14-Day In-Depth Tour of Northern Xinjiang and Turpan

【Introduction】: Xinjiang, an autonomous region in northwest China, is renowned for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The region is divided into Northern Xinjiang and Southern Xinjiang, with Northern Xinjiang attracting numerous visitors due to its unique natural scenery and climate. Turpan, an important city in Xinjiang, also boasts distinctive landscapes and cultural attractions. 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake) - Fuyun Day 3: Fuyun - Koktokay - Altay Day 4: Altay - Ahe Highway - Hemu Village - Yunxiao Peak - Hemu Wooden Cabin Day 5: Hemu Village - Hemu Sunrise - Kanas Fish Pavilion - Kanas (Scenic Area Wooden Cabin) Day 6: Kanas - Kanas Three Bays - Colorful Beach - Urho Day 7: Urho - Ghost City - Bole Day 8: Bole - Sailimu Lake Loop - Guozigou Bridge - Lavender Fields - Six-Star Street - Yining Day 9: Yining - Kurdening Self-Drive Tour - Nalati (Homestay) Day 10: Nalati - Nalati Grassland - Tangbula Grassland (Tangbula Starry Sky Room) Day 11: Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Fairy Lake - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 12: Urumqi - Kumtag Desert - Shanshan County Day 13: Shanshan County - Turpan - Tuyugou Valley - Flaming Mountains - Karez System - Urumqi Day 14: Urumqi - Home 1. Kanas Lake: Located in the Altay region, this famous alpine lake is known for its mysterious waters and surrounding natural beauty. The scenery varies across seasons, with autumn being particularly picturesque as the birch forests turn golden. 2. Tianchi Lake: Situated near Urumqi, this alpine lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The crystal-clear waters and stunning views make it a great spot for hiking and trekking. 3. Ili River Valley: Renowned for its fertile lands and breathtaking natural scenery, the valley features vast grasslands, dense forests, and abundant wildlife, making it ideal for photography and outdoor activities. 4. Sailimu Lake: Located in the Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, this alpine lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and grasslands, offering spectacular views. Turpan Scenic Highlights: Turpan, located in eastern Xinjiang, is famous for its unique geography. Here are some of its notable attractions: 1. Flaming Mountains: One of Turpan's most famous landmarks, the red-colored mountains are known for their scorching temperatures, making them one of the hottest places in China. The site is also featured in the classic Chinese tale "Journey to the West," where Sun Wukong borrows a palm-leaf fan to extinguish the flames. 2. Karez System: This ancient underground irrigation system, with over 2,000 years of history, channels melted snow from the Tianshan Mountains to farmland. Visitors can explore the Karez Museum to learn about this ingenious water management technique. 🍩【Must-Try Cuisine】: Baked buns + Roast whole lamb + Lamb skewers + Big plate chicken + Hand-grabbed rice 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: Ctrip Four-Diamond Hotels + Century-Old Wooden Cabins + Premium Homestays 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Seven-seater business vehicles or luxury seven-seater business vehicles 🧡【Tips】: 1. Climate: Xinjiang has significant temperature differences between day and night. From June to August, short sleeves and long pants with a jacket are sufficient. From September to October, bring a windbreaker or padded jacket. Hiking or travel shoes are recommended. 2. Personal Items: Carry a power bank, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, lip balm, rain gear, personal toiletries, and a thermos (Xinjiang's water is hard; boiled water is preferable). 3. Essentials: Bring cold medicine, digestive medicine, band-aids, mosquito repellent, essential oils, throat lozenges, etc. 4. Food: Xinjiang cuisine is generally spicy and meat-heavy, primarily featuring beef and lamb. Avoid drinking cold water immediately after consuming meat to prevent digestive discomfort. Carry snacks for convenience. 5. Time Difference: Xinjiang operates two hours behind mainland China; adjust your biological clock accordingly. 6. Customs: Xinjiang is home to many ethnic minorities; respect local customs and traditions. Highlights: Tianchi Lake, Koktokay Scenic Area, Ahe Highway, Kanas Scenic Area, Hemu Village, Colorful Beach, Ghost City, Sailimu Lake, Kurdening Scenic Area, Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, Tangbula Grassland, Duku Highway, Kumtag Desert, Flaming Mountains, Tuyugou Valley.