There are many route options for traveling in Xinjiang. Here are some classic and popular self-driving routes recommended:?
1. Ili Loop:?
This route usually lasts for 6-10 days and mainly explores the Ili River Valley surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains.?
You can admire beautiful scenic areas such as Sayram Lake, Nalati, Xiata, and Tangbula, and also experience the magnificent scenery of the Duku Highway.?
It is suitable for travel from May to August, especially in spring and summer when the grassland flower seas and snowy mountains with pine forests create a delightful contrast.?
2. Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop:?
This is a self-driving route that circles the entire Northern Xinjiang and usually lasts for 13-17 days.?
The route covers popular attractions such as Kanas, Hemu Village, Koktokay, Colorful Beach, and the Ghost City, and can also extend to Turpan, Hejing, and Hami in Eastern Xinjiang, allowing you to experience desert and Gobi landscapes.?
It is suitable for travel from May to November, especially in autumn when the birch forests turn golden yellow and are surrounded by morning mist, creating a breathtaking view.?
3. Southern Xinjiang Grand Loop:?
Separated from the Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop by the Tianshan Mountains, this route focuses on experiencing cultural charm and usually lasts for 13-17 days.?
You will pass through places such as the Taklamakan Desert, Pamir Plateau, Kunlun Mountains, etc., experiencing the unique charm of Southern Xinjiang and the remnants of the Silk Road.?
The best travel seasons are from September to November and from March to May, when temperatures are pleasant in spring and autumn, and natural scenery such as poplar forests is particularly charming.?
4. Kanas Loop:?
This route focuses on exploring the Altay region and usually lasts for 5-7 days.?
You can admire scenic spots such as Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Koktokay, and the Ghost City, and experience fairyland-like natural scenery.?
The best travel time is from September to October, when Kanas in autumn is so beautiful that it makes people doubt reality.?
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This route is renowned for its snow-capped mountains, grasslands, canyons, forests, and other landscapes, and can be considered the pinnacle of self-driving in Xinjiang.?
It is recommended to go between June and September, when road conditions are best, and the Nalati Grasslands and Bayinbuluke Grasslands along the way are also at their most beautiful times of the year.?
In addition, there are more options such as the Kaiyi Loop, the Southern Xinjiang Small Loop, and the Full Xinjiang Grand Loop. You can plan your itinerary based on your interests and time.?
. No matter which route you choose, Xinjiang’s natural scenery and cultural charm will make you reluctant to leave.?