The China International Travel Service’s Northern Xinjiang travel guide mainly includes aspects such as the best travel time, must-visit attractions, and recommended itineraries.
Best Travel Time:
The best travel time for Northern Xinjiang is mainly from May to October. From May to June, the grasslands in the Yili region are lush and wildflowers bloom in competition, making it an excellent time to appreciate natural scenery; from July to August, temperatures rise and fruits ripen, making it the peak season to visit Northern Xinjiang attractions such as Kanas and Hemu; from September to October, autumn brings a colorful Xinjiang, making it a paradise for photographers
Must-visit Attractions:
Kanas Lake Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, it features clear waters and enchanting scenery. You can climb up to the Fish Viewing Terrace to overlook the beauty of Kanas Lake or stroll along the wooden栈道 by the lake to feel the tranquility of nature
Sayram Lake: Known as ‘the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean’, it boasts clear and azure waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains, making it an excellent spot for photography
Hemu Village: Known as ‘one of the most beautiful villages in China’, it features log cabins, birch forests, and curling smoke, forming a tranquil and peaceful rural landscape painting
Recommended Itinerary:
Below is an 8-day self-driving itinerary for the Northern Xinjiang Loop Route:
Day 1: Depart from Urumqi and head towards Colorful Beach, overnight in Burqin
Day 2: Depart from Burqin and head towards Hemu Village, overnight in Hemu
Day 3: Depart from Hemu and head towards Kanas, overnight in Jiadenyu
Day 4: Depart from Jiadenyu and head towards the Ghost City, overnight in Karamay
Day 5: Depart from Karamay and head towards Sayram Lake, overnight in Yining
Day 6: Depart from Yining and head towards areas near the Nalati Grassland (such as Bayinbuluke), overnight locally
Day 7: Depart from Bayinbuluke and continue to explore the Nalati Grassland, overnight in Nalati
Day 8: Depart from Nalati and head towards Dushanzi Grand Canyon along the Duku Highway, then return to Urumqi
This itinerary covers the main attractions of Northern Xinjiang, but the specific itinerary may be adjusted due to weather, road conditions, and other factors. Before traveling, it is recommended to learn about local weather and road conditions in detail and arrange the itinerary reasonably. At the same time, pay attention to protecting the environment and respecting local customs and habits