2025 Altay Prefecture Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

📍** Altay Travel Guide 🍃Altai is located in the northern part of Xinjiang and is known as the "Wonderland of Humanity". It is famous for Kanas Lake, Womu Village and other attractions, suitable for summer and autumn. 👇**Itinerary Recommendation:** 💞一。 **Kanas Lake**: A must-visit attraction with blue lake water, recommended hiking or boat tour, the three bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay) can not be missed. 🌲2。 **Womu Village**: Tuva village, autumn layer forest dyed, early morning morning mist shrouded, suitable for photography. 🌾3． **Baihaba**: A quiet village on the China-Kazakhstan border, requiring a border defense permit. 🌲4。 **Cocoto Sea**: Peculiar granite landscape, especially beautiful in autumn. 🚗**Transportation:** ✈️- Air: Fly to Altay Airport, or first to Urumqi for transfer/charter. 🚘 - Charter car / self-drive: attractions are scattered, it is recommended to charter a car (about 800-1000 yuan / day). 🏠**Accommodation:** ✅ There are homestays in Hemu, Kanas, peak season (June-October) need to book in advance. ⚠️**Tips:** 🧥- There is a big difference in temperature between day and night, so prepare warm clothes. !!️- Respect the customs of local ethnic minorities. ✅ - Many tourists during peak season, it is recommended to travel during off-peak hours. 💞Altay is a secret land of nature and humanity, suitable for travelers who like scenery and tranquility!

[Introduction]: First time in Xinjiang, should I choose Southern or Northern Xinjiang? You may have heard that Southern Xinjiang is about culture, while Northern Xinjiang is about scenery! This is indeed the case! Northern Xinjiang has great tourism conditions and mainly features natural landscapes. If you prefer scenery, you can come to Northern Xinjiang. Southern Xinjiang is mainly about cultural landscapes, the footsteps left by the slow passage of history. If you have a strong passion for historical exploration and like plateau scenery, come to Southern Xinjiang. What are the attractions in Southern and Northern Xinjiang respectively? Northern Xinjiang: Hemu, Sayram Lake, Narat, Grand Canyon, Qiongkushitai, Qiasi, Xata, Duku Highway, Kalajun, Bayinbuluk, Kanas, etc. Southern Xinjiang: Kashgar Old City, Pamir Plateau, Gaotai Residences, Taklamakan Desert, Populus euphratica Forest, Karakul Lake, Baisha Lake, etc. All routes can be adjusted! ⛺ [Things to Know]: Kanas: Like a fairyland, making people linger Hemu Village: A picturesque and beautiful village, with a brilliant night sky to see the stars and Milky Way Wucaitan (Colorful Beach): An Altai national 4A scenic spot Yining: Green grasslands and winding rivers, like a vivid picture scroll Dushanzi Grand Canyon: A natural canyon, skillfully crafted Sayram Lake: A tranquil lake, stunning in all seasons Duku Highway: Experience all four seasons in one day here Narat Grassland in the Air: One of the world's four largest river valley grasslands, full of vitality Heavenly Mountain Tianchi Lake: The legendary residence of the Queen Mother of the West 🛬 [Itinerary]: ♦️ Day 1: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake - Burqin Morning: Depart from Urumqi and travel along the S21 Desert Highway, which crosses the Gurbantunggut Desert, where you can enjoy the spectacular desert scenery. Afternoon: Arrive at Ulungur Lake, where you can play by the lake, feel the vastness of the lake, and experience the lakeside amusement projects. Evening: Go to Burqin, and after checking in to the hotel, taste local specialties such as Burqin grilled fish. ♦️ Day 2: Burqin - Ahe Highway - Hemu Viewing Platform - Hemu Morning: Take the Ahe Highway to Hemu, enjoying the natural scenery of Northern Xinjiang along the way. Afternoon: After arriving at Hemu, first go to the Hemu Viewing Platform to overlook the entire Hemu Village and the beautiful scenery. Evening: Experience wooden house accommodation in Hemu Village and feel the original village atmosphere. ♦️ Day 3: Hemu - Kanas Lake - Fish Viewing Pavilion (Kanas Scenic Area) Morning: Enter the Kanas Scenic Area and visit Kanas Lake. You can choose to take a boat trip on the lake to enjoy the scenery of the lake and mountains. Afternoon: Go to the Fish Viewing Pavilion to overlook Kanas Lake from a high place and look for the mysterious "lake monster." Evening: Continue to stay in the Kanas Scenic Area. ♦️ Day 4: Kanas - Kanas Three Bays - Wucaitan (Colorful Beach) - Burqin Morning: Visit the Kanas Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay), walk along the boardwalk, and enjoy the beautiful river bay scenery. Afternoon: Go to Wucaitan (Colorful Beach) to see the colorful Yadan landforms, which are especially spectacular at sunset. Evening: Return to Burqin for accommodation. ♦️ Day 5: Burqin - Urho Ghost City - Kuitun Morning: Go to Urho Ghost City to visit the unique Yadan landforms and feel the miraculous craftsmanship of nature. Afternoon: Continue to Kuitun, enjoying the Gobi scenery along the way. Evening: Arrive in Kuitun and check in to the hotel to rest. ♦️ Day 6: Kuitun - Sayram Lake - Guozigou - Lavender - Yining Morning: Arrive at Sayram Lake, tour around the lake, and enjoy the scenery of the lake and mountains and the grassland flower sea by the lake. Afternoon: Pass through the Guozigou Bridge and admire the spectacular bridge and the surrounding scenery. Then go to the lavender base to see the large lavender flower sea. Evening: Go to Yining for accommodation. ♦️ Day 7: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xata Ancient Road - Zhaosu Morning: Take the Yizhao Highway to Zhaosu. This highway has beautiful scenery, with grasslands, forests and other landscapes. Afternoon: Arrive at Xata Ancient Road, where you can hike or ride a horse to enter and enjoy the magnificent scenery of snow-capped mountains and glaciers. Evening: Stay in Zhaosu. ♦️ Day 8: Zhaosu - Kalajun Grassland - Tekes Morning: Go to Kalajun Grassland to visit attractions such as the Koksu Grand Canyon and Flower Terrace, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the grassland. Afternoon: Go to Tekes and visit the Bagua City to feel the unique urban layout. Evening: Stay in Tekes. ♦️ Day 9: Tekes - Horseback Riding in Qiongkushitai - Qiongkushitai Morning: Go from Tekes to Qiongkushitai, where you can ride a horse to enjoy the scenery along the way. Afternoon: Arrive at Qiongkushitai, visit the ancient village, and feel the folk customs of the Kazakh people. Evening: Stay in Qiongkushitai. ♦️ Day 10: Qiongkushitai - Qiasi Grassland - Xinyuan Morning: Go to Qiasi Grassland to enjoy the beautiful scenery of forests and rivers on the grassland, and you can have a picnic on the grassland. Afternoon: Go to Xinyuan for accommodation. ♦️ Day 11: Xinyuan - Narat Grassland in the Air - Narat Town Morning: Enter the Narat Grassland in the Air, take a shuttle bus to enjoy the grassland scenery, and you can also watch folk performances. Afternoon: Stroll around Narat Town and experience the local life. Evening: Stay in Narat Town. ♦️ Day 12: Narat Town - Duku Highway - Urumqi Morning: Return to Urumqi along the Duku Highway, enjoying the beautiful scenery of the Duku Highway along the way, including snow-capped mountains, canyons, and grasslands. Afternoon: Arrive in Urumqi and end the pleasant journey. 🧡 [Tips]: Bring necessary documents such as ID card and student ID (if applicable) and clothing The temperature difference between morning and evening in Xinjiang is large, so you need to prepare long clothes, short sleeves, coats, and windbreakers, especially in mountainous or high-altitude areas, warm clothing is especially important - sunscreen products Xinjiang has long sunshine hours and strong ultraviolet rays, so be sure to bring sunscreen sunglasses, hats and other sunscreen products Other items You can bring a selfie stick, a small amount of cash, etc. In addition, you can also prepare some high-calorie snacks such as self-heating hot pot, beef jerky, chocolate, etc. for emergencies + Time difference adaptation Xinjiang is about 2 hours different from inland cities such as Beijing. Tourists should be prepared to adapt to the time difference and adjust their schedules Health preparation Prepare commonly used medicines according to your personal situation, such as motion sickness medicine, cold medicine, band-aids, etc. Pay attention to maintaining good eating habits and getting enough sleep Custom respect Xinjiang is a multi-ethnic area, respect local customs and cultural traditions, protect the environment and cultural relics, and be a civilized tourist High preparation Some attractions in Xinjiang are located in high-altitude areas, and tourists may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, take appropriate rest, and drink plenty of water Group suggestion It is recommended to join a group, because the attractions in Xinjiang are scattered, and self-driving may cause fatigue and prevent you from enjoying the attractions. The transportation is inconvenient. It is recommended to choose a local tour group or car charter service to avoid self-driving fatigue and getting lost.

