2026 Xinjiang Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

Panlong Ancient Road in China is one of the most stunning and awe-inspiring routes in southern Xinjiang. Located near the Tashkurgan area on the Pamir Plateau, this road rises over 4,000 meters above sea level and is renowned for its continuous series of sharp hairpin turns. The winding path ascends along the mountainside, and from a high vantage point, the road appears to snake through the mountains and vast grasslands like a dragon. The journey often begins from Kashgar or is included in the Kashgar–Tashkurgan travel route, typically using a car or van with a driver. Along the way, travelers can witness snow-capped mountains, deserts, and Tajik villages scattered across the valleys. There are several scenic spots along the road where visitors can stop for photos, especially during the morning and evening when sunlight beautifully illuminates the mountains. Panlong Road is not just a transportation route but also an unforgettable travel experience on the Pamir Plateau, offering breathtaking views, freedom, and one of the most memorable adventures in China.

#chinaadventures #shiptonsarch #hike #amazinglandscape #travelfreak Shipton’s Arch, also known as “Toshuk Tagh” in the Uyghur language or (Ātúshi tiānmén) in Chinese, is considered to be the tallest natural arch in the world. It’s located in China’s western Xinjiang region. It takes about an hour hike through a sublimely lunar landscape, first along a dry river bed, then a bit up (wooden and metal stairs), finally several hundred wooden stairs to the arch which is comfortable however may be tiring due to height level and a bit thinner air. View from down is a bit misleading as to the real size of the arch - Photos do not do justice to this amazing place! You have to see it for yourselves!

📌 Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake) is a stunning "Heavenly Lake" located in the Tian Shan National Park. Its crystal-clear blue waters are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and pine forests. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 📌 Kanas Lake is one of China's most beautiful and deepest freshwater lakes. Located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, its water color changes with the seasons and weather (turquoise, blue, gray-green). It is part of the Kanas National Park. 📌 Sayram Lake is a high-altitude freshwater lake with pristine turquoise waters, surrounded by grasslands and snow-capped peaks year-round. Has anyone visited Xinjiang before? Which season do you prefer for traveling?

Truly breathtaking! During the stay at "Penghao Mountain Resident Guesthouse" in Hemu, every day is completely captivated by the snowy scenery outside the window! Opening your eyes to a full embrace of snowy mountains, this winter trip is simply legendary❄️ 🏠 Snow-covered wooden cabin: immersive snow country experience ▪️ Ultimate healing in a warm wooden home: the old wooden cabin is wrapped in thick snow like a fairy tale, with dark brown wooden beams paired with exotic tapestries, when the stove is lit, the air is filled with a comforting warmth ▪️ Every window is a stunning viewfinder: morning sunlight shines on the snow peaks, mist swirling among the mountains, the snow on the cabin roof is fluffy and soft, the wooden railings on the terrace are also carefully decorated with white snow☁️ ▪️ The guesthouse’s small bar faces the snowy mountains! Holding a cup of hot cocoa, watching the sunset gild the snowy ridges, the sweetness carries the refreshing chill of the snow 📸 The ultimate snow scenery photo spot 1. Morning snow town stroll: walking through the snow between wooden cabins, with mist-covered snowy mountains behind, every snap is a winter masterpiece full of atmosphere📸 2. Afternoon terrace rest: wrapped tightly in a blanket soaking up the sun, snowflakes gently fall on your shoulders, warm light glows from inside, even the cold wind feels gentle 3. Evening fireside chat: the aroma of roasted chestnuts mingles with the snowy air, looking up reveals the starry sky reflecting on the snowy ridges, stars shining as if within reach🌟 💡 Hemu winter essentials guide ✅ Warm gear is a must: windproof down jacket + thick gloves are essential! The guesthouse is warm as summer inside, but the outdoor cold can penetrate clothing🥶 ✅ Heartwarming food recommendation: the town’s hand-pulled meat with milk wine is amazing! The rich meat aroma mixed with the milky fragrance can drive away the cold of the whole day🍖 ✅ Fun activities: try snowmobiling/skiing nearby, frolicking in knee-deep powder snow, experiencing endless winter fun🏂 📍 Location: Penghao Mountain Resident Guesthouse, Hemu, Altay, Xinjiang 🔍 Unlock the snow country wooden cabin life here

