Xinjiang Travel Guide

Travel Xinjiang with a Trusted Local Xinjiang Travel Agency.

Xinjiang Travel with an experienced local travel agency based in Urumqi, Xinjiang. We specialize in arranging charming attractions and colorful festivals across this extraordinary region. Xinjiang Travel takes you to northwest China’s largest province, covering 1.66 million square kilometers—nearly one-sixth of China’s territory. Located in the heart of Eurasia and sharing borders with eight countries along a nearly 6,000-kilometer frontier, Xinjiang Travel is shaped by unique geography, exotic cultures, and diverse traditions.

Travel to Xinjiang to explore the historic sites of the Silk Road and the colorful folklore of its many ethnic minorities. The Silk Road played a vital role in promoting exchanges of material and spiritual civilization between East and West. Long sections of the Silk Road run across Xinjiang, forming a world-renowned treasure house of relics, including frontier passes, ancient cities and castles, Buddhist caves and temples, courier stations, ancient tombs, and beacon towers—like strings of pearls shining along the ancient route. In addition, local Xinjiang food reflects a unique fusion of Central Asian, Turkish, and Chinese flavors.

Magnificent natural landscapes define Xinjiang Travel, with world-famous mountain ranges, glaciers, river systems, oases, grasslands, and forests attracting travelers from around the world. From the sacred Tianshan Mountains to the vast grasslands of Nalati and Bayanbulak, and from the mighty Taklamakan Desert to the crystal-blue Sayram Lake, Xinjiang Travel offers unforgettable scenery and authentic travel experiences.

Numerous stunning landscapes consisting of world-renowned large mountain ranges, glaciers, water systems, oases, prairies, and forests also attract thousands of travelers to come to visit. From the holy mountain of Tianshan to the vast grasslands of Naraty and Bayanbulak, from the great Taklamakan Desert to the grand Sayram Lake.

As the most professional inbound tour operator in Xinjiang, we have been devoted to Xinjiang travel for more than 20 years. Almost all the things you need to know before visiting Xinjiang can be found here. 

The Feature of Xinjiang | Basic Information

Nestled in the northwest of China, Xinjiang is a land of breathtaking contrasts and timeless charm, promising an adventure like no other. Stretching across vast deserts, snow-capped mountains, lush oases, and crystal-clear lakes, it's a paradise for nature lovers and culture enthusiasts alike. Whether you’re trekking through the Pamir Mountains, rafting on the Ili River, or camel riding across the desert at sunset, Xinjiang offers endless opportunities for adventure. Its vastness invites you to slow down, immerse yourself in the scenery, and create memories that last a lifetime.

Xinjiang is home to over 40 ethnic groups, including the Uyghur, Kazakh, Kyrgyz, and more, each contributing unique traditions. Wander through the ancient bazaars of Kashgar, where the scent of spices mingles with the sound of traditional music. Taste authentic Uyghur cuisine—juicy samsas, hand-pulled noodles, and sweet fruits that thrive in the region's sunny climate. Experience warm hospitality as you stay in a yurt on the grasslands or join a local festival celebration.

Xinjiang, known in Chinese as 新疆 (Xinjiang), is located in Northwest China. It covers an area of 1,650,257 square kilometers and follows the UTC+8 time zone. The post code ranges from 830000 to 840000, and the area code is (+86) 0991-0909. As an Autonomous Region, it had a population of about 25,870,000 in 2018. Xinjiang features a Temperate Continental Climate, with an average annual rainfall of 166mm. Come and explore this land of diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and delicious fruits—Xinjiang is a destination that will leave you spellbound!

Xinjiang Travel Resources

Xinjiang is renowned for its beautiful scenery of desert, Gobi, snow mountain, lake, forest, grassland, rural village, etc.

Vast territory and abundant resources are the best portraits of Xinjiang. Meanwhile, the region is also the gathering place of many ethnic groups such as Uyghur, Khazak, and Tajik, to name just a few. 

In Xinjiang, there is a mysterious Tianshan Mountain (天山), which divides this Autonomous Region into two parts - the north part and the south part. After a million years of evolution, the two parts have formed different landscapes. 

Northern Xinjiang (北疆) is famous for its natural scenery. The famed cities include Urumqi (乌鲁木齐), Turpan (吐鲁番), Ili (伊犁), Altay (阿勒泰), Tacheng (塔城), Bortala (博尔塔拉), etc. Although the natural landscapes are too brilliant to let people ignore the rich culture in northern Xinjiang, you will still be amazed by the nomadic lifestyle of herdsmen there. Galloping horses on the grassland and singing songs aloud with dance. That is just the daily life of herdsmen.

Southern Xinjiang (南疆) is featured in historical relics and culture. Cities like Kashgar (喀什), Khotan (和田), Aksu (阿克苏), Bayingol (巴音郭楞), Kizilsu, and Kirgiz (克孜勒苏), as well as Kunlun Mountain (昆仑山), and Tarim Basin (塔里木盆地), all witnessed the vicissitude of Xinjiang in the past thousand years. When you come to southern Xinjiang, you will find the perfect combination of desert, Gobi, and oasis with the diversified agricultural civilization. Experience the rhythm of Uyghur Muqam (维吾尔木卡姆) in the local Uyghur family is enjoyable.

