2025 Karamay Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

I. Seasonal Weather and Clothing Guide (Focus on Spring and Summer) 1️⃣. Climate Characteristics Northern Xinjiang: Extreme temperature differences between day and night (20-35°C during day, 5-15°C at night), Ili Valley is humid and rainy, Kanas area is cool in summer Southern Xinjiang: Dry with little rain (extreme summer temperatures can reach 40°C), smaller day-night temperature difference than Northern Xinjiang 2️⃣. Spring/Summer (May-August) Clothing Guide Scenarios and Recommended Gear Daily Sightseeing: Short-sleeve + sun protection clothing/light jacket, quick-dry pants/long skirt (UV protection), breathable sports shoes Mountain Areas/Morning & Evening: 3-in-1 jacket/light down jacket, fleece liner, windproof scarf (essential for Kanas and Xata) Special Scenarios: Waterproof snow boots (Sayram Lake snow melting period), sun protection arm sleeves (Devil City Gobi), raincoat (Ili showers) Essential Accessories: UV400 sunglasses, SPF50+ sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, moisturizing skincare products (Xinjiang is extremely dry) II. Core Attractions Analysis of Northern Xinjiang + Ili ■ Northern Xinjiang Scenic Corridor Kanas (5A Level) Features: Three Bays (Moon/Fairy/Dragon) morning mist, Fish-Viewing Pavilion panorama, Baihaba border village Seasonal recommendation: Wildflowers in June, autumn colors in September, summer Tuva family visits Hemu Village Highlights✨: Wooden house stargazing spots, Harden Platform sunrise, horseback riding through birch forest Hidden experiences: Milky Way photography at 3am, autumn morning mist photography Keketuohai Geological wonders: Shenzhong Mountain granite peak, No.3 Mine pit (Merit Mine), Irtysh Grand Canyon hiking Tips: Recommended to combine with hot spring hotel experience World Ghost City Photography timing: 🌄2 hours before sunset (golden yardang landforms) Combined tour recommendation: Karamay Hundred-Mile Oil Field landscape Ili Grassland Matrix Sayram Lake (Lake Circuit Guide) East bank: Genghis Khan's Command Post (panoramic position) South bank: Swan Lake, S-curve road photo spot West bank: Songshu Trail (overlooking Guozigou Bridge) Nalati Grassland Route options: Sky Grassland route (popular bridge photo spot) River Valley Grassland route (Kazakh cultural experience) Panlong Valley route (self-driving exclusive) Xata Ancient Road In-depth experience: Hike to Flower Platform (June), close view of Muzart Glacier Note: Advance horse team booking required, hiking poles recommended Kurdening/Qiaxi Comparison: Kurdening: King Spruce + Heritage Exhibition Center (educational) Qiaxi: Best value with 30 yuan entrance fee, self-driving friendly III. Classic Itinerary Planning (8-12 days) Plan A: Northern Xinjiang Panoramic Circuit (10 days) Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - passing Ulungur Lake - Colorful Beach - Burqin Day 3: Burqin - Kanas Lake - Kanas Three Bays - Hemu Day 4: Hemu - Ahe Highway (subject to opening) - passing Tuole Great Grassland - Tongba Forest - Wuxilike - Altay Day 5: Altay - Urho Ghost City - Kuitun Day 6: Kuitun - Sayram Lake circuit drive - Dopamine Six-star Street - Yining Day 7: Yining - Qiaxi - Xinyuan Day 8: Xinyuan - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati Day 9: Nalati - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 10: Urumqi - Departure point Alternative route if Duku Highway is closed: Day 8: Nalati - Nalati Sky Grassland - Jinghe Day 9: Jinghe - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Urumqi Plan B: Ili In-depth Tour (8 days) Day 1: Departure point - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Sayram Lake stroll - Sayram Lake sunset - Sayram Lake East Gate Day 3: Second Sayram Lake drive - in-depth lake circuit - Guozigou Hanging Rock - Dopamine Six-star Street - Yining Day 4: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xata - Zhaosu Day 5: Zhaosu - Qiafuqihai - Kurdening - Nalati River Valley Grassland - Nalati Day 6: Nalati - Nalati Sky Grassland drive - Tangbula Day 7: Tangbula - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 8: Urumqi - Departure point IV. Practical Tips 🪪Document Management: Carry ID card at all times (numerous checkpoints) Border permits required for Baihaba/Xata (obtain from hometown or Burqin) 🚘Transportation Recommendations: Prefer 6-person small groups (comfortable vehicle + local driver) Duku Highway/Yizhao Highway limited to vehicles under 7 seats Cultural Taboos: No shorts in mosques, don't point at Muslims Don't trespass fences at nomad homes, ask permission before photographing people Special Notes: Scenic area price reference: Hemu horseback riding 80-150 yuan/hour, Sayram Lake sailing 120 yuan/person Drone flights need advance registration (No-fly zones in Nalati/Baisha Lake) V. Four-Season Travel Calendar Month Northern Xinjiang Highlights Ili Highlights Mar-Apr: Keketuohai ice melt observation, Turgen Apricot Valley bloom May-Jun: Kanas Lake ice breaking period, Sayram Lake wildflowers + Huocheng lavender Jul-Aug: Hemu summer retreat/river rafting, Zhaosu rapeseed fields + Xata hiking golden period Sep-Oct: Kanas autumn scenery + Baihaba morning mist, Nalati golden autumn pasture + pre-closure Duku Highway