【Introduction】: Kanas and Sayram Lake are both must-visit destinations in Xinjiang. Kanas is famous for its mysterious lake, primeval forest, and ancient villages, while Sayram Lake attracts visitors with its beautiful alpine lake scenery and rich ecological resources. 🛬【Itinerary】: Day 1: Home - Grand Bazaar - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Fuyun Day 3: Fuyun - Koktokay - Five-colored Beach - Burqin Day 4: Burqin - Three Bays of Kanas - Fish Viewing Pavilion - Hemu Day 5: Hemu - Hemu Morning Light - Yunxiao Peak - Ghost City - Urho Day 6: Urho - Sayram Lake - Sayram Lake Day 7: Sayram Lake - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi Day 8: Urumqi - Grape Valley - Karez - Flaming Mountains - Urumqi Day 9: Urumqi - Home - Kanas Lake: The core attraction of the scenic area, the lake is crystal clear and surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering breathtaking views. - Fish Viewing Pavilion: Visitors can walk or take a shuttle bus to the Fish Viewing Pavilion to enjoy a bird's-eye view of Kanas Lake and the spectacular natural scenery. - Kanas Primeval Forest: Stroll through the primeval forest to experience the breath of nature and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the way. - Natural Scenery: Sayram Lake is the highest and largest alpine lake in Xinjiang, known as the "last tear of the Atlantic." The lake is crystal clear with a transparency of up to 12 meters, surrounded by mountains and beautiful scenery. - Ecological Diversity: The scenic area is home to not only beautiful lakes but also rich flora and fauna. Rare birds such as swans inhabit the area, adding vitality to the scenic area. - Functional Zoning: Sayram Lake Scenic Area is divided into several functional zones, including a lakeside sightseeing area, a grassland nomadic area, and an ecological conservation area, offering visitors a diverse travel experience. 🍩【Must-try Food】: 1. Local Snacks: Milk tea, pilaf, noodle soup, flavored buns (including baked buns, pan-fried buns, and thin-skinned buns), naren (a grassland-style noodle dish), spicy pot, and blood sausage are all local specialties. Among them, noodle soup is a Hui delicacy with excellent color, aroma, and taste, while naren is a unique dish of the Xibe people, known for its delicious flavor. 🏨【Accommodation Tips】: Trip.com 4-star accommodation + century-old wooden cabins 🚌【Transportation Tips】: Vehicles are arranged according to the number of people (7/9/14/16/19/25 seats available). 🧡【Tips】: The temperature difference between day and night in the Sayram Lake area is large, so visitors should bring enough warm clothing. The UV rays are strong, so take sun protection measures. When viewing wildlife, keep a safe distance and do not make loud noises or feed the animals. Tianchi Lake Koktokay Scenic Area · Fuyun Five-colored Beach Kanas Scenic Area Hemu Scenic Area World Ghost City Sayram Lake · Bole Dushanzi Grand Canyon

The snow-covered Altay satisfies all my winter fantasies! Another year of snow season in Altay, the snow always makes people fall in love with the Tyndall effect after the sun shines through the forest The golden mountain at sunset, and the blue tone after sunset It's so beautiful that it makes people cry. Everyone knows that Xinjiang is beautiful in summer, but I didn't expect that Xinjiang is also so charming in winter, like a world of ice and snow fairy tales. Under the snow-capped mountains, in the midst of fireworks, enjoy every moment of life. - Advantages of visiting Altay in winter? √ Fewer people! No need for shuttle buses to enter the scenic area~ A personal ice and snow fairy tale world, take as many photos as you want √ Beautiful scenery! Norway, Finland, Switzerland, Hemu is not inferior at all! √ Cost-effective! Traveling to Xinjiang in winter, air tickets/hotels/tickets will be much cheaper √ Atmosphere! If you come for Christmas/New Year, the atmosphere of the bonfire party in the snow is overwhelming, and you will have the opportunity to see horse racing and goat catching Comment

How can you know the world is so wonderful if you don't travel more when you are young? You will have a deep understanding of Xinjiang winter tourism❄️✨ Xinjiang's winter is a fairy tale world of ice and snow🏰 and a feast of food🍽️ Steaming lamb kebabs🍖 and delicious salty milk tea🥛 Every bite is a temptation to the taste buds😋 - In Altay, Xinjiang🏔️, you can not only appreciate the magnificence of the natural snow country scenery, but also experience the unique charm of exotic culture🌍 Traveling more when you are young is to make these beautiful moments eternal memories📸🌟 - Young you👱‍♀️, Xinjiang's winter is waiting for you to conquer💪 Ice fishing on the cold lake🎣, not afraid of the cold❄️, hot blood flows in the young body🔥 Take a carriage🐎, cross the snowfield on a horse-drawn sled, and sing against the wind🎶, with a confident smile on the young face😊 Listen to the songs of history🎶 and taste authentic food🍲 in the Tuva people's house🏠, but what you want more is the courage and determination to explore the unknown🗺️🚀 Skiing on the vast snowfield⛷️, challenging the limit, let the passion of youth be wantonly spread on the snow💨💨 At night, under the stars🌌, we cook tea around the stove🍵 and talk about the future with friends🗣️, and the young heart finds resonance and belonging here💖 In a 26-degree cabin🏡, holding a cup of coffee☕, enjoying the snow scene of -18 degrees outside❄️, put on headphones🎧, let music and snow dance together💃 - Brave 20s and 30s🔥, life is a wilderness🌾, not a track🛤️ People always wait in their lives⏳, wait for not busy💼, wait for next time📅, wait for money💰, wait for time⏰ You shouldn't be stuck with this🚫, while you are young💪, pursue what you love💘 Life is only 30,000 days📅, one day of freedom🕊️ is one day🌈 What's on the other side of the mountain🤔, you don't have to tell me🙅‍♂️, I'll go and see for myself👀 The mountains are high and the roads are far🏔️, looking at the world🌍, and also looking for yourself🧐, so😉, climb the mountain together when you are free🧗‍♂️, and move bricks separately when you are not free🧱

You have to visit Altay in winter to play in the snow! 11.2📍Kanas: Blizzard❄ It's so beautiful that it makes you cry!😭 Everyone knows that Xinjiang is beautiful in summer, but who knew that Xinjiang is also so charming in winter, like a fairy tale world of ice and snow. Under the snow-capped mountains, among the fireworks, enjoy every moment of life.

⏰In November, the winter tourism in Xinjiang officially kicks off❄. This season of extremely cost-effective, less crowded and beautiful scenery has quietly arrived. Nowadays, the frequency of snow continues to increase, and snowflakes gradually accumulate, outlining the charming snow scene. Northern Xinjiang is about to play a moving love song of winter. 🏮Weather conditions are snow showers or cloudy☁, with average temperatures ranging from -10° to -30°. 👢Shoes must be non-slip! Snow boots, Doc Martens, or outdoor boots are all good options to keep you warm and safe while walking. 🧥Thick clothing includes quick-drying clothes, wool sweaters, sweatshirts, autumn clothes and long pants, fleece jackets, down jackets and ski pants, etc. ✅Accessories include thermal masks, hats, earmuffs, touch screen gloves🧤, scarves🧣, and don’t forget sunglasses, kneepads and heated insoles. 💠Things you must do in Altay in winter: ① Jump off the car, play in the snow, and roll around in the soft snow. ②Wander in the waist-deep snow and have a cheerful snowball fight☃. ③In the severe cold of -30°, experience an exciting splashing water into ice🧊. ④ Step into Kanas Lake and enjoy the morning mist. The fairy-like scenery is like a fairyland on earth. ⑤Take a set of Nordic-style snow scene photos📷, super impressive. ⑥In the warm cabin, you can taste finger meat, drink beer🍺, and sing and dance with the Tuva people. The atmosphere is great. ⑦As the origin of skiing, how can you not experience skiing! Natural powder snow is a paradise for ski lovers. ⑧Take a horse-drawn sledge to the beautiful peak and shuttle through the forest and snowfield🏔. ‼ ️‼ ️Notes: 1. In addition to bringing beautiful clothes👗 for taking photos, be sure to bring waterproof snow boots. In winter, when the snow melts, your shoes will easily get wet, which can make you feel numb from the cold😰. 2. Prepare your own thermos cup🍵 so you can drink hot water at any time on the road. Especially in the cold winter💨, hot water is especially important when playing outdoors. 3. The climate in Xinjiang is dry, so body lotion and facial cream should be used to moisturize the body and face💦. By the way, you can’t ignore sun protection. You can wear a pair of sunglasses 👓 because snow will reflect light.

