The Xinjiang travel guide mainly includes information on the best travel time, must-visit attractions, recommended routes, as well as tips on food, accommodation, and transportation.?
Regarding the best travel time, Xinjiang’s vast territory means that the best travel times vary by region. Generally speaking, the golden period for visiting Xinjiang is from May to October. From May to June, the grasslands in the Yili region are lush and wildflowers bloom, while the ice and snow melt at Sayram Lake, making it an excellent time to admire the natural scenery. From July to August, temperatures rise throughout Xinjiang, and fruits and vegetables ripen, making it a great time to savor local cuisine. It is also the peak season for visiting Northern Xinjiang attractions such as Kanas and Hemu. From September to October, autumn brings a colorful palette to Xinjiang, with trees and poplar forests in Kanas turning golden, making it a paradise for photographers.?
In terms of must-visit attractions, Kanas Scenic Area is a highlight of Xinjiang, known as the ‘God’s Backyard’. It boasts mountains, lakes, and forests, with picturesque scenery throughout the year, especially the autumn scenery of the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay). Additionally, Tian Chi in Mount Tianshan, Koktokay, Sayram Lake, and other attractions are also not to be missed in Xinjiang.?
For the recommended route, you can choose the 10-day Northern Xinjiang Grand Circle Route, which covers over 90% of the popular attractions in Northern Xinjiang, including Urumqi, Colorful Beach, Kanas Scenic Area, Hemu Scenic Area, the World’s Devil City, Sayram Lake, Guozigou Bridge, Huocheng Lavender Fields, and Nalati Aerial Grassland. Each day presents a new scene, allowing you to fully experience the diverse charm of Xinjiang.?
Of course, you can make appropriate adjustments according to your schedule and interests.?
In terms of food, accommodation, and transportation, Xinjiang offers a wide variety of delicious cuisine such as Loulan Secret Grilled Yogurt Zongzi, Grilled Buns, Hotan Rose Pilaf, and Spicy Chicken with Noodles, all of which are must-tries. For accommodation, there are hotels of different standards throughout Xinjiang to meet the needs of different tourists. In terms of transportation, you can choose to rent a car or join a group tour with door-to-door service, allowing you to stop and go as you please, making it convenient and worry-free.?
In summary, Xinjiang is a charming tourist destination that captivates visitors with its natural scenery and cultural landscapes. I hope this travel guide can help you better plan your trip to Xinjiang.?