8-Day Northern Xinjiang-Urumqi Tour: Explore the beautiful scenery and rich culture! With this guide, you can easily explore the pearl of Northern Xinjiang! -------- 🏃 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, enjoy 24-hour airport/station transfer service 🚘, and start your Urumqi City Walk 🚶‍♂️. Day 2: Gurbantunggut Desert -> Karamay Desert Park -> Ulungur Lake Park Cross the desert, explore the park, and enjoy the beauty of nature 🏜️. Day 3: Hemu Scenic Area -> Hemu Grassland -> Birch Forest Area -> Hemu Bridge -> Hemu Aid Bridge Explore Hemu, stroll through the grassland, visit the birch forest, and feel the charm of the bridges 🌳. Day 4: Hemu Viewing Platform -> Kanas Scenic Area -> Kanas Lake Climb the viewing platform, overlook Kanas, and enjoy the beauty of the lake and mountains 🏞️. Day 5: World Devil City -> World Devil City - Sphinx -> Tianma Changxiao -> Father of the Earth Explore Devil City, admire the unique landforms, and feel the magic of nature 🌍. Day 6: Sayram Lake -> Sayram Lake Point General Platform -> Moon Bay -> Kele Yongzhu -> West Sea Grassland Tour around Sayram Lake, enjoy the lake and mountains, and experience the grassland style 🌊. Day 7: Tianshan Tianchi -> Dinghai Shenzhen Visit Tianshan Tianchi and find the legendary story of Dinghai Shenzhen 🏔️. Day 8: Disband in Urumqi, airport/station transfer service provided 🛫, looking forward to seeing you again! -------- 🎒 Travel Preparation: Northern Xinjiang-Urumqi Travel Essentials 🧥 Clothing: Down jacket, thermal underwear, thick socks, cold and windproof, keep warm. 🎩 Accessories: Warm hat, scarf, gloves, ear protection and frostbite protection, stylish and practical. 💳 Documents: ID card, passport, driver's license, travel essentials, smooth journey. 🧴 Skincare: Sunscreen, lip balm, hand cream, moisturizing and anti-dryness, beautiful travel. 🔋 Others: Power bank, multi-function power socket, charge anytime, no power outage. This is the Northern Xinjiang-Urumqi travel essentials I prepared for you! Remember to add or remove items according to your needs, and have a nice trip! -------- Come to Urumqi and feel the unique charm of this city. Don't forget to leave your footprints and good memories!

6-day tour of Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, a perfect combination of beautiful scenery and culture! Don't miss this amazing itinerary and experience the unique charm of Northwest China! / 🛣️Itinerary DAY 1: Tianshan Tianchi Lake Visit the mysterious Tianshan Tianchi Lake and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature. DAY 2: Kanas Scenic Area -> Kanas Lake -> Kanas Three Bays -> Kanas River Viewing Platform Immerse yourself in the fairyland of Kanas and discover the secrets of nature in the beautiful scenery. DAY 3: Hemu Scenic Area -> Hemu Viewing Platform Climb up to the Hemu Viewing Platform and overlook the whole view of Hemu Village to feel the charm of the primitive village. DAY 4: Hemu Morning Mist - Hemu Trip Moments (provided) - Populus euphratica Forest City/Kuitun Wake up in the morning mist of Hemu, capture beautiful moments, and then head to Populus euphratica Forest City or Kuitun. DAY 5: Sayram Lake -> Sayram Lake Point General Platform Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Sayram Lake and look back at the vicissitudes of history on the Point General Platform. DAY 6: Dushanzi Grand Canyon Explore the Dushanzi Grand Canyon and marvel at the wonders of nature. / Some tips: 🥇Specialty Prices: Changji's specialties such as potato vermicelli and chickpeas are worth buying, but remember to compare prices. 🍽️Food Recommendations: Don't miss the local specialties in Changji, such as roasted whole lamb and hand pilaf, a paradise for foodies! ✈️Airport Transportation: You can take the airport bus, drive, or take a taxi to Urumqi International Airport, which is convenient and fast. 📸Photo Spots: Laolong River Populus euphratica Forest and Jiangbulake are beautiful photo spots, so don't forget to take beautiful photos! 🔔Note: The climate in Changji varies greatly, so remember to check the weather forecast and prepare clothes. / ✨Don't forget to like and save this itinerary to easily explore Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture and start your dream trip!

# Self-driving Travel #100 Ways to Travel #Xinjiang 🚗We embarked on a self-driving adventure in Xinjiang. In this remote and mysterious land, 🗺️we passed through the Devil City in Karamay, Xinjiang. The Devil City shows the uncanny craftsmanship of nature with its unique Yadan landform. 🌄After years of wind erosion, the rocks have been carved into various strange shapes, as if they were sculptures of the earth. Every part contains natural wisdom and art. 🎨The rich changes in colors are like miracles on the palette, especially at the golden hour of sunrise and sunset, 🌅The entire Devil City is dyed with a golden glow, which is breathtakingly beautiful.

【Introduction】: How to explore the classic attractions of Northern Xinjiang in a short time and experience the unique charm of Xinjiang. Every day is very fulfilling~ 🛬【Itinerary】: D1: Your location - Urumqi - International Grand Bazaar D2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake Golden Coast Scenic Area - Colorful Beach - Burqin County D3: Burqin County - Kanas Scenic Area - Guanyu Pavilion - Kanas Village D4: Kanas Village - Kanas Three Bays - Hemu Scenic Area - Hemu Village D5: Hemu Village - Hemu Viewing Platform - World Devil City - Karamay D6: Karamay - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender - Yining - Kazanqi Folk Village D7: Yining - Nalati Tourist Scenic Area (Sky Grassland + Valley Grassland) - Nalati Town D8: Nalati Town - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi D9: Urumqi - Autonomous Region Museum - Your location ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: Tianchi Lake, Kanas Scenic Area, Hemu Scenic Area, Sayram Lake, Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, and Duku Highway are classic attractions in Northern Xinjiang, showcasing the natural beauty of Xinjiang. Other attractions include landscapes along the way, such as highways, lakes, yardangs, bridges, flowers, streets, and canyons, enriching the types of scenery. While enjoying the scenery, you won't feel visually fatigued, and these spots are great for photography. 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Urumqi/Karamay/Yining: Pilaf, baked buns, noodles, kebabs, naan Burqin County: Cold-water fish Sayram Lake: Whitefish Nalati Town: Whole roasted lamb 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Urumqi: Three-star: All Seasons Hotel/Campanile Hotel... Four-star: Atour Hotel/Urumqi Hengyu International Hotel... Five-star: Urumqi Hantang Hotel/Urumqi Wanda Vista Hotel... Burqin County: Three-star: Burqin Hongyu Furui Hotel/Burqin Baishun Holiday Hotel... Four-star: Burqin Night Light City Holiday Hotel/Burqin Green City Grand Hotel... Five-star: Burqin Kanas Birch Forest Luxury Camp... Kanas Scenic Area: Old Village: Kanas Marmot Band B&B/Deep Mountain Leisure Villa B&B... New Village: Kanas An Encounter Hidden World B&B/Kanas A Litchi Tree Villa... Hemu Scenic Area: Old Village: Hemu Mountain Villa/Hemu Zanjue Guanshan Residence... New Village: Hemu Mountain Cottage B&B/Hemu Cezanne Art B&B... Service Area: Hemu Super 8 Hotel/Burqin Hemu Taoyuan B&B... Karamay: Three-star: Vienna Hotel/Starway Hotel... Four-star: Atour Hotel/Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel... Yining: Three-star: All Seasons Hotel/Orange Hotel... Four-star: Yining Colorful Flower City Hotel/Yining Cloud Hotel... Five-star: Yining Ili River Hotel/Yining Wenzhou International Hotel... Nalati Town: Three-star: Nalati Huashijian Garden Hotel/Nalati Borui Linyin Hotel... Four-star: Xinyuan Huahai Nalati B&B/Xinyuan Huahai Nalati B&B... Five-star: Ctrip Holiday Farm (Nalati Forest Park Joint Venture Store)... 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Xinjiang is vast, and there are no suitable buses to reach each attraction. Besides trains and planes, it is recommended to self-drive or hire a local car. 🧡【Tips】: The weather in Xinjiang changes quickly. It is hot at noon and cool in the morning and evening. Please bring different types of clothes, protect yourself from UV rays, and prevent colds. Urumqi·Xinjiang

