Introduction: Altay – The Pinnacle of Northern Xinjiang's Scenery
If the northern region of Xinjiang represents the essence of its natural beauty, Altay stands as its pinnacle. Home to top-tier national scenic areas like Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, and Keketuohai, each destination is a dream spot for photographers and nature lovers. With the recent surge in popularity of the TV series "My Altay," this land has become the ultimate "poetry and distance" in the hearts of countless travelers. This guide highlights the ten must-visit attractions in Altay to help you plan an unforgettable journey.
1. Kanas Lake (Must-Visit: ★★★★★)
Kanas is Altay's, and indeed northern Xinjiang's, premier destination. Its mysterious color-changing lake, the graceful Three Bays, and the majestic Fish Viewing Terrace form a complete natural wonder system. We recommend 2-3 days: Day 1 explores the Three Bays (Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, Sleeping Dragon Bay) plus lakeside boardwalk hiking; Day 2 features climbing the Fish Viewing Terrace for panoramic lake views + boat tour; Day 3 is optional to visit Baihaba Village. Peak beauty occurs in autumn (late 9 to early 10), while winter's rime ice and blue ice are equally stunning. Entrance ticket + shuttle bus: approx. 250 CNY/person.
II. Hemu Village (Must-Visit: ★★★★★)
Hemu, known as "God's Private Reserve," is one of China's six most beautiful ancient villages. Wooden cabins of the Tuva people are nestled among birch forests. In the morning, cooking smoke rises gently, blending with the mist and sunrise to create a dreamlike scene. We recommend staying 1-2 nights for an immersive experience: watch the sunrise and morning mist from the viewing platform in the early hours, stroll or horseback ride through the birch groves during the day, and gaze at the brilliant Milky Way at night. Admission plus shuttle bus: 102 yuan per person. The golden autumn birch forest is a paradise for photographers.
3. Keketuohai (Must-Visit: ★★★★☆)
Keketuohai Scenic Area centers on the Ertix Grand Canyon, which stretches over 70 kilometers. Its两岸 granite peaks boast unique formations, with sights like God's Bell Mountain and the Flying Rock leaving visitors in awe. This site also houses Mine No. 3, a testament to the glorious history of China's mining industry. In autumn, golden birch forests contrast with turquoise rivers, earning it the title of one of "the most beautiful fall colors in Northern Xinjiang." Admission + shuttle bus: 90 CNY/person; half a day is recommended.
4. Wucantai (Must-Visit: ★★★★☆)
Wucaitan, located in Burqin County, is traversed by the Irtysh River. Its north bank features colorful Yadan landforms, while the south bank boasts dense poplar forests. At sunset, the rock formations display a spectacular array of red, yellow, green, and white hues. Admission is 45 CNY per person; we recommend visiting in the evening for an approximately 2-hour tour. Note that mosquitoes are extremely prevalent—please wear long sleeves and pants and apply insect repellent.
5. Baihaba Village (Must-Visit Rating: ★★★★☆)
Baihaba, known as "Northwest's First Village," sits on the China-Kazakhstan border and is the most northwestern village in China. It preserves the traditional lifestyles of the Tuva and Kazakh peoples, offering a quieter, more authentic experience with far fewer visitors than Hemu. The entrance fee and shuttle bus are included in the Kanas ticket package; allocate half a day for your visit. A border pass must be obtained in advance at the Kanas Transfer Center.
6. Baisha Lake (Must-Visit Rating: ★★★☆☆)
Baisa Lake is located in the 185 regiment of Altay. Nestled amidst a desert, it features crystal-clear waters surrounded by white sand dunes, creating a unique desert-lake landscape. With its pristine water and soft, rolling sand ridges, this lesser-known gem in Altay offers a serene escape. Entrance fee: 30 CNY per person. Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours. Ideal for self-driving travelers exploring the region.
7. Ulungur Lake (Must-Visit Rating: ★★★☆☆)
Wulungu Lake is Xinjiang's second-largest fishery base, covering an area of 753 square kilometers. Its Golden Coast features fine sandy beaches perfect for swimming and water play in summer, while the spectacular winter ice fishing festival offers a unique opportunity to experience northern Xinjiang's fishing culture. Admission is free; we recommend allocating half a day. Fuhai County is famous for its fish cuisine—be sure to try a full fish banquet.
8. Jiangjun Mountain Ski Resort (Must-Visit Rating: ★★★☆☆)
Jiangjun Mountain Ski Resort is located in the heart of Altay City, making it the only high-altitude ski resort within a city in China. With excellent snow quality and moderate elevation gain, it caters to skiers of all skill levels. Open from 11 to 3, day passes start at ¥200–¥300. Even if you don't ski, the summit observation deck offers panoramic views of Altay City and the distant snow-capped mountains.
9. Qinggeli Wushan International Ski Resort (Must-Visit Rating: ★★★☆☆)
Qinggelile Wolf Mountain Ski Resort, located in Qinghe County, is a newly developed ski destination in the Altay region. It features professionally designed slopes and comprehensive facilities, offering an uncrowded experience ideal for advanced skiers seeking backcountry snow. Open during winter; plan for 1-2 days.
10. Altay Grassland Stone City (Must-Visit Rating: ★★★☆☆)
Grassland Stone City, located in Jimunai County, is a stunning landscape of weathered granite formations. The massive rocks take on various shapes—some resembling camels or mushrooms—scattered across the vast grasslands. Against a backdrop of distant snow-capped mountains and foreground herds of cattle and sheep, it creates a unique frontier scenery. Entry is free; ideal for self-driving travelers to stop by. Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours.
Practical Tips Summary
The core of Altay tourism revolves around the "Three Kings": Kanas, Hemu, and Keketuohai, with Five Color Beach as a mandatory stopover. If you have 5 days, follow the classic route: Urumqi → Keketuohai → Burqin → Kanas → Hemu → return. With 7 or more days, you can add lesser-known spots like Baihaba and Baisha Lake. The best time to visit is 9-10 (autumn colors) and 6-7 (summer escape). Xinjiang China International Travel Agency offers dedicated Altay tours with exclusive small groups of 2-6 people—pure enjoyment with no shopping stops.
