If you are traveling to Xinjiang at the end of July, you can refer to the following guide, including must-visit attractions, practical tips, and recommended routes:
Must-visit Attractions
Sayram Lake: Known as ‘The Last Tear of the Atlantic’, the lake water is azure and clear, surrounded by snowy mountains. It is an ideal location for photography and hiking. You can make a reservation on the [Sayram Lake Tourism] platform
Nalati Grasslands: One of the four largest grasslands in the world, the grasslands are vast and green, with herds of cattle and sheep. It is a paradise for horse riding, grazing, and picnicking. The grasslands are greener in July, with flowers still blooming everywhere
You can make a reservation at [Xinjiang Nalati National Tourism Resort]
Kanas Lake: One of the most beautiful lakes in China, the lake water exhibits different colors due to seasonal and weather changes. It is surrounded by dense primitive forests and magnificent snowy mountains. You can take a cruise boat to get close to the lake and feel its clarity and tranquility
Tianshan Heavenly Lake: Located at the foot of Bogda Peak in the middle section of the Tianshan Mountains, the lake water is emerald green and clear, like a huge jade inlaid in the valley. Surrounded by mountains, it is an ideal place to escape the summer heat
Flaming Mountain, Turpan: Located in the center of the Turpan Basin, it is a famous attraction on the journey of Tang Monk and his disciples to obtain Buddhist scriptures in ‘Journey to the West’. Visitors can tour Grape Valley and taste the locally famous grapes and wine
Practical Tips
Weather and Clothing: The average temperature in Xinjiang in July is between 20℃～31℃, with a large temperature difference between day and night. The sunlight is intense during the day, and the wind is strong. It is recommended to wear lightweight, breathable clothing during the day, such as dresses, short-sleeved shirts, thin blouses, etc.; for the night, you will need to add warm clothing, such as a windbreaker, jacket, etc.
Essential Items: ID is a must, and also bring a small amount of cash, a mobile phone, a portable charger, a camera, and other electronics, as well as moisturizing lotion, lip balm, insect repellent, and other daily necessities
Transportation and Accommodation: Xinjiang’s attractions are far apart, so it is recommended to plan your itinerary and route in advance. You can choose to join a tour group, but be cautious of signing up with nonlocal or low-priced groups. If you are not familiar with the area, self-driving is not recommended
Recommended Route
Classic Northern Xinjiang Route (7-8 days):
Urumqi (1 day): Visit Tianshan Grand Canyon and experience local customs.
Changji (1 day): Visit Tianshan Heavenly Lake and admire the scenery of the lake and snowy mountains.
Altay (2-3 days): Head to Kanas Lake and Hemu Village to experience the beauty of primitive forests and grasslands.
Yili (2-3 days): Visit Sayram Lake, Guozigou Bridge, and Nalati Grasslands
A trip around the north and south of Tianshan Mountains (10-12 days):
Urumqi (2 days): Tour Tianshan Grand Canyon, Urumqi Museum, and more.
Turpan (1-2 days): Visit Flaming Mountain, Karez Wells, and more.
Korla (1 day): Tour the Bosten Lake.
Kashgar (2-3 days): Experience the Old Town, Id Kah Mosque, and more.
Aksu (1 day): Visit the Kuqa Grand Canyon.
Bayinbuluke Grasslands (1-2 days): Enjoy the vast grasslands and the natural scenery of Swan Lake
I hope this guide can help you plan an unforgettable trip to Xinjiang!