Best Time to Visit Xinjiang

Best Time to Visit Xinjiang

The best time to visit Xinjiang is from May to October, when the weather is mild to warm, ranging from 15°C to 30°C (59–86°F), making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

May and September offer particularly pleasant temperatures and low rainfall, perfect for comfortable travel across the region. Summer months (June to August) showcase lush green grasslands, crystal-clear lakes, and vibrant flower fields, especially in northern Xinjiang. Autumn (September to October) brings colorful foliage and stunning scenery like the golden poplar forests near Kanas. Winter is cold and snowy, suitable mainly for skiing enthusiasts.

Depending on your interests—whether cultural tours, natural landscapes, or photography—planning your trip within this May-October window ensures a memorable Xinjiang experience with enjoyable weather and beautiful vistas.

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Xinjiang Travel Tips for Each Season

Spring Summer Autumn Winter
Xinjiang in Spring

March to May

Spring temperatures vary (5°C–20°C), with blooming apricot flowers in Ili Valley creating pink landscapes. Visit Kashgar’s Old Town before summer heat, or hike Tianshan Mountains as snow melts.

The Nawruz Festival (March 21) celebrates Persian New Year with music and dancing. Spring sandstorms occasionally occur—bring a scarf. Try seasonal samsa (baked lamb pies) from street vendors.

Xinjiang in Summer

June – August

Hot days (25°C–40°C) make Kanas Lake and Bosten Lake ideal escapes. Explore Turpan’s ancient ruins early morning, then cool off in grape valley vineyards. The Urumqi Grand Bazaar buzzes with night markets.

July brings the Horse Milk Wine Festival with Kazakh horseback games. Don’t miss Nalati Grassland’s summer blooms and yurt stays. Hydrate frequently and wear sun protection.

Xinjiang in Autumn

September – November

Autumn (10°C–25°C) paints Kanas golden—prime for photography. Harvest season means fresh Hami melons and pomegranates in Hotan. Join Kashgar’s Sunday Livestock Market, Asia’s largest.

September’s Grape Festival in Turpan features Uyghur dances. Hike Jiaohe Ancient City in pleasant weather. Nights get chilly—pack layers.

Xinjiang in Winter

December – Februry

Freezing temperatures (-10°C–-25°C) bring heavy snow to Altay, perfect for skiing. Heavenly Lake transforms into a ice wonderland. Warm up with laghman noodles and polo (hand-pulled noodles).

The Ice & Snow Festival (Jan) features ice sculptures in Urumqi. Experience Kazakh eagle hunting traditions near Karamay. Thermal wear is essential—especially for night markets.

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