In September and October, Altay, Xinjiang's most stunning golden autumn paradise.
Located at the northernmost tip of Xinjiang, Altay borders Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia. Home to Xinjiang's most pristine and untouched natural landscapes, Altay is at its most beautiful from 9 to 10.Kanasof the multicolored forest canopy,Hemu VillageMorning mist and cooking smokeBaihaba VillageThe tranquil borderlands together form the most classic autumn travel route in northern Xinjiang. This article will provide you with a detailed introduction.Travel to Altay in 9 and 10Itinerary planning, attraction guides, and practical tips to help you plan a perfect autumn trip to Kanas.
Top 3 Autumn Attractions in Altay
Kanas Lake — God's Back Garden
KanasOne of the most famous attractions in Altay, known as "God's Backyard." From 9 to 10, Kanas reaches its peak beauty each year. The lake glows jade-green, while surrounding birch and larch forests turn golden and fiery red, their reflections creating a breathtaking panorama.
Must-see attractions:
• Moon BayKanas' most famous bend, shaped like a crescent moon, offers breathtaking autumn reflections.
• Fish Observation DeckClimb 1068 steps to overlook the entire Kanas Lake, where vibrant autumn foliage unfolds in breathtaking splendor.
• Kanas Lake Shore: Stroll along the lakeside boardwalk to immerse yourself in the harmony of autumn hues and lake waters.
Best viewing time:From 9/20 to 10/10, leaves reach their peak color transformation, offering the richest variety of hues.
Hemu Village — China's Most Beautiful Countryside in Autumn
Hemu VillageA Tuva settlement known as "China's Most Beautiful Village." From 9 to 10, Hemu is often shrouded in morning mist, with smoke rising from chimneys. Golden birch forests shimmer under the sunlight.Heimu RiverCalmly flowing, it forms a serene and beautiful pastoral scene.
Must-try experiences:
• Morning view from the observation deck (arrive by 6:30)
Stay in a Tuva wooden hut and experience local life
• Ride through the birch forest
• Taste Tuva milk tea and hand-grabbed meat
Baihaba Village — Border Charm of the Northwest's First Village
Baihaba VillageLocated on the border between China and Kazakhstan, this place is known as "The First Village of Northwest China." From 9 to 10, the golden birch forests of Baihaba contrast beautifully with snow-capped mountains. The serene and majestic frontier landscape inspires awe. A border permit is required to visit; however, this restriction helps preserve its pristine and untouched natural beauty.
Important Notes:To visit Baihaba, obtain a border pass in Burqin or Habareq. Bring your ID card with you; prepare it in advance.
Other Must-Visit Attractions in Altay This Autumn
Wucaitan
WucaitanLocated in Burqin County, this Yadan landform sits along the Irtysh River. From 9 to 10, sunset intensifies the vibrant colors of the Five-Color Beach, while the birch forest on the opposite bank turns yellow, creating a striking contrast with the colorful rock layers.
Keketuohai
KeketuohaiNational Geoparks are renowned for their unique geological landforms. From 9 to 10, the canyon walls along the Ertix River Valley in Keketuohai stand out even more vividly against the autumn colors, with iconic landmarks such as God's Bell Mountain and Husband-and-Wife Peak clearly visible.
Burqin
BurqinThis town is a must-visit stop on the way to Kanas. The Hebei Night Market in Burqin offers delicious local specialties, including grilled grayling, kvass, and yogurt—don't miss them!
