A self-guided tour in Xinjiang is an excellent experience for deeply exploring nature and culture. To help you better plan your itinerary, here are some key information and suggestions:?
I. Best Travel Time?
Xinjiang has a diverse climate, and choosing the best travel time depends on the region and attraction:?
Spring (April to June): Flower season. The scenery in Kanas and Turpan is pleasant, warm but not hot.?
Summer (July to August): Suitable for escaping the heat, especially in Yili, the Altay region, and the grasslands of the Tianshan Mountains.?
Autumn (September to November): The scenery is colorful, with Kanas, Bortala, and Yili regions being particularly charming.?
Winter (December to February): Suitable for snow scenery and skiing enthusiasts. The Altay region is a skiing paradise.?
II. Must-visit Attractions?
Xinjiang has a diverse range of attractions, and here are some must-visit places:?
Northern Xinjiang:?
Urumqi: Tianshan Tianchi Lake, Xinjiang Grand Bazaar, Xinjiang Museum?
Altay: Kanas, Hemu Village, Baisha Lake, Ulungur Lake?
Yili: Sayram Lake, Guozigou Valley, Karakjun Grassland, Nalati Grassland, Qiongkushitai Village?
Southern Xinjiang:?
Kashgar: Kashgar Old Town, Kashgar Grand Bazaar, Karakul Lake, Dawakun Desert?
Aksu: Kizil Grottoes, Khantengri Glacier, Wensu Grand Canyon?
In addition, the Duku Highway is also a must-visit route for self-driving enthusiasts, with picturesque scenery along the way, allowing you to experience four seasons in a single day.?
III. Pre-trip Preparations?
Documents: ID card is a must, and a driver’s license is also required for self-driving tours.?
Living Essentials: Skincare products, cosmetics, sunscreen, daily toiletries, etc.?
Electronic Devices: Chargers, power banks, headphones, selfie sticks, cameras, etc.?
Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is large, so you need to bring both thin and thick clothing.?
Others: Motion sickness medication, insect repellent, masks, umbrellas, a small amount of cash, etc.?
IV. Transportation and Accommodation?
Transportation: There are convenient high-speed trains and flights connecting cities in Xinjiang, with Urumqi serving as a transportation hub. For self-driving tours, plan your route well and pay attention to driving safety.?
Accommodation: Large cities such as Urumqi and Kashgar have budget hotels, youth hostels, and homestays to choose from. It is recommended to book in advance.?
V. Safety and Protection?
Xinjiang has good public security, but some attractions are located in remote areas. It is recommended to learn about relevant safety information in advance. When traveling alone, keep your phone accessible and inform family or friends of your itinerary.?
VI. Food Recommendations?
Xinjiang boasts a rich variety of cuisine, such as grilled lamb skewers, pilaf, lagmen, baked buns, and nang. During your trip, why not try the local specialty dishes and experience the regional flavors of Xinjiang??
In summary, a self-guided tour in Xinjiang is an unforgettable travel experience. Whether you are admiring natural scenery or experiencing folk culture, you will gain a lot. I hope the above suggestions can help you better plan your itinerary and enjoy the beauty of Xinjiang.?