How stunning is the scenery in Northern Xinjiang? After seeing these photos, I immediately booked my flight!

Northern Xinjiang (the northern part of Xinjiang) is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, diverse ethnic cultures, and unique geographical features, making it a paradise for travelers. Here’s a detailed travel guide to Northern Xinjiang, covering the best seasons, must-visit attractions, recommended routes, food, and tips: --- **1. Best Time to Visit** - 💖**June-September**: Summer brings lush green grasslands (Ili Grassland, Nalati) and blooming flower fields (Huocheng Lavender), with cool weather. - 💖**September-October**: Autumn transforms Kanas and Hemu into a golden wonderland, perfect for photography. - 😍**Winter (December-February)**: The Altai region offers stunning snowscapes, ideal for skiing (Keketuohai, Hemu Jikepulin Ski Resort). --- **2. Must-Visit Attractions** **1. Kanas and Surroundings** - 😍**Kanas Lake**: The legendary "water monster" lake, with must-see spots like the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Dragon Bay). - 😍**Hemu Village**: A Tuvan village where morning mist over wooden cottages feels like a fairy tale. - 🥰😍**Baihaba**: A tranquil village on the China-Kazakhstan border (border permit required). **2. Ili Region** - **Nalati Grassland**: A "sky grassland" where you can experience Kazakh culture on horseback. - ❄️**Sayram Lake**: Known as "the last tear of the Atlantic," perfect for cycling or driving around. - ❄️**Huocheng Lavender (June-July)**: China’s version of Provence. - ❄️**Xiate Ancient Trail**: A hiker’s paradise with snow-capped mountains and valleys.💗 **3. Other Highlights** - 💗**Duku Highway**: Open from June to October, this scenic road offers four seasons in one day. - ❤️**Keketuohai**: A geological wonder with golden canyons in autumn. - 💗**Wuerhe Devil City**: Stunning yardang landforms, especially at sunset. --- **3. Classic Itinerary Suggestions** **7-10-Day Loop Recommendation** **Days 1-3: In-Depth Kanas Exploration** Urumqi → Fly to Altai/Train to Beitun → Kanas Lake → 💖Hemu Village → Baihaba **Days 4-5: Ili Grassland Adventure** Yining → Sayram Lake → Guozigou Bridge → Huocheng Lavender → Zhaosu Xiate *❄️*Days 6-7: Duku Highway + Nalati** Nalati Grassland → Bayinbuluke (Nine-Bend Eighteen-Turn) → Return to Urumqi via Duku Highway’s northern section **❄️Tips**: If short on time, split the trip into two routes (Altai line + Ili line). --- **4. Northern Xinjiang Food Recommendations** - **Main Dishes**: Big Plate Chicken, Spicy Pepper Chicken, Hand-Pulled Rice, Noodle Salad, Baked Buns. - 😍**Meat Dishes**: Lamb Skewers, Nang Pit Roast, Whole Roasted Lamb (great for groups). - *🎀*Snacks & Drinks**: Handmade Yogurt, Kvass (honey-fermented drink), Milk Tea, Naan. - 💖**Fruits**: Hami Melon, Grapes, Watermelon (super sweet in summer). --- **5. Travel Tips** 1. **Transportation**: 💖- Attractions are spread out; consider renting a car or hiring a driver (download offline maps in advance, as some areas have no signal). - Duku Highway restricts vehicles to 7 seats or fewer; check opening times. 2. **Documents**: - 💗Apply for a border permit in Kanas before visiting Baihaba. 3. **Climate**: - 💖Large temperature swings—even in summer, bring a jacket and sunscreen. 4. **Accommodation**: - 💖Lodging in Kanas and Hemu is pricey; book early during peak season. 5. **Cultural Respect**: - 💖Avoid sensitive topics in ethnic minority areas, and don’t take photos inside mosques without permission. --- **6. Budget Reference** - 💖**Mid-Range Comfort**: 500-800 RMB/day (including car rental, lodging, and tickets). - ❤️**Peak Season (July-October)**: Flights and accommodations cost more; plan ahead. --- Every corner of Northern Xinjiang is worth savoring. If time allows, slow down and immerse yourself in the region’s natural and cultural beauty.