Northern Xinjiang, that vast land located in the northwestern part of China, offers a stunning visual feast👀. Stepping onto this land, you will be truly amazed by the breathtaking landscapes. Stroll along the shores of Kanas Lake, as if you are in a fairy tale world; venture into Hemu to enjoy a forest afternoon tea in the gentle breeze; boldly chase the sun to find the most romantic myth of the northern frontier sunset. Don't hesitate anymore, follow Xiaoye this summer to the north of Xinjiang, let's go❗ ⭕Fairy Tale Northern Xinjiang imes 7 Days and 6 Nights ✅Bookable from 2 persons, one order per group ✅Private car service with a drone provided ✅Accompanied by an experienced local driver-guide throughout the journey ✅Complimentary 24h airport transfer and welcome gift ✅6 nights of high-end accommodations throughout the trip for a full experience ✅All scenic area tickets + shuttle vehicles included ✅Breakfast included throughout + Hemu forest afternoon tea ⭕In-depth Experience: 🔅Kanas Lake boat cruise 🔅Guanyu Pavilion to search for the "mysterious lake monster" 🔅Leisurely light trekking at the three bays of Kanas 🔅Stroll through the border village of Baihaba 🔅Hemu Village to watch the stunning sunrise, sunset, and starry sky 🔅Exclusive afternoon tea in the Hemu forest 🔅Seek out the miraculous view of the sunset at the Five-Color Beach 🔅Panoramic view of the Yardang landform of the Devil City 🏡Selected Accommodations: 📍Hemu Youyuan Mountain Homestay Located in Hemu Village, surrounded by a vast birch forest; rooms with two panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows offer direct views of the beautiful backyard and the entire Hemu Village scenery 📍Kanas Leisurely Holiday Homestay Located in the old village of Kanas, the Nordic-style decor is unique within the scenic area; each independent cabin has a courtyard for free movement and occasional encounters with foxes 📍Burqin Birch Forest Wild Luxury Camp Located on the south bank of the Irtysh River, it adopts the design concept of Kazakh nomadic felt tents and extensively uses panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows to integrate naturally with the desert 📍Wuerhe He Yili Chenghuating Hotel Located in the city center, it is a super high-end hotel brand under the Licheng Hotel Group and is currently the only landscape garden-style hotel in Northern Xinjiang ⭕Attraction Introduction: ⭐Kanas One of the most beautiful alpine lakes in China, known as "God's backyard" ⭐Hemu Village The dwelling place of the Tuwa tribe, known as "China's No.1 Village" ⭐Dushanzi Grand Canyon The starting point of the Duku Highway, famed as the "Duku Secret Realm, a billion-year spectacle" ⭐Five-Color Beach A typical colorful hill landform, shortlisted as one of the "Magical Northwest 100 Sceneries" ⭕Itinerary Introduction: D1 Urumqi/Altay gathering - free time D2 Urumqi - Five-Color Beach sunset - Burqin D3 Burqin - Kanas (Kanas Lake) D4 Kanas (Guanyu Pavilion) - Baihaba - Kanas D5 Kanas (Three Bays) - Hemu (Hemu Bridge, Beautiful Peak) D6 Hemu (sunrise, morning mist) - Wuerhe Devil City (sunset) - Wuerhe D7 Wuerhe - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi disband

Located in the Urho District of Karamay City, Xinjiang, the World Devil City sits on a desolate Gobi desert. Here, the wind seems to be the ruler of the world, constantly carving the Gobi with its powerful 'wind knives', creating a spectacular array of ever-changing Yardang landforms. There are many Yardang landforms in our country, which not only have scientific research value but also possess high tourism value. They show us the powerful and mysterious forces of nature, awakening in humans a reverence and admiration for the beauty of nature amidst desolation and grandeur. The World Devil City in Xinjiang Urho is an outstanding representative of China's Yardang landforms. It has been praised by 'China National Geography' as the first among 'China's three most beautiful Yardang landforms'. In 2020, it was newly promoted to a national 5A-level tourist attraction. The Yardang landforms displayed by the Devil City originate from billions of years of crustal movement and wind erosion. This place was once a freshwater lake, and dinosaurs were found to have lived and bred here. The influence of crustal movements caused the lake to disappear, replaced by the Gobi and sandstorms. The barren land next door became nature's canvas, with the wind leaving stripes of varying depths, forming the unique landscape of the Devil City. Today, the vicissitudes of time have endowed this land with endless charm, captivating people's hearts.

