Traveling to Urumqi, Xinjiang in July, you can experience rich natural scenery and unique ethnic culture. Here is a detailed travel guide:?
I. Transportation and Accommodation?
Transportation: July is the peak tourist season in Xinjiang. It is recommended to book flights and hotels in advance. It is most convenient to choose Urumqi as the first stop, as most vehicles depart from here.?
Accommodation: Due to the peak travel season in July and August, hotels may be fully booked. It is recommended to book and confirm accommodation in advance.?
II. Scenic Spot Recommendations?
Tianshan Tianchi: Known as the ‘Fairyland on Earth’, it is located at the foot of Mount Bogda in the middle section of the Tianshan Mountains, only about 110 kilometers from Urumqi. The lake water is emerald green and clear, surrounded by mountains, making it an ideal place to escape the heat.?
Kanas Lake: Located deep in the Altay Mountains, it is one of China’s most beautiful alpine lakes. The lake water presents different colors due to seasonal and weather changes, surrounded by dense primitive forests and magnificent snow-capped mountains, forming a stunning picture scroll.?
Turpan’s Flaming Mountains: Located in the center of the Turpan Basin, it is a famous scenic spot in ‘Journey to the West’. In summer, the surface temperature can reach over 70 degrees Celsius. From afar, it looks like a blazing flame. Visitors can visit Grape Valley and taste the famous local grapes and wine.?
Xinjiang International Bazaar: In Urumqi downtown, you can visit the International Bazaar, feel the strong ethnic flavor, and taste Xinjiang’s specialty foods, such as grilled mutton skewers, hand-grabbed rice, and big plate chicken.?
Xinjiang Museum: Understanding the history and culture of Xinjiang is an excellent place to understand the past and present of this land.?
III. Precautions?
Passenger Flow: The passenger flow in Xinjiang is relatively large in July, especially at popular scenic spots. It is recommended to plan your itinerary in advance to avoid peak hours.?
Climate and Clothing: Xinjiang has a large temperature difference between day and night. Even in midsummer, you should prepare a thick jacket. Meanwhile, due to poor signal in some road sections and scenic areas, it is recommended to prepare some cash appropriately.?
Ticket Discounts: Student IDs, military IDs, tour guide IDs, and other documents can enjoy ticket discounts. Remember to bring them.?
ID Card Custody: Some scenic areas allow direct entry by scanning your ID card, so you don’t have to wait to buy tickets. Therefore, keep your ID card in your backpack or somewhere easily accessible.?
IV. Itinerary Suggestions?
Tour of Urumqi downtown: You can arrange a day to explore Urumqi downtown, including Tianshan Grand Canyon, Xinjiang Museum, and International Bazaar, etc.?
One-day tour of Turpan: Leave for Turpan’s Flaming Mountains in the early morning, and after the tour, head to Grape Valley to taste grapes. Return to Urumqi in the evening.?
Two-day tour of Kanas Lake: Take a tourist bus to Kanas Lake and enjoy the natural scenery along the way. Upon arrival, explore Kanas Lake and feel the beauty of the lake blending with the snow-capped mountains. You can choose to stay nearby at night.?
Through the above guide, you can better plan your trip to Urumqi, Xinjiang in July and experience the natural scenery and unique culture of this magical land.?