The February Northern Xinjiang travel guide mainly includes recommended attractions, itinerary planning, and clothing suggestions.
I. Recommended Attractions
Kanas: In winter, Kanas Lake is gently wrapped in ice and snow, presenting a mysterious and enchanting scene. You can take a leisurely stroll along the lake to enjoy the snowy scenery and take a romantic horse-drawn sled ride. Additionally, the three bays of Kanas – Moon Bay, Wolong Bay, and Shenxian Bay – are also scenic spots not to be missed.
Hemu: The sunrise and sunset scenery in Hemu is breathtaking. Both snow-capped mountains and rivers make for stunning backgrounds. The wooden houses, scattered and well-organized, are covered in snow, instantly transforming into a fantastical fairyland. In the morning, wisps of smoke rise slowly, perfectly blending with the snow-covered scenery, as if stepping into a fairy tale world.
Sayram Lake: The blue ice landscape of Sayram Lake in winter is very beautiful. Strings of bubbles beneath the lake surface are instantly frozen, creating a magical scene. Especially around sunrise and sunset, the sky is prone to purplish-red glows, reflecting on the lake surface and forming a stunning picture with the distant snow-capped mountains.
General Mountain Ski Resort: It boasts abundant wild snow resources, plenty of powdery snow, and multiple ski runs of varying difficulty, suitable for skiers of all levels.
II. Itinerary Planning
Departing from Urumqi: You can first head to Burqin, enjoying the desert snow scenery along the way. Upon arrival in Burqin, stroll through the Burqin Night Market and taste local specialties. Then proceed to Hemu Village to admire the primitive wooden houses and birch forests. Participate in a bonfire party at night. Next, head to Kanas to visit scenic spots such as Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay.
Departing from Kanas: You can head to the乌尔禾Devil’s City to admire the Yadan landform at sunset. Then proceed to Sayram Lake to enjoy the blue ice, ice cracks, and other landscapes. Stay at a lakeside hotel at night to admire the starry sky. Finally, return to Urumqi, where you can visit attractions such as Colorful Beach and Flaming Mountain along the way.
III. Clothing Suggestions
Warmth is key: Down jackets, thermal underwear, fleece vests, etc., are all essentials. Snow-proof boots are a must, and heated insoles are also very practical.
Gloves, scarves, and hats as a set: They keep you warm and are perfect for photos. Bright-colored clothing will make your photos even more impressive.
The above guide is for reference only. Specific itinerary adjustments need to be made according to personal preferences and time arrangements. Wish you a pleasant trip to Northern Xinjiang!