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Itinerary
Welcome to Urumqi! The moment you land at Urumqi Diwobao Airport, our friendly local driver will be waiting, holding a welcome banner, ready to whisk you away into the heart of Xinjiang.
After a short rest, the journey kicks off with a visit to Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, the beating heart of Xinjiang’s trade and culture. The place buzzes with energy—brightly coloured silk scarves, intricately patterned carpets, and finely crafted Uyghur musical instruments line the stalls. The scent of sizzling lamb skewers and freshly baked naan drifts through the air, tempting you to take a bite. Don’t miss out on the juicy melons and sweet grapes, Xinjiang’s pride, bursting with flavour.
After soaking in the vibrant market scene, we’ll hit the road for a scenic 1.5-hour drive to our hotel near Heavenly Lake, where the night promises fresh mountain air and peaceful surroundings. Rest well—tomorrow, nature awaits!
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Stay in Urumqi
Wake up to fresh mountain air and get ready for a breathtaking start to the day. This morning, we head to Heavenly Lake, a hidden gem nestled 2,000 metres high in the Tianshan Mountains. The moment you arrive, the view is spellbinding—crystal-clear waters reflecting snow-capped peaks, surrounded by dense pine forests. Take a deep breath; the cool, refreshing air feels almost untouched by time.
For those who love a bit of adventure, a leisurely trek along the lake lets you soak in the stunning scenery at your own pace. Fancy something more relaxing? Hop on a boat cruise (optional, extra cost) and glide across the water, where the reflections of the mountains seem almost unreal. Whichever you choose, the tranquillity of this place will leave you in awe.
Next, we set off towards Fuyun. The driving time is 6 hours. Along the way, the landscape shifts dramatically—rolling dunes of the Gurbantunggut Desert stretch endlessly, while the Kalamaili Nature Reserve surprises with bursts of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled! Wild donkeys and mountain goats sometimes dart across the vast, rugged plains. It’s a scene straight out of a nature documentary.
By evening, we arrive at Koktokay Town, where a comfortable night’s rest awaits. Enjoy a local-style dinner, unwind, and get ready for another day of exploration.
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Stay in Koktokay
Get ready for an extraordinary journey into the heart of nature and geology. Today, we explore Keketuohai National Geological Park, a vast wonderland stretching over 2,337.9 square kilometres, filled with towering granite cliffs, deep canyons, and hidden mineral treasures. The landscape is unlike anything you’ve seen—massive rock formations sculpted by time, with colours that shift under the changing light.
The legendary No.3 Mine, a place revered as the “Museum of Geology and Minerals”. It’s a dream for geologists and a true eye-opener for visitors. Beneath the surface lies a staggering 86 of the 140 known minerals on Earth, with rare metals making up over 90% of the reserves. As you walk through, your expert guide will unveil the secrets of this underground treasure trove—stories of discovery, the science behind these formations, and why this site is considered a “Mecca” for geologists worldwide.
Beyond the rocks, the scenery is breathtaking. Crystal-clear streams cut through the rugged terrain, while the crisp mountain air adds a refreshing touch to the experience. Take your time, snap some incredible photos, and immerse yourself in this natural masterpiece.
As the day winds down, we leave Keketuohai behind and journey towards Burqin for the night. The drive itself is an adventure (4-5 hours), passing through wild, open landscapes that seem untouched by time. Once we arrive, a cosy stay awaits, along with a chance to unwind and perhaps try some of the region’s famous grilled fish—a perfect end to an unforgettable day.
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Stay in Burqin
Today, we journey to the enchanting Hemu Village, a hidden gem tucked away in North Xinjiang. The driving time is 3 hours. As we approach this small, picturesque village—home to both Kazakh and Tuva people—the landscape transforms into a breathtaking scene straight out of a postcard. The ride into the village is on a shuttle bus, giving you a chance to take in the stunning beauty of the rolling hills and dense forests that surround the area.
Hemu is a paradise for photographers. Imagine grazing cattle and sheep, their flocks dotting the landscape, while traditional wooden houses peek through the trees. The village exudes peace and serenity, as if time has slowed down. Wander through the village at your leisure, where the Tuva people, with their deep-rooted traditions, still lead a simple life, as they have for centuries. Feel free to talk to the locals and watch them go about their daily routines—it’s a glimpse into a world where nature and community come together in harmony.
For lunch or dinner, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a hearty Chinese-style meal at the local hotel. The food is homey and comforting, and it will give you a taste of Xinjiang’s flavours, all for about RMB 80 per person (payable on-site).
After your visit, you’ll leave Hemu Village with memories that will last a lifetime, and perhaps even a few beautiful photos to remind you of this tranquil slice of paradise.
