Urumqi · Fuyun · Burqin · Hemu · Kanas · Kuitun · Turpan · Urumqi
Xinjiang, China’s largest provincial-level administrative region by area, is bisected by the Tianshan Mountains, which divide the region into Southern Xinjiang and Northern Xinjiang. Our 11-day guided tour of Northern Xinjiang is designed specifically for travelers seeking breathtaking scenery—the entire journey is picturesque! The tour…
Read full introductionXinjiang, China’s largest provincial-level administrative region by area, is bisected by the Tianshan Mountains, which divide the region into Southern Xinjiang and Northern Xinjiang. Our 11-day guided tour of Northern Xinjiang is designed specifically for travelers seeking breathtaking scenery—the entire journey is picturesque! The tour begins in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. This circular route circles the Junggar Basin and ultimately returns to Urumqi for the tour’s conclusion. The itinerary includes approximately 20 must-see destinations: natural wonders of breathtaking beauty, unique Yadan landforms, and cultural sites that showcase Xinjiang’s diverse ethnic traditions. Key highlights include Tianchi Lake in the Tianshan Mountains—where snow-capped peaks, azure waters, forests, and ancient legends converge; Lake Kanas, a photographer’s paradise; the poetic and picturesque Hemu Village, home to both Kazakh and Tuvan communities; the Devil’s City, a spectacular example of wind-eroded landforms; and the Dushanzi Grand Canyon, with its breathtaking layers of reddish-brown sandstone. This Northern Xinjiang itinerary also includes a visit to Turpan, a major hub on the ancient Silk Road. You’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Xinjiang’s various ethnic groups, explore intricate and unique underground irrigation systems and Islamic-style architecture, and enjoy a variety of exciting desert activities in China’s largest desert.
Discover China’s breathtaking natural wonders on an unforgettable journey across snow-capped mountains, forests, lakes, grasslands, deserts and the ancient Silk Road.
Located in northwest China, Xinjiang boasts spectacular landscapes and rich diverse cultures. This 11-day in-depth Northern Xinjiang tour takes you to explore some of China’s most stunning and distinctive scenery.
Starting from Urumqi, you will visit Tianchi Lake, an alpine lake surrounded by snow peaks. Venture deep into the Altai Mountains to discover the fairy-tale village of Hemu and picturesque Kanas Lake. Wander at Colorful Beach to see unique landforms shaped by nature over millions of years. Travel through Ghost City and Dushanzi Grand Canyon to experience the vast, wild beauty of Northern Xinjiang.
The second half of the tour brings you to Turpan, an important ancient Silk Road hub. Explore the millennia-old Jiaohe Ruins, learn about the ancient underground irrigation system of Karez Wells, visit traditional Uyghur villages, and experience oasis culture, grape-growing traditions and the unique desert lifestyle.
More than a sightseeing trip, this tour offers an in-depth insight into Xinjiang’s geography, history, ethnic cultures and local life. Whether you are a photographer, nature lover, or a traveller fascinated by culture and history, this journey reveals a wonderful world unlike anywhere else in China.