The next few months are a fairy tale world in Altay. Here are 8️⃣ must-visit photo spots! - 1️⃣ Sunset Viewing Platform (Photo 1) You need to climb to the top of the mountain, it’s steep and slippery, not easy to climb, and the summit is very crowded, at sunset it’s packed with people, it’s best to get there early to secure a spot, and shoot when the blue hour is approaching. 2️⃣ Backyard of Shanhai Guisu (Photos 2 & 3) You need to buy coffee to enter, the spot is great, perfect for taking photos full of vitality. 3️⃣ Hemu Bridge (Photo 4) Next to the bridge, we saw a little fox, only 10 months old, fluffy and very pettable, so adorable~ 4️⃣ Aid Xinjiang Bridge (Photo 5) Few people come here, actually near the new village, make sure to come at sunset, we caught a pink-purple sunset, isn’t this a scene straight out of a movie? Stunning!! 5️⃣ Kanas Lake (Photos 6, 7, 8) Winter at Kanas Lake is breathtakingly beautiful, it feels like Iceland, if you’re lucky to catch a day just after snowfall, you’ll see many snow mushrooms, snowy mountains + forest + river + snow mushrooms, standing on the shore to take photos has great depth! 6️⃣ Kanas Fairy Bay (Photos 9, 10, 11) The morning mist at Fairy Bay, its awe-inspiring beauty is beyond words, 10-11 AM is the best time to see it, off-season has very few people, we rode horses around the lake, enjoying the morning mist while horseback riding, this must be what it’s like in a fairy tale world! 7️⃣ Baihaba (Photos 12 & 13) The landmark stone tablet in Baihaba (Photo 12), which reads “Northwest’s First Village,” you can navigate directly to 📍Baihaba Northwest First Village - Stone Tablet After shooting the tablet, walk down to see the whole Baihaba village (Photo 13) 8️⃣ The Lonely Tree (Photo 14) Many people complain the Lonely Tree isn’t lonely, that’s because you didn’t go at the right time, you must arrive around 8:45 AM, there won’t be a single person, and you’ll get the most beautiful blue hour! After shooting the Lonely Tree, turn and drive up the mountain, at the very top you can have a whole mountain peak to yourself, where I witnessed the first golden sunlight on the mountain I’ve ever seen in my life (Photo 15)!

I didn't expect Kurdening in winter to be so stunning. The snow-covered mountains and streams really look like a fairy tale world 🏡 Another reason to fall in love with Xinjiang. . 🏔️ Lonely branches A newly discovered beautiful spot on the mountaintop (wasn't here last year), where you can capture the snowy mountains behind you. 🏔️ Heidi and Grandpa On the way to Qimengde Viewing Platform (slippery road, be careful), 🐑 it's a bit of a pity there are no lambs to hold in winter. 🏔️ Borui Camp Every time I come, I stay here. I think this is the best place to photograph Kurdening. The winter sunrise and sunset paint the whole sky pink, super beautiful 🌅 .

2-week itinerary with travel + skiing, about 20,000 RMB per person. Outbound flight from Guangdong to Chengdu with a transfer to Yili. Return flight from Altay to Urumqi with a transfer back to Guangzhou. ✈️¥4111 Day: Guangzhou → Chengdu, stay at airport hotel 🏨¥483 Day: Chengdu → Yining, 4 hours from airport to hotel. This time I was forced to choose Xigu, but it turned out to be a pleasant surprise❗️The hotel facilities, privacy, and scenery inside the hotel are all very good. The snow is thick and clean, perfect for lying around everywhere. Day: Kuerdening, stay at Xigu Camp 🏨¥788 Horseback riding through the woods, feeling the sound of snow falling. Spent some time in the public area of Bairui, which made up for not staying there. Dinner at Xigu was lamb hotpot, quite tasty. Day: Kuerdening → Sailimu Lake, stay at Shuiyunshan Hotel 🏨¥1699 Departed at noon, 4-hour drive to Sailimu Lake, just in time for sunset! Entered the lake loop from the north gate, went halfway around, and exited from the east gate. Chased the blue-pink sunset and also met a little fox symbolizing luck. The night road to Shuiyunshan is very difficult to drive, but looking up you can see the Milky Way P8, and the starry sky is moving. Day: Sailimu Lake → Karamay, stay at Atour Hotel 🏨¥449 Entered the other half of the lake loop from the east gate of Sailimu Lake. Departed in the afternoon for Karamay. The itinerary for these two days was not very reasonable; if you had left earlier the day before, you could have completed the lake loop that day and left the next day for hotel leisure and photos. Shuiyunshan is quite beautiful, a bit of a pity. Day: Karamay → Ulungu Lake → Burqin, stay at Lavande Hotel 🏨¥209 The goose egg yolk reflected on the ice surface is actually orange-pink! Best to arrive at Ulungu Lake between 5:30 and 6:00 PM to enjoy the sunset and take photos without missing either. Day: Burqin → Baihaba → Kanas, stay at Kanas Nanxi Villa 🏨¥2380 The first viewing platform entering Baihaba is great for photos, but there are no more after that! This place is no longer the quiet little village; the whole street is filled with guesthouses and restaurants. On the way to Kanas, there is a lonely tree; people line up trying to find angles to be lonely together. Kanas village is very small; on New Year's Day, no cars are allowed to come and go, luggage is carried by hand into the guesthouse, and no performances are allowed at night. Dinner and drinks 🍺 are done at the guesthouse, celebrating the New Year. The most expensive night of the entire trip, and the least worthwhile! Day: Kanas → Hemu, stay at Suporis Hotel 🏨¥1960 The winter Shenxian Bay is not completely frozen; the distant snow mountains, nearby flowing water, and the clouds in front look like a fairy tale~ The scenery on the way to Hemu is great, but do not stop! Arriving at Hemu, the snow on the ground is pressed into a dirt yellow by cars. Like Baihaba, it’s all guesthouses and restaurants; the so-called scenic rooms are just about who has the bigger window… Day: The next 4 days are all in Jiekepulin 🏂🏻, stay at Holiday Inn 🏨¥11382 Lazy travelers must sleep until naturally waking up; P-style travel emphasizes spontaneity! A treasure travel destination worth visiting many times.

