Travel tips for visiting Xinjiang mainly include the best travel time, must-visit attractions, and choices of travel methods:?
I. Best Travel Time?
Xinjiang’s vast territory means that the best travel times differ in different regions. However, generally speaking, May to October is the prime time to visit Xinjiang. From May to June, the grasslands in the Ili region are lush and wildflowers bloom in competition, making it an excellent opportunity to enjoy natural scenery. From July to August, temperatures rise across Xinjiang, and fruits ripen, making it the peak season to visit northern Xinjiang attractions such as Kanas and Hemu. From September to October, autumn in Xinjiang is colorful, with trees and poplar forests in Kanas displaying a charming golden hue, making it a paradise for photographers.?
II. Must-Visit Attractions?
Kanas Scenic Area: Located in the Altay Mountains, it is known as the ‘God’s Back Garden’. With mountains, lakes, and forests, it is picturesque throughout the four seasons, especially in autumn. The scenery of the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay) is superb.?
Sayram Lake: Located in the Ili Autonomous Prefecture, the lake’s water is azure and silent. The Naadam Festival held on the grassland near the lake every summer attracts countless tourists from outside Xinjiang.?
Bayinbrok Grassland: The second-largest grassland in China, featuring the breathtaking Swan Lake. Around April each year, thousands of swans fly here from the south to nest and breed, creating a spectacular scene.?
Keketuohai: Composed of the Irtysh Grand Canyon, Kekesuli, Yileimute Lake, and the Kalaxiangge Earthquake Fault Zone, this mysterious area is a must-visit for hiking enthusiasts and photography lovers.?
III. Choice of Travel Methods?
Self-Drive Travel: The travel time is flexible, allowing you to stop and enjoy the scenery along the way at any time. However, note that Xinjiang has strict speed limit policies, and some areas have incomplete signal coverage.?
Travel in Groups: Xinjiang’s cuisine is characterized by generous portions. If you want to taste a variety of delicacies, traveling in groups is the best choice. Additionally, Xinjiang’s vast territory and scattered attractions make renting a car a necessary means of transportation. Traveling in groups can not only share transportation costs but also enhance travel safety.?
When planning a trip to Xinjiang, you can also consider participating in local cultural experience activities, such as the Naadam Festival, to gain a deeper understanding of Xinjiang’s historical culture and folk customs. At the same time, pay attention to preparing appropriate clothing and equipment according to seasonal and weather changes to ensure a pleasant and safe journey.?