🎈In late September, the birch forests of Altay are dyed gold, and the morning smoke is like an oil painting. Before the arrival of autumn, come and appreciate the charm of Altay with me! 📅The best viewing period is from mid to late September to early October. The small northern Xinjiang loop is a good choice! Starting from Burqin, passing through Kanas, Hemu, Baihaba, plus the Sayram Lake and Duku Highway on the northern line of Yili, the 10-day itinerary includes all the highlights. 🚗Itinerary: Day1: Burqin (Net Red Seven Color City, Sino-Russian Old Wharf Street, Sino-Soviet Navigation Old Wharf, etc.) 🎊 Day2: Burqin County (Hemu Village) 🌲 Day3: Burqin County (Kanas Lake - Kanas River) 🏞️ Day4: Burqin County (Baihaba Village) 🏡 Day5: Karamay City (World Devil City) 👹 Day6: Sayram Lake - Huocheng County (Guozigou Bridge) 🌉 Day7: Yili Xinyuan County (Nalati Grassland) 🌱 Day8: Bayingolin and Jing County (Bayinbuluke Grassland - Bayinbuluke Swan Lake) 🦢 Day9: Bayingolin and Jing County (Daxiaolongchi - Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon) 🏜️ Day10: Urumqi 🏙️ 💡Small tips: • Bring cash, passport, ID card, and driving book for emergencies. • Download the map in advance, some areas have no signal. • Prepare food and water in case of traffic jams. • Order a moderate amount of food, Xinjiang dishes are large. 🧐About travel: • Recommended pure play group, the price is high but does not enter the shopping store, the play time is more abundant. • Beware of the three or four thousand groups playing for seven days. The small group has 4-8 people. • Confirm the signing of the travel contract and pay attention to whether the service is professional and regular.

Recently, a mainland TV drama has become extremely popular, sparking endless fascination with the distant Xinjiang Altay region. This has also led to the development of unique tourism activities around the Altay Mountains and Tianshan Mountains. The entire area is characterized by lush green grasslands, herds of cattle and sheep, and the leisurely and optimistic lifestyle of Xinjiang. I was fortunate enough to visit Altay at the end of last month, just before the upcoming peak season. The four distinct seasons bring ever-changing scenery. During my visit in late autumn, the wild winds turned harsh, but the withered trees still stood tall. Today's Altay is much more accessible than in the era depicted in the drama, yet it remains a place where one speaks softly, fearing to disturb the celestial beings.

"To love, to live, to get hurt" "My Altay" has imprinted the mountains, rivers, lakes, and seas of Altay in many people's hearts, and has also given another possibility for life. The vast wilderness of Xinjiang seems to be able to accommodate the joys and sorrows of many people. Although everyone's life is not easy and smooth, nature seems to have such magic that can temporarily heal us, and then we set off again - Snow mountains, lakes, forests, grasslands, canyons, streams, summer flowers 🌲Summer is really suitable for going to Xinjiang, the summer in Xinjiang will refresh your cognition, and it's beautiful like the scenes in comics - ✅Recommended itinerary and route: Day1: Urumqi—Shanshan Kumtag Desert—Stay in Shanshan Day2: Shanshan—Tuyugou Scenic Western Region Architectural Area—Stay in Hejing Day3: Hejing—Nalati Sky Prairie—Valley Scenery—Stay in Nalati Day4: Nalati—Qiaxi—Stay in Tekes Day5: Tekes—Qiongkushitai—Stay in Qiongkushitai Day6: Qiongkushitai—Xiaota Luxury Trekking—Stay in Xiaota Day7: Xiaota—Guozigou Bridge—Sailimu Lake Scenic Loop—The Lonely Tower—Stay at Sailimu Lake Day8: Sailimu Lake—Stay in Urumqi - 🌲Recommended must-visit attractions in Xinjiang: Nalati + Qiaxi Forest + Qiongkushitai + Sailimu Lake - 💡Travel tips: 1. In addition to the large temperature difference between morning and evening in Xinjiang, there is also a large temperature difference in the mountains 2. The attractions in Xinjiang are far apart, so prepare some dry food. There may be no signal in some sections of self-driving, and the prices are higher if you stay in scenic areas. The hotels in the county are all around two to three hundred, and our trip cost about five hundred per person excluding airfare 3. Those who do not self-drive can consider finding a reliable leader to arrange the itinerary, if you need, you can ask me - The meaning of travel is not to tell others that I have been here, but that there was a story about me here. It lets me know that there are many ways to live life, you can have a wandering soul, the joy and innocence of a child, and also the courage to see the world's prosperity

🌿"North of Northern Xinjiang is Altay, she is a wild dream, she is the wind of the mountains and wilds." In Li Juan's words, Altay seems to have come to life. Travel Experience 1⃣️Hemu Village is divided into new and old villages, with the new village having better accommodation conditions, being quieter, but further away from the Hemu Viewing Platform. · 2⃣️Kanas also has old and new villages, both consisting of log cabins, with the old village closer to Kanas Lake and the new village near the Fish Viewing Pavilion. · 3⃣️Don't go to the Devil's City in the afternoon, it's too hot, go at 8 or 9 pm instead to see the sunset, just perfect, and so beautiful. · 4⃣️Sun protection is very important, bring a hat, sunglasses, sun protection clothing, and an umbrella! Sincere advice from someone who got sunburned in layers in just one day, a lesson learned with blood and tears. · 5⃣️Definitely experience staying in a log cabin in Altay, but remember to book in advance, as it's hard to find availability during peak season. · 6⃣️Try not to bring large suitcases into the Hemu Village scenic area, as you need to take a shuttle bus there, and large luggage can be left in the car or at the hotel. · 7⃣️The scenic area is large with many places requiring walking, so wearing a pair of comfortable shoes is very important, and the best shoes should be slip-resistant. · 8⃣️Hadan Viewing Platform, this is the best spot to overlook Hemu Village, and also the best place to watch the sunrise in the morning. · 9⃣️The scenic area implements an online real-name system for time-slot reservation and ticket purchase. Be sure to buy tickets in advance during peak season, no need to pick up tickets, just swipe your ID card to enter the park directly. 🔟Temperature difference is significant: Altay has a large temperature difference between day and night, it is recommended to bring warm clothing, such as jackets, sweaters, etc.🧥 Tried and tested good food🍽️ 🐟Grilled fish: Various types of fish caught from the clear Irtysh River, such as whitefish, five-stripe, nine-stripe, dogfish, etc., with a wide variety. ☀️Svayda breakfast: Russian-style bread with sweet jam and milk skin, plus potato beef patties and horse intestines. 🍪Kazakh cookies: Handmade by local Kazakhs, each piece is filled with tradition and authentic flavor.👩‍🍳🍪 Here's my travel itinerary for those who may need it 𝘿1: Direct flight to Urumqi 𝘿2: Urumqi-S101 Baili Danxia-Dushanzi Grand Canyon-Kuitun 𝘿3: Kuitun-Devil's City-Burqin 𝘿4: Burqin-Kanas-Lakeside Plank Road 𝘿5: Kanas-Baihaba-Lonely Tree-Hemu 𝘿6: Hemu-Most Beautiful Figure in Birch Forest-Burqin 𝘿7: Burqin-Ulungur Lake Golden Coast-Urumqi 𝘿8: Fly back home from Urumqi