How exactly should you enjoy winter in Xinjiang? Today, an 8-year local Xinjiang tour leader will teach you how to master winter Xinjiang with 4️⃣ classic ways to play: Way 1️⃣ Arrive in Altay (5-day tour starting and ending in Altay) D1: Arrive in Altay, if early, go to the ski resort, join the sunset party in the evening D2: Altay - rime snow scenery - magical Kanas Lake - Kanas Three Bays (Fairy Bay - Moon Bay - Wolong Bay) - stay in a snow view room with large windows D3: Kanas - Jikepulin fun skiing - water splash freezing - bonfire party - stay in a snow view room with large windows in Hemu D4: Hemu - sunrise morning fog - light photography tour in Hemu - Altay D5: Altay — return to warm home Way 2️⃣ Arrive in Urumqi (8-day tour starting and ending in Urumqi and Altay) D1: Departure city - Urumqi, if early 🉑 visit the bazaar and eat delicious food D2: Urumqi - S21 Desert Expressway - Karamay Beautiful Sand Mountain Park - General Mountain (sunset cable car - sunset party - disco party - mountain open-air movie) - night skiing at General Mountain — stay in Altay D3: Altay - G219 National Highway - China-Kazakhstan Grand Canyon - Baihaba (stunning S Bay) - magical Kanas Lake - stay in a snow view room with large windows D4: Kanas - Kanas Three Bays (Fairy Bay - Moon Bay - Wolong Bay) - light photography tour in Hemu - water splash freezing - bonfire party - stay in a snow view room with large windows in Hemu D5: Hemu - Hemu dawn - Jikepulin fun skiing (including ski ticket) - Tuguan Hundred-Mile Oilfield - Karamay D6: Karamay - self-drive 360-degree loop around Sayram Lake (Kele Yongzhu - West Sea Grassland - S Bay - Pine Tree Head) - UTV snowmobile + snow tube relay - Sayram Lake D7: Sayram Lake - second visit to Sayram Lake - sunrise walk - Tuguan Tianshan Tianmai - Urumqi D8: Urumqi - warm home Way 3️⃣ Arrive in Yining (6-day tour starting and ending in Yining) D1: Departure city - Yining, if early 🉑 visit Six Star Street D2: Yining - Swan Spring rime snow - Nalati aerial snowfield - Nalati Hayinsai folk village — stay in a high-end homestay D3: Nalati - Hayinsai skiing experience - Kuerdening Valley campsite D4: Kuerdening Scenic Area - spruce wild riding experience - Sayram Lake sunset glow - stay at Sayram Lake D5: Sayram Lake sunrise - in-depth lake tour - lakeside afternoon tea - UTV snowmobile - snow tube relay - stay in Yining D6: Yining - return to warm home Way 4️⃣ Arrive in Urumqi (8-day tour starting and ending in Urumqi and Ili) D1: Departure city - Urumqi (airport pickup) D2: Urumqi - Tuguan Tianshan Mountains - Sayram Lake D3: Sayram Lake - lakeside stove tea brewing - UTV snowmobile/snow tube relay - Six Star Street free activities - Yining D4: Yining - Swan Spring rime snow - Kuerdening Valley campsite D5: Kuerdening - Nalati aerial snowfield - Nalati Hayinsai folk village D6: Hayinsai - Hayinsai skiing experience - Jinghe D7: Jinghe - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi D8: Urumqi - warm home About us: Only quality tours, stay in scenic spots, full 4-diamond service, hardcore off-road, full drone service, drivers with over 5 years of experience, safe and reliable 🈶 guaranteed!

It is freedom, mystery, exploration, and encounter. If it weren't for a business trip, I might never have come across this mysterious land. It is different from most of Xinjiang's scenery, yet it adds a touch of mysterious romance to Xinjiang's vastness. Passing by a nearly dried-up water source, I encountered a solitary crane, small and resilient, giving life to this desolate Great Desert Road!

