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Itinerary
Welcome to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, known as the land of song and dance and a paradise for fruits. The name “Urumqi” comes from Mongolian, meaning “beautiful pasture.”
Our driver and guide will meet you at the airport with a banner. They will then take you to your hotel (the airport is 25 km from the city centre, around a 30-minute drive). After checking into the hotel, you’ll have free time to explore this charming city. Feel free to ask your guide for suggestions on where to visit.
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Stay in Urumqi
Today, get ready for a thrilling day full of breathtaking landscapes as you venture through Xinjiang’s stunning natural beauty. Your first stop is the magnificent Heavenly Lake(Tianchi), nestled high in the Tianshan Mountains, this sparkling emerald lake sits at an altitude of 1,980 metres. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush alpine forests, the area exudes an ethereal charm, especially on clear days when the reflection of the mountains creates a picture-perfect scene. You’ll have the chance to wander along the lake’s edge, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and immerse yourself in the serenity of this tranquil paradise.
Before long, you’ll hear the fascinating story of the Queen Mother of the West, who is said to have held a grand banquet for King Mu of Zhou here by the lake. It’s a moment steeped in mythology and beauty.
After soaking in all the sights, it’s time to relax. Your driver will take you to your hotel in Fuyun for a peaceful night’s rest, ready to take on tomorrow’s adventures.
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Stay in Fuyun
After breakfast, head to the Koktokay National Geological Park. Koktokay is not a sea, but its beauty rivals any coastline. The name means “blue river bay” in Mongolian. This world-class geological park is also known for its rich mineral resources. Take a shuttle bus into the heart of the park. Along the way, pass through birch and conifer forests. As you travel, follow the flowing Ertis River, winding like a ribbon through the stunning valley. This area is home to the Kazakh people.
After lunch, continue your journey to Burqin and visit the Five Colored Beach. Known as the most beautiful Yadan landform in Xinjiang, Five Colored Beach is a wonder. The Ertis River divides the beach into two parts, each offering its own unique view. From the south bank, take in the sight of the oasis, the Gurbantunggut Desert, and the endless blue sky merging with the horizon.
After your visit, check into your hotel in Burqin, enjoy a delicious Xinjiang meal, and relax for the night.
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Stay in Burqin
After breakfast, we’ll head to the Kanas National Geopark, known as the “Pure Land of Humanity.” In Mongolian, Kanas means “beautiful and mysterious lake.” The lake is formed from surrounding glacier meltwater and local rainfall, reaching a depth of 188 metres, making it the deepest glacial lake in China. It’s a tranquil inland freshwater lake.
The park is a mix of mountains, rivers, ancient forests, lakes, and grasslands. It also features a Tuva village, a unique Mongolian community. You can take a shuttle bus to scenic spots like Immortal Bay, Dragon Bay, and Moon Bay. These are perfect for capturing unforgettable views with your eyes and camera.
After exploring the Kanas National Geopark, we’ll drive to Jiadengyu for an overnight stay.
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Stay in Jiadengyu
After breakfast, we drive to Hemu Village, known as the “God’s Backyard” and often called a “Pure Land.” The village feels like stepping into a serene world. Smoke rises from chimneys, herds of sheep roam, and shepherds return to their homes. As you walk across small bridges, listen to the gentle flow of streams, and pass by white birch trees and cosy wooden cottages, you’ll feel immersed in a vibrant, peaceful landscape.
Hemu Village is home to the Tuva people, who have preserved their traditional culture. The area is stunning, with pristine mountains, rivers, birch forests, snowy peaks, vast grasslands, and clear blue skies. The harmony between nature and the unique cultural landscape is breathtaking.
In the village, you can experience the beautiful and echoing sound of throat singing, a traditional Tuva art form. It’s an authentic glimpse into their rich cultural heritage.
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Stay in Burqin
After breakfast, we drive to Urho Ghost City, a striking example of Yadan landform. This place feels otherworldly. Winds and rain have carved deep valleys, turning once-flat land into rocky spires and platforms.
As you walk through, the eerie silence is broken by howling winds. During summer and autumn, gusts reach forceful speeds of 7-8, sweeping sand and dust through the valleys. The sound is haunting, like ghosts wailing in the distance, which is how the place earned its name, Ghost City. The raw, rugged beauty of this landscape is unlike anywhere else. Visitors are surrounded by towering, wind-sculpted rock formations that resemble abandoned ruins, creating an otherworldly scene. The constant howl of the wind through the canyon adds to the eerie silence, making it feel as though you’re walking through a long-lost, forgotten place.
After visiting this ghost city, the local driver will transfer you to your hotel in Kuitun for around 3 hours.
