Chabuchaer Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
Yizhao Highway Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
Classic 12-Day 11-Night Tour of Northern Xinjiang
Recommended 12-day itinerary, capturing all the stunning views of Northern Xinjiang in one go, offering you a completely rich sensory experience❗
Itinerary Recommendation (Classic 12-Day 11-Night Northern Xinjiang Route)
D1: From various places to Urumqi
D2: Urumqi---to Burqin via the Colorful Beach (one way 485KM, about 6.5 hours by car)
Accommodation: Burqin Attraction (Colorful Beach)
D3: Burqin---Kanas---back to Jiadengyu (one way 156KM, about 2.5 hours by car)
Accommodation: Jiadengyu Attraction (Kanas)
D4: Kanas--Hemu (one way 60KM, about 2 hours by car)
Accommodation: Hemu Attraction (Kanas, Hemu)
D5: Hemu---Devil City---Karamay (one way 455KM, about 5 hours by car)
Accommodation: Karamay Attraction (Devil City)
D6: Karamay--Sayram Lake---Qingshui River (one way 445KM, about 5.5 hours by car)
Accommodation: Qingshui River Attraction (Sayram Lake)
D7: Qingshui River---Xia'ta Ancient Road---Zhaosu (one way 128KM, about 2 hours by car)
Accommodation: Zhaosu Attraction (Xia'ta Ancient Road)
D8: Zhaosu---Kala Jun---Tekes (one way 125KM, about 1.5 hours by car)
Accommodation: Tekes Attraction (Kala Jun Grassland)
D9: Tekes---Nalati (one way 280KM, about 3.5 hours by car)
Accommodation: Nalati Attraction (Nalati Sky Grassland)
D10: Nalati--Bayinbuluk---Nalati (180KM, about 3 hours by car)
Accommodation: Nalati Attraction (Returning to the Nine Turns and Eighteen Bends, Swan Lake)
D11: Nalati-Duku Highway---Urumqi (one way 420KM, about 6.5 hours by car)
Accommodation: Urumqi Attraction (Duku Highway Scenery)
D12: Urumqi---to various places
A 5-day tour of Northern Xinjiang
For those planning to go to Xinjiang in 2024, it's recommended to directly copy this itinerary, as this is a place where budget travel is hardly feasible—only with a sufficient budget can you truly experience its quality.
How can one not like Xinjiang in the summer? With its log cabins and herds of livestock, the bursting vitality is everywhere, there's Sayram Lake surrounded by mountains, and the white yurts scattered on the grasslands with distant peaks and waters.
:
D1: Urumqi→→Yining
D2: Yining→→Tekes
D3: Tekes→→Bayanbulak Town
D4: Bayanbulak Town→→Narat
D5: Narat→→Urumqi
Xinjiang Ili Panorama + 10-Day Tour Guide through Duku Highway
This 10-day grand loop of Northern Xinjiang Ili will take you through the Duku Highway, offering a chance to experience the grassland flower seas, 🌳 forests, and lakes. In 10 days, you'll see various landscapes and enjoy a comprehensive tour of the panoramic scenery of Northern Xinjiang, the same views but different experiences.
Why we recommend this route:
5-7 July is the scenic season of the entire Northern Xinjiang Ili region, where the grasslands around the Ili River Valley are lush and green. 🌤 The climate is suitable for travel during this time.
The Duku Highway is expected to open in mid-June. One must travel the Duku at least once in a lifetime to appreciate the stunning grasslands along the way.
Itinerary:
DAY1: Urumqi - S101 Highway - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Kuitun
DAY2: Kuitun - Sayram Lake - Lavender - Yining
DAY3: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xata Tourist Area - Zhaosu
DAY4: Zhaosu - Qiongkushitai - Qiongkushitai
DAY5: Qiongkushitai - Kalajun Scenic Area - Tekes
DAY6: Tekes - Kuerdening Scenic Area - Xinyuan
DAY7: Xinyuan - Narat Tourist Scenic Area - Narat
DAY8: Narat - Southern Section of Duku Highway - Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon - Kuqa
DAY9: Kuqa - Bayanbulak Grassland - Bayanbulak
DAY10: Bayanbulak - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Qiaojima - Urumqi
Precautions:
1: Xinjiang has a 2-hour time difference; make sure to adjust your daily routine after entering the region.
2: Xinjiang is an area with many ethnic minorities; please respect the religious customs of ethnic comrades.
3: The UV radiation in scenic areas is strong; it is recommended to wear a hat or sunscreen before going out. The temperature difference between day and night in the mountainous areas of Xinjiang is significant, so it is advisable to carry warm clothing.
4: The scenic areas are generally quite large, with shuttle buses available, and you can also ride horses, but walking is also necessary. It is recommended to wear comfortable and convenient shoes.
10-Day Northern Xinjiang Tour Loop
If there are sisters who really want to travel to Xinjiang!