There are always some beautiful things in the world worth rushing to! This summer, let's go to Xinjiang! Visit the vast grasslands, this magical place like the Emerald City of Oz, take a rest on the grassland that feels like a green carpet for a while. As the wind blows, you feel like you're floating on the sea, reaching out as if you could touch the blue sky and white clouds, being there, you can't help but marvel at the beauty of nature. (Kanas + Yili Loop 10-Day Tour) D1: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake (road view) - Burqin D2: Burqin - Kanas Lake - Kanas Village D3: Kanas - Strolling through Three Bays - Hemu D4: Hemu - World Devil City - Karamay D5: Karamay - Sayram Lake - Qingshui River D6: Qingshui River - Yining Kazanqi Folk Village - Zhaosu D7: Zhaosu - Xiatang Forest Park - Tekes Bagua City D8: Tekes - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati D9: Nalati - Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Kuitun D10: Kuitun - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi

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🌅 - 🌈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 - 🌈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 - 🔥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 - 🍁——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. -

Traveling through Xinjiang you pass by the city of Karamay and stop by the Ghost town of the world. this place has many rock formations that resemble different animals and people. Also this place was used to film many popular Chinese movies. #yearofrabbit #newyearadventure #tripblazers

[Self-driving Xinjiang, the most beautiful road, flying life, Dushanzi Grand Canyon] In Xinjiang, in addition to the Kuqa Grand Canyon, there is also a Dushanzi Grand Canyon, which is not known by too many people. Here is the location of the movie "Flying Life" and the TV series "Kyushu". Located 28 kilometers south of the Dushanzi District, Karamay City, Xinjiang, it is in an undeveloped state and has the most original desolate beauty. After the river rushes out of the Tianshan Mountains, it cuts the sloped plain in the southwest of Dushanzi, and melts the upper reaches of the Kuitun River in Dushanzi. After hundreds of years of snow and rain, it forms a magical canyon. The cliffs on both sides of the canyon have formed a unique scene after years of glory, like a clay wall with different shapes. With the special geographical location, the first 5D crystal glass suspension bridge in Xinjiang is located in the scenic spot. There are also thrilling projects such as Grand Canyon swings, high-altitude bicycles, and skywalks. Address: 100 meters east of 250 County Road, Dushanzi District, Karamay City

The journey is long but worth it, I hope I can stay longer

This part of Xinjiang might not be very well-known amongst foreigners but it’s definitely worth visiting. The journey began in Urumqi. We then traveled by car along the Duku Highway which is a famous route. Our first notable stop was at the Nalati Grasslands; they’re especially green and beautiful in the summer. After that we headed to the snow mountain. At all these tourist spots there are horses to ride instead of hiking. The next significant stop was at the Sayram lake. The weather was not very good when we arrived but we stuck around a bit and the rain clouds got blown away by the strong winds and the sun came out. Our last stop was at the Dushanzi Grand Canyon. There were many activities to do there including: crossing a glass bridge suspended over a part of the canyon, cycling over the canyon in a suspended bicycle, visiting the ice world with ice slides and fun activities. One night we also stayed at Bagua city. The urban planning in this city is unique and historical; it’s definitely worth a visit. The whole city has no traffic lights and its design incorporates Chinese philosophy related to balance (yin-yang).

Xinjiang, a place of breathtaking beauty all year round Snow-capped mountains, vast grasslands, lush forests🌲, crystal-clear lakes🌊, and flocks of sheep and horses leisurely roaming—every frame captured feels like a scene from a movie📽️ ⛺【Must-Visit Spots】: ✅Sayram Lake: The lake's waters🌊 are a mesmerizing azure, surrounded by snow-capped mountains🏔️, verdant grasslands🌿, blooming flower fields🏵️, and graceful swans🦢—it's a dreamlike paradise! ✅Xia Ta: While it’s all grassland scenery, Xia Ta is undoubtedly a hiker’s paradise. ✅Kazanqi: Stepping into this blue-hued fairytale world💙 feels like wandering through a storybook. Stroll through its alleys and soak in the slow-paced, relaxed way of life. 🛬【Travel Itinerary】: D1. Arrival in Yining D2. Yining → Sayram Lake → Huocheng Lavender Fields → Jinghe D3. Jinghe → Dushanzi Grand Canyon → Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery → Overnight in Tangbula D4. Tangbula → Nalati → Zhaosu D5. Zhaosu → Xia Ta → Zhaosu Heavenly Horse Bathing River → Zhaosu Rapeseed Fields → Zhaosu D6. Zhaosu → Yizhao Highway → Kazanqi → Ili General’s Mansion → Yining D7. Departure from Yining 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: ▪️During peak season, accommodations fill up quickly—book in advance. ▪️Towns offer plenty of hotels and guesthouses; choose based on your preferences. 🧡【Tips】: 👉Apply sunscreen for extended outdoor activities. 👉Xinjiang has significant temperature differences between day and night—pack layers.

🌲 Xinjiang is a vast region with diverse landscapes 📝 First time visiting Xinjiang and unsure how to choose an itinerary? 🧐 Here are some travel tips for Xinjiang: 🛬【Itinerary】: D1 - 【Welcome to Beautiful Xinjiang】 Arrival in Xinjiang 【Airport Pickup Service】 D2 - Ürümqi—Dushanzi Grand Canyon (Experience: Glass Bridge, Zip Line, Cliffside Café, etc.)—Stay: Bole D3 - Bole—Sayram Lake (Self-drive around the lake)—Pass by Guozigou Bridge—Stay: Yining D4 - Yining—Qiongkushitai—Stay: Qiongkushitai Log Cabin D5 - Qiongkushitai—Nalati (Aerial Grassland + Valley Grassland)—Stay: Nalati Town D6 - Nalati Town—Middle Section of Duku Highway—Tangbala Hundred-Mile Gallery—Fairy Lake—Stay: Tangbala Glamping Site D7 - Tangbala Luxury Camp—North Section of Duku Highway D8 - 【Looking Forward to Seeing You Again in Xinjiang】 【Airport Drop-off Service】 ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: ⭕ Sayram Lake: Wildflowers 🏵️ bloom across the grasslands surrounding the lake, reflecting the azure waters beneath the snow-capped mountains 🏔️, stretching endlessly; ⭕ Nalati: A sea of emerald green dotted with wildflowers 🌼, where valleys, peaks ⛰️, deep gorges, and forests 🌲 intertwine (You can ride horses 🐎, dress up for photos 📸, and meet adorable little lambs 🐏). ⭕ Tangbala Hundred-Mile Gallery: The tranquility of the valley, the lushness of the forests, the vastness of the grasslands, and vibrant flower fields 💐 create a layered, picturesque landscape. Fairy Lake mirrors the beauty of the snow-capped mountains! 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: 🥢 Roasted Whole Lamb: Crispy skin 🐏 with tender, juicy meat inside 💦—🙋 You must try lamb in Xinjiang!!! 🥢 Naan Bread: Easy to store 🥧 and perfect for wrapping kebabs~ 🥢 Laghman Noodles: Chewy and smooth 🍜 with a rich aroma, served with various toppings 🍝. 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: ✔️ Chain Hotels: Good environment and reasonable prices 🪙, but book early during peak seasons; ✔️ Homestays: A great way to experience local culture and customs 🪕. 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Attractions in Xinjiang are far apart 🚐, and travel times are long ⏱️, which can be tiring (First-time visitors unfamiliar with road conditions are advised against self-driving). 🧡【Tips】: 💛 Xinjiang has extreme temperature fluctuations 🌡️ between day and night—check the local weather forecast 🧥 to adjust clothing accordingly; 💛 The UV rays are strong in Xinjiang—don’t forget sun protection 🧴; 💛 Long drives are common—download music 🎶 and maps 🗺️ in advance; 💛 Always carry your ID card 🪪 and other important documents.