Xinjiang Travel Attractions

1. Heavenly Lake - the Pearl of Tianshan Mountain

With melted snow as its source, snow mountains surround the crystal-clear lake. In Xinjiang Heavenly Lake, you can see an unexplored wonderful land which will definitely become a memorable palce during your journey! The magnificent Bogda Peak mirrored the lake, making the whole scenery even more fascinating. Once arrive, you will feel like entering into a fairyland. The lake looks like a sapphire rimmed by diamond-like snow mountains. As a national natural reserve, the Heavenly Lake is protected by the government for years. To make sure the biodiversity and the quality of water.

If you want to know the best routes to travel along the Heavenly Lake, here is your exclusive travel tips before go to xinjiang heavenly lake!

2. Ili - The Hometown of Lavender

There is an old saying that we don't know how large China is until we reach Xinjiang; and we don't see the beauty of Xinjiang until we arrive at Ili. The scenery of Ili varies following the changing of seasons, which will surely fascinate you! Narati Grassland, Kalajun Praire, Huocheng Lavendor farm, and Xiata Valley are all the wonderful places dotted in the great Tianshan Mountain. The beautiful lavender grows here, which is regarded as the hometown of Lavender. Every year in the middle of summer and autumn, various of lavender covered from hill to hill, depict a stunning scenery of the pure nature. The June of Yili is purper, green hills from the remote mountain, lucid lakes with crystal clear blue, together with the fragrant of flower. How beautiful and magical it is!

3. Naraty Grassland

Naraty grassland stands as one of the four premier grasslands in the world, a sub-alpine meadow teeming with life. Renowned as a fertile pasture since antiquity, it boasts a tapestry of landscapes: flat river valleys, towering mountain peaks, deep gorges, verdant forests, and endless stretches of grassland. Fused with the rich Kazakh folk customs, Naraty has transformed into a multifaceted tourist destination, offering a blend of sightseeing, scientific exploration, leisurely pursuits, entertainment, summer vacations, and souvenir shopping.

Tips for you before go to Naraty Grassland:

1. If you want to enjoy yourself without crowded people, choose tourist off-season.
2. Due to the distinctive climate and big temperature difference in morning and evening, you are suggested to wear a windbreaker and take good sun protection measures.
3. In Xinjiang, when you are driving through the desert highways, the most impressive scenes must be the desert and Gobi desert. Empty your mind and let the desolate desert bring you into a world of infinity and endlessness. It's also a great place to take photos! It used to be a wonderful land of the extinct animal——alloptox gobienisis, too.

5. Kanas Nature Reservation Park

Kanas Nature Reservation Park is listed as one of the best destinations for traveling in China for its picturesque landscape. It is the home of Siberian larches, spruces, firs and birches, snow leopards, stone marten, silver foxes, Altai Frogs, etc. Besides, the unique lifestyle of the local Tuwa people is also quite amazing. It is said that the Tuwa people are the offspring of the old, weak, sick, and disabled soldiers left by Genghis Khan when he led the troops for a westward expedition.

6. Sayram Lake

It is regarded as the last drop of tears of the Atlantic. Strolling around the lake and swimming in the sea of wildflowers, you will witness what is the "sayram blue". Every year from May to October, The sapphire water of the lake seems to meet the sky in the distance. The pasture is in a charming scene of flouring trees, waving grass, and wildflowers that are reflected in the clear water of the lake. You will have an unforgettable journey to have a night in the RV by the lakeside and ride a bicycle around the lake. 

7. Karakul Lake and White Sand Lake along the Karakoram Highway

Karakul Lake is on the lap of two giants, Muztagh Ata -  "the father of ice mountains" and Kongur reputed for more avalanches. It is one of the rarely seen highland lakes in the world. On a fine day, you can get a nice view of Muztagh Ata, and the snow-capped peaks, flocks of animals, and grassland are all reflected in the water. By the lake, there are yurts and restaurants for tourists to stop and stay overnight. You can also visit the local Kizil people and experience their nomadic life.

8.  Poplar Forest

In mid-October every year, you will have a chance to see the splendid golden poplar forest if you come to Xinjiang. In the desolate desert, almost no life can survive. Poplar trees create miracles that they not only survived but even formed continuous forests. We say that it is the spiritual symbol of the Xinjiang people.

In this vast expanse of wonders, Xinjiang holds countless treasures yet to be unveiled, inviting every traveler on a quest for adventure and discovery. May each journey to this majestic land fill your heart with joy and leave you with memories to cherish forever!