You really need to prepare well before you go! !
Xinjiang is a vast place, the routes are super complex, and transportation is a challenge, especially because there are many ethnic minorities and a lot of points to pay attention to.
Especially for those who are going for the first time, and also bringing parents, you can consider the Xinjiang pure play local tour group recommended by the editor:
10-Day Northern Xinjiang Tour
Day1 Urumqi - Tianshan Tianchi - Fuyun County
Day2 Fuyun - Keketuohai - Wucolor Beach Sunset - Burqin
Day3 Burqin - Kanas - Baihaba
Day4 Baihaba - Hemu
Day5 Hemu - Devil City - Karamay
Day6 Karamay - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Qingshuihe Town.
Day7 Qingshuihe - Lavender Manor - Kalajun Grassland - Zhaosu
Day8 Zhaosu - Xiatat~Tekes
Day9 Tekes - Nalati Air Grassland - Nalati Town
Day10 Nalati - Duku Highway - Qiaolma - Urumqi disband
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Duku Highway Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
I stayed in Xinjiang for a month to tell you some things not to do
Don't ask how much the ticket is, ask how many years of youth are left. I decided to embark on a journey to Xinjiang in the northwest of my motherland, using a month to find my lost soul. After coming back, I am full of motivation, often staring at the photos in a daze.
To help friends who want to go to Xinjiang, I have compiled this travel guide, hoping to help everyone!
Where should I go first when I go to Xinjiang for the first time?
Urumqi, as the transportation hub of Xinjiang, is very convenient whether it is South Xinjiang or North Xinjiang. It is recommended to choose Urumqi as the first stop, because whether it is a group tour or self-driving, almost all vehicles start from here.
Precautions:
Time difference: There is a 2-hour time difference between Xinjiang and the mainland
Many ethnic minorities are used to saying Xinjiang time
Security check: Xinjiang's security check is very strict, train stations and airports require multiple security checks, it is recommended to go to the train station/airport in advance
Accommodation recommendation:
Urumqi: Recommend Friendly Business Circle or Zhongshan Road Business Circle
Kanas: Recommend Beitun City, secondly, Jadunyu and Burqin can be recommended
Hemu: Recommend staying in the scenic area log cabin, watching the stars all over the sky at night, increasing the play time during the day, and the experience is better
Sailimu Lake: Accommodation is recommended to stay in Qingshuihe Town or Huocheng County
Our self-driving route:
Starting from Urumqi, go to Sailimu Lake—Huocheng—Zhaosu—Tekes—Qiongkushitai—Nalati—Duku Highway, and finally return to Urumqi from Dushanzi.
The route is just a circle, which is a classic Yili ring line.
ps: The above self-driving journey is 12 days in total, a total of 2300 kilometers, without rushing to the road and rushing to the scenic spots, often 5-6 hours of self-driving time every day. I feel that rest and maintaining a good state are necessary.
Must-visit attractions:
Qiongkushitai: The grassland covering the sky, the fairy tale forest like a mist, the small wooden house with grass on the head, every eye is super healing
Huocheng Lavender: The purple sea of flowers tumbling with the wind is really romantic
Tangbula Fairy Lake: A small popular secret that needs to ride a horse up the mountain, accompanied by flowers all the way, it seems to be Alice in Wonderland
Nalati Grassland: The aerial photography and self-driving of the grassland and valley in the sky are absolutely amazing!
Sailimu Lake: "The last tear of the Atlantic"
If you have plenty of time, you must go for a self-driving tour around the lake
Duku Highway: Duku Highway that must be self-driving once in a lifetime! It will open around mid-June every year, and you will feel the four seasons along the way.
Xinjiang cuisine:
The big plate chicken, lamb skewers, roasted lamb chops, and roasted buns in Xinjiang are really amazing, and those who like heavy tastes can close their eyes.
ps: There are also old yogurt, cold water fish, hand-grabbed rice, wrapped meat, pulled strips and other delicacies waiting for you to taste!
Duku Highway: A magnificent journey across the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains
Are you tired of the hustle and bustle of the city? Do you long for a spontaneous trip to experience the grandeur of nature and the charm of Xinjiang? Then, Duku Highway is your best choice!
Duku Highway, connecting the north and south of Xinjiang, crossing grasslands, canyons, snow mountains, Gobi and other places, is a must-visit place for tourists. Here, you can enjoy the beautiful scenery of the four seasons and feel the magic of nature.
Tourist Route
The entire Duku Highway is divided into the north, middle and south sections.
North section: From Dushanzi to Qia'erma
Starting from Dushanzi and heading south, you will pass through large canyons, snow mountains, grasslands, etc., to feel the grandeur of nature. In the north section, you can see the Dushanzi Grand Canyon, which is a shocking place, with towering cliffs, like a knife and axe, which is amazing. In addition, you can also try extreme projects such as step-by-step surprises, and feel the excitement of accelerating heartbeat.