More breathtaking than Switzerland~ Bring your kids to experience a 25°C summer in Ili🍃 Touch the clouds at Kalajun Grassland, admire the gem-like blue of Sayram Lake, ride horses, herd sheep, milk cows, and make dairy snacks with your children~ - Transport🚗 RV ✔️ Private vehicle per family ensures privacy and freedom—kids can laugh loudly or watch cartoons without disturbing others ✔️ Fully equipped RV🏠 Double bed + dining table + fridge + TV + bathroom! The bathroom is great🚾 Hygienic for family use, no toilet anxiety during long drives or traffic jams! ✔️ Attentive service! Our butler was excellent—safe driver, cleaner, luggage helper, and great company~ ✔️ RVs are perfect for Xinjiang's long-distance travel—stop for camping tea breaks🏕️ when tired, or rest inside. No luggage hauling needed! ✔️ Sleep in scenic campgrounds/hotels🏨 at night for proper showers and rest - 💐 Our itinerary D1: Ürümqi airport pickup D2: S101 Highway - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Dushanzi Scenic S101 drive→geology lesson at Dushanzi Grand Canyon where kids collected rocks and we took drone shots📸 D3: Full-day Sayram Lake loop RV lakeside tour💦 Kids painted, watched swans, and stargazed while camping D4: Sayram Lake - Yining Kazanqi's colorful alleys→horse carriage ride→Six Star Street visit→homemade ice cream🍦→ethnic dance lesson💃 D5: Yining - Tekes - Kalajun Grassland Ate naan/BBQ at herdsmen's home→made dairy snacks→milked cows→rode horses→crafted Kazakh hats→bonfire party🔥 under stars D6: Kalajun - Nalati Grassland Nalati's flower seas perfect for horseback riding🐎 and hiking→kite flying🪁 D7: Nalati - Duku Highway - Dushanzi Four seasons in one day! Snow mountains🏔️🌳 forests→grasslands→canyons. Played snow at Hashilegen Pass→visited Qiaoerma Martyrs' Cemetery D8: Dushanzi - Ürümqi airport drop-off - ‼️Tips ✔️ 2-hour time difference in Xinjiang ✔️ Attractions are 2+ hours apart—choose spacious vehicles ✔️ Non-RV travelers: Use toilets whenever available, or face challenging wilderness options😖 ✔️ Book hotels/transport early in peak summer season ✔️ Always carry ID🪪—frequent checks!

🌋 Help! The Anjihai Grand Canyon, this "Scar of the Earth," can no longer stay hidden! Warning: standing at the cliff's edge will make your legs weak! Includes drone aerial photography tips + life-saving safety guide!! ✨ When the drone glides over the ochre-red cliffs, revealing the earth's folds torn by millions of years of geological movement—this secret paradise, known as "God's Color Palette," is more breathtaking than Mars! As someone who's been there, I'm sharing my exclusive "zero-accident" tips and photographer-level vantage points. Read this before you go, or you might end up scared to tears! 🔥 【Top Highlights】 ✅ Three must-experience thrills: 1. 300-meter visual impact ▫️ Stand at the cliff's edge: ochre-red rock layers + emerald river valley + winding roads, like the earth split by a giant axe ▫️ Tested: drones must fly 120m high to capture the full "nine bends and eighteen turns" panorama 2. Wild geological fossil ▪️ Red layers, green valleys, yellow earth, and snow-capped peaks in one frame—five landscapes in a day ▪️ Geological wonder: "stone waterfalls" formed by rainstorms, like frozen red lava 3. No-man's-land road shots ⚡ Must-shoot: S101 National Defense Highway cuts through the canyon—cars kicking up red dust turn you into a Western movie star ⚠️ 【Life-Saving Safety Guide】 (with accident cases) 🚫 Five deadly no-go zones: 1. 5-meter red line from cliff edges ▫️ Tested: soil at the edge is only 10cm thick—tourists have triggered rockfalls by stepping too close ✅ Safe distance: stay at least 5m back, use telephoto lenses 2. No climbing cliffs ▪️ 2023 accident: a blogger triggered a mini landslide while climbing for photos, trapped for 2 hours 💡 Alternative: use drones from viewing platforms 3. No flying in strong winds 🌪️ Data: gusts reach level 10—two drones were blown down in 2024 4. Absolutely no entry during rainy season ▫️ June-August storms trigger mudslides—S101 Highway often collapses ⚠️ Latest road updates: follow "Xinjiang 949 Traffic Radio" on WeChat 📸 【Photography God-Tier Tips】 (with settings) 1️⃣ Drone god's-eye view: 📍 Best launch: parking lot at canyon entrance 📡 Flight path: 1. Ascend vertically to 120m for "earth's blood vessels" panorama 2. Follow the river valley to capture the highway's S-curves ⚙️ Settings: ▫️ DJI Air 3S: f/5.6, ISO100, 1/1000s ▫️ Editing: Polarr "Landscape Filter" +30, boost red saturation 2️⃣ Road movie vibe: 🚗 Spot: S101 Highway at marker K354 ⏰ Time: 7 PM (warm light on the road) 📸 Composition: low-angle shot of approaching car with canyon backdrop 3️⃣ Portrait mood shots: 👗 Outfit: red dress + combat boots 💡 Tip: stand with back to canyon, shoot hair blowing in wind 🎨 Edit: XiuTu "Black Gold Filter" +40, add grain 👗 【Outfit Formulas】 ✅ Three color rules for epic shots: 1. Red power move ▫️ Red dress/scarf: stark contrast against ochre cliffs 💡 Pose: let wind lift your hem, shoot low-angle wide shots 2. Western cowboy style 🧥 Combo: denim jacket + lace-up boots + wide-brim hat 📸 Pose: sit mid-road, mimic "Brokeback Mountain" stance 3. Survival techwear ▪️ Must: windproof shell + high-top hiking boots (gusts + loose rocks) 🌿 【Nearby Hidden Gems】 1. Dushanzi Grand Canyon combo 🚗 Drive: 1.5 hours ✨ Highlights: glass walkway + canyon zipline, family-friendly 2. Shawan big plate chicken pilgrimage 🍗 Rec: "Old Brand Blood Station Big Plate Chicken" 💡 Pro tip: add belt noodles + potatoes, ~¥50/person 3. S101 Highway road trip 🛣️ Route: Anjihai → Lujiaowan → Kensiwate Reservoir 📸 Spot: Kensiwate Dam for "snowy peaks + red cliffs" shots 📌 【Survival Kit】 🚗 Transport hacks: 1. Road trip king ▫️ Route: Ürümqi → Lianhuo Expressway → Anjihai Town → S101 ▫️ Rent: SUVs recommended (some unpaved sections) 2. Public transit: ▪️ Ürümqi Nianzigou Station → Anjihai (¥50 bus) ▪️ Town to canyon taxi: ~¥100 round-trip 🏨 Stays: 1. Karamay downtown 🏨 Rec: Meihao Hotel (breakfast + airport shuttle) 💸 Price: peak season ¥300/night, 1.5h to canyon 2. Shawan County 🏡 Homestay: "Big Plate Chicken Theme Stay" ▫️ Perk: rooftop sunset views, 5-min walk to food street 💡 【Packing List】 ▫️ Photo gear: - Drone (essential! ground shots can't capture the scale) - Telephoto lens (cliff details) ▫️ Survival gear: - Goggles (wind/sand) + SPF50+ sunscreen - First aid kit (bandages + iodine—no medics in canyon) ▫️ Secret props: - Foldable stool (vantage points) + reflector (face lighting) ✨ Final heartfelt note: Standing at Anjihai's edge, hearing the wind howl through rock layers, you'll understand why this is called "Earth's Scar." Behind this awe lies billions of years of geology—and a reminder to respect nature. Promise me: stay back from the edge, leave only photos, not footprints, okay?

