This tour of Northern Xinjiang will take you through the most magnificent natural landscapes and diverse cultures in northwestern China. First arrive in Beijing, then fly to Urumqi, explore the mysterious Kanas Lake, the picturesque Hemu Village, the enchanting Sailimu Lake, the vast Nalati Grassland, and the stunning Heavenly Lake of Tianshan. Each stop offers unique natural scenery and rich cultural stories waiting for your discovery. Whether it is the majestic snow-capped mountains, dense forests, or vibrant minority cultures, this journey will leave you with unforgettable memories. Get ready for this beautiful adventure in Northern Xinjiang!
Today, you will board a flight to Beijing, the capital of China, marking the start of your long-awaited journey to Northern Xinjiang.
Upon arrival in Beijing, meet the tour guide at the airport and transfer to the hotel.
After breakfast, take a flight to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Urumqi is not only the political, economic, and cultural center of Xinjiang, but it is also the city farthest from any ocean in the world. It is a crucial point on the northern route of the ancient Silk Road and a melting pot of diverse cultures. Upon arrival, a local guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Enjoy a restful night to prepare for the beautiful journey in Xinjiang that begins tomorrow.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Early in the morning, fly to Fuyun and then drive to Koktokay and Burqin. "Koktokay" means "green jungle" in Kazakh and "blue river bend" in Mongolian. First, visit the Koktokay National Geopark, where the granite landforms of the Ertix Grand Canyon are unique, and the variously shaped rocks are a marvel of nature. The serene beauty of Irtysh Lake's reflections is enchanting year-round. The clear blue waters of Koktokay Lake nurture abundant rare aquatic flora and fauna, with numerous swans, wild ducks, and other birds making it their home, reminiscent of southern China's Jiangnan region. The Irtysh River is the only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean, known as a "natural geological museum."
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Special Dinner
★★★★★ Burqin Kanas White Birch Forest Luxury Camp or Similar
In the morning, drive to Kanas Lake. "Kanas" means "beautiful and mysterious lake" in Mongolian, and it is a famous freshwater lake in the Altay region. Kanas Lake is crescent-shaped, with snow-capped peaks, green slopes, and dense forests around it. The lake's calm and beautiful reflections are like a fairyland. The scenic area integrates mountains, rivers, forests, lakes, and grasslands, and there are even legends of "lake monsters" appearing in the lake. Visit the ever-changing Moon Bay, the picturesque Wolong Bay with its clear waters and dense forests, and the wide and gentle Fairy Bay with its marshes and meadows. Finally, ascend to the Fish Viewing Pavilion to overlook the entire Kanas Lake and experience the lake's color-changing wonder.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore Hemu Village, a picturesque mountain village known as "China