Middle section: From Qia'erma via Narati to Bayinbuluke
Starting from the middle section, you will enter the Narati grassland, which is a vast green ocean, which is refreshing. Here, you can ride horses, slide grass, watch folk performances, etc., to experience the local customs of Xinjiang. Then, you will go to Bayinbuluke grassland, where there are beautiful lakes and winding rivers, and the scenery is pleasant.
South section: From Bayinbuluke to Kuche
In the south section, you will see the mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, which is a place full of mystery. The reddish-brown mountains shine under the sun, making people feel the mysterious charm of nature. Here, you can hike and explore, and feel the magic of nature. Finally, you will arrive in Kuche, a city full of historical heritage, with many scenic spots worth visiting.
Ticket Price
There are many scenic spots along the Duku Highway, and the ticket prices of each scenic spot are different. Generally speaking, the ticket price ranges from tens to hundreds of yuan. When buying tickets, you need to prepare in advance, you can check and buy tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line at the scene.
Precautions
During the trip, there are some precautions you need to keep in mind. First, protect the environment, do not litter, do not destroy vegetation. Second, respect local customs and cultural traditions. Finally, pay attention to safety issues, especially when doing some extreme projects, ensure your own safety.
In general, Duku Highway is a tourist route full of surprises and challenges. Here, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of nature and feel the local customs of Xinjiang. Whether you like adventure or natural scenery, it can meet your needs. Come on a spontaneous trip!
Summer trip to Ili, master the anti-pit strategy!→If you like, please leave a comment
Xinjiang is really too big😱, it's easy to fall into traps without a strategy! This guide will at least let you know how to enjoy the Ili grassland in summer!🤩
📆Day1: Arrive in Urumqi, personal airport pick-up and hotel check-in🏨.
📆Day2: S101 Provincial Road➡Anjihai Grand Canyon, admire the Danxia landform along the way🧐, taste the delicious Xinjiang big plate chicken and wide noodles🍜.
📆Day3: Private car tour around Sayram Lake🚗, sail to feel the romance of riding the wind and waves, pass by Guozigou Bridge🎢.
📆Day4: Qiongkushitai Village, experience the beauty of time standing still🤔, grasslands, forests, and streams form a beautiful painting🖼.
📆Day5: Qiaxi Grassland, known as the 'Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall', everything here can heal you😌.
📆Day6: Narati Sky Grassland, with snow-capped mountains, flowers, and meadows, there's no reason to refuse😍!
📆Day7: Duku Highway, high mountain canyons and the hundred-mile gallery Tangbula, experience the change of four seasons in one day🌨.
📆Day8: Urumqi airport drop-off✈.
10-Day Panoramic Tour Guide of the Northern Xinjiang Duku Highway
Explore the Northern Xinjiang grasslands, Gobi, snow mountains, and lakes for 10 days
Pure travel guide to Baihaba
Quality small group tour to Kanas and Hemu
Colorful Beach and Keketuohai
Burqin
Fuyun
Wuerhe Devil City
Karamay
Guozigou Bridge and Sayram Lake
Huocheng Lavender Manor and Tianchi Lake in Tianshan Mountains
Kalajun
Duku Highway
Zhaosu to Urumqi
Tekes
Nalati
Shata Ancient Trail
D1 Urumqi ---------- Tianchi Lake in Tianshan Mountains --------- - Fuyun County
D2 Fuyun County ------ Keketuohai ------- Colorful Beach ------------ - Burqin
D3 Burqin ------------- Kanas ------------- Baihaba
D4 Baihaba ---------- Kanas ---------- Hemu
D5 Hemu -------- Devil City -------- Karamay
D6 Karamay ----- Sayram Lake ----- Guozigou Bridge ----- Qingshui River Town
D7 Qingshui River ----- Lavender Manor ----- Kalajun Prairie ----- Zhaosu
D8 Zhaosu -------- Shata -------- Tekes
D9 Tekes --------- Nalati Sky Grassland --------- Nalati Town
D10 Nalati ----- Duku Highway ----- Qiaojima ----- End of the tour in Urumqi
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Nalati Scenic Area Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
I regret going to Yili Narati in Xinjiang in the summer! The disappointment is comparable to a heartbreak
But if you don't want to go to Xinjiang in winter, then you definitely shouldn't miss it in summer! 😍
Visiting Yili after April is simply a divine level of beauty! The ice and snow melt away, the grass and spruce are dripping with greenery😀, passing through snow-capped mountains, steep ridges, and meadows, you can also see the adorable flocks of sheep🐏. The little houses on the green slopes and the clouds in the sky☁ make you feel like you're in a fairy tale world.
The most beautiful season of the Yili grassland has arrived, come and feel it! 👣
✅Must-see attractions in Yili:
🌲Shata Tourist Area: The dreamy staircase to the snow mountains.
🌲Zhao Su·Yili: A beautiful two-dimensional fairy tale world.