📸 Must-visit attractions that will blow you away 1️⃣ Sayram Lake ✨ Hidden gem: Drive counterclockwise around the lake! Enjoy the S-curve road without crowds 🎫 Budget: Self-drive 143/person | Scenic area bus 140/person 2️⃣ Nalati Grassland ✨ Secret photo spot: From Nomadic Family Station → 10-min walk to the stream + forest 🎫 Budget: Self-drive 300/car | Shuttle bus 135/person 3️⃣ Dushanzi Grand Canyon ✨ Breathtaking experience: Sip coffee at the cliffside café while admiring geological faults 🎫 Ticket: 30 RMB (Free after 7 PM!)

Dear friends, you must visit the Ghost City to feel the desolate romance carved by billions of years of wind. It truly fulfills all my fantasies about the mysterious Western Regions! 🚗 As the car slowly drives in, what comes into view is the endless, uniquely shaped yardang landforms. The mounds, sculpted by fierce winds, resemble ancient castles and monsters, exuding a cold and weathered aura under the Gobi Desert's scorching sun. 🌅 At sunset, the beauty here is simply unbelievable! The orange-red afterglow spreads over the mounds, with light and shadow interweaving. The entire Ghost City is dyed in warm tones, and every ravine tells a story of time—both sci-fi and magnificent. No wonder so many movies choose this location for filming. 🎙️ The whistling wind by your ears is its unique "language," as if whispering ancient legends. Standing here, you will deeply feel the insignificance of humans and the overwhelming power of nature. If you yearn for a niche yet stunning travel destination, come to the Ghost City and gain an unforgettable adventure in Northwest China, with a photo success rate that’s absolutely off the charts!

🕰️Business Hours:8:00-21:00 🏖️BAmbiance/Facilities:Just sit in the small train and it will travel you the whole tour 📍Address:the demon city karamay 💰Average Price per Person:62yuan 💞Reasons to Recommend:u can imagine all the stone become like maybe an animal or a human 🗓️Itinerary Scheduling:inside there is five stop recommend to stop at the forth stop will do because it is really hot inside

This attraction offers many exciting games and different packages for tourists to choose from. In addition, you can see the beautiful canyon.

【Introduction】: Dare to dream of a Xinjiang adventure—wild winds, sweeping grasslands, towering snow-capped mountains... Every frame feels like stepping into a fairy-tale comic. 🛬【Itinerary】: D1: Departure - Meet in Urumqi D2: Urumqi - S101 Highway - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Kuytun D3: Kuytun - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Valley - Kazanqi Village - Yining D4: Yining - Tianma Bathing River - Jade Lake - Zhaosu D5: Zhaosu - Xiate - Tekes D6: Tekes - Qiongkushitai - Gongliu D7: Gongliu - Qiaxi - Ku'erdening - Nalati D8: Nalati - Sky Grassland - Tangbula - Duku Highway - Urumqi D9: Urumqi - Return Home 🧡【Tips】: Outfit for June-July: Xinjiang's climate has significant temperature swings between day and night. Pack thermal wear and a thick jacket to layer up as needed. Also bring a sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and an umbrella.