If you’re craving jaw-dropping nature scenes, Baisha Lake will totally blow you away! 🏔️ The highlight? Picture-perfect views of snow-capped mountains sparkling in the blue lake, with crisp white clouds hovering overhead—just unreal photogenic vibes. Must-See Spot: Baisha Lake (白沙湖) Location: Kanas Scenic Area, Burqin County, Altay Region, Xinjiang, China Best Time to Visit: Daytime, especially when it’s sunny for that glacial reflection magic What Makes Baisha Lake Legendary: - Watch snow mountain glaciers mirrored on crystal-clear waters 🌨️ - The fresh air and stunning colors are an IRL filter—bring a camera! - Chill out by the shore for a relaxing break and some epic shots Personal Tips: - Go on a sunny day for the absolute best photos (the snow peaks POP against the blue sky) - Pack snacks and water—the area is remote, with few vendors nearby - Dress warmly, even if it looks sunny! Mountain air stays brisk - Early mornings mean fewer crowds and postcard-caliber light for pictures Getting Around: You’ll reach Baisha Lake by shuttle from Kanas Scenic Area entrance. Local buses run regularly, but private cars are restricted in peak tourist seasons. Food & Essentials: Food options are limited, so grab something in Burqin town before heading up. Hot tea thermos = total lifesaver in the chilly mountain air! Key Destination Tips: China travel tips: Bring your passport for park entry & stick to official shuttles. Weather changes fast near the glacier—layers are your friend! #NatureVision #XinjiangExplorers #TravelChina #BaishaLake #ScenicSpots

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck Lake Kanas, or Kanas, is located in northern Buerjing County, 150 kilometers from Buerjing County. Kanas is a lake in the Altai Mountains (or Altai Mountains). The Mongolian word Kanas means "lake in the valley." ⛰️Kanas is a land revered as the purest land, the last remaining pollution-free place for humanity, and the most beautiful place left in the world. Experience the pure nature surrounding you, surrounded by lush mountains on both sides, lined with dense rubber trees, which glow golden yellow in the sunlight. On the plains, locals raise ponies and sheep along the lakeside. Looking into the distance, you'll witness a captivating and unforgettable beauty. Surrounded by mountains filled with seasonal leaves, Kanas is a lake known as the "Lake of the Sun." This fairy-tale lake is 1,374 meters above sea level and covers an area of ​​44.78 square kilometers. The deepest point is 180 meters. Scenic views in Kanas: Moonlight Bend, Thepyada Bend, Tuwa Village, White Lake, Black Lake 🛖Tuwa Village: Located on the southern bank of Kanas Lake, 3 kilometers from a deep stream between mountains, the village has a population of over 100 households, or over 1,400 people. The villagers typically build wooden houses using logs (松木). This type of architecture is called "square wooden houses" (木楞屋). The four walls are made of wood and bricks, with a sheltered shelter. The floors are made of wood, and the roofs are sloping. This is an adaptation to the area's high rainfall and snow conditions. The villagers' main livelihood in this area is animal husbandry, with hunting and fishing as secondary occupations. They speak a rare language in China, the Tuhua language. This language is based on the ancient dialect of the Ah Tai (阿尔泰) or Tujie (突厥) people, and is the only known language inherited from the Buddhist faith (Xinjiang is predominantly Muslim). 📆 Best time to travel this route » May is summer, and while the forests and grasslands are lush and green, snow-capped mountains can still be seen, the weather remains quite chilly. June-July is still summer, but the grasslands begin to bloom with a variety of flowers, creating a truly beautiful scenery. The weather is cool and not too cold. August-September This is the season that tourists define. ✈️ The most convenient way to travel: Fly to Urumqi and then connect to Kanas. • #KanasChina • #Kanas • #KanasLake • #AutumnFoliage • #XinjiangNature • #God'sBackyard • #EmeraldLake • #KanasPark • #XinjiangNature • #ChinaHiddenGem

A spontaneous morning change of plans led to the discovery of an autumnal wonder near the ancient city road of Tahyun. As soon as I stepped out of the hotel, I was captivated by the harmony of golden trees and snow-capped mountains before me. 🌲 Highlights of this spot · Rows of golden poplars and clusters of silver willows along the roadside · The shimmering landscape of golden grasslands under the dazzling autumn sunlight · The majestic snow-capped mountains blending seamlessly with the autumn scenery 📸 Photography Tips · 9 AM - 11 AM: Soft lighting makes the scenery even more romantic · Silver willow path: The sunlight reflecting off the leaves creates a magical atmosphere · Snow-capped mountains as a backdrop: The contrast between grand nature and serene autumn is striking 💫 Travel Tips · Visit early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility with fewer tourists · Be prepared for significant temperature differences; bring warm clothing · There are limited facilities nearby, so pack some snacks and water in advance This is a unique place where you can experience the grandeur and majesty of Namgang's autumn, distinct from the serene autumn of Gangnam. It's a destination that captures your heart, making you want to dive into its vast landscapes.

