Xinjiang, the treasure of Northwest China, boasts magnificent Tianshan Mountains, the mysterious Taklamakan Desert, the colorful Kanas Lake, and unique multiculturalism. It served as a crucial passage on the ancient Silk Road and is home to 47 ethnic groups living together.
Explore the north and south of Tianshan, discover the fairyland of Kanas, experience grassland culture, taste authentic Xinjiang cuisine, and feel the unique charm of multi-ethnic cultural fusion
Arrive in Urumqi, check into your hotel, then head to the Grand Bazaar to experience the unique atmosphere of Central Asia's largest market. In the evening, climb Red Hill Park to overlook the panoramic view of Urumqi and enjoy the city sunset.
Head to Heavenly Lake of Tianshan to admire the breathtaking scenery of snow-capped mountains reflecting in the lake. Take a cruise on the lake and visit the Western Mother Queen Temple to learn about the mythical legends of the lake. Return to Urumqi in the evening.
Fly to Altay, then take a bus to Kanas Scenic Area. Climb the Fish Watching Platform for a panoramic view of Kanas Lake, hike along the lake boardwalk, admire the beautiful scenery of Fairy Bay and Moon Bay, and search for the legendary "Lake Monster."
Head to Hemu Village, known as a fairyland on earth. Stroll through the white birch forest, climb the viewing platform to overlook the entire village, experience the primitive life of the Tuva people, and feel the charm of China's most beautiful village.
Head to World Devil City to witness the awe-inspiring craftsmanship of the Yardang landform. In the evening, visit the Karamay Oil Field to learn about the history of oil extraction and admire the spectacular sight of "nodding donkeys" against the setting sun.
Head to Sayram Lake, the "Last Tear of the Atlantic," to admire the breathtaking scenery of the lake reflecting the snow-capped mountains. Pass by the Guozigou Bridge and witness the engineering marvel deep within the Tianshan Mountains.
Head to Nalati Grassland, one of the world's four major alpine valley grasslands, to experience Kazakh culture. Ride horses across the grassland and admire the magnificent landscape where snow-capped mountains, forests, and meadows intertwine. Return to Urumqi in the evening to conclude the journey.
This Northern Xinjiang 7-day tour covers the most quintessential natural landscapes and cultural experiences of Xinjiang: from the urban charm of Urumqi, to the fairyland scenery of Heavenly Lake of Tianshan; from the mysterious Kanas Lake, to the primitive Hemu Village; from the bizarre Yardang landform of Devil City, to the azure waters of Sayram Lake; and finally, experiencing Kazakh culture at Nalati Grassland. The entire journey covers approximately 1500 kilometers, allowing you to deeply experience the magnificence and diversity of Northern Xinjiang.
Xinjiang covers a vast territory, so the best travel times vary by region: Northern Xinjiang is best visited in summer and autumn (June-September), while Southern Xinjiang is best in spring and autumn (April-May, September-October). Kanas is most beautiful in autumn (mid-September to early October), and Ili Grassland is at its peak when wildflowers bloom in summer (June-July).
Traveling to border areas such as Kanas, Baihaba, and Taxkorgan requires a border pass. It can be obtained in advance at your registered residence or locally in Xinjiang (e.g., Urumqi, Kashgar) with your ID card.
Xinjiang boasts 12 5A-level scenic areas, including: Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, Kanas, Koktokay, Nalati, Bayinbuluke, Grape Valley, Kashgar Old City, Golden Poplar, Sayram Lake, Taklamakan Desert, World Devil City, and Pamir Tourist Area.