Arrival in Urumqi
View dayUrumqi – Heavenly Lake – Gurbantunggut Desert – Fuyun
View dayFuyun – Keketuohai Geopark – No. 3 Mine – Burqin
View dayBurqin – Hemu Village – A Fairytale Escape in the Altai Mountains
View dayHemu – Kanas Lake – Discover an Alpine Wonderland
View dayBurqin – Urho Ghost City – Kuitun
View dayUrumqi – Kumtag Desert – Tuyoq Village – Flaming Mountains – Turpan
View dayDeparture from Urumqi – Farewell to Northern Xinjiang
View dayHeavenly Lake – A Mountain Paradise: Admire the crystal-clear alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, spruce forests, and beautiful mountain scenery. Keketuohai Geopark – A Geological Wonderland: Discover spectacular rock formations, unique mineral deposits, and the fascinating history of Mine No. 3. Hemu Village – A Fairytale Mountain Retreat: Wander through traditional wooden houses, golden birch forests, and peaceful riverside scenery while discovering the local Kazakh and Tuvan cultures. Kanas Lake – One of China's Most Beautiful Alpine Lakes: Enjoy extraordinary lake views, pristine forests, mountain scenery, and fascinating local legends. Five-Colored Beach – A Colorful Sunset Experience: Admire striking Yardang formations along the Irtysh River, especially beautiful in the evening light. Urho Ghost City – Nature's Sculptural Masterpiece: Explore a dramatic desert landscape shaped by millions of years of wind erosion. Dushanzi Grand Canyon – A Spectacular Natural Wonder: Marvel at the deep canyon, layered rock formations, and dramatic geological scenery. Turpan – Discover the Ancient Silk Road: Explore the Karez irrigation system, Sugong Pagoda, Grape Valley, and the remarkable ruins of Jiaohe Ancient City. Kumtag Desert – Experience the Beauty of the Desert: Enjoy sweeping sand dunes and optional camel rides or desert adventures.
Welcome to Xinjiang!
Upon arrival at Urumqi International Airport, your local driver will greet you and transfer you to your carefully selected hotel.
As the capital of Xinjiang, Urumqi is a fascinating city where different cultures and traditions come together. You will notice a unique blend of modern urban life, Central Asian influences, and traditional Islamic architectural elements.
The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the surrounding neighborhood at your own pace.
If you would like to start discovering local cuisine, try some Xinjiang specialties such as grilled lamb kebabs, hand-pulled rice, traditional naan bread, and local yogurt.
Enjoy a relaxing evening and prepare for your Northern Xinjiang adventure.
Your Northern Xinjiang adventure begins today!
After breakfast, travel to the magnificent Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), one of the region's most beautiful alpine destinations.
Situated at approximately 1,910 meters above sea level, this stunning lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains, evergreen spruce forests, and beautiful alpine meadows.
Admire the breathtaking views of Bogda Peak reflected in the clear waters. Take a leisurely walk along the lakeside trails or enjoy an optional boat ride for a different perspective of this mountain paradise.
After your visit, continue north along National Highway 216, crossing the vast Gurbantunggut Desert, China's second-largest desert.
The changing scenery of desert landscapes, open Gobi terrain, and distant mountains offers a fascinating introduction to the geographical diversity of Northern Xinjiang.
Along the way, pass through the Kalamaili Nature Reserve, an important habitat for wildlife such as Mongolian wild asses, wild horses, and gazelles. Keep your eyes open for wildlife sightings, although these depend on natural conditions and the season.
Arrive in Fuyun in the evening and check into your hotel.
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Fuyun
Today, discover the remarkable geological landscapes of Northern Xinjiang.
After breakfast, travel to Keketuohai National Geopark, a fascinating destination known for its spectacular valleys, granite formations, mineral deposits, and geological history.
Explore the park's natural scenery and learn how millions of years of geological activity have shaped this extraordinary landscape.
Your visit also includes the famous No. 3 Mine, once an important source of rare metals and a significant site in China's mining and geological history.
With your local guide, discover the fascinating mineral resources found here and learn about the mine's historical importance in the development of China's industrial sector.
Enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery, rivers, forests, and dramatic rock formations before continuing your journey.
In the afternoon, drive to Burqin, a charming town that serves as an important gateway to the Altai Mountains.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Today, visit one of the most enchanting destinations in Northern Xinjiang: Hemu Village.
Nestled deep in the Altai Mountains, Hemu is a traditional mountain settlement inhabited by Kazakh and Tuvan communities. Its wooden houses, peaceful rivers, surrounding grasslands, and beautiful birch forests create an atmosphere that feels wonderfully far removed from modern city life.
Upon arrival, enjoy a leisurely walk through the village.
Admire the traditional log houses, explore the riverside scenery, and discover the unique architecture and lifestyle of the local communities.
For a panoramic view of the village, visit a nearby hillside viewpoint overlooking the valley. From here, you can admire the beautiful combination of wooden houses, winding rivers, forests, and distant mountains.