#ShareYourTravelBudget: A Woman Spent 6,000 RMB on a Two-Week Trip to Xinjiang Without a Car Before setting off, I was quite concerned about the difficulty of exploring Xinjiang without a car. However, it turned out to be surprisingly easy, and the experience was excellent. Xiaohongshu has a public transportation guide for each attraction. With enough time and patience, you can enjoy Xinjiang on your own. People online say Xinjiang is expensive, and they're right, especially during peak season. It's cheaper in the off-season. I'm not a budget traveler, and I've stayed in chain hotels and B&Bs (except for the space capsule at Lake Sayram). Xinjiang food is inexpensive and delicious. However, my total expenses are just a guide (I think I'm right). If you're traveling to Xinjiang and wondering which grasslands to visit, I recommend choosing two or three. I've already been to four. My current ranking is: Xiahe > Chonggu Chitai > Kurdenning > Karajun (my personal opinion). Xiahe, which was initially not on my itinerary, has become my favorite. Driving to Chonggu Chitai takes longer and is prone to motion sickness. If you're worried about travel, I recommend Kerdening. After the whole trip, I felt compelled to visit Lake Seyram and Sita. I decided to spend two days at Lake Seyram as well. If the weather wasn't good, I could continue my trip the next day. 15-Day Itinerary: Days 1-2: Urumqi Days 3-4: Urumqi → Yining Days 5-6: Yining → Sayram Lake → Yining Days 7-8-9: Yining → Kurdening → Teges Days 10-11: Teges, Bagua → Kalajun Days 12-13: Teges, Bagua → Qiangguchitai Days 14-15: Qiangguchitai → Xiata (Itinerary details on pages 10-11) #SoloTravel #HowToTravelSoloXinjiang #QuitTravel #WhatToTravelInXinjiang #Yili #SayramLake #Kuldening #Kalajun #Xiata #Qiongkushitai

Mid to late October is truly the most beautiful season to enjoy autumn in Xinjiang. Around Urumqi, there is a stunning and free 🆓 golden birch forest. No need to go to southern Xinjiang. You can experience a super beautiful off-the-beaten-path trip by self-driving. It takes about 1 hour to drive from the city. The light in the afternoon around 2 or 3 PM is especially good for taking photos 📷. It’s very soft and there’s no haze. October outfit 🧥 1⃣️ Because the temperature drops a lot, sweatshirts, trench coats, and sweaters are more suitable for October weather. 2⃣️ The endless birch forest, paired with low-saturation colors or Maillard tones, makes for great photos. If you want to camp ⛺️, you can bring your own gear. There are many open spaces nearby, and a sunny autumn picnic is also very nice 😌.

Urumqi, the modern capital of Xinjiang Province, still retains the authentic atmosphere of the Silk Road. Stroll through the bustling bazaars or soak in the views of the Tianshan Mountains and Taklamakan Desert. Getting around Urumqi is extremely convenient, thanks to the subway. 🚇 Getting Around: 1️⃣ Metro Line 1: Urumqi currently has one subway line, connecting Ürümqi Tianshan International Airport to the city center. 2️⃣ Buses and Taxis: For areas not yet connected by the subway, buses and taxis (DiDi) are available. ✨ Must-See Attractions: 1️⃣ Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar Getting there: Take Line 1 to Erdaoqiao Station (二道桥), Exit B, C. 💡 Located in the heart of the city, Urumqi Grand Bazaar was opened in 2003 as a symbol of the modern Silk Road and a center of Xinjiang's culture, commerce, and tourism. The building's design combines Islamic and Central Asian styles, with its domed towers and beautiful motifs, evoking a nostalgic atmosphere dating back to the Silk Road era. This bazaar is not only a marketplace, but also a showcase of ethnic cultures such as the Uighurs, Kazakhs, and Hui. Visitors can enjoy folk performances, sample local cuisine, and shop for local handicrafts. This bazaar has been dubbed the "Window of Xinjiang," reflecting the region's rich charm and diversity. 2️⃣ Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake) Getting there: You can purchase round-trip bus tickets between Urumqi and Tianchi Lake on the Trip.com app, or take a shared shuttle bus from the Urumqi High-Speed ​​Rail Station (乌鲁木齐高铁汽车站), located in front of the train station's right-hand exit. 💡 Formed by melting glaciers in the Tianshan Mountains, Tianchi Lake sits at an altitude of approximately 1,900 meters. Its crystal-clear water reflects the snow-capped peaks and surrounding pine forests, earning it the nickname "Heavenly Pond." Legend has it that it's the place where the Goddess of the Sea, Xiwangmu, bathed. Today, tourists can stroll around the lake, take a boat trip, or take the cable car up to Maya Mountain for the most spectacular views of Tianchi. 3️⃣ Hotian Erjia Street Getting there: Take Line 1 to Erdaoqiao Station (二道桥), Exit D. From there, take a taxi or bus lines 311, 16, 10, or 21 to get there. 💡 A popular dining area in Urumqi, filled with a lively local atmosphere, offering a wide variety of signature dishes, including stir-fried noodles with beef sauce, Xinjiang biryani, clay-roasted lamb, and Xinjiang-style barbecued beef. Don't forget to try the fresh, sweet fruits like Hami melon and watermelon. This is a famous fruit of this region. 4️⃣ Xinjiang Ancient Ecological Park Getting there: Take Line 1 and get off at Zhongyinggong Station (中营工), Exit B. From there, you can walk about 1.3 km or take a taxi to your destination. 💡 This tourist attraction combines nature, archaeology, and local culture. It features exhibits of fossils and petrified forests hundreds of millions of years old, as well as dinosaur and prehistoric animal fossils discovered in Xinjiang. A key highlight is the Chinese Blood Sweat Horse Breeding Base, a famous ancient horse breed dating back to the Han Dynasty over 2,000 years ago. Legend has it that this horse runs until its sweat turns red like blood, symbolizing speed, strength, and elegance. Visitors can watch rare thoroughbred horses and nomadic equestrian performances reflecting Central Asian culture. 5️⃣ Xinjiang Museum Getting there: Take Line 1 and get off at Nanhu Square Station (南湖广场), Exit C. 💡 Xinjiang Museum This is the largest museum in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Founded in 1953 and moved to its current building in 1962, it stands out for its blend of modern architecture and Central Asian identity. Inside, it exhibits over 50,000 artifacts from various ethnic groups, including Uyghurs, Kazakhs, Mongols, and Hans. A key highlight is the "Mummies of the Tarim Basin," which are 3,000–4,000 years old, particularly the "Beauty of Loulan," a world-renowned ancient female mummy. The museum also showcases silks, coins, jewelry, handicrafts, and religious documents, reflecting the prosperity of the Silk Road and the fusion of Eastern and Western cultures in Xinjiang. Don't forget to let the Trip.com app guides help you plan your next trip. 💓 #travelchina #nature #localguides

#GetDiscountsWithoutLuck A beautiful tourist attraction with vast open grasslands, waterfalls, and mountains, this is Tianshan Grand Canyon. The entrance sign alone is impressive. Its striking design exudes grandeur and makes for a truly captivating experience. There's a shuttle bus service available. You'll need to purchase both a park entrance ticket and a bus ticket. The walk is easy and convenient, with good weather and stunning scenery. The water is crystal clear. There are many attractions here, perfect for taking photos. #tianshangrandcanyon #travelxinjiang #GetDiscountsWithoutLuck

#TravelTalk --- 📍 Xinjiang…The Living Silk Road 🌄 From the Taklamakan Desert to Lake Kanas, Xinjiang is a land where nature and culture beautifully embrace each other. 🕌 Stroll through the ancient city of Kashgar and experience the authentic Uyghur atmosphere. 🏜 Anjihai Grand Canyon—a breathtaking view like you've stepped out of a movie. 🌲 Hemushun Village—a wooden village nestled in a valley, perfect for photography enthusiasts. 🌈 Five Colored Beach—nature's own color, no filters needed. 🧭 Xinjiang is a great place to visit year-round, but if you want to see the changing leaves and cool weather—October is the month! --- 📸 #XinjiangDreamscape #TripWithTripdotcom #SilkRoadVibes 🌍 #TravelChina #Xinjiang #ChinaCheckIn #Nature #Culture 🎒 #TravelChina #HiddenGemsXinjiang #TripcomThailand ---

#TravelChat Can you believe it's almost 9 p.m.? It's still light out! This is a night market! We strolled around and found something to eat at the Yining Night Market. The atmosphere was bustling. Food was set up and served at tables, similar to our own. There were grilled food, skewers, and even restaurants. We walked, ate, and took photos to capture the atmosphere. Notice the abundance of trees along the road, creating a pleasant shade. The walkway was clean and overall a pleasant place to walk. #yining #yiningtravel #Xinjiang #TravelChat

#TravelChat Xinjiang Travel Kanas Old Village This village is lined with rustic wooden houses nestled amidst the beautiful natural surroundings of mountains and forests. The atmosphere is wonderful, the sky is beautiful, and the view is stunning. The village is charming, with rows of small wooden houses and flowers lining the paths, including the lovely little yellow flowers. The photos are beautiful and fun. Everywhere is beautiful, and there are always plenty of tourists. Location: This village is located deep in the Altai Mountains in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China. #Xinjiang #TravelChina #KanasOldVillage #TravelChat

#TravelChat Heaven in the Tianshan Mountains Tianchi Lake, located in the Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, China, is a 5A-level natural tourist attraction in China. The lake is a stunning sight, its crystal-clear blue color and surrounded by mountains and forests. It was hard to believe such a place existed until I saw it with my own eyes. It was so beautiful, majestic, and breathtaking, it's almost indescribable. The lake's uniqueness changes with each season. In summer, the lake's water is crystal clear, reflecting the mountains, while in winter, it's covered in snow, transforming into a romantic white wonderland. If you're looking for beautiful views, fresh air, and tranquility, this is a must-visit destination. Come visit us! #TianchiLake #TianshanMountains #Xinjiang #TravelChina #TravelChat

1️⃣ China does not require a visa. Thai citizens can travel to China without a visa for a maximum stay of 30 days. Before departing, ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and prepare all necessary documents, including hotel reservations, round-trip airfare, and itinerary. You will also need to complete an immigration form to submit to officials for inspection. 2️⃣ Border areas require additional permits. Tourist areas like Kashgar and Urumqi do not require additional permits. However, if you wish to visit areas near the border, such as the Karakoram route (bordering Pakistan), you must apply for a permit and travel with a local guide or tour operator. You cannot travel independently. 3️⃣ You may encounter checkpoints at regular intervals. Xinjiang is highly secure, and tourists encounter frequent checkpoints. Therefore, it is recommended to carry your passport at all times to present to officials. 4️⃣ Choose a hotel that accepts international tourists. Not all hotels are able to accommodate international travelers. Book your stay in advance with a hotel that caters to foreigners. Upon arrival, foreign tourists must register with the police station within 24 hours. Hotels often handle this on their behalf. However, if you're staying with a homestay or a local, you'll need to make your own arrangements. 5️⃣ Respect the diversity of cultures and traditions Xinjiang is a land of diverse ethnicities, so we should respect local customs, especially regarding religion, food, and clothing. Many restaurants in the area are halal and do not serve pork or alcohol. Therefore, please read the signs before ordering. Also, be careful when taking photos. Avoid taking photos of officials or soldiers, and always ask permission before taking photos of people in markets or religious sites. 6️⃣ Understanding "Xinjiang Time" Although the Chinese government uses "Beijing Time" (GMT+8) as the standard time nationwide, locals often refer to "Xinjiang Time," which is two hours behind Beijing Time (GMT+6). As a result, shops, markets, and other places often open later than tourists expect. Always inquire and verify the time to avoid confusion between "Beijing Time" and "Xinjiang Time." 7️⃣ Northern Xinjiang vs. Southern Xinjiang Xinjiang has distinctly different landscapes and cultures from the north and south. Northern Xinjiang boasts beautiful mountains, grasslands, and lakes, with a Central Asian-like atmosphere, making it ideal for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Southern Xinjiang, on the other hand, Encompassing the Taklamakan Desert, snow-capped mountains, and the ancient city of Kashgar, it's a melting pot of history, the Silk Road, and traditional Uyghur culture. 👉 Northern Xinjiang: Urumqi, Kanasu Park, Kalajun Grassland, Nalati Grassland, and Tianchi Lake. 👉 Southern Xinjiang: White Sand Lake, Karakul Lake, Kashgar, Apricot Blossom Village, Karakoram, and the Pamir Plateau. 📢 Currently, there are no direct flights from Thailand to Xinjiang. You'll need to stop over in major cities in China, such as Chengdu, Kunming, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. If you're planning a trip to Xinjiang, don't forget to let Trip.com make your trip easier! ✨💓 #TravelChina #TravelPlan #NatureAttractions #LocalGuides

🏜️ Tarim: The Enigmatic Charm of the Desert **Tarim**, located in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region of China, is a vast desert area. It was a key point along the ancient Silk Road and offers a unique travel experience where you can immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the desert. Key Attractions 🏜️ Tarim Desert: The Tarim Desert is home to expansive sand dunes, perfect for trekking adventures. The sunrise and sunset here create an otherworldly atmosphere. 🌴 Desert Oasis: Scattered across the Tarim Desert are various oases, where you can witness the vitality of nature amidst the desert's tranquility. 📸 Photography: The sand dunes and oases of the Tarim Desert form breathtaking landscapes that are difficult to capture fully in photos. The desert scenery is a unique and captivating photography spot. Travel Tips 🧳 Essentials: Pack comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for desert activities. Sunscreen is a must to protect against the strong sunlight. 🚶♂️ Transportation: Desert tours or vehicles are practical for exploring the Tarim Desert, and some areas can also be explored on foot.