🌲Tianma Yuhe: The homeland of the heavenly horses.
🌲Kalajun Scenic Area: Here is the summer of Miyazaki's manga.
🌲Qiongkushitai: The village from the fairy tales.
🌲Narati Grassland: Stroll through the endless sea of flowers on the aerial grassland.
🌲Sailimu Lake: The last tear of the Atlantic.
🌲Lavender Manor: The Eastern Provence, encounter the purple romance.
8-day tour itinerary recommendation for Yili: 👇👇
🔷Day 1: Urumqi→Pick up from the airport
🔷Day 2: Urumqi→Sailimu Lake→Lavender Farm→Yining
🔷Day 3: Yining→Shata→Zhao Su Wetland Park→Zhao Su
🔷Day 4: Zhao Su→Qiongkushitai→Tekes
🔷Day 5: Tekes→Kalajun→Xinyuan/Narati
🔷Day 6: Xinyuan/Narati→Narati Aerial Grassland→Bayinbuluke
🔷Day 7: Bayinbuluke→Duku Highway→Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery→Urumqi
🔷Day 8: Urumqi→Send off to the airport
Xinjiang food recommendations:
🔴Xinjiang's internet-famous big plate chicken, Xinjiang barbecue, roasted buns...😍
Nalati
🌌The Nalati Tourist Center can go to the Sky Prairie and Valley Prairie. The Valley Prairie is located in Xinyuan County, Yili State, Xinjiang, with an altitude of more than 2,000 meters. It is a place that Xinjiang people admire.
🏔Looking far away, you can see the Kabamba main peak covered with ice and snow all year round. At the foot of the mountain, the grass is like shade, the forest is dense on the waist of the mountain, the top of the mountain is covered with snow, the rushing Gongnais River roars past, the spruce stands tall, the grass is green, it is a veritable sky prairie. Its large scale, beautiful scenery and pleasant scenery make tourists feel as if they are in a beautiful painting.
🏞Nalati Valley Prairie is one of the four major valley prairies in the world, and it is as famous as the famous Swiss mountains. The Valley Prairie has the Wusun Camp, the Wusun Horse Team statue, the Prairie Tribe, and the Kazakh herders' felt tents and local delicacies such as roast buns, roast naan, handmade yogurt, and daily necessities.
China's Most Beautiful ◆ Six Great Grasslands
Grasslands,
Our country's grasslands are diverse,
Stretching thousands of kilometers from east to west,
The ingenious work of nature,
Has created these pure lands.
Hulunbuir Eastern Grassland
The sky is high and the clouds are low, the grass is fragrant, herds of cattle and sheep, fine horses, thousands of crisscrossing rivers, they meander and twist, forming the unique brilliant scroll of the grassland.
Ili Grassland
The Ili Grassland is the Narati Grassland, "Narati" means: the first place to see the sun, in summer, it is the most beautiful "Jiangnan outside the Great Wall".
Xilingol Grassland
Xilingol Grassland is a treasure, a green ocean, various flowers compete for beauty, herdsmen ride horses, cattle and sheep roam, it is a feast for the eyes.
Mao Ya Alpine Grassland
In the embrace of the mountains, the grassland is lush like the sea, the wild flowers are blooming in purple and red, and a roll is full of fragrance.
Naqu Alpine Grassland
Naqu is located between the Tanggula Mountain Range and the Nyainqentanglha Mountain Range, it is a sparsely populated virgin land, every summer, the vegetation is most lush.
Qilian Mountain Grassland
The scenery of Qilian Mountain Grassland is picturesque, the sky is high and the clouds are light, summer is like spring, the blue waves are vast, horses, cattle, and sheep are dotted among them, returning to nature in an instant, returning to simplicity, like a fairyland.
A comprehensive guide to Xinjiang tourism! Beautiful scenery, delicious food, none can be missed!
Xinjiang, this mysterious and rich land, under the influence of the Silk Road, has bred a unique style. This time, let me share with you a travel experience in Xinjiang, as well as some precautions and accommodation recommendations.
First of all, for those who go to Xinjiang for the first time, my suggestion is to choose Urumqi as the first stop. The transportation here is convenient, and the time difference is two hours later than Beijing time, remember to adjust your biological clock! In Urumqi, you can visit the natural scenery such as Tianshan Tianchi and Nanshan Pasture, and feel the magnificence of Xinjiang.
In terms of accommodation, different regions have different places to stay. For Kanas, Hemu and Sayram Lake, you can choose to stay in Beitun City, Jiadengyu and Burqin. These places are not only close to the attractions, but also have complete facilities, which can allow you to get sufficient rest during the journey.
If you come to Narati Grassland, I strongly recommend you to stay in the log cabins in the scenic area. There, you can better appreciate the starry sky and increase the play time. Imagine, on the quiet grassland, looking up at the stars, do you feel extremely relaxed and comfortable?
