Ultimate Guide to Exploring Northern Xinjiang During the Long Weekend

Ladies, the long weekend is here! Are you ready to deeply explore Northern Xinjiang and its surroundings? This region boasts stunning lakes, dazzling starry skies, grassland hiking, and breathtaking roads like the Ahe Highway and Duku Highway waiting for you to discover! Grab this 10-day travel guide and embark on your dream journey! -------- 🗓 Itinerary: D1: Arrive in Urumqi and enjoy a customized city walk route to experience the charm of the city. Stay overnight at a hotel in Urumqi. D2-D3: Depart from Urumqi to visit the scenic Tianchi Lake, cross the S21 Desert Highway, and arrive in Altay. Then head to Hemu Village to experience unique wooden cabin accommodations and the tranquility of nature. D4-D5: Watch the sunrise in Hemu, stroll along the shores of Kanas Lake, and soak in the picturesque lake and mountain views. Next, visit the colorful beach and Ghost City to marvel at nature's craftsmanship, and stay overnight in Urho. D6-D7: Depart from Urho to explore Sailimu Lake, enjoy sailing activities, and drive around the lake to take in the scenery. If the Duku Highway is open, adjust the itinerary to include visits to Karamay, Duku Highway, and Bayinbulak to experience the vast grasslands and majestic roads. D8-D9: Visit the Nalati Grassland and stay overnight in Bole. Then head to Dushanzi Grand Canyon to admire its depth and grandeur. Finally, return to Urumqi to conclude the delightful journey. D10: Depart from Urumqi and return home, wrapping up this unforgettable trip. 🌟 This itinerary offers an in-depth exploration of lakes, grasslands, stargazing, light hiking, and unique scenic drives along the Ahe and Duku Highways, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of nature! -------- Recommended Attractions: Tianshan Tianchi Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 501, Junggar Road, Fukang City, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang - Opening Hours: April 11 - October 9, 08:00-19:00 - Suggested Duration: 1 day - The lake's mirror-like surface reflects the majestic Bogda Peak, surrounded by spruce trees, creating a fairyland-like atmosphere. Hemu Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Hemu Village, Hanas Mongolian Ethnic Township, Burqin County, Altay Region, Xinjiang - Opening Hours: May 1 - October 15, 08:00-20:00 - Suggested Duration: 1-2 days - Nestled in a mountain valley, scattered wooden cabins exude a rustic and serene charm, resembling a secluded paradise. Kanas Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Provincial Road 232, Burqin County, Altay Region, Xinjiang - Opening Hours: May 1 - October 15, 08:00-20:00 - Suggested Duration: 1-2 days - Famous for its mysterious lake monster legend, the lake's color changes with the seasons, making Kanas a mesmerizing destination. Sailimu Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Along National Road 30, Bole City, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang - Opening Hours: May 1 - October 31, 08:00-22:00 - Suggested Duration: 1-2 days - The crystal-clear blue waters and surrounding grasslands adorned with wildflowers create a vivid oil painting-like scenery. -------- Tips: - 👳 Local Customs: Respect the customs of the Hui people and avoid bringing outside food into halal restaurants. - 📸 Photo Spots: Don't miss the stunning views at Tianshan Tianchi Lake and Jiangbulak for perfect shots! - ✈️ Airport Transportation: Changji is close to Urumqi Airport, making travel convenient, but plan your transportation in advance. -------- 🎉 Don't forget to like and save this guide! For your next trip, follow my itinerary and explore Northern Xinjiang together! 🎉