It's not that I can't afford to go to Northern Europe, but Xinjiang is too cost-effective To say that Xinjiang is a Nordic substitute is too unfair. After all, the winter here is more than just Nordic style! Best viewing period: November to March of the following year. For up to 5 months, there is no large flow of people, and you can easily get the Nordic style + ice and snow fairy tale√ Why is it recommended to visit Xinjiang in winter? 1. Save money: Air tickets, accommodation, tickets and tour group fees are all more than 50% cheaper than during peak season ② "Less Crowded" The entire scenic area is reserved, avoiding the crowds, and you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and take beautiful photos, freely and at ease! 3. Beautiful scenery: Xinjiang has the best snow scenery in China in winter, which is not inferior to Northern Europe. 4. "Entertainment" Skiing, snowmobiling, making snowmen, splashing water to make ice... a lot of snow activities to enjoy 5. Holidays: Christmas, New Year's Day, Spring Festival, Lantern Festival in winter, the atmosphere is very strong~ Imagine spending the New Year's Eve with your loved ones in the snowy Altay, what a happy thing it would be! ↓Winter temperature: Outdoor: -10℃~-30℃ Indoor: 25℃~28℃ (with heating) Enjoy N kinds of authentic experiences with Ami: Tour the Sailimu Lake in depth and watch the ice bubble blue ice /Hike to Kanas Sanwan, enjoy the fairy mist and rime, and occasionally encounter the cute red fox √ In God's private land, listen to the sound of snow falling and watch the bright starry sky and Milky Way at night √ Visit the wonders of northern Xinjiang and unlock unique landforms /Experience various fun snow activities such as splashing water to make ice, snowmobiling, etc. √ Ski at the world-class Jikepulin Ski Resort and have fun in the snow with your friends~

You must visit Xinjiang once! Because... it is so beautiful! Last summer I went to Xinjiang to play. Altay is really beautiful. I like eating baked buns. I can eat baked naan all the time. I don’t like it very much. My teeth are not good. It’s hard to bite. The lamb skewers are really big. We often go to the local After eating at the night market, I went to sleep at one o'clock. I got up at seven in the morning to continue my journey. Because it was a self-driving tour, I had to get up two hours earlier than the locals and couldn't sleep in. But I would sleep in the car because I wasn't driving. Hami melons are super sweet. Huoyan Mountain is very hot. I ate cultural ice cream there. Bayin has a lot of birds. I thought Bayin was like the one in "Flying Life". Maybe the place we went to was different from the place where we filmed. The sun was very strong and I kept wearing Wearing a hat, Tianshan Tianchi is very wide, the mountain is very high, the trees are very green, and the water is very blue. It is the same as I imagined, but also different. There is a snow-capped mountain. This is the first snow-capped mountain I have seen. I climbed halfway up, but it was too steep and I couldn't see the end. It was the first time I saw a camel with two humps on the national highway. When I was in high school, I received a gift of a camel doll with one hump. We were very close before, but we are no longer in touch now. The mountains in Altay are alive, and the water is also alive and flowing. The river is the blood of the mountains and rivers, feeding the creatures on them. When the car stopped by the roadside to rest, a local child took a photo with his lamb and paid for it. They both looked very much like Lazy Sheep. The child also had curly hair. He squatted down and held it in his hand. The lamb's head is talking to him and touching noses. It's so cute. It's like they can really communicate. In the Kanas scenic area of ​​Burqin County, I saw the green lake, crows gathered together, ducks swimming, wooden houses of families, colorful flags, eagles flying in the sky, and the karst landforms written in the geography book at Wucai Beach. In Bor Tara saw the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean and the magnificent Guozigou Bridge. I saw people riding horses and pulling sheep carts. The prayer flags fluttered in the wind. The clouds were very close to the mountains, casting shadows on the mountains, sometimes bright and sometimes dark. I felt this. The land is breathing with me in front of my eyes. I took a nap on the bus to Nalati and woke up in Xinjiang. There is an electronic screen at the visitor center of Bayin Scenic Area with a sentence written on it that can summarize all the moments I have spent on this land - "Standing on this magnificent grassland, it is difficult for us to judge whether this is a paradise on earth or a paradise on earth." Life is short, don't worry too much. Instead of spending your days in turmoil, it is better to live happily in comfort.

Nature has always had a way of bragging and showing off what it can do, and you bet, when it does what it does, it does it to the fullest extent! Take a look at these amazing views in Xinjiang Altay, oh my oh my. 😃😃😃 In a lifetime, it’s necessary that one visits this place. Believe me it will take your breath away because it’s just… #newyearadventure #gthatguy1 #xinjiang #altay #winter #cold #2023

🌄【Step into a real-life fairy tale! The May secrets of Altay can no longer stay hidden~】🌄 Guys! Who would've thought!! When the first morning mist drifts over the wooden cabins of Hemu, When wild lilies tiptoe quietly to paint the grasslands green, When the distant snow-capped mountains still wear their silver-white nightcaps, I declare! The early summer romance of Altay has entered full swing 💥 📸【This is what Hemu looks like right now】 ✨ The grasslands are draped in a matcha-colored velvet blanket, dotted with wildflowers like a palette. ✨ Wooden cabin chimneys entwine with morning mist—every snapshot is a scene straight out of *Heidi and Grandpa*. ✨ Snow-capped mountains serve as a backdrop against the blue sky, while the lake crushes clouds into sparkling diamonds. ⚠️ Warning: Your eyes will be enchanted, and your memory cards will be overwhelmed! 📍【Ultimate Guide to Must-Visit Spots】 📍 Location: Hemu, Altay, Xinjiang (Truly God's own playground!) 📅 Date: Taken on May 28 (Now's the perfect time to catch spring's surprises) 🌡️ Weather: 8-18°C, sunny with a touch of romance (Dress in layers—morning coats, midday gauze!) 🎫 Tickets: ¥50 + ¥80 for shuttle service (A fairy-tale entry ticket—worth every penny!) 🌅 Highlight Moments: ⏰ 7:30-9:30 AM: Morning mist pours into the valley like milk—perfect for silhouettes! ⏰ 7:00-9:00 PM: Sunset turns the snow-capped mountains into orange soda—bring your loved one! 🚗【6-Day, 5-Night Relaxing Itinerary】 ✅ Day 1: Fly to Ürümqi → Get pampered like a kid by your airport pickup → Stay at a trendy city hotel ✅ Day 2: Cross the desert highway → Chase a "sea-like" sunset at Ulungur Lake → Overnight in Altay ✅ Day 3: Step into Hemu's fairy-tale village → Stay in a cozy wooden cabin → Collect sunset fragments in the birch forest ✅ Day 4: Hemu morning mist → Light hike around Kanas' Three Bays → Listen to waterbirds whisper by the lake → Stay in Karamay ✅ Day 5: Visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon's "Hidden Gem" → Snap epic cliffside road photos → Return to Ürümqi ✅ Day 6: Head home with stories to tell → Super thoughtful airport drop-off (Don't wanna say goodbye QAQ) 💡【Pro Tips】 ❶ Best spot for morning mist: Near Hemu Bridge—bring a thermos of hot water. ❷ Outfit formula: Long dress + short puffer jacket + combat boots (warm mornings, breezy afternoons). ❸ Must-try food: Hemu's lamb soup and milk wine, plus Ürümqi's famous big plate chicken! ❹ Photo hack: Bring a light-colored scarf—it’s magical when the wind catches it. ✨ "Life shouldn’t be confined by ceilings—go see landscapes without borders." This May, come with me to Altay, Where the grasslands have no ceilings, Let the breeze take your breath, and let time surrender to fairy tales~ 👇🏻👇🏻👇🏻 Tap to unlock your "Fairy-Tale World Entry Ticket" Let’s escape the crowds and immerse in Xinjiang’s tender yet breathtaking beauty!

The hit series "To the Wonder" has recently ignited tourism in Northern Xinjiang's "screensaver-level" landscapes, with visitor numbers surging at filming locations like Kanas and Hemu. The show's breathtaking shots of snow-capped mountains, grasslands, and primitive villages have been hailed by netizens as "every frame wallpaper-worthy," driving a 50% spike in Northern Xinjiang travel searches. Local homestay bookings have doubled, travel agencies launched "same itinerary" tours, and cultural tourism departments capitalized on the trend to promote the region's "healing frontier" image. The series beautifully captures Altay's cultural and natural beauty through delicate cinematography, becoming a classic case of cultural-tourism integration. Li Juan, a contemporary Chinese essayist born in 1979 in Altay, Xinjiang, is renowned for her fresh, unadorned portrayals of nomadic life in Northern Xinjiang. Her award-winning works "To the Wonder" and "Winter Pasture" have won the Lu Xun Literary Prize and People's Literature Award. Filled with wilderness poetry and humor, she's celebrated as "Altay's bard," with her works translated into English, French, German and more, establishing her as a leading figure in China's nonfiction writing scene.

