Overview of Northern Xinjiang Tourism
Northern Xinjiang refers to the region north of the Tianshan Mountains, encompassing Altay, Tacheng, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, and Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture. Known for its high-altitude lakes, grasslands, forests, and dramatic gorges, Northern Xinjiang offers distinct scenery across all four seasons and is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Xinjiang.
The core attractions in Northern Xinjiang includeKanas Lake、Sayram Lake、Nalati Grassland、Keketuohai、Hemu VillageEach is a high-standard natural landscape.
Best time to visit Northern Xinjiang
Summer (Months 6-8)
Summer is the peak tourist season in northern Xinjiang.Nalati GrasslandandKalajun GrasslandLush green grass and blooming wildflowers;Sayram LakeAzure lakes, emerald grasslands; the Duku Highway is fully open, connecting northern and southern Xinjiang's scenic routes.
Autumn (Months 9-10)
Autumn is the season when Northern Xinjiang's scenery is at its most stunning.KanasandHemu VillageThe birch forests and larch groves turn golden, while the lake takes on a deep blue-green hue.KeketuohaiThe granite canyon is covered by a colorful forest, with layers of trees in vibrant hues.
Classic Northern Xinjiang Itinerary
7-day Northern Xinjiang Loop
Day 1: Urumqi → Tianchi of Heavenly Lake → Fuyun
Day 2:Fuyun →Keketuohai→ Burqin
Day 3: Burqin →KanasVisit Sanwan and Guanyutai
Day 4: Kanas →Hemu VillageHeimu Viewpoint Sunrise
Day 5Hemu → WuerheDevil's City→ Karamay
Day 6: Karamay →Sayram Lake→ Yining
Day 7: Yining →Nalati Grassland→ Urumqi (or fly from Yining to Urumqi)
5-day Northern Xinjiang Highlights
Ideal for travelers with limited time: explore the two core highlights, Kanas and Sayram Lake.
Detailed Guide to Core Attractions in Northern Xinjiang
Kanas Lake
Kanas LakeLocated in Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, this is China's deepest glacial moraine dam lake, with a maximum depth of 188.5 meters. In autumn, Kanas is hailed as "China's most iconic fall scenery," featuring turquoise-blue waters flanked by golden forests that look like paradise. We recommend a 2-3-day immersive tour to explore the Fish Viewing Platform, the Three Bends, and Kanas Village.
Sayram Lake
Sayram LakeLocated in the Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, this is Xinjiang's highest and largest alpine lake, known as "the last tear of the Atlantic." Its waters are a brilliant blue, and the 0-kilometer scenic loop road offers an ideal experience for self-driving tours.
Nalati Grassland
Nalati GrasslandLocated in Xinyuan County, Ili Prefecture, it is one of the world's four great grasslands. The Sky Grassland sits at an elevation of approximately 2000 meters, where snow-capped mountains create a stunning backdrop. From 6 to 7, fields of wildflowers bloom in full glory; by early 9, the landscape begins to change color.
Keketuohai
KeketuohaiLocated in Fuyun County, Altay Prefecture, renowned for its unique granite landforms and the source of the Irtysh River. Mount Shenzhong is an iconic landmark, while the autumn season brings spectacular colorful forests lining both sides of the canyon.
Practical Travel Tips for Northern Xinjiang
- TransportationUrumqi has direct flights to Altay and Yining, or you can drive or hire a private car.
- AccommodationPeak season (7-9): Accommodations in Kanas and Hemu are in high demand; book 2-3 weeks in advance.
- DressLarge temperature swings between day and night; bring a jacket even in summer. A down jacket is recommended for autumn.
- Tickets: Kanas 230 CNY (includes shuttle bus), Sayram Lake 70 CNY, Nalati 95 CNY
- DiningDining within the park is pricey; consider bringing some snacks.
For a customized Northern Xinjiang itinerary, visitPremium Routespage, or call the customer service hotline at 18999127242.
Related Reading
For more practical information on traveling and booking in Xinjiang, keep reading:North Xinjiang Loop Trip Preparation Checklist、How much does a trip to Xinjiang cost?、Northern Xinjiang Route、Complete Guide to Xinjiang Attractions。