Explore Ili in 8 days without repeating activities! Enjoy the aroma of BBQ, drive around Sayram Lake for ultimate freedom, traverse the breathtaking Duku Highway and Yizhao Highway, take a cable car to overlook Nalati Grassland, and discover the Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery. Embark on your Northern Xinjiang adventure now! 🚗 Suggested Itinerary: A journey through Xinjiang blending nature and culture 🌄 D1: Arrive in Urumqi to kick off your Xinjiang trip! Check into your hotel and enjoy free time to explore the unique charm of the city. 🏙️ D2: Visit the spectacular Dushanzi Grand Canyon and marvel at nature's craftsmanship. 🌄 D3: Drive around Sayram Lake to admire its stunning scenery -> Cross the Guozigou Bridge and experience the grandeur of the canyon -> Immerse yourself in the purple sea of Princess Jieyou Lavender -> Enjoy BBQ and nightlife at Liuxing Street in Yining City in the evening. 🍖🍺 D4: Explore the Xiahta Tourist Area to uncover ancient cultural relics -> Stroll through Tekesi Bagua City to feel its mystery and harmony -> Experience local customs and charm at Tekesi Departure Street. 🏰 D5: Visit Chaxi Grassland Scenic Area to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the grassland. 🌾 D6: Discover Nalati Grassland and take a cable car to view the magnificent aerial grassland, feeling like you're in a fairyland. 🚡🌿 D7: Traverse the Tangbula Grassland Hundred-Mile Gallery to admire nature's vibrant canvas -> Experience the thrill of driving on the Duku Highway, enjoying the freedom and passion of road trips. 🛣️🎨 D8: Conclude your delightful Xinjiang journey and return home. Carry cherished memories and blessings, looking forward to the next adventure! 🛫🙌 🎒 Travel Essentials: 👕 Clothing: Short-sleeve T-shirts, shorts, sun-protective clothing, sun hats, sunglasses. 👟 Footwear: Comfortable sneakers suitable for long walks. 🎩 Sun protection: Sunscreen, lip balm to shield against strong sunlight. 💧 Hydration: Water bottles or cups to stay hydrated during the trip. 📷 Photography gear: Camera or phone to capture beautiful moments. 📖 Travel guides and 🗺: Plan your itinerary better and avoid getting lost. 🆔 Documents: ID card, cash, and bank cards for safety. From Karamay to Bortala to Ili, the journey is filled with endless scenery and surprises waiting to be discovered. Pack your bags and start your Northern Xinjiang adventure now!

I rarely use the word 'breathtaking' to describe a place... Discovering Karamay, Bortala, and Ili for the first time—don't miss this amazing guide! Savor the aroma of BBQ on the grasslands, enjoy cold beers; capture stunning moments with Vlog drone shots. Join the bonfire party, embark on a road trip through the Duku Highway and Yizhao Highway, hike the Xiata Ancient Trail to admire snowy peaks, marvel at the Tangbula Gallery, take travel photos on the Blue Six-Star Street, and ride the aerial cable car to experience high-altitude views! 🛣️ Itinerary: Day 1: 🌄 Depart from all regions of Xinjiang, gather in Urumqi—check into the hotel and enjoy free time After gathering in Urumqi, we will check into a comfortable hotel and have some free time to relax and kick off the Xinjiang adventure. Day 2: Explore the majestic scenery of Dushanzi Grand Canyon We will head to Dushanzi Grand Canyon to witness the wonders of nature and experience the depth and grandeur of the canyon. Day 3: Sailimu Lake—Princess Jieyou Lavender Manor—Stroll along Six-Star Street in Yining Visit Sailimu Lake to enjoy the tranquility and beauty of this highland lake. Then, explore Princess Jieyou Lavender Manor to immerse yourself in the fragrance of lavender. In the evening, stroll along Six-Star Street in Yining to experience the unique charm of this blue-themed street. Day 4: Hike Xiata Ancient Trail National Forest Park—Discover the mysteries of Tekes Bagua City Hike through Xiata Ancient Trail National Forest Park to connect with nature and enjoy the fun of hiking. Later, visit Tekes Bagua City to uncover the secrets of this mysterious city. Day 5: Explore Chaxi Grassland Scenic Area At Chaxi Grassland, revel in the vastness and natural beauty of the grasslands and appreciate the gifts of nature. Day 6: Nalati Grassland Tour—Visit Nalati Scenic Area Dive deep into Nalati Grassland to experience its vastness and natural beauty. Then, explore Nalati Scenic Area to enjoy Xinjiang's unique landscapes. Day 7: Traverse Duku Highway—Admire the beauty of Tangbula Grassland Travel along the famous Duku Highway to feel the freedom and excitement of a road trip. Then, arrive at Tangbula Grassland to enjoy the visual feast of this 'hundred-mile gallery.' Day 8: ✈️ Return home from Urumqi with cherished memories Conclude the wonderful Xinjiang journey and depart from Urumqi, carrying unforgettable memories and experiences as you head home. 🎒 Packing List: 👕 Clothing: Short-sleeve T-shirts, sun-protective clothing, sun hats, sunglasses, and don't forget comfortable sneakers. 🎨 Sun protection: Sunscreen is essential, and you can also bring a parasol to protect your skin from sunburn. 💊 Essential medicines: Cold medicine, stomach medicine, mosquito repellent, and band-aids for emergencies. 📷 Photography gear: Camera or phone, along with chargers and spare batteries, to capture the stunning scenery. 💳 Travel documents: ID card, cash, and credit cards—safety first when traveling. 🍪 Snacks and dry food: Bring some snacks and water for the journey, just in case. 🎉 From the deserts of Karamay to the grasslands of Bortala, and finally to the river valleys of Ili—looking forward to our next adventure together! 🎉

The feast of Ili's beautiful scenery has begun, 🏔️ great weather + snowy mountains, grasslands, and flower seas are simply amazing. It's already very green, and since it's not summer vacation yet, there aren't many tourists, so the experience is directly 🆙. Sisters who want to go, get your plans ready and go boldly✈️ This post shares some travel tips and recommended activities, sisters who want to go, take note 🐎 . 1️⃣ Tickets + shuttle buses 🚌 Sailimu Lake: 130 🚌 Nalati: Sky Grassland 135; Valley Grassland 119 🚌 Dushanzi Grand Canyon: 30 . 2️⃣ Recommended activities 👉🏻 Sailimu Lake lake tour, if the weather is good, try sailing 👉🏻 Nalati: it's recommended to briefly visit Tianjitai and Tianmutai, then head straight to the nomad family. The snowy mountain flower clusters and the popular internet-famous bridge are there, but since there are many tourists, it's not recommended to squeeze onto the popular bridge. Walking above the small creek also makes for great photos. 👉🏻 Guozigou Bridge: if time permits, take the old road to the plank road for sightseeing 👉🏻 The northern section of the Duku Highway is narrow and winding, only vehicles with 7 seats or fewer are allowed. If you have no mountain driving experience, it's not recommended to drive yourself. . 3️⃣ Practical advice ① Must-have gear includes a wide-brimmed sun hat (choose one that covers the top of your head), sunglasses, a windbreaker (there's a big temperature difference between morning and evening, and it gets cold if the weather turns cloudy or rainy), raincoat, and waterproof shoes (some parts of the grassland get muddy when it rains). ② Real experience! Xinjiang dishes are very large portions, no need to order too much, but the food is indeed abundant. Prepare some stomach medicine to avoid indigestion. ③ Bring some cash, as some areas have no signal. ④ Xinjiang has about a two-hour time difference, and meals are usually around 2 or 3 pm, so prepare some snacks in your bag.