Speaking of self-driving routes, I want to recommend an Yili ring line. This route starts from Urumqi, passes through Sayram Lake, Huocheng, Zhaosu, Tekes, Qiongkushitai, Narati and Duku Highway, and finally returns to Urumqi from Dushanzi. The entire route is about 2300 kilometers, requires 12 days, and drives an average of 5-6 hours a day. On this route, you will appreciate the magnificent scenery and rich cultural landscape of Xinjiang.
In terms of attractions, I recommend Qiongkushitai, Huocheng Lavender, Tangbula Fairy Lake, Narati Grassland, Sayram Lake and Duku Highway. Qiongkushitai is a charming fairy tale forest with tall pine trees and clear streams; Huocheng Lavender is a romantic purple flower sea, which makes people intoxicated; Tangbula Fairy Lake is a small popular secret, the lake is green as jade; Narati Grassland is a beautiful air grassland and valley grassland, with herds of cattle and sheep, picturesque scenery; Sayram Lake is a beautiful lake, the lake is clear and bottomless; Duku Highway is a journey that makes people feel the four seasons, and the scenery along the way is changeable and beautiful.
Of course, the food in Xinjiang is also not to be missed. Big plate chicken, lamb skewers, roasted lamb chops, rack meat, roasted buns and other delicious foods make people drool. In addition, there are old yogurt, cold water fish, hand-grabbed rice, bagged meat and latiao and other special foods waiting for you to taste. Here, your taste buds will be greatly satisfied.
In general, this trip to Xinjiang is an unforgettable experience. From Urumqi to the Yili ring line, to the Narati Grassland and the Duku Highway, I have felt the unique style and beautiful scenery of Xinjiang. At the same time, I have also summarized some precautions and accommodation recommendations, hoping to provide some help and reference for your trip to Xinjiang.
Now plan your trip to Xinjiang! On this beautiful land, you will gain unforgettable memories and wonderful experiences. Wish you a pleasant journey!
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Xiata Tourist Area Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
I regret going to Yili Narati in Xinjiang in the summer! The disappointment is comparable to a heartbreak
But if you don't want to go to Xinjiang in winter, then you definitely shouldn't miss it in summer! 😍
Visiting Yili after April is simply a divine level of beauty! The ice and snow melt away, the grass and spruce are dripping with greenery😀, passing through snow-capped mountains, steep ridges, and meadows, you can also see the adorable flocks of sheep🐏. The little houses on the green slopes and the clouds in the sky☁ make you feel like you're in a fairy tale world.
The most beautiful season of the Yili grassland has arrived, come and feel it! 👣
✅Must-see attractions in Yili:
🌲Shata Tourist Area: The dreamy staircase to the snow mountains.
🌲Zhao Su·Yili: A beautiful two-dimensional fairy tale world.
🌲Tianma Yuhe: The homeland of the heavenly horses.
🌲Kalajun Scenic Area: Here is the summer of Miyazaki's manga.
🌲Qiongkushitai: The village from the fairy tales.
🌲Narati Grassland: Stroll through the endless sea of flowers on the aerial grassland.
🌲Sailimu Lake: The last tear of the Atlantic.
🌲Lavender Manor: The Eastern Provence, encounter the purple romance.
8-day tour itinerary recommendation for Yili: 👇👇
🔷Day 1: Urumqi→Pick up from the airport
🔷Day 2: Urumqi→Sailimu Lake→Lavender Farm→Yining
🔷Day 3: Yining→Shata→Zhao Su Wetland Park→Zhao Su
🔷Day 4: Zhao Su→Qiongkushitai→Tekes
🔷Day 5: Tekes→Kalajun→Xinyuan/Narati
🔷Day 6: Xinyuan/Narati→Narati Aerial Grassland→Bayinbuluke
🔷Day 7: Bayinbuluke→Duku Highway→Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery→Urumqi
🔷Day 8: Urumqi→Send off to the airport
Xinjiang food recommendations:
🔴Xinjiang's internet-famous big plate chicken, Xinjiang barbecue, roasted buns...😍
An 8-day panoramic tour of Northern Xinjiang without regrets
Xinjiang Travel Guide | Ili Loop 8-Day Tour Guide 100 say, the Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall is in Ili
Summer has arrived, and Ili is about to welcome the best season for visiting. Sharing a few breathtaking sceneries
For those graduating or planning a summer trip, consider these highlights: Sayram Lake
The last tear of the Atlantic, with a blue lake surface surrounded by Tianshan pines, lakeside, snowy mountains, and white clouds, pearls blooming, white flocks of sheep, galloping steeds, and the pastoral songs and smoke from cooking fires drifting with the wind. Lavender Sea
Huocheng County in the Ili River Valley is one of the world's three major lavender planting bases
Shat Ancient Trail
Snow mountains, rivers, grasslands, lakes, forests, hiking, horse riding, close-up view of the Muzart Glacier
Kalajun Prairie
This is the core area of the Tianshan World Natural Heritage, the prairie on the waist of the Tianshan Mountains, stretching endlessly, with the Tianshan snow peaks in the distance. The human-shaped prairie here is also spectacular.