Xinjiang

#holidayitinerary #china #xinjiang Xinjiang that located in northwest China, becomes a beautiful snowy land during winter season. Snow covers the deserts, mountains, and forests, making the area look peaceful and clean. The Tianshan Mountains are very pretty with white peaks and frozen lakes. Villages like Hemu and towns like Altay look like scenes from a winter fairy tale. People enjoy winter sports like skiing and snowboarding, and there are fun ice and snow festivals. The sky is often clear and blue, and the cold air feels fresh. Winter in Xinjiang is cold, but it is also calm, quiet, and full of natural beauty. Highly recommended to visit at least once in your lifetime!!

#holidayitinerary Xinjiang that located in northwest China, transforms into a vast winter wonderland during the colder months. Snow blankets its diverse landscapes—deserts, mountains, grasslands, and valleys—creating stunning contrasts. The Mountains in Altay are especially striking, with icy peaks and frozen lakes. Winter brings a quiet beauty to towns like Altay and Hemu, where traditional life continues amid the snow. Skiing, snowboarding, and ice festivals attract visitors, while the crisp air and clear skies offer a serene atmosphere. Xinjiang’s winter is cold but magical, blending nature, culture, and tranquility.

Our 9-day, 8-night journey to Xinjiang with our group of four girls was an emotional and visually stunning adventure. We rented a 7-seater car and booked an all-inclusive land tour, which made the itinerary very comfortable. From the golden sand deserts, lush green grasslands, crystal-clear lakes to majestic snow-capped mountains – we experienced every type of terrain. The weather was incredibly cooperative, and every photo we took turned out beautifully. Each stop felt like stepping into a painting. Even after returning home, we had enough photos to post for an entire year! This was undoubtedly the most memorable trip, and I highly recommend visiting Xinjiang at least once in your life. This journey was not only visually rewarding but also brought us closer together, creating unforgettable memories 💕

#chinatravel Kashgar Gold City totally caught me off guard, in the best way. It’s this lively spot packed with energy, history, and a ton of character. The buildings are full of that classic Kashgar vibe: earth tones, archways, and cool little details that make you want to stop and stare every five seconds. It’s kind of like a modern twist on the Old Town, with shops, cafes, and local snacks everywhere. I wandered through the markets, picked up some handmade souvenirs, and snacked on fresh naan and kebabs (so good!). Everything feels super local and chill, not over-polished or touristy. What I loved most is how it mixes traditional Uyghur culture with a fresh, almost trendy atmosphere. You’ll see musicians playing on the street and kids running around, it just feels alive. If you’re already in Kashgar, you have to check out Gold City. It’s the perfect place to soak up the culture, eat amazing food, and just vibe with the rhythm of the city.

🚗 Itinerary D1: Urumqi - Colorful Beach - Burqin ▪️ Head straight to Colorful Beach! Fiery Danxia landforms at sunset 🔥 ▪️ Overnight in fairytale border town Burqin, savor authentic pike feast D2: Burqin - Kanas Lake ▪️ Ascend Fish Watching Platform for emerald lake views ▪️ Stay in cozy lakeside cabin 🏡 with snow-capped mountains at your window D3: Kanas - Hemu Village ▪️ Must photograph morning mist at Fairy Bay! Ethereal like paradise 🌫️ ▪️ Sip milk tea in century-old Hemu houses, stargaze at Milky Way D4: Hemu - Devil City - Karamay ▪️ Wear red dresses at Devil City! Yardang landforms for wild west vibes ▪️ Night tour of oil city featuring crispy roasted lamb D5: Sayram Lake - Lavender Farm ▪️ 90km lakeside drive! Pine Tree Head spot at south gate recommended 🌲 ▪️ Meet Huocheng's purple sea 💜 Peak bloom in June D6: Nalati Grassland - Bayinbuluke ▪️ Horse riding on aerial grassland 🐎 + viral bridge photos ▪️ Nine Bends sunset with "9 suns" reflection 🌅 D7: Duku Highway - Urumqi ▪️ Experience four seasons in one day! Snow peaks & canyons ❄️ 💡 Luxury Tips ✅ Hemu stargazing cabin: Live inside a National Geographic cover ✅ Sayram Lake RV camp: Watch galaxy reflect on water from bed ✅ Duku VIP charter: Stop freely avoiding crowds 📸 Photo Guide 1️⃣ Colorful Beach: 7pm golden light + white dresses 2️⃣ Lavender: Woven baskets + hats, avoid dark colors 3️⃣ Nalati: Rent ethnic costumes (¥30/hour), ultra-photogenic! ⚠️ Hard-earned Advice ▪️ Huge temperature swings! Pack down jacket + UV shirt ▪️ Duku Highway has traffic control! Check opening dates ▪️ Carry moisturizing spray - dryness causes makeup cracks 😭 💌 Driver's Secret: "Kanas Three Bays hike: Fairy Bay → Moon Bay route has fewer crowds & better views!" ------------------------------ Click below for more details 👇 ------------------------------