Ultimate Guide to Exploring Urumqi and Beyond During the Long Weekend

The long weekend is here! Looking for a unique camping-style travel experience? Urumqi and its surrounding areas are the perfect destinations! Enjoy grassland afternoon tea BBQ, drone photography, self-driving adventures on popular scenic roads and hidden gems, stargazing camping, and outdoor movies. Don’t miss the chance to snap selfies with adorable pets! Embark on your dreamy journey now! 🌟 Itinerary Overview: Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi and kick off your Xinjiang adventure! Day 2-3: Drive through the S21 Desert Highway, visit the Karamay Sand Park, and head to Altay. Admire the scenic Ahhe Highway, explore the Tolehait Grassland, and stay overnight in a rustic cabin in Hemu. Day 4: Watch the sunrise in Hemu, tour the picturesque Kanas Lake, stroll along the lakeside, and visit the iconic Burqin Bridge to experience the charm of Burqin. Day 5-6: Explore the colorful Five-Colored Beach and the World Devil City, then head to Kuytun. Continue to tour around Sayram Lake, feed swans, admire the Guozigou Bridge and lavender fields, visit Liuxing Street, and arrive in Yining. Day 7-8: Drive to Chaxi Swallow Bridge and head to Xinyuan. Then, self-drive through Nalati Grassland, visit Panlong Valley and River Valley Grassland, enjoy afternoon tea under the sky, and participate in light travel photography and camping activities at night. Day 9-10: Depart from Nalati, traverse the northern section of Duku Highway, marvel at the Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery and Xiaohuashan section, return to Urumqi, and conclude your delightful Xinjiang journey before heading home! Must-Visit Attractions: Hemu Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Hemu Village, Hemu Hanas Mongolian Ethnic Township, Burqin County, Altay Region, Xinjiang Opening Hours: May 1 - October 15, 08:00-20:00 Recommended Duration: 1-2 days Rustic cabins scattered across the valley offer a serene and primitive experience. Kanas Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: 232 Provincial Road, Burqin County, Altay Region, Xinjiang Opening Hours: May 1 - October 15, 08:00-20:00 Recommended Duration: 1-2 days Discover the mysterious lake monster, admire the ever-changing colors of the lake, and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. World Devil City ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: 200 Longji Road, Urho District, Karamay City, Xinjiang Opening Hours: 10:00-20:30 Recommended Duration: 2-3 hours Surrounded by majestic and unique Yadan landforms, marvel at the diverse stone pillars that create a magical world. Sayram Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Address: Along National Highway 30, Bole City, Bortala Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Opening Hours: May 1 - October 31, 08:00-21:00 Recommended Duration: 1-2 days With crystal-clear blue waters and vibrant wildflowers blooming across the surrounding grasslands, Sayram Lake is a stunning gift from nature. **Tips:** 📸 Photo Spots: Don’t miss the beautiful backdrop of grassland afternoon tea BBQ in Urumqi! 🎁 Local Products: Compare prices at different shops to avoid overspending on souvenirs. ✈️ Airport Transportation: Plan your airport routes in advance to avoid delays. 🍖 Grassland BBQ: Be sure to try the delicious afternoon tea BBQ on the grasslands! 🌟 Don’t forget to like and save this guide! This Urumqi and beyond group travel guide will help you effortlessly explore the magnificent Xinjiang!