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Stay in Kuitun
Today, we drive to Sayram Lake, known as the “Last Tear of the Atlantic.” The journey takes about 3.5 hours through the western Tianshan Mountains. The area is divided into different sections: a lakeside view area, a grassland area reflecting nomadic life, and a bird sanctuary for swans and other rare species. As you walk by the lake, the fresh mountain air and the vast open landscape will captivate you.
After visiting the lake, we continue to Yining, passing the impressive Guozigou Bridge. This bridge stretches like a giant dragon across the Guozigou Valley, creating a breathtaking sight. Once we arrive in Yining, the driver will take you to your hotel to rest, concluding the day’s journey.
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Stay in Yining
On the eighth day, after breakfast, we head to the Nalati Grassland, a high-altitude meadow. Once we arrive, we board a shuttle bus that takes us deeper into the scenic area. As soon as you step out, the vast, endless green landscape surrounds you. You’ll be feeling the bright blue sky, fluffy white clouds, and the towering mountains in the distance. The grassland is dotted with traditional Kazakh yurts and wooden cabins, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Herds of sheep and cattle roam freely, like cotton puffs scattered across the grass. The scent of fresh grass and the calm breeze make you feel at peace, as if time has slowed down.
After exploring the grassland, we drive back to Yining, where you’ll have time to rest at your hotel.
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Stay in Yining
Today’s drive will be a bit longer. After breakfast at the hotel, we travel to the Dushanzi Grand Canyon. The canyon’s base is 100 to 400 metres wide, while the shoulders stretch 800 to 1000 metres across. It rises 200 metres from the bottom to the top and sits at an altitude of 1070 metres. This natural wonder was carved by the river as it cut through the sloping plains of the Tianshan mountains. The landscape is dramatic, with the river flowing in and out of the canyon, creating vivid contrasts with the vast grasslands around it. The views are so breathtaking they feel almost unreal.
The canyon is known as the “Duku Secret Realm, a million-year miracle.” To enhance the experience, the area has built thrilling attractions, such as a glass bridge and a cliff swing. Imagine standing on the glass bridge, gazing down into the canyon below—the sense of awe and beauty is beyond words.
After visiting this canyon, we drive to Kuitun and you stay here tonight.
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Stay in Kuitun
After breakfast, we head back to Urumqi and visit the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar. This bustling market brings the ancient Silk Road back to life. The word “Bazaar” comes from the Uyghur language, meaning “market.” The place is vibrant, with rich regional cultures and strong ethnic features. It serves as a showcase for Xinjiang’s tourism products and is often called “the window to Xinjiang,” “the window to Central Asia,” and “the window to the world.” The bazaar is a lively destination for sightseeing, shopping, dining, and entertainment. Whether you’re a history buff or a shopaholic, this is a must-visit spot.
After the day’s exploration, your driver will take you to a nearby hotel for the night.
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Stay in Urumqi
Today, we pack up and bring this unforgettable journey through Xinjiang to a perfect end. Before your flight, the driver will pick you up from the hotel and take you to the airport. We look forward to your next unique adventure in China with JustChinaTours!
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The best time to visit Xinjiang is during spring and autumn (April to October). The weather is mild, and you can enjoy the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences without extreme temperatures.
We use comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles for all transfers. Depending on the group size, you may travel in a minivan, SUV, or coach.
The drive from Urumqi to Heavenly Lake takes about 3.5 hours. You will enjoy scenic views along the way as you travel through the Tianshan Mountains.
Heavenly Lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and lush forests. The serene lake reflects the majestic peaks, offering a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.
The Urho Ghost City is a surreal, wind-sculpted landscape. As you walk through, you’ll see towering rock formations and hear the howling wind, making it feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
Yes, Hemu Village is home to the Tuva people. You can enjoy traditional throat singing, visit wooden homes, and explore the peaceful village surrounded by pristine nature.
The Dushanzi Grand Canyon is a dramatic natural wonder with deep valleys and towering cliffs. You’ll feel awe-struck by the striking contrasts between the canyon and surrounding landscapes.
Yes, during your visit to the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, you can shop for local crafts, textiles, spices, and souvenirs that showcase the region’s rich culture.
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Justchinatour is the best!
Heather Jin –
The service was great! Leo was the best!!! He literally held us at every step of the way!! We did worry about a thing!!! We went to Xinjiang before, but never traveled it like how Justchinatours brought us around!!!!
Lovely
Kim Yee Seok –
Really a lovely place to be. Only downfall would be I felt homesick cuz it was a long trip. But don’t get me wrong, it was totally worth it!!
Xinjiang beautiful
Catherine Song –
This place really shows the wonder of nature. You really just feel the beauty of Xinjiang. Defs a place to come at least once in you life.
NALATI GRASSLAND THE BEST
Xavier Tan –
Honestly a place just like heaven!! Never thought a place like this would exist. The nalati grassland was my fav, you just feel free and alive when you are there.