The most comprehensive guide to traveling in Xinjiang includes information on the best travel time, essential travel routes, and must-visit attractions.?
Firstly, the best travel time is from May to October, which is the golden period to visit Xinjiang. Specifically:?
May to June: The grasslands in the Yili region are lush with green grass, wildflowers bloom in competition, and the ice and snow on Sayram Lake begin to melt, making it an excellent time to admire natural scenery.?
July to August: Temperatures rise across Xinjiang, fruits and melons ripen, and it is the peak season to visit Northern Xinjiang scenic areas such as Kanas and Hemu, with breathtaking scenery but relatively more tourists.?
September to October: Autumn in Xinjiang is like a palette overturned by nature, colorful and a heaven for photographers.?
Secondly, the essential travel routes in Xinjiang mainly include:?
Kanas Loop Route: 5-7 days, allowing you to visit fairyland-like attractions such as Kanas, Hemu, Koktokay, and the Ghost City.?
Yili Loop Route: 6-10 days, allowing you to admire the stunning scenery at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, including Sayram Lake, Nalati, Xiata, etc.?
Kanas-Yili Loop Route: 11-13 days, combining the best of Kanas and Yili, it is the most natural scenic route in Northern Xinjiang.?
Northern Xinjiang Grand Circle Route: 13-17 days, self-driving around Northern Xinjiang, allowing you to experience various landscapes such as deserts and Gobi, snowy mountains, and grasslands.?
Southern Xinjiang Grand Circle Route: 13-17 days, allowing you to explore the Pamir Plateau, Kunlun Mountains, Taklamakan Desert, etc., and experience the perfect fusion of cultural customs and natural landscapes.?
Lastly, must-visit attractions include Kanas Scenic Area, known as the ‘God’s Back Garden’, with mountains, lakes, forests, and picturesque scenery throughout the four seasons.?
. In addition, Hemu Village, Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, etc., are all stunning places worth visiting.?
In terms of packing and pre-trip information, please note that a pass needs to be obtained in advance for border scenic areas.?
. I hope this guide can help you better plan your trip to Xinjiang and enjoy the unique charm brought by this mysterious and beautiful land.?