Autumn Premium Itineraries for Altay
Altay · Drunken Autumn 6-Day Tour
6 days of compact yet fulfilling travel, covering core attractions like Kanas, Hemu, and Five-Color Beach. Ideal for travelers with limited time who want to experience the autumn beauty of Northern Xinjiang in depth.Learn more →
Trip Highlights:Kanas Lake In-Depth Tour, Hemu Village Morning Mist Experience, and Wucangtan Sunset Photography
Altay · Autumn Hunt 7-Day Tour (Baihaba Edition)
7 days for a more relaxed pace, with added border town experience in Baihaba Village. Ideal for travelers seeking an authentic border culture experience.Learn more →
Trip Highlights:Baihaba Village Border Experience, Kanas Panorama, Hemu Morning Mist, Wucailan Sunset
Altay Autumn Safari 7-Day Tour (Kanas Edition)
7-day immersive tour of Kanas Scenic Area with extended stay, ideal for photographers and in-depth travelers.Learn more →
Trip Highlights:Kanas In-Depth Tour, Sunrise at Fish Viewing Platform, Moon Bay Morning Photography, Hemu Morning Mist
North Xinjiang Autumn 8-Day Tour (Luxury / High-End)
8 days to fully cover Altay's autumn highlights, including Kanas, Hemu, Baihaba, Sayram Lake, and more. Choose between the Light Luxury or Ultra-Luxury version to suit your preferences.Luxury Edition Details → Luxury Edition Details →
Autumn in Northern Xinjiang: 9-Day Tour
9 days to fully cover the most stunning autumn destinations in Northern Xinjiang, with a more relaxed itinerary for travelers seeking an immersive experience.Learn more →
Altai Autumn Weather and Outfit Guide
Weather in 9
Temperatures in Altay during 9 range from approximately 5°C to 20°C. Early 9: daytime around 15-20°C, nighttime around 5-10°C; late 9: daytime around 10-15°C, nighttime around 0-5°C. Expect significant temperature swings between day and night, so please prepare warm clothing.
Weather in 10
Temperatures in Altay continue to drop in 10, with daytime highs around 5-15°C and nighttime lows possibly reaching -5°C to 5°C. The Kanas Scenic Area may temporarily close due to snowfall in late 10; please monitor official announcements.
Outfit suggestions
9 Month:Wear a lightweight down jacket or a heavy coat over a sweater or fleece. Long pants are essential. Bring waterproof, slip-resistant hiking boots. We recommend carrying a hat and scarf.
10 Month:Heavy down jacket or shell jacket with fleece liner, thermal underwear, thick sweater. Hat, scarf, and gloves are essential. Waterproof, non-slip hiking boots.
General:Sunscreen (SPF50+), sunglasses, moisturizing skincare products, and lip balm.
Things to know before traveling in Altay during autumn
Transportation
How to get here:Fly to Altay Seyin Airport or Burqin Kanas Airport, or take a private car or self-drive from Urumqi (approximately 600 km, 1.5–2 hours).
Park Transportation:Shuttle buses are required within Kanas Scenic Area, and you must transfer to a shuttle bus to enter Hemu Village. We recommend purchasing shuttle bus tickets in advance.
Traffic Conditions:Roads in the northern mountainous region may be temporarily closed due to snowfall in 10 month. Check road conditions before departure.
Accommodation Suggestions
The Kanas Scenic Area features wooden cabins and tent camps, while Hemu Village offers traditional Tuva wooden houses and homestays. 9 to 10 is the peak season; we recommend booking 1-2 weeks in advance. Although the wooden cabins in Hemu Village are modest, they offer a unique experience worth trying.
Photography tips
Best time to shoot:6:00-8:00 (morning mist, sunrise); 18:00-20:00 (sunset, golden light).
Recommended Gear:Wide-angle lens (landscapes), telephoto lens (details), tripod (morning mist and starry skies), polarizing filter (reduce water glare).
Important Notes:It's chilly in the morning. Keep your camera warm and monitor battery life.
Security Notice
Border Permit:A border pass is required to visit Baihaba. You can obtain one in Burqin or Habahe.
Altitude Sickness:Kanas sits at an elevation of approximately 1300–1900 meters. Altitude sickness is unlikely, but individuals with weak constitutions should take precautions.
Wildlife:The Altai Mountains region is home to wildlife such as bears and wolves. Do not enter undeveloped areas alone.
Fire Protection:Autumn is dry; open flames are prohibited in forested areas.
Altay Autumn Travel Budget Guide
6-Day Autumn Tour:Starting at ¥4000 per person
7 Days of Autumn Hunting:Starting at 3400-3600 per person
8 Day Pasture Autumn Outing:Starting at 3800-4200 per person
9-Day Autumn Tour:Starting at ¥5600 per person
The above price is a reference for group tours, including transportation, accommodation, tickets, meals, and more. Visit our site for details on additional itineraries.Route ListPage, or viewTravel GuideGet more travel tips. For personalized itinerary planning, feel free to contact us.Xinjiang China International Travel ServiceTravel Advisor.
Conclusion
From 9 to 10, Altay in Xinjiang transforms into the most stunning golden autumn sanctuary. Experience the vibrant foliage of Kanas, the morning mist and cooking smoke in Hemu Village, and the serene border atmosphere of Baihaba Village. We hope this guide helps you plan a perfect trip.Autumn Trip to AltayCreate unforgettable autumn memories.