The Garden of the Gods: Kanas Lake reflects colorful forests in its emerald waters, while smoke curls from the chimneys of Hemu Village—autumn like an oil painting, winter like a snow kingdom. The Legend of Eternal Ice and Snow: Explore the "Birthplace of Human Skiing," gliding on traditional fur skis through snow-laden forests. Pastoral Symphony: Witness Kazakh nomadic migrations in summer, with thousands of horses galloping across the grasslands; lie under the starry sky of the Altai Mountains and listen to the wind's song. Wild Wonders: The rugged Koktokay Canyon and the white-sand desert encircling Bai Sha Lake—every frame is a natural rhapsody. 📸 Must-Do Experiences 1. Hike the Three Bays of Kanas: Morning mist shrouds Shenxian Bay, while Moon Bay resembles jade embedded in the valley. 2. Slow Living in Hemu Village: Stay in a wooden cabin, await the morning mist and sunset, and share a bowl of milk tea with the Tuwa people. 3. Sunset at Colorful Beach: Dancing Yardang landforms and golden poplars along the riverbank create a surreal light show, like Mars' surface. 4. Winter Exclusive: Ride a horse-drawn sleigh through frost-covered forests, and capture the magic of water freezing mid-air in the extreme cold. 📌 Travel Tips Best Seasons: September–October for autumn foliage, December–March for snow play, June–August for summer escapes and flower fields. Transport: Recommended to charter a car or self-drive from Urumqi, unlocking desert, forest, and snow-capped mountain vistas along the way. Hidden Gem Note: Baihaba Village requires a border pass; respect nomadic culture—take only memories, leave only footprints. "In the corners of Altay, you’ll find vast landscapes and the warmth of human life." — Set forth, and let the free wind carry away all noise.

Are you ready? Let's embark on this mysterious and beautiful journey to Altay together! From majestic mountains to serene lakes, Altay will absolutely captivate you! Below is the ultimate 5-day, 4-night guide you can't miss—check it out now! ✅ Day 1: Depart from Altay City and head straight to Hemu Village! In the morning, set off excitedly from Altay City and take a car to Burqin County. Along the way, don’t forget to admire the spectacular Altay Mountains! Upon arriving in Burqin, head to Hemu Village to experience its pristine charm. Hemu Village is a settlement of the Mongolian Tuva people, where traditional wooden houses and simple lifestyles will make you feel like you’ve traveled back in time. In the evening, stay at a local guesthouse and enjoy the warm hospitality of the Tuva people—it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience! 🌅 Day 2: Sunrise and Sunset at Kanas Lake Wake up early in the morning to catch the sunrise in Hemu Village—it’s absolutely worth it! Then, set off for the Kanas Scenic Area, where you’ll find stunning natural landscapes like alpine lakes, forests, and grasslands. At noon, take a boat tour of Kanas Lake; the crystal-clear water and surrounding mountain views are breathtaking. In the evening, rest at a hotel in Kanas and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure! 🌄 Day 3: Discover the Traditional Charm of Baihaba Village Continue exploring the Kanas Scenic Area, and don’t miss the Fish-Watching Platform for a panoramic view of Kanas Lake! In the afternoon, head to Baihaba Village, a settlement of the Kazakh people that preserves many traditional ways of life. In the evening, stay at a local guesthouse, enjoy Kazakh hospitality, and savor their delicious food—it’s sure to leave you raving! 🏙️ Day 4: A Cultural Journey in Altay City In the morning, admire the sunrise in Baihaba Village before returning to Altay City. While exploring the city, the Altay City Museum and Birch Forest Park are great options to learn about local history and culture. In the evening, check into a hotel in the city to rest and recharge for the final day of your trip! ✈️ Day 5: Farewell to Altay, Depart with Beautiful Memories! On the last day, enjoy some free time in Altay City in the morning to shop for local specialties and souvenirs, bringing back wonderful memories for yourself and friends. In the afternoon, head to Altay Airport or train station to conclude this delightful Altay adventure. 🍽️ Must-Try Food Recommendations: Lamb, noodles, dairy products: Altay’s cuisine revolves around these, and the flavors will leave you craving more! Roasted whole lamb, hand-pulled rice, milk tea: Be sure to try these local specialties—they’ll give you a true taste of Altay’s unique flavors. 🏡 Accommodation Arrangements: Hemu Village: Choose the old village for a lively and convenient stay, with the viewing platform nearby—it’s a must-visit! Baihaba 300 Homestay: A countryside retreat where nature and art blend seamlessly, with a unique style. Open the window to breathtaking views, as if you’re in a painting. 💡 Transportation Tips: External travel: Altay Airport and train station offer convenient connections to major cities. Local travel: City buses and taxis are readily available, and chartering a car offers even more flexibility! Come to Altay and start your fantasy adventure! Whether it’s natural scenery or cultural experiences, this place will fulfill all your expectations! 🌍✨

If you're still torn between Switzerland and Xinjiang, then I must loudly tell you: Altay is even more beautiful than Switzerland! 😍 Every scene here is intoxicating, as if you are in a fairy tale world! 🌲💧 🌊 Clear lake water The lake water in Altay is crystal clear, like a huge mirror, reflecting the blue sky, white clouds, and the surrounding mountains. Standing by the lake, it seems that time stands still, leaving only this peace and beauty. 💙 ☁️ Azure sky The sky in Altay is always so blue and so pure, as if it is within reach. During the day, the sun shines on the earth, and at night, the starry sky is dazzling. Such a sky makes people want to take a deep breath and feel the purity and beauty of nature. 🌌 🌲 Dense forest The forests of Altay are lush and full of vitality. Strolling along the forest path, breathing the fresh air, and listening to the singing of birds, all worries disappear. Every tree and every leaf here exudes the charm of nature. 🍃 🌡️ Comfortable temperature The temperature in Altay is very comfortable. The summer is cool and pleasant, and although the winter is cold, the snow scenery is breathtaking. No matter what season you come here, you can find your own peace and comfort. ❄️☀️ 🌟 Travel experience You should always go to Xinjiang! The beauty of Altay is the kind of beauty that makes people fall in love at first sight, the kind of beauty that makes people linger. Here, you can let go of all your worries, enjoy the gifts of nature, and feel the baptism of your soul. 💖 📸 Photo spots 1. Kanas Lake: The lake is blue and the reflections are picturesque, making it a great place to take photos! 📸 2. Hemu Village: Wooden houses, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains create a beautiful picture! 🏡 3. Baha Village: Known as the "First Village in the Northwest," the scenery is picturesque and full of exotic charm! 🏡 4. Wucaitan: The colorful rocks shine in the sun, making it super beautiful for taking pictures! 📸 🍴 Food recommendations - Xinjiang barbecue: Tender and delicious, it is a specialty of Xinjiang! 🍖 - Pilaf: The perfect combination of rice and mutton, with a rich taste! 🍚 - Nang: Xinjiang's traditional pasta, crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, is even better with barbecue! 🥖

| Step into a world like an oil painting. Xinjiang is truly amazing! These days, my homepage has been recommending Xinjiang every day, which makes me want to go again! 😭 After going there last year, Altay is still my favorite, especially Hemu and Kanas, which are simply a fairyland! 😍 The weather in Yili wasn't very good when I went last year, but as long as the weather is good in Xinjiang, it will be truly amazing! 🌞 I must go again in May or June if I have the chance! 📅 📸 [Hemu & Kanas beautiful pictures] - p1-8 Hemu: - Highlights: Known as the "Garden of God", the wooden houses, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains here form a beautiful picture, as if you have stepped into a fairy tale world! 🏡🌾 - Recommended reason: The mist in the morning and the sunset in the evening, every frame is a blockbuster! 📸 - p9-17 Kanas: - Highlights: Known as the "Oriental Switzerland", the lake water in Kanas is as blue as jade, surrounded by green mountains and forests, so beautiful that it is breathtaking! 💧🌲 - Recommended reason: Whether it is the reflection on the lake or the morning mist in the mountains, it is an excellent place to take pictures and check in! 📸 🌿 [Xinjiang travel experience] - Summer on the grassland: - Highlights: The grasslands of Xinjiang are lush green in summer, with herds of cattle and sheep, as if you are in a paradise! 🐑🌾 - Recommended reason: Feel the tranquility and beauty of nature, and your mood will be instantly relaxed! 😌 - The world is a wilderness: - Highlights: The vastness and magnificence of Xinjiang make people feel the breadth and freedom of the world! 🌍 - Recommended reason: Here, you can fully enjoy the gifts of nature and feel the cleansing of your soul! 🌿 👀 [Travel insights] - The eyes are in heaven, and nothing is as good as seeing it with your own eyes: - Highlights: The beauty of Xinjiang can only be truly felt when you see it with your own eyes! 😍 - Recommended reason: Neither photos nor videos can fully convey the beauty of Xinjiang. Only by experiencing it yourself can you truly feel it! 💖 📅 [Second brush plan] - May and June: - Highlights: Xinjiang in this season has a pleasant climate and blooming grassland flowers, making it the best time to travel! 🌸 - Recommended reason: Avoid the peak tourist season and enjoy the more tranquil and pure beauty of Xinjiang! 🌿

