It is difficult to determine a single best route for traveling in Xinjiang, as it depends on tourists’ preferences, travel time, and availability. However, the following classic routes cover the diverse scenery of Xinjiang and can be used as a reference:
1. Kanas Loop Route (5-7 days):
This route mainly focuses on exploring the Altay region, including scenic spots such as Kanas, Hemu, Koktokay,魔鬼城 (Ghost Town), and Heiyou Mountain.
The best travel time is from September to October, when the autumn scenery is enchanting and it is a paradise for photographers.
2. Yili Loop Route (6-10 days):
Explore the Yili River Valley surrounded by the Tianshan Mountains, including scenic areas such as Sayram Lake, Nalati, Xiata, Tangbula, and the Duku Highway.
Suitable for travel from May to August, when the grasslands are lush and fragrant with flowers.
3. North Xinjiang Grand Loop Route (13-17 days):
A self-driving tour of the entire North Xinjiang, mainly focusing on enjoying the scenery.
Based on the Kashi-Yili Loop Route, this route adds desert and Gobi landscapes in the eastern Xinjiang regions of Turpan, Hejing, and Hami.
Suitable for travel from May to November, tourists with plenty of time can choose this route to experience the diverse scenery of Xinjiang.
4. South Xinjiang Grand Loop Route (13-17 days):
The tourist route across the Tianshan Mountains from the North Xinjiang Grand Loop Route focuses mainly on experiencing cultural customs.
The main route passes through places such as the Taklamakan Desert, the Pamir Plateau, and the Kunlun Mountains.
The best travel seasons are September to November and March to May, when the climate is suitable and the cultural landscapes are abundant.
In addition, if time is plentiful, consider the North-South Xinjiang Grand Loop Route (40-50 days). This route combines the North Xinjiang Grand Loop Route and the South Xinjiang Grand Loop Route. It starts from the Hexi Corridor in Gansu, crosses the Qilian Mountains into Xinjiang, and tours both North and South Xinjiang before leaving the region. It is the most comprehensive route for traveling in Xinjiang.
For tourists who wish to experience even more unique scenery, the Duku Highway is also a choice that cannot be missed. This highway, known as the "Most Beautiful Highway in the Tianshan Mountains," stretches 561 kilometers from Dushanzi to Kuqa, crossing the Tianshan Mountains. The landscapes along the way are rich and varied, including snow-capped mountains, grasslands, canyons, forests, and more.
In summary, the best tourist routes in Xinjiang vary from person to person, and tourists can choose routes that suit them based on their preferences and actual situations. No matter which route is chosen, tourists can appreciate the magnificent scenery and unique charm of Xinjiang.