10-Day Urumqi & Northern Xinjiang Itinerary: A Complete Guide

Planning a trip to Urumqi and Northern Xinjiang? Check out this 10-day itinerary! It's packed with useful tips, so save it for later! -- Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, check in to a hotel in the city center or a shopping district, and start your winter vacation. Day 2–3: Visit Tianchi Lake, cross the desert, explore Hemu Scenic Area, experience the original Tuva village, and stay in a cabin in the scenic area. Day 4–5: Visit Kanas Scenic Area, check out the three bays, explore the World Devil City, and then head to Sayram Lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery. Day 6–7: Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Sayram Lake, head to Shawan to experience a hot spring hotel, and finally return to Urumqi and check in to a 5-star hotel. Day 8–9: Enjoy free time in Urumqi and explore the city. Day 10: End your trip, cherish your travel memories, and look forward to your next visit. -- Must-visit attractions: 🌟 Sayram Lake 🌟 💫5 stars Address: G30, Bole, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Opening hours: 8:00 am–11:00 pm Recommended visit time: 1–2 days The lake's clear blue water is perfect for photos. The surrounding grasslands are covered with colorful wildflowers, creating a picturesque scene. 🌟 Kanas Scenic Area 🌟 💫5 stars Address: S232, Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Recommended visit time: 1–2 days Kanas is famous for its mysterious lake monster legend and the lake's color, which changes with the seasons. 🌟 Tianchi Lake 🌟 💫5 stars Address: 501 Junggar Road, Fukang, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang Recommended visit time: 1 day The lake's mirror-like surface reflects the majestic Bogda Peak. The surrounding spruce trees add to the fairy-tale atmosphere. 🌟 Hemu Scenic Area 🌟 💫5 stars Address: Hemu Village, Hemu Hanas Mongolian Township, Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang Recommended visit time: 1–2 days The cabins here are scattered among the mountains and valleys, creating a rustic and peaceful atmosphere. 🌟 World Devil City 🌟 💫4 stars Address: 200 Longji Road, Urho District, Karamay, Xinjiang Recommended visit time: 2–3 hours This area features spectacular yardang landforms, with stone pillars in various shapes, creating a magical world. -- Travel essentials: 👕 Clothing: Down jacket, thermal underwear, thick sweater, windproof and waterproof jacket, non-slip and waterproof snow boots. 🎒 Personal items: Charger, data cable, headphones, camera, spare battery, and thermos. 💳 Documents: ID card, driver's license, student ID, etc. You'll need them for security checks and transportation. 💊 Other: Common medications such as cold medicine and anti-diarrheal medicine, as well as sunscreen and lip balm to protect your skin and lips. -- Explore the natural beauty and rich history of Northern Xinjiang. We hope to see you again soon!