An optional local family visit can also be arranged, offering an opportunity to learn more about traditional Kazakh and Tuvan customs, food, and everyday life.
Autumn is particularly spectacular in Hemu, when the birch forests turn brilliant shades of gold and yellow, creating an unforgettable fairytale landscape.
Tonight, enjoy an overnight stay in a local-style wooden cabin or comfortable guesthouse.
Accommodation: Traditional-style cabin or local hotel in Hemu
After breakfast, leave Hemu and travel to the magnificent Kanas Nature Reserve.
Surrounded by pristine forests, snow-capped mountains, and rolling alpine landscapes, Kanas Lake is one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Northern Xinjiang.
The lake is famous for its changing colors, which shift between shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue depending on the season, weather, and sunlight.
After entering the scenic area, board a sightseeing shuttle bus to explore its main attractions.
One of the highlights is the Fish Viewing Platform, a spectacular viewpoint offering panoramic views of Kanas Lake and the surrounding mountains.
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeside, admire the peaceful forest scenery, and take plenty of photographs of this extraordinary natural environment.
Kanas is also associated with fascinating local legends about a mysterious lake monster, adding an intriguing element to the area's natural beauty.
If weather and operating conditions permit, an optional boat cruise is another wonderful way to admire the lake from the water.
Accommodation: 4-star standard or comfortable local hotel near Kanas
Enjoy another beautiful morning in the Kanas region.
Depending on your interests and available time, take a relaxing walk by the lake, admire the surrounding forests, or simply enjoy the peaceful mountain atmosphere.
After lunch, travel back toward Burqin.
In the afternoon, visit Five-Colored Beach, a fascinating natural attraction famous for its colorful Yardang formations.
Over thousands of years, wind erosion and river activity have sculpted the rocks into unusual shapes and created striking layers of red, yellow, purple, and other earthy colors.
Located along the Irtysh River, Five-Colored Beach offers a remarkable contrast between the colorful desert-like formations on one side and the lush vegetation and poplar forests on the other.
If weather conditions are favorable, stay until late afternoon to admire the beautiful sunset, when the warm light enhances the colors of the landscape.
Return to Burqin for an overnight stay.
After breakfast, leave Burqin and travel toward Urho Ghost City, one of Northern Xinjiang's most fascinating geological attractions.
This extraordinary landscape is a classic example of Yardang landforms, created over millions of years by persistent wind erosion.
Across the vast Gobi Desert, enormous rock pillars, stone walls, and unusual formations rise from the ground, creating shapes that resemble ancient castles, animals, and mysterious structures.
The area is also known as Wind City because strong winds frequently sweep through the formations, sometimes producing unusual sounds as they pass between the rocks.
Explore the scenic area by sightseeing vehicle, stopping at designated viewpoints to appreciate the impressive formations and surrounding desert scenery.
For photography enthusiasts, this is an excellent opportunity to capture the scale, textures, and dramatic lighting of the Gobi landscape.
After your visit, continue driving to Kuitun.
Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
After lunch, travel back toward Burqin.
In the afternoon, visit Five-Colored Beach, a fascinating natural attraction famous for its colorful Yardang formations.
Over thousands of years, wind erosion and river activity have sculpted the rocks into unusual shapes and created striking layers of red, yellow, purple, and other earthy colors.
Located along the Irtysh River, Five-Colored Beach offers a remarkable contrast between the colorful desert-like formations on one side and the lush vegetation and poplar forests on the other.
If weather conditions are favorable, stay until late afternoon to admire the beautiful sunset, when the warm light enhances the colors of the landscape.
Return to Burqin for an overnight stay.
Today, discover one of Northern Xinjiang's most impressive natural landscapes: Dushanzi Grand Canyon.
Carved over thousands of years by meltwater from the Tianshan Mountains, the canyon features deep ravines, dramatic cliffs, and beautifully layered reddish-brown rock formations.
Walk to the viewing platforms and admire the spectacular landscape from above. The contrast between the deep canyon and its surrounding open terrain creates a truly memorable photographic opportunity.