Bayinbuluke Prairie
Different from Kalajun, this place is full of blooming wildflowers, bees and butterflies, dotted tents, and flocks of cattle and sheep like clouds.
Duku Highway
A scenic avenue that traverses the Tianshan Mountains, passing through snow mountains, glaciers, grasslands, and river valleys, with changing scenery every ten miles, experiencing all four seasons in one day
Qiongkushitai
Qiongkushitai is an outdoor paradise deep in the Tianshan grasslands, also known as the Eastern Switzerland. Kazakh herders have settled here for generations, and under the reflection of light and shadow, the undulating grasslands, white yurts, and wooden houses fill the prairie with vitality and vigor.
8-day itinerary planning
D1: Depart from Urumqi
D2: Urumqi--S101 National Defense Highway--Dushanzi Grand Canyon--Jinghe
D3: Jinghe--Sayram Lake--Lavender Sea--Kazanqi--Yining
D4: Yining--Shat Ancient Trail--Muzart Glacier--Zhaosu
D5: Zhaosu--Zhaosu Rapeseed Flowers--East and West Kalajun Prairies--Huo Kexu Grand Canyon--Human-shaped Prairie--Tekes Bagua City
D6: Tekes--Qiongkushitai Ancient Natural Village--Xinyuan County/Gongliu
D7: Xinyuan--Nalati Town--Bayinbuluke Prairie--Swan Lake--Gongnaisi River Valley--Bayinbuluke Town
D8: Bayinbuluke--Duku Highway--Qiaoma--Urumqi
Ili is wonderful in summer, but you need to know how to enjoy it
Ili is the only region in China that combines a sense of oppression and relaxation perfectly.
But to truly enjoy it, you need some experience and 'principles':
1. Choose between Kuerdening Qiaxi and Shata. It is recommended to use early June as the dividing line, before which Kuerdening Qiaxi is preferable, and after which Shata is better.
2. The way to enjoy Ili is inherently outdoorsy. The difference in scenery between hiking trails and regular routes is huge, and incorporating some outdoor elements into your itinerary is a standard for a profound experience. Some parts can be accessed by off-road vehicles, some by horse, and many only on foot. Qiaxi Kuerdening can include the tail end of the Kalajun traverse, Kalajun can extend to Qiongkushitai or Gazagan Camp, Shata has the Shata Ancient Trail, and even the Yisai Shepherd Trail and Tuhulasi Grassland hiking routes. If you really have no outdoor experience, you could also ride a horse for the first ten kilometers in front of Wusun or behind Qiongkushitai to get a taste, which is much better than just visiting scenic spots every day.
3. The golden period for Ili is mid-May to late June. This is based on a comprehensive score of 'grass + forest + low snow line + temperature'. Too early, and there are fewer grassland options, such as Kalajun not being very green, and Shata having a high frequency of bad weather in the afternoon. Too late, and the weather becomes hot, the snow line disappears, and having only grasslands and forests loses the advantage of the snow-capped mountains.
4. 'There's no point in going to Qiongkushitai if you're not staying overnight' makes sense because Qiongku's absolute advantage lies in its scattered homestay cabins and a leisurely travel mindset, all predicated on 'staying at least one night'; otherwise, you won't be able to relax.
5. In summer, the priority for accommodations in Ili should be lonely homestays with good conditions near scenic spots, followed by homestays with average conditions but good scenery, then experienced camping, then county town hotels, and lastly, homestays with poor conditions and not much scenery. However, the latter is what most people will choose, because they want both... but that's difficult.
6. Ili during the May Day holiday is good, but there are a few things to note. First, try not to attempt pure wilderness camping, as the weather is extremely unstable during May Day, with heavy snowfall every year. Second, don't apply your aesthetic expectations to flowers and vast greenery; appreciating Ili's snow-capped mountains is important.
7. The summer sunsets in Ili are incredibly beautiful, and it's not dangerous to return to your accommodation later, but missing the pink hues in the mountains would be a great pity.
8. Don't think that regular scenic spots are too 'mainstream'. Every scenic spot was once niche and equal in the eyes of the beholder. By using scenic spots as a base for further exploration, rather than blindly heading straight for the mountains, you're more likely to find 'good stuff', just as it's easier to succeed with a franchise than starting an independent brand.
Xia Ta is so beautiful that it leaves one speechless, with two different worlds above and below the mountain
Xia Ta is located more than 70 kilometers southwest of Zhaosu County, adjacent to the main range of the Tianshan Mountains. It was originally an ancient transportation station from Yili to Aksu, and now it is the seat of the government of Xia Ta Keerkezi ethnic township. The Xia Ta scenic tourism area is an ancient cultural scenic line composed of mountain passes, ancient paths, ancient sites, and natural landscapes, and is a legendary tourist destination in Yili. The Xia Ta grassland is vast and flat, like an endless sea of smoke and waves. The Xia Ta canyon, also known as the Tang Monk's ancient path, is the most perilous passage on the Silk Road.