In June, I traveled around Xinjiang's Yili region and would like to share my accommodation experiences from the trip. This is just an introduction—you can refer to my reviews for more details. 🌍 Yili Small Loop Accommodation Stops: Urumqi - Dushanzi - Nalati - Tekes - Kalajun - Yining - Huocheng Huanghuang Village - Sayram Lake - Urumqi Urumqi: 1. Urumqi Pushe Qinyuan Hotel (Images 2-3) 2. Urumqi Atour Hotel (South Lake People's Square Branch) (Images 4-5) Both hotels in Urumqi are highly recommended—great breakfast and excellent locations! Overall Rating: ★★★★★ Dushanzi (Images 6-7): Xigema International Hotel Excellent in all aspects, though breakfast can get crowded with tour groups—just time it right. Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ Nalati (Images 8-9): Nalati Suxin No.1 Hotel Personally disliked this one—mediocre facilities, only decent breakfast, not close to Nalati's entrance. Pretty courtyard but poor value. Overall Rating: ★★☆☆☆ Tekes (Images 10-11): Tekes Hengtong International Hotel Good facilities with complimentary drinks/water in rooms. Overconfident about their pricey breakfast (¥128/person)—varied but excessive for morning meal. Overall Rating: ★★★☆☆ Kalajun (Images 12-13): Kalajun Hanhai Starry Sky Camp Exceeded expectations! Stay inside the scenic area with stellar views from your room—worth overlooking the subpar breakfast. Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ Yining (Images 14-15): Yining Yili Hotel Spacious garden hotel—booked a modern triple room with ample space. The property itself is worth exploring. Overall Rating: ★★★★★ Huanghuang Village (Images 16-17): Huanghuang Manor Only flaw was weak shower water pressure. Friendly service and boxed breakfast hit the spot! Still deducting points for the shower issue. Overall Rating: ★★★★☆ Sayram Lake (Images 18-19): Central Asia Quanna Hotel Another shower problem—electric heater too slow. Water flow was fine but took ages to warm up (had staff check at midnight). Proximity to Sayram Lake is its advantage. Overall Rating: ★★★★☆

🌍 Itinerary: Day01 Shanghai - Arrive in Urumqi - Check in at The Puxi Hotel Urumqi - Dinner Day02 Urumqi - Lunch - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Hotel check-in - Dinner - Dushanzi Grand Canyon Day03 Dushanzi - Duku Highway - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Lunch - Tangbula Fairy Lake - Dinner - (Depending on ticket availability) Half-day Nalati Grassland until sunset Day04 Nalati Grassland day tour (Aerial Grassland - Lunch - Snow Lotus Valley - Internet-famous Bridge - Nomadic Family) - Dinner - Tianshan Flower Sea - Tekes Day05 Tekes - Qiongkushitai - Lunch - 5-hour horseback ride to Kalajun Jiasagan - Kalajun Starry Sky Camp - Dinner Day06 Kalajun - Lunch - Xiate Scenic Area - Dinner - Yizhao Highway - Yining Day07 Yining photo shoot - Lunch - Lavender Valley - Check in at Huanghuang Village Homestay - Dinner - Jieyou Princess Lavender Farm Day08 Huanghuang Village - Guozigou Bridge - Sayram Lake loop - Lunch - Sayram Lake loop - Dinner Day09 Sayram Lake Pine Tree Head - Lunch - Dinner - Return to Urumqi Day10 Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum - Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar - Lunch - Return to Shanghai Notes: 1. Transportation A) The main transportation to Xinjiang is by flight. Some suggest arriving in Urumqi, while others recommend starting the Yili trip from Yining. Both options work depending on your itinerary. Starting from Urumqi is perfectly fine; B) This trip was fully chartered with a guide/driver: Brother Xiao Ma; 2. Travel timing A) Although I traveled from June 23 to July 2, if you want to see wildflowers, you should go earlier. With Xinjiang's early summer heat this year, the grass was already turning yellow when I left. The best time for wildflowers is May; B) For lavender viewing, go slightly earlier than my dates. Mid to late June (around the 20th) is peak bloom time in Huocheng. I only caught the tail end before harvest. Avoid the second bloom as the scale is too small; 3. Accommodation Accommodations in Xinjiang were mixed. I've written a separate article summarizing all lodging during this trip. Please refer to my accommodation review post for details; 4. Dining A) Xinjiang's lamb is the best I've ever had - no competition. Feel free to enjoy hand-pulled lamb, kebabs, etc. But beware of some small restaurants that might disappoint; B) Besides lamb, Xinjiang offers many other delicacies: big plate chicken, spicy chicken, high-white salmon, cold noodle street, assorted soup - all recommended by Brother Xiao Ma. Regular readers might recall my previous food articles; 5. Itinerary My clockwise small loop itinerary was opposite to most travelers', starting with Duku Highway and ending at Sayram Lake, with Urumqi as both starting and ending point. This is for your reference;

After breakfast in Burqin County, head to the Kanas Scenic Area. Once enchanted by Kanas' green mountains, grasslands, and white clouds, it’s already midday in Xinjiang (around 5 or 6 PM), and many choose to stay overnight in nearby Hemu Village. In early summer, Hemu Village hides among mountains and birch trees—a wooden cottage settlement dotted across a sea of green. Skip the official viewing platform and instead climb the grasslands north of the village for a panoramic view. Scattered wildflowers on the slopes invite you to lie back, gaze at the drifting clouds, and listen to the whispers of the birch forest. Visit Hemu in winter, and it transforms into a fairytale village—snow blankets the world, with only the chimneys of small wooden cabins hinting at human warmth. Beyond Hemu lies the Karamay Devil City, Sayram Lake... and the endless allure of Xinjiang, drawing you deeper into its timeless embrace.