Recommended Travel Route for Your First Visit to Xinjiang

Grassland and Flower Seas: The Nalati Grassland is a quintessential example of an aerial grassland, featuring snow-capped mountains, forests, grasslands, and streams in a multi-dimensional display. During summer, wildflowers bloom like stars scattered across the landscape, and horseback riding here feels as free as the wind. The Kaidu River's winding curves in the Bayinbuluke Grassland create a unique spectacle at sunset, with the golden hues reflecting in the river surrounded by lush greenery. The Swan Lake Wetland is home to elegant swans gliding gracefully. 🛬 Itinerary: Day 1: From various cities to your cozy home Day 2: Urumqi - Heavenly Lake of Tianshan - S21 Desert Highway - Altay Day 3: Altay - Ahe Highway (accessible after July 1) - Hemu Village Day 4: Hemu Village - Harden Platform for sunrise viewing - Lakeside stroll - Kanas Day 5: Kanas - Colorful Beach - Ghost City - Sightseeing Train - Karamay Day 6: Karamay - Duku Highway - Bayinbuluke Day 7: Bayinbuluke - Nalati Aerial Grassland VIP Exclusive Access - Yining Day 8: Yining - Self-driving around Sayram Lake - Kuytun/Dushanzi Day 9: Kuytun/Dushanzi - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi Day 10: Urumqi - Back to your cozy home Lake Paradise: Sayram Lake is known as "the last tear of the Atlantic," with deep blue waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains and wildflowers along the shores. You can enjoy the stunning scenery through self-driving or cycling around the lake. Kanas Lake's water changes color with light and seasons, and its scenic spots like Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay offer breathtaking views. Climbing the Fish Viewing Platform provides a panoramic view of its awe-inspiring beauty. Forest and Canyon: Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, once called "Jade Pool," features crystal-clear waters reflecting the Bogda Peak, surrounded by dense forests and majestic snow-capped mountains. The Erqis Grand Canyon in Koktokay boasts towering peaks on both sides, lush forests within, and the famous No. 3 Mine showcasing nature's wonders and human mining history. Highway Wonders: The northern section of the Duku Highway is a "heroic road" where you can experience "four seasons in one day and different weather every ten miles." The route alternates between snow-capped mountains, canyons, grasslands, and deserts, offering a mix of danger and beauty. 🍩 Must-Try Foods: Roasted buns, roasted whole lamb, lamb skewers, big plate chicken, and hand-grabbed rice 🏨 Accommodation Tips: Choose Ctrip Four-Diamond hotels or century-old wooden cabins 🚌 Transportation Tips: Opt for a seven-seater business car or a luxury seven-seater business car 🧡 Tips: - Weather and Clothing: Northern Xinjiang has significant temperature differences between day and night. From June to August, wear short sleeves during the day and thick jackets or down coats at night. Bring sun protection items like hats, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen. - Transportation: Attractions are scattered, and public transport is inconvenient. Renting a car or joining a small group tour is recommended. For self-driving, choose a reliable platform and check the vehicle's condition and insurance. For group tours, select a local travel agency and sign a contract. - Accommodation: During peak season (July-August), prices rise. Scenic areas like Sayram Lake and Qiongkushitai offer convenient homestays but require booking at least one month in advance. - Dietary Precautions: Drinks like kvass and yogurt are delicious but should be consumed in moderation by those with weak stomachs. Xinjiang dishes are large in portion, so order accordingly. Avoid drinking hot tea immediately after eating fruits to prevent diarrhea. Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, Altay Region, Xinjiang, Hemu Scenic Area, Kanas Scenic Area, Colorful Beach, World Ghost City, Bayinbuluke Scenic Area, Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, Sayram Lake, Dushanzi Grand Canyon