, and rich ethnic culture, making it a great destination for escaping the summer heat and traveling.
I. Must-Visit Attractions Recommendations
Tianshan Tianchi: Known as the ‘Fairyland on Earth’, the lake water is green and clear, surrounded by mountains. It is an ideal place to escape the summer heat. Here, you can take a boat ride on the lake to enjoy the lake scenery, or go hiking to explore the mysterious primitive forests and alpine meadows.
Kanas Lake: Located deep in the Altai Mountains, it is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in China. The lake water takes on different colors depending on the season and weather, surrounded by dense primitive forests and magnificent snow-capped mountains, forming a stunning picture scroll. Summer in Kanas is also an excellent spot for observing wildlife and shooting starry skies.
Nalati Grassland: Located in Xinyuan County, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, it is known as the ‘Eastern Switzerland’. The grassland is vast and green, with herds of cattle and sheep. It is a paradise for horse riding, grazing, and picnicking. In summer, flowers bloom on the grassland in a riot of colors, making it a sacred place for photography enthusiasts.
Sayram Lake: Known as ‘The Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, the lake water is clear and blue. The lake scenery is breathtakingly beautiful and is an excellent spot for taking photos.
Duku Highway: Known as the ‘Scenic Avenue Running Through the Backbone of the Tianshan Mountains’, it is only open for 4 months a year. Along the way, you can enjoy natural landscapes such as snow-capped mountains, lakes, canyons, and grasslands. It offers an excellent self-driving experience and is a must-visit for adventure and photography enthusiasts.
II. Food Recommendations
The cuisine of Xinjiang is also a highlight of the tour, with dishes like large plate chicken, naan wrapped in meat, hand-grabbed rice, mutton skewers, grilled lamb chops, yogurt, etc., all being delicious treats not to be missed.
III. Travel Tips
Weather and Clothing: The average temperature in Xinjiang in July is between 20℃～31℃, with a large temperature difference between day and night. The sunlight is intense during the day, and the wind is strong. It is recommended to wear lightweight and breathable clothing during the day, such as dresses, short sleeves, thin shirts, etc.; while at night, it is necessary to add warm clothing, such as windbreakers, jackets, lightweight down jackets, etc.
Sunscreen and Moisturizing: Due to Xinjiang’s intense UV rays and strong winds, be sure to do a good job of sunscreen and moisturizing, bringing items like sunglasses, sunscreen clothing, sun umbrellas, moisturizing lotion, lip balm, etc.
Essential Items: ID card, a small amount of cash, mobile phone, power bank, camera, and other daily necessities are all essential. Additionally, due to unstable internet in Xinjiang, it is advisable to bring some cash just in case.
IV. Recommended Routes
A Circle Around the Tianshan Mountains (10-12 days): Covers the main attractions of Xinjiang, balancing natural scenery with cultural experiences. Includes places like Urumqi, Turpan, Korla, Kashgar, Aksu, Bayanbulak Grassland, etc.
Classic Northern Xinjiang Route (7-8 days): Suitable for tourists who love natural scenery and outdoor activities. Includes places like Urumqi, Changji, Altay, Ili, etc.
Natural Journey in Eastern Xinjiang (5-6 days): Suitable for tourists who love desert landscapes and exploration. Includes places like Urumqi, Hami, Korla, Dunhuang, etc.
In short, July is an enchanting and vibrant tourist destination in Xinjiang, where you can be fascinated and reluctant to leave, whether it’s for its natural scenery or ethnic culture.