After your visit, continue to Urumqi.
In the afternoon, explore the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum, an excellent introduction to the region's history, archaeology, and cultural diversity.
Discover fascinating collections of historical textiles, ceramics, wooden artifacts, and archaeological discoveries that help tell the story of Xinjiang's role in ancient trade and cultural exchange.
Continue to Erdaoqiao International Grand Bazaar, one of Urumqi's best-known cultural and shopping destinations.
Wander through the traditional-style market streets, browse handmade carpets, colorful textiles, ethnic clothing, musical instruments, and local handicrafts.
You can also sample Xinjiang specialties, dried fruits, nuts, raisins, and regional snacks.
Accommodation: 4-star hotel in Urumqi
Today, experience a completely different side of Xinjiang as you travel from the mountainous landscapes of the north to the deserts and ancient oasis settlements of the Turpan Basin.
After breakfast, drive to Kumtag Desert, located near the eastern edge of the Turpan Basin.
Known for its sweeping sand dunes and distinctive desert scenery, Kumtag offers an exciting opportunity to experience one of Xinjiang's most fascinating natural environments.
Enjoy the beautiful desert views or choose optional activities such as camel riding and desert buggy rides.
Continue to Tuyoq Village, one of Xinjiang's historic Uyghur settlements.
The village is known for its traditional architecture, narrow lanes, and distinctive oasis lifestyle. Take a walk through the village and learn about local customs, traditional buildings, and the everyday life of the local community.
Nearby, you can also discover historical Buddhist cave sites that reflect the region's important role in the cultural and religious exchanges of the ancient Silk Road.
Later, visit the famous Flaming Mountains.
These striking red sandstone mountains are known for their unusual geological formations and extremely hot summer climate. They are also famously associated with the legendary stories of the Chinese classic novel Journey to the West.
Admire the dramatic red landscape and learn about the unique desert environment of the Turpan Basin.
In the evening, arrive in Turpan and check into your hotel.
Today, explore the fascinating history of Turpan, one of the most important oasis cities along the ancient Silk Road.
Begin with a visit to the Karez Irrigation System, an ingenious underground water network developed to support agriculture and settlements in this extremely dry region.
Learn how ancient communities used underground channels, vertical shafts, and natural slopes to transport groundwater over long distances while minimizing evaporation.
This remarkable engineering achievement demonstrates the resourcefulness of people who learned to thrive in one of China's harshest desert environments.
Next, visit Sugong Pagoda, an impressive Islamic-style historical monument completed in the 18th century.
Known for its distinctive brick construction and decorative patterns, the pagoda is one of Turpan's most recognizable historical landmarks.
Continue to Grape Valley, a beautiful oasis famous for its vineyards, traditional grape-drying houses, and centuries-old grape-growing traditions.
Enjoy the peaceful village scenery and, depending on the season, sample fresh local grapes or traditional raisins.
The final major stop is Jiaohe Ancient City, one of the most remarkable archaeological sites along the Silk Road.
Dating back more than 2,000 years, this ancient city was an important center of trade, administration, and cultural exchange.
Unlike many other ancient cities, much of Jiaohe was constructed by carving and shaping the natural earthen plateau, leaving behind a distinctive layout of streets, buildings, and ruins.
Walk through the archaeological site and imagine what life might have been like in this once-thriving oasis city.
After the visit, return to Urumqi.
After breakfast, enjoy some free time before your private transfer to Urumqi International Airport according to your flight schedule.
Your 11-day Northern Xinjiang adventure comes to an end.
From the spectacular mountain scenery of Heavenly Lake to the fairytale landscapes of Hemu and Kanas, from colorful desert formations to ancient Silk Road ruins, this journey offers an unforgettable introduction to the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Xinjiang.
Thank you for traveling with us. We hope to welcome you back to China for another memorable adventure!
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Urumqi · Fuyun · Burqin · Hemu · Kanas · Kuitun · Turpan · Urumqi
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