Through the forest, across the grassland, over the wooden bridge, feeling the wind brush past your cheeks, the river flowing beneath your feet, fields of wildflowers spread in every corner of the river valley grassland, walking through the tall and primitive forest, the Muzart Glacier suddenly appears before your eyes, that sense of shock and sacred awe mixed with fondness spontaneously arises, and you will never forget this glacier at an altitude of 3800 meters that never melts all year round!
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Hemu Scenic Area Travel Recommendations for 2024 (Updated in May)
I stayed in Xinjiang for a month to tell you some things not to do
Don't ask how much the ticket is, ask how many years of youth are left. I decided to embark on a journey to Xinjiang in the northwest of my motherland, using a month to find my lost soul. After coming back, I am full of motivation, often staring at the photos in a daze.
To help friends who want to go to Xinjiang, I have compiled this travel guide, hoping to help everyone!
Where should I go first when I go to Xinjiang for the first time?
Urumqi, as the transportation hub of Xinjiang, is very convenient whether it is South Xinjiang or North Xinjiang. It is recommended to choose Urumqi as the first stop, because whether it is a group tour or self-driving, almost all vehicles start from here.
Precautions:
Time difference: There is a 2-hour time difference between Xinjiang and the mainland
Many ethnic minorities are used to saying Xinjiang time
Security check: Xinjiang's security check is very strict, train stations and airports require multiple security checks, it is recommended to go to the train station/airport in advance
Accommodation recommendation:
Urumqi: Recommend Friendly Business Circle or Zhongshan Road Business Circle
Kanas: Recommend Beitun City, secondly, Jadunyu and Burqin can be recommended
Hemu: Recommend staying in the scenic area log cabin, watching the stars all over the sky at night, increasing the play time during the day, and the experience is better
Sailimu Lake: Accommodation is recommended to stay in Qingshuihe Town or Huocheng County
Our self-driving route:
Starting from Urumqi, go to Sailimu Lake—Huocheng—Zhaosu—Tekes—Qiongkushitai—Nalati—Duku Highway, and finally return to Urumqi from Dushanzi.
The route is just a circle, which is a classic Yili ring line.
ps: The above self-driving journey is 12 days in total, a total of 2300 kilometers, without rushing to the road and rushing to the scenic spots, often 5-6 hours of self-driving time every day. I feel that rest and maintaining a good state are necessary.
Must-visit attractions:
Qiongkushitai: The grassland covering the sky, the fairy tale forest like a mist, the small wooden house with grass on the head, every eye is super healing
Huocheng Lavender: The purple sea of flowers tumbling with the wind is really romantic
Tangbula Fairy Lake: A small popular secret that needs to ride a horse up the mountain, accompanied by flowers all the way, it seems to be Alice in Wonderland
Nalati Grassland: The aerial photography and self-driving of the grassland and valley in the sky are absolutely amazing!
Sailimu Lake: "The last tear of the Atlantic"
If you have plenty of time, you must go for a self-driving tour around the lake
Duku Highway: Duku Highway that must be self-driving once in a lifetime! It will open around mid-June every year, and you will feel the four seasons along the way.
Xinjiang cuisine:
The big plate chicken, lamb skewers, roasted lamb chops, and roasted buns in Xinjiang are really amazing, and those who like heavy tastes can close their eyes.
ps: There are also old yogurt, cold water fish, hand-grabbed rice, wrapped meat, pulled strips and other delicacies waiting for you to taste!
6 things you must know before going to Kanas
1⃣️Kanas is located in the north of Xinjiang, most city flights do not go directly, you need to transfer in Urumqi.
2⃣️The most beautiful season in Kanas is autumn, that is, September-November, known as the most beautiful autumn scenery in China. Of course, summer and winter are also worth a visit, with a pleasant climate in summer and skiing in winter.
3⃣️The ticket for staying in Kanas for one day is 230 per person, and 270 for two days. You can stay in the new village. The development here is relatively complete, with convenient food and accommodation, and it is close to the Fairy Bay.
4⃣️The attractions worth visiting in Kanas are: Three Bays, Kanas Lake, and Fish Watching Pavilion. If you go to the Fish Watching Pavilion, you need to purchase an additional 20 yuan ticket.
5⃣️The Three Bays are Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay. There is a special bus running between the transfer center and Jiadenyu Station. The morning mist of the Three Bays is worth seeing. The Moon Bay is very high and the scenery is even more spectacular. The other two bays are flat forest land. You can walk back to the village after returning to the Fairy Bay, and the scenery along the way is particularly healing.