When Is the Best Time to Travel Xinjiang？

The best time to travel Xinjiang is from April to November. If you also like the ice and snow world in Xinjiang, then it is nice to travel to all year round. In spring, blossom of various flowers is everywhere in Xinjiang. You will see losts of lovely flowers competing to bloom. (from March to May)

Summer is for grassland. Galloping on the vast grassland in Ili breathing the freshest air with the aroma of lavender and tasting the sweetest fruit and ice cream, you will be the happiest one in the world!  (from June to August) Go to northern Xinjiang in autum. You will enjoy the high sky and light cloud in Kanas and Hemu with the fascinating morning fog and mist. (from September to November) Winter sports in Xinjiang is also nice to experience as the snow and ice are perfect for having these activities. (from December to next February)

Depending on your preference, you will enjoy different scenes in different seasons and weathers. If you also love snowy days, then you will enjoy Xinjiang traveling all year round. 

Travelers who come to Xinjiang for the first time may be confused about the weather in Xinjiang. For such a vast land, weather varies widely throughout the region. See more information in Xinjiang Weather. 

Based on geographical features of Xinjiang and our experiences, the following information may help you better discover beautiful Xinjiang.

Spring:

From March to May. Air temperature rises rapidly in southern Xinjiang, while changes are not that dramatic in northern Xinjiang. So the flowering season in the north is longer than south while the blossom is earlier in the south. Lavender, rape flower field, apricot flower, and peach flower are competing for blossom everywhere.   

Tips for you:

• Clothing Suggestions: The temperature difference between day and night is significant. Prepare layered clothing like thin down jackets and sweaters. In March, scarves and gloves are also recommended to keep warm.

• Flower Viewing Recommendations: Visit Tuergen in March for wild apricot blossoms. In April, Sayram Lake begins to thaw, and Kumutage Desert has a unique charm. In May, the Danxia landform of Tianshan Grand Canyon is particularly magnificent in spring.

• Notes: There may be sandstorms in some areas in spring. Check the weather forecast before traveling. Since it's not the peak tourist season, there are fewer people in accommodations and scenic spots, allowing for a more peaceful travel experience.

Summer:

From June to August. It is the season when fruits and melons are ripe and fragrant. Although Xinjiang is also a bit hot and dry in summer, the weather in the mountain area is cool. For example, the Heavenly Lake is regarded as an excellent natural summer resort by the locals. Additionally, summer is also the golden season for sand therapy in Turpan and experiencing the prairie culture in Ili.

Xinjiang Travel Tips for you:

• Clothing Suggestions: Short sleeves and shorts are suitable during the day, but thin jackets are needed in mountainous areas like Heavenly Lake and Narati Grassland. Also, don't forget sun protection items such as sunglasses, sun hats, and sunscreen.

• Key Activities: Narati and Tangbula grasslands are lush in June. Huocheng Lavender Field is brilliant in July. Gongnaisi and Sayram Lake are extremely beautiful in August. You can also experience sand therapy in Turpan.

• Notes: Summer is the peak tourist season. Book tickets for popular scenic spots in advance. Although the fruits are sweet, don't eat too much to avoid stomach discomfort.

Autumn:

From September to November, it is a lovely season when the hot summer fades away, and the chill of winter has not yet arrived. The sky is clear, and the air is fresh, carrying a gentle breeze. This is the time for harvest, and you will taste the sweetest fruits and the best delicacies.

Xinjiang Travel Tips for you:

• Clothing Suggestions: Long sleeves with thin jackets are suitable in September. In October–November, thick jackets or even down jackets are necessary, especially in northern Xinjiang where the temperature drops quickly.

• Scenic Features: Kanas and Hemu are as beautiful as oil paintings in September. Baihaba Village is full of northwest charm. In October, the canyon scenery of Keketuohai is fascinating. Although there are no grapes in Grape Valley of Turpan, the cultural landscape is still worth seeing.

• Notes: There may be snow in some mountainous areas in autumn. Be careful with road conditions if driving. It's a paradise for photographers. Remember to bring telephoto and wide-angle lenses to capture the beautiful autumn scenery.

Winter:

From December to February of the following year, northern Xinjiang transforms into a dazzling ice and snow wonderland, making it a paradise for those who embrace the thrill of winter sports. Skiing, skating, and sledding – indulge in the sheer joy of experiencing this magnificent winter in Xinjiang!

Xinjiang Travel Tips for you:

• Clothing Suggestions: Wear thick down jackets, thermal underwear, and snow boots. Also, prepare earmuffs, thick gloves, and warm scarves for full protection.

• Highlights: Kanas is like a fairy tale world in winter. You can experience horse-drawn sleds. Silk Road Ski Resort in Urumqi is a skiing destination. Hemu Snow Town in Altay has unique features.

• Notes: Some scenic spots may be closed in winter. Confirm the opening status before traveling. Prepare anti-skid chains if driving and drive carefully. The temperature difference between indoor and outdoor is large, so be careful to prevent colds.

  
  

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Visit Xinjiang with Reliable Xinjiang Travel Agency

Thanks to its large size, Xinjiang is not flooded by visitors even in the peak seasons compared to other travel destinations. You will not need to join a queue for entering the spots. 

To better explore Xinjiang, choose a reliable travel agency will help you make your dream tour come ture. 

We are here to provide you unforgettable tours! We have been devoted to the inbound tourism for more than 20 years, with 99% 5-star review on TripAdvisor. 

We will provide you the best service and price to guarantee you a great Xinjiang holiday.