Early August is one of the best times to travel to Xinjiang. At this time, Xinjiang’s climate is moderate and the scenery is pleasant, making it very suitable for self-guided tours. Below is a detailed self-guided travel guide for Xinjiang in early August:?
I. Itinerary Planning?
First Choice Route: Yili Grand Circle Route?
Route Introduction: The Yili Grand Circle Route travels along the Tianshan Mountains, passing through the grasslands, snow-capped mountains, valleys, rivers, and glaciers of the Yili River Valley. The attractions are densely distributed, with scenic highlights concentrated.?
Scenic Highways: Duku Highway, Yizhao Highway, G30 Lianhuo Expressway, Saiguo Expressway, S101 Baili Danxia Highway.?
Visited Scenic Areas: Sayram Lake, Nalati, Guozi Valley, Huocheng Lavender Fields, Qiongkushitai, Karakun, Bayinbrook, etc.?
Travel Information: The total distance is approximately 2,100 kilometers, with a self-driving duration of 7-10 days. The road conditions are good.?
Second Choice Route: Kayi Circuit Route?
Route Introduction: The Kayi Circuit Route is a combination of the ‘Yili Grand Circle Route + Kanas Circuit Route’, allowing tourists to tour both Yili and Kanas scenic areas simultaneously.?
Scenic Highways: S21 Desert Highway, Ahe Highway, as well as the scenic highways along the Yili Grand Circle Route.?
Along-the-way Attractions: Tianshan Tianchi, Koktokay, Burqin, Hemu, Kanas, Baihaba, etc.?
Travel Information: The total distance is approximately 3,000 kilometers, with a self-driving duration of 9-13 days. The road conditions are good.?
II. Recommended Attractions?
Tianshan Tianchi: One of Xinjiang’s iconic attractions, with picturesque scenery and a cool climate.?
Kanas Lake: Known as the ‘Fairyland on Earth’, the lake water is clear and the scenery is breathtakingly beautiful.?
Sayram Lake: The lake surface is like a mirror, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grasslands, making it a paradise for photographers.?
Hemu Village: Freely stroll along the Hemu River within the village. The murmuring river, pointed-roof wooden houses, and dense birch forests are all great spots for taking photos.?
Wulungu Lake: Along the lakeside highway, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the lake and farmland, and witness the colorful sunset scene in the evening.?
III. Travel Preparations?
Documents: Ensure that your passport and ID documents are complete and within their validity period.?
Clothing: Xinjiang’s climate is variable. It is recommended to prepare appropriate clothing according to the season, and also bring a warm jacket.?
Sunscreen items: The summer sun is intense, so be sure to carry sunscreen lotion, sunglasses, sun hats, etc.?
Medicine: Bring your own commonly used medications to prepare for unexpected needs.?
Shoes: Since there are many outdoor activities and hiking routes in Xinjiang, choosing a pair of comfortable shoes is very important.?
Others: Carry a small personal bag, several sets of changeable clothes, chargers and adapters, mosquito repellents, portable water bottles, etc.?
IV. Precautions?
The travel expenses in Xinjiang are relatively reasonable, but specific costs will vary based on the chosen transportation mode, accommodation conditions, dining consumption, as well as the visited attractions and activities.?
During your trip, please respect local customs and traditions, abide by scenic area regulations, protect the environment, and travel civilizedly.?
With the above guide, I believe you can enjoy an unforgettable self-guided tour in Xinjiang in early August.?