6⃣️The famous beautiful winter village - Hemu Village is near Kanas, you need to buy a ticket at Jiadenyu Station and enter the village on the right.
Xinjiang | Travel Guide
Xinjiang Travel🔥|8 days 7 nights small group🏜️average 6k➕|||If autumn is very beautiful🍁
Northern Xinjiang accounts for seven points😆
God is not stingy
The most beautiful oil painting in the world🌅
All sprinkled on this land
If you have already missed the summer in Northern Xinjiang🍃
Then you must not miss the autumn colors of Northern Xinjiang🍂
Snow mountains and layered forests surround Hemu
Birch forest falls into a golden color🌅
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🌈Recommended route
Day1 All over the country—Airport/Station pick-up—Urumqi Stay: Urumqi
Day1 Urumqi—Tianshan Tianchi—S21 Desert Highway---Burqin Stay: Burqin
Day2 Burqin—Kanas Guanyutai—Kanas Lake—Kanas Stay: Kanas Scenic Area
Day3 Kanas—Kanas Sanwan—Hemu Stay: Hemu Scenic Area
Day4 Hemu—World Devil City—Karamay Stay: Karamay
Day5 Karamay—Sayram Lake—Jinghe Stay: Jinghe
Day6 Jinghe—Anjihai Grand Canyon—Urumqi Stay: Urumqi
Day8 Urumqi—Airport/Station drop-off—Warm home Happy end of the trip
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🌈Trip highlights
🔴No stop during the Spring Festival, set off immediately
🔴Deep play for 8 days, small group of 6 people, average 💰5K+
🔴2 nights in original log cabin accommodation
🔴24-hour online customer service, airport pick-up
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🔥What the trip includes
1. Transportation: Local comfortable car, guarantee one seat per person
2. Accommodation: Hotels listed in the package itinerary, 4 nights comfortable accommodation + 2 nights log cabin
3. Hotel: Clean and comfortable double standard room with private bathroom
4. Section car: Kanas, Hemu, Devil City, Sayram Lake, Tianchi, Keketuohai
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🍁——Travel Tips——🍁
✨The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is large, please bring enough clothes
✨The sunshine time is long, please bring sun protection products
✨Xinjiang has a 2-hour time difference, meal times are late
✨The climate in Xinjiang is dry, please bring hydration products etc.
✨Photo matching: sunglasses, scarves, ethnic costumes, decorations, etc.
✨In ethnic minority areas, please respect the local people's lifestyle etc.
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Just returned from Altay, to tell the truth
On the 6th day of coming to North Xinjiang, my aesthetic threshold has been blown up.
The grand snow and the scarce tourists are in stark contrast.
It's like walking into a real version of 'The Cold Wonderland and The End of the World'!!
Riding an off-road vehicle, traveling through the forest and snow.
From the fairy-tale Kanas Three Bays
To the fairy-tale Hemu Village, Frost Ice Ling, Unfrozen River, Sayram Lake Blue Ice
There is no most beautiful, the next second is always more beautiful!!
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Ride a sled during the day, stay at the Sayram Lake RV camp at night.
Stars and sunrise come to visit.
The southern child finally realized the wish of jumping in the snow with 80 cm thick snow.
P1-8 are all real shots.
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❄North Xinjiang Snow Season Forecast
The snow-watching period in Xinjiang is particularly long.
From October every year to April of the following year, it is the ice and snow period.
The weather forecast shows:
The Kanas area will usher in a medium to large range of snowfall.
November-December is the off-peak season for snow appreciation.
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❄Big Traffic TIPS:
Going to Xinjiang in November-December is considered off-season throughout the year.
The ticket price is equivalent to 20% of the peak season.
The one-way trip during the peak season costs 3k+, while the round trip is only 1k+ at this time.
Compared to the ticket prices of popular snow-watching places in the Northeast.
The cost performance is very high.
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Gather in Urumqi.
There are multiple direct flights from Guangzhou and Shenzhen, with convenient transportation.
Disband in Altay, you can freely arrange skiing time.
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❄8-day itinerary in North Xinjiang:
Day 1-3
Gather in Urumqi-Sayram Lake-Urho Devil City
Day 4-6
Burqin-Kanas-Hemu
Day 7-8
Disband in Altay
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❄Highlights & Differentiated Experience:
√Bus + off-road vehicle, flexible and deep exploration of beautiful scenery
√Kanas + Hemu + Sayram Lake, connecting the most essence of winter snow scenery in North Xinjiang
√Take a cable car to the top of Jike Burlin, overlooking the powder snow paradise.
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❄Preferred Accommodation:
√Stay in the luxury RV camp at Sayram Lake, the peak season is as high as ￥3-4k/night.
You can enjoy the blue ice without going out.
Capture the beautiful sunrise and the starry sky without light pollution.
√Stay in boutique homestays in Kanas and Hemu scenic spots.
Independent bathroom, you can take a hot bath every day.
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