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Stay in Hemu
Today, we will drive to Kanas for 2-2.5 hours. Get ready to be swept away by the beauty of Kanas Nature Reserve—a pristine wilderness that feels like something from a fairytale. The highlight of this day is Kanas Lake, a stunning alpine lake known for its crystal-clear waters. As you stand by the shore, the lake’s colours change with the seasons—sometimes it’s a deep crystal blue, other times a rich dark green, and on rare days, it even takes on a misty grey. It’s a place of natural magic, so don’t forget to capture a few pictures to remember the moment.
Take a peaceful stroll from bay to bay, each offering a new perspective of the lake’s beauty. Every turn reveals a different angle, a new scene. Whether you’re wandering along the shore or simply sitting and absorbing the stillness, the serenity of Kanas will leave you feeling recharged.
The adventure continues with a leisurely walk along the Kanas River. The path leads you through virgin forests and past some of the area’s most picturesque spots. Stop by Fairy Bay, Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, and Wild Duck Lake—each one more stunning than the last, offering the perfect backdrop for beautiful photos. The colours of the trees, the sound of the river, and the cool mountain air create a sense of peace you’ll want to carry with you long after you leave.
After a day of relaxing sightseeing, we head to the hotel to check in. Here, you can unwind and enjoy a delicious meal—whether for lunch or dinner.
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Stay in Kanas
Rise early for your adventure, heading towards Urho (7-hour drive). Our first stop is the Five-Colored Beach, a stunning spot known for its Yardang landforms—rock formations shaped by wind and time. As you walk along the trestles and viewing platforms, you’ll feel like you’re in a natural art gallery. The landscape shifts in colours, from vibrant reds and yellows to soft greens and purples, offering a breathtaking view. If you’re a photography enthusiast, you’ll want to take your time here. The best time to visit is at sunset, when the sky turns golden-red, casting a warm glow over the terrain. Across the river, a dense aspen forest mirrors the scene, making it a view you won’t forget.
Next, we journey across the Gurbantunggut Desert, with its endless golden sands, towards Urho Ghost City. This area, another incredible Yardang landscape, is home to towering stone pillars of all shapes and sizes, rising dramatically from the desert floor. It feels both majestic and mysterious, like something out of an ancient legend.
The city gets its eerie name from the howling winds that sweep through the stone formations, making it sound as though the wind itself is whispering ghostly tales. Known as the “Wind City,” the winds often roar between the pillars, adding to the mystique and raw beauty of this otherworldly place.
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Stay in Urho
After a memorable journey through the stunning landscapes of Northern Xinjiang, it’s time to head back to Urumqi. Enjoy a comfortable drive as you reflect on the breathtaking sights and experiences of the past few days. Upon arrival, we’ll drop you off at Urumqi Airport for your departure. We hope you’ve had a fantastic time with us!
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Daily drives range from 3 to 7 hours, with scenic stops to ensure a comfortable journey.
Yes, Heavenly Lake is accessible year-round, though winter may bring a serene snow-covered landscape.
No, boat rides at Heavenly Lake are optional and can be booked on-site, depending on availability.
The best time is during spring and autumn (April to October) when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.
Pack comfortable clothes, a camera, sunscreen, a hat, and sturdy shoes for walking. It’s also recommended to bring a jacket, especially for cooler mountain areas.
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stay longer
Aiko Kobayashi –
This tour is so good for people who like culture and nature. The lake is so big and blue, and local people is very friendly. I wish stay longer.
Good!
Anna Schmidt –
What a fantastic trip! JustChinaTour offered an exceptional Northern Xinjiang tour, combining breathtaking landscapes like Kanas Nature Reserve and the mysterious Urho Ghost City with rich cultural experiences. The tour was well-paced, and the guides were friendly and informative. I’m already planning my next tour with them!
more time
Kyle Brown –
Absolutely loved the landscapes! Kanas Lake was breathtaking, and the cultural insight into the Tuwa people added real depth to the experience. I would have liked a bit more time at Five-Colored Beach, but overall a great itinerary.
It was a nice trip to China, Xinjiang
Sophie Dupont –
JustChinaTour made our Xinjiang tour truly special. Hemu Village was so peaceful, and the boat ride at Heavenly Lake was a serene escape. The landscapes were diverse! It was a trip filled with beautiful memories and remarkable discoveries.
Xinjiang is a beautiful city!
John Murphy –
An incredible journey through Northern Xinjiang with JustChinaTour! The visit to Kanas Lake was the highlight—crystal-clear waters surrounded by majestic mountains. This tour offered a perfect mix of nature and culture, with the added bonus of a fascinating experience at the Xinjiang International Bazaar. Definitely a must-do tour if you’re in the area!