🌲【Altay Travel Guide】🌲——"God's Private Reserve" Budget-Friendly Edition Introduction: Have you heard Altay is where deities secretly hide their treasures? Grasslands, snow mountains, and lakes all packaged into a "natural mystery box," with surprises at every turn! This guide cures "decision paralysis" and helps you experience luxury on a coffee budget 📸 Must-visit attractions (with bonus social media captions) 1. Kanas Lake How to enjoy: Pretend to search for the lake monster, but end up questioning your existence due to the blue waters. Recommended: hiking or shuttle bus (choose the latter to save money, since legs aren't perpetual motion machines). Humorous line: "Didn't see the monster, but my wallet got devoured by the scenery." 2. Hemu Village How to enjoy: Climb the viewing platform in the morning to capture the mist, and in the evening, squat in front of wooden cabins to pet the village's free-range "civil servants" (cattle, horses, sheep). Fun fact: The dogs here pose better than social media influencers, with perfect cooperation. 3. Five-Colored Beach How to enjoy: Go after 5 PM when the sunset gives the rocks a "blush," and every casual shot becomes a geological-level beauty filter. Quip: "These rocks are more rebellious than my paint palette at home." 4. Keketuohai How to enjoy: Hiking or horseback riding (Horse: "Are you getting on or not? If not, I'm clocking out"). Truth: There's no sea here! The Kazakh name means "green forest" – don't be fooled, humanities majors. 🍖 Foodie Radar (with weight warnings) 1. Breakfast power move Milk tea + Baursak (Kazakh fried dough): Fill up for 5 yuan, the salty milk tea will make you question life but becomes addictive. 2. Hardcore staples Hand-pulled rice: Carrots and yellow turnips are undercover agents, lamb is the real star. Naren (lamb noodle sheets): The Kazakh version of "mom's cooking," best paired with Piyazi (onions) – prevents colds with the side effect of bad breath. 3. Roadside treasures Grilled pike (Kanas specialty): Ugly but criminally delicious, wipe your mouth after eating or cats will chase you for three blocks. 🛏️ Accommodation Gems (Budget-Friendly Options) 1. Hostel style: Beds in Hemu/Kanas village hostels for 50-80 yuan, downside is duetting with snorers. 2. Guesthouse option: During off-season, bargain down to 150 yuan for a cabin, Wi-Fi is hit-or-miss, but starry skies come free. 3. Hidden skill: Arrange to stay in a yurt with herders (50 yuan per person), downside is possibly being awakened by sheep licking your face. 💡 Insider Tips 1. Transportation wisdom: Buses are 80% cheaper than private cars, but be mentally prepared to share with chickens, ducks, and geese. 2. Clothing philosophy: Don't laugh at people wearing down jackets in June, Altay's weather is more unpredictable than an ex's heart. 3. Money-saving code: Say "Rakhmet" (thank you) to herders, might earn you a free bowl of yogurt. Final punch: "In Altay, my wallet got thinner, my camera got fatter, and my social media friends got jealous—totally worth it!"

⚠️ **I. Pre-trip Preparation** 🎈* **Best time to visit:** June to October is the best travel season, with the most beautiful grasslands in July and August, and golden poplar forests in September and October. ✈️* **Transportation:** It is recommended to fly directly to Urumqi, and take a train or rent a car within the province (book in advance). ❗❗* **Documents:** Carry your ID card with you. Border areas (such as Kanas) require a border pass. 🌸* **Clothing:** The temperature difference between day and night is large, so bring a windbreaker, sun protection clothing, and comfortable sneakers. 👉* **Other:** Sunscreen, sunglasses, moisturizers, common medicines, and a small amount of cash. ❣️ **II. Must-Visit Attractions** 🌳* **Northern Xinjiang Loop:** 💞 * **Kanas Lake:** A fairyland on earth, with stunning colorful forests in autumn. 🌴 * **Hemu Village:** A Tuva village with picturesque morning mist and cooking smoke. 🎈 * **Sayram Lake:** "The last tear of the Atlantic Ocean," with azure blue waters. * **Southern Xinjiang Customs:** ❣️ * **Kashgar Old City:** The center of Uyghur culture, with maze-like streets full of exotic charm. 🍃 * **Pamir Plateau:** Muztagh Ata, Panlong Ancient Road, and magnificent plateau scenery. 💐 * **Taklamakan Desert:** Cross the desert highway and experience vastness and solitude. 🌾 **III. Featured Experiences** 🐏* **Cuisine:** Grilled mutton skewers, dapanji (big plate chicken), hand-grabbed rice, nang (flatbread), cantaloupe (summer), and grapes (autumn). 💃🏻* **Folk customs:** Watch the opening ceremony in Kashgar, shop at the bazaar, and enjoy Uyghur song and dance. 👣* **Hiking:** Light hiking in Kanas and the Xia Tower Ancient Road to experience nature up close. ⚠️ **IV. Precautions** 🕰️* **Time difference:** Xinjiang uses Beijing time, but the actual schedule is 2 hours later. Restaurants serve lunch after 2pm. 🌸* **Safety:** The public security is good, but avoid going to remote areas alone late at night. 🌾* **Respect customs:** Do not make noise in mosques, and do not take photos of locals at will. ❗* **Environmental protection:** Take your trash with you and protect the fragile ecology. 🌴 **V. Reference Itinerary** 🌵* **7 days in Northern Xinjiang:** Urumqi - Tianshan Tianchi - Koktokay - Kanas - Hemu - Ghost City - Sayram Lake - Yining. ☘️* **5 days in Southern Xinjiang:** Kashgar - Karakul Lake - Taxkorgan - Golden Poplar Forest - Desert Highway - Hotan. 💐🌸 **Tips:** Xinjiang is vast, so it is recommended to focus on either Northern or Southern Xinjiang for in-depth travel. Renting a car or joining a small group is more flexible, and book accommodations in advance (especially during peak season).

🌟 Xinjiang Altay In-depth Travel Guide 🏔️ (Fairytale Border Town + Stunning Secret Realm) 🎯 Must-See Highlights ✔️ Kanas Lake, the "Garden of God" 💧 ✔️ Hemu Village, the most beautiful village in China 🏡 ✔️ Baihaba, the No. 1 village in Northwest China ✨ ✔️ Grassland Stone City of the Golden Ranch 🗿 🌞 Best Seasons 🌸 May–June: Wildflowers covering the mountains + herdsmen migration 🍁 September–October: Forests of vibrant colors + golden period for photography ❄️ December–March: Ice and snow fairytale world (ski resort) 📍 Must-Visit Attractions 1️⃣ Kanas Scenic Area - Check in at the Three Bays (Fairy Bay/Moon Bay/Sleeping Dragon Bay) 🚢 - Climb to Fish Viewing Pavilion for a panoramic view (1,068 steps) - Experience a visit to a Tuva family 🎵 2️⃣ Hemu Village - Stay in a log cabin and watch the morning mist 🌫️ - Ride a horse to Beauty Peak 🐎 - Skiing in winter ⛷️ 3️⃣ Koktokay - Hike the God Bell Mountain Canyon 🥾 - Explore the Meritorious Mine Pit ⚒️ 4️⃣ Wucaitan (Colorful Beach) - Yadan landform spectacle at sunset 🌅 🗓️ Classic Itinerary ✅ 3-Day Essential Tour D1: Ürümqi → Kanas Lake D2: Kanas Three Bays → Fish Viewing Pavilion → Hemu D3: Hemu Morning Mist → Return trip ✅ 5-Day In-Depth Tour D1-2: Kanas D3: Baihaba D4: Hemu D5: Koktokay 🚗 Transportation Guide ✈️ Main transportation: - Fly to Altay Snow Capital Airport/Kanas Airport 🚗 Local transportation: - Chartered car (approx. CNY 800–1,000/day) - Scenic area bus (Kanas ↔ Hemu CNY 60) 🏠 Accommodation Recommendations • Hemu/Kanas: Characteristic log cabins (book in advance!) • Burqin: Russian-style hotel • Winter options: Jikepulin Ski Resort ⛷️ 🍢 Food Check-In 🔥 Must-eat list: - Altay barbecue 🍖 - Kazakh Baursaki + milk tea 🥛 - Cold water fish feast 🐟 - Homemade yogurt + wild strawberry jam 🍓 💡 Useful Tips 1️⃣ Border pass: Required in advance for Baihaba 2️⃣ Large temperature difference: Bring a jacket even in summer 🧥 3️⃣ Photography: Bring a polarizing filter and telephoto lens 📷 4️⃣ Respect local ethnic minority customs ❄️ Special Winter Experiences • Horse-drawn sled through the forest and snowfield 🛷 • Snowmobile through the Hemu River • Experience fur skis 🎿 📅 Suggested duration: 5–7 days (escape the summer heat in June–August/enjoy the autumn scenery in September–October) 💰 Budget reference: CNY 1,500–3,000/person/day (including chartered car and accommodation) Come and encounter China's most beautiful autumn colors and snow scenery! ✨

It is praised by National Geographic as "God's palette falling into the world!" Venture into the epic scroll of northern Xinjiang. Snowy mountains caress the Milky Way, and pastoral songs ripple through the forest. This is the secret realm where Genghis Khan's iron hooves once trod, and the ancient path where Kazakh herdsmen migrate. In autumn, the birch trees are gilded; in winter, the powder snow becomes poetry; and on summer nights, the Milky Way falls into the blue of Kanas. Some always say "Altay is too far," until I lay in a wooden house by the Hemu River and watched the morning mist drift over the mountain ridge— Only then did I realize this is the ultimate romance of northern Xinjiang 👉 Quickly save this legendary 3-day, 2-night guide! Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang 🎫 Kanas scenic area pass: CNY 230/person (including Kanas + Hemu + Baihaba + shuttle bus) ✈️ Fly to "Kanas Airport" or "Altay Airport." During peak season, it is recommended to charter a car/drive yourself (the scenery along the way is comparable to a Nordic road trip movie). 🌲 Legendary Spots 1. Kanas Lake: Chase the legend of the "lake monster," take a boat to explore the heart of the lake, the milky green lake water reflects the glacier, and encounter squirrels leaping among the branches while hiking on the boardwalk. 2. Hemu Village: The fairytale wooden houses are surrounded by birch forests. Ride a horse to Haden platform to wait for the morning mist, and the Milky Way at night falls on the chimneys of the Tuva people's roofs. 3. Moon Bay: The S-shaped river bend resembles God's brushstrokes. Take aerial photos when the autumn forests are in full color, and capture stunning shots when the morning mist has not yet dissipated. 4. Baihaba Village: The "First Village in the Northwest" on the Sino-Kazakh border. In autumn, the pastures are like overturned paint cans. A border pass must be obtained in advance. 5. Keketuohai Ski Resort: Limited to winter! A powder snow paradise. Enjoy skiing on untouched wild snow from November to March, and experience an adrenaline rush with a helicopter skiing experience. 6. Ulungur Lake Winter Fishing: Watch fishermen chisel ice and cast nets at minus 30℃. Feel the shock of the ancient fishing and hunting civilization as thousands of fresh fish leap out of the ice. 7. Xiaohei Lake Hiking: Traverse primitive forests and swamps, encounter the summer pastures of Kazakh herdsmen, and listen to wolf howls while camping under the stars. 🍂 Seasonal Itineraries 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟏: Kanas Lake Soul Awakening Jiadengyu Ticket Station → Shuttle bus to Kanas Lake → Boat trip to explore the mystery/Lakeside boardwalk → Climb to the Fish Viewing Platform for a panoramic view → Stay in an old village wooden house (starry sky hot pot + Wusu beer) 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟐: Hemu's Slow Motion 6:30 AM Chase the morning mist at Haden Platform → Ride a horse through the birch forest → Visit a Tuva family to drink milk tea and listen to Chuwuer → Take autumn love songs at Hemu Bridge → Stay overnight in a riverside homestay to watch the Milky Way 𝐃𝐚𝐲𝟑: Border and Wilderness Kanas → Take photos of the boundary monument in Baihaba Village → Hike through the Sino-Kazakh Grand Canyon → Take photos of the Danxia sunset on the way back via Wucaitan ⛄️ Winter Hidden Edition (November–March): Altay General Mountain powder snow carnival → Keketuohai Diamond Road downhill → Ulungur Lake ice sheep grabbing competition → Horse-drawn sled through the rime forest 📌 Survival Tips - Seasonal Game: Late September–early October (peak autumn colors), June (mountain flowers in full bloom), January–February (snow wonderland + golden skiing season). - Accommodation Battle: Book Hemu Village wooden houses 1 month in advance during peak season! The "Century-Old House" with snow-capped mountains visible from the window and the "Yuehu Hotel" in the Kanas scenic area are hidden gems. - Food Guide: Hand-grabbed mutton with piyazi, baursaki dipped in wild strawberry jam, Hemu Bridgehead clay pot hot pot, avoid the "sky-high mixed noodles" in the scenic area fast food kiosks. - Dress Code: Autumn = windbreaker + fleece liner, winter = thickened down jacket + snow boots + ear-covering hat, sunscreen + sunglasses are essential (ultraviolet rays are invisible killers). - Transportation Alert: Self-driving is prohibited in the scenic area! Shuttle buses require queuing for 1 hour or more. Be sure to recognize new J license plates for chartered cars, and install anti-skid chains in the snow season. - Hidden Gameplay: Find herdsmen to experience sheep herding (autumn), book ancient fur ski making, and squat in the middle of the night to guard the Kanas Lake "monster" fluorescence (requires explosive luck). "The corners of Altay hide the earth's original romance." Here, the wind is free and time is soft. Wait for a horse to shatter the Milky Way, wait for a snow to dye your hair white, wait for a soul resonance with the wilderness 🏔️ (Image suggestion: Hemu morning mist wooden house/Moon Bay aerial photography/Winter fishing of ten thousand fish leaping)

🌄 Must-See Highlights of Hemu Village • Haden Viewing Platform: Wake up early and hike to the viewing platform to overlook the morning mist and sunrise of the entire Hemu Village, and capture the tranquility and beauty of the village under the first rays of sunlight. • Birch Forest: In autumn, the golden birch forest is an excellent backdrop for photography and a great place for hiking and leisurely walks. • Hemu River: Walk along the river, feel the harmony between the clear river water and the surrounding mountain scenery, and experience the tranquility of nature. • Wooden House Tuva Village: Visit the traditional Tuva wooden houses in Hemu Village to learn about their lifestyle and culture. 🏡 Accommodation Recommendations • Hemu Nuowa Wooden House: Located in the center of Hemu Old Village, close to the viewing platform and Hemu Bridge, it offers comfortable accommodation and local specialties. (I live in the new village, the overall environment of the new village is better, and the accommodation conditions are better) 🍢 Food Exploration • Local Mutton: Try local grilled mutton skewers, mutton soup, etc., and feel the deliciousness of Xinjiang cuisine. • Hand-grabbed Rice: A Xinjiang specialty not to be missed, with a fragrant aroma and unique flavor. • Fresh Yogurt: Locally made yogurt with a pure taste is a good choice for relieving the summer heat. 🚌 Transportation Guide • Shuttle Bus: Since private cars are restricted from entering Hemu Village, tourists need to take a shuttle bus at the entrance of the scenic spot to enter the village. • Walking Exploration: The attractions in the village are suitable for walking or horse riding, and enjoy a slow-paced travel experience. 📝 Precautions • Ticket Reservation: Please make a ticket purchase reservation through official channels in advance to avoid crowded tickets during peak seasons. • Keep Warm and Sun Protection: There is a large temperature difference between morning and evening in Hemu Village, so you need to bring enough warm clothes; the sun is strong during the day, sunscreen and sunglasses are essential. • Respect Local Culture: When visiting Tuva villages, respect the living habits and cultural traditions of local residents. 📸 Photography Tips • Morning Mist Shooting: Morning is the best time to shoot the morning mist in Hemu Village, remember to reserve a spot in advance. • Starry Sky Photography: Hemu Village has less light pollution at night, making it an excellent place to photograph the starry sky. (I didn’t take it, it was cloudy ⛅)

The stunning scenery of Altay is indeed trending once again! This secret realm located in northern Xinjiang is as beautiful as a painting in all seasons. Recently, it may be going viral again due to the gorgeous summer, the colorful early autumn, or the snowy wonderland of winter. Whether it's Kanas Lake, Hemu's morning mist, or Koktokay's canyon, every frame is like nature's overturned palette. **Why does Altay always become so popular?** 1. **Kanas Lake**: The legendary "Garden of the Gods," the lake water changes in blue-green hues with the light. With the addition of Crouching Dragon Bay and Moon Bay, every photo you take is wallpaper-worthy. 2. **Hemu Village**: Known as "China's most beautiful village," the forests are dyed in layers in autumn, and the snow-covered chimneys in winter are like a fairy tale world. 3. **Koktokay**: A combination of geological wonders and shepherd stories, with canyons, streams, and golden poplar forests, both shocking and healing. 4. **Winter Limited**: Altay's snow season lasts for half a year. The powder snow in the birthplace of human skiing and the snow mushroom houses in Hemu directly bring you back to Frozen.

Sisters, please charge forward for this little Xinjiang group… Either read or travel, the body and soul are always on the road 🔆Xinjiang is a travel destination in the hearts of countless people! 🌈The poetic and picturesque Kanas Hemu in Altay 🌊The eternal tranquility of Sayram Lake 🍀The green grass of Nalati Grassland... 🏔️One day through the Duku Highway of Tianshan "Four Seasons" ❤️Everything makes people yearn for it, and want to travel to Xinjiang right away ㅤ 🚗Travel itinerary: Urumqi - Northern Xinjiang - Altay - Kanas Hemu - Yili Grassland - Sailimu Lake - Duku Highway ⌚Play time: 10 days 💰Required expenses: starting from 5k (transportation fee, accommodation, tickets, shuttle bus, hotel breakfast, driver-guide service and food and accommodation) 🔥Recommendation reason: Small groups of 1-6 people, carpooling for young people, priority for peers, business travel, pure play without shopping, free depth ⭕【Attractions】⭕ Urumqi Altay Kanas Lake Hemu Village Nalati Grassland Duku Highway Yili Sailimu Lake Huocheng Lavender 💡【Highlights】💡 ✅24-hour butler-style airport pick-up ✈️service, daily tour groups, 🚗small group tours! ✅7-seater commercial vehicle 🚙Safe and comfortable, peers are preferred ✅Reliable driver and guide, pure fun, no extra charge ✅Accommodation: Selected comfortable and safe hotels throughout the trip🏨 ✅Tickets: Tickets for attractions and shuttle bus included✔️ ㅤ ⚠️【Special Reminder】⚠️ ① Documents: ID card🆔 ②Personal care: anti-frost 🪞 personal toiletries ③Clothes: protective clothing, trousers👖jacket, flat shoes, sunglasses😎 ④Others: charging cables, power banks, masks, umbrellas, motion sickness items, etc.

📍Detailed Location Altay Prefecture is located in the northern part of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, bordering Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia. It sits at the southern foot of the Altai Mountains and the northern edge of the Junggar Basin. Key attractions are distributed as follows: • Kanas Scenic Area: Located in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, including Kanas Lake, Fish Viewing Platform, and Tuva villages. • Hemu Village: Located near Kanas Lake in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, known as "China's most beautiful village." • Keketuohai National Geopark: Located in Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, famous for its No. 3 Mining Vein and Irtysh River Grand Canyon. • Baihaba Village: Located in Tiereketi Township, Habahe County, Altay Prefecture, known as the "First Village of Northwest China." 🚗Transportation Guide • External Transportation: • By Air: Direct flights to Altay Xuedu Airport are limited. It's recommended to fly to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport first, then transfer to Altay. • By Train: Take trains K9735, Y965, etc. from Urumqi Station to Altay Station. The journey takes about 14 hours and costs 105-280 yuan. • Self-driving: Routes G216 and S21 from Urumqi to Altay are suitable for self-driving, but be cautious of driving safety during snow season. • Internal Transportation: • Taxi: Taxi fares within Altay city are about 20-30 yuan. • Charter car: Recommended for traveling between scenic spots, costing about 800-1000 yuan per day for a 5-seater car. • Direct shuttle buses: Some scenic areas provide direct shuttle services, such as from Burqin to Kanas. 🌟Must-do Activities 1. Kanas Scenic Area • Kanas Lake: Take a boat tour or hike through the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Dragon Bay) to experience the beauty of "God's palette." • Fish Viewing Platform: Climb 1,068 steps to overlook the entire Kanas Lake. Wildflowers cover the mountains in summer, while colorful forests dominate in autumn. • Tuva Home Visit: Experience the intangible cultural heritage of Sur instrument performance, taste milk tea and Borsok (fried dough), and experience Tuva culture. 2. Hemu Village • Sunrise Viewing Platform: Ride a horse or walk to Haden Platform to overlook the village shrouded in morning mist, like a fairyland. • Birch Forest Hiking: Walk through golden tunnels in autumn or enter a snowy mushroom fairy tale world in winter. • Bonfire Party: Participate in bonfire parties at night, dance with locals, and experience Kazakh customs. 3. Keketuohai National Geopark • No. 3 Mining Vein: Explore the "meritorious mine" of the Republic and learn about its historical contributions. • Irtysh River Grand Canyon: Admire China's only river flowing into the Arctic Ocean, with stunning autumn colors in the canyon. 4. Baihaba Village • First Village of Northwest China: Visit after obtaining a border permit, view Kazakhstan's mountains from afar, and feel the tranquility of the border. 5. Other Special Activities • Winter Activities: Horse-drawn sleighs, water-splashing ice formation, snowmobile forest crossing, and other ice and snow activities. • Folk Experience: Participate in Altay horse racing festivals, "girl chasing" and other folk activities to experience Kazakh culture. 💰Average Cost • Admission Fees: • Kanas Scenic Area: About 230 yuan (including shuttle bus). • Hemu Village: About 102 yuan (including shuttle bus). • Keketuohai National Geopark: About 90 yuan (including shuttle bus). • Baihaba Village: About 50 yuan (including border permit application fee). • Dining Costs: • Local specialties such as mutton soup, baked naan, and naren cost about 50-100 yuan per meal per person. • Accommodation Costs: • Economy hotels: About 200-400 yuan per night. • Luxury resorts: About 800-1500 yuan per night. • Wooden cabins in scenic areas: Need to be booked in advance during peak season, prices may double. • Total: Depending on personal spending habits, the average cost is about 1000-2000 yuan per person (excluding transportation costs to and from Urumqi). 📌Small Tips • Clothing Suggestions: Altay has large temperature differences between day and night. Prepare thick clothes, hats, sunglasses, and sun protection clothing. In winter, also prepare thermal underwear, down jackets, and snow boots. • Respect Customs: Respect local ethnic minority customs, such as not eating pork or mentioning taboo topics. Do not mention pigs or pork in front of ethnic minorities. • Safety Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking in scenic areas. Follow professional instructor guidance for activities such as horseback riding and snowmobiling. • Shopping Suggestions: Souvenirs in scenic areas are relatively expensive. It's recommended to shop at markets in Altay City. Also, be careful to identify product quality and avoid purchasing inferior products. • Border Permit Application: A border permit is required to visit border areas such as Baihaba Village. It's recommended to apply in advance at Habahe County or the Kanas Transfer Center. • Time Difference Adjustment: Xinjiang is 2 hours behind Beijing time. Adjust your schedule accordingly to avoid affecting your trip. • Eco-friendly Travel: The ecological environment in Altay is fragile. Please follow scenic area regulations, do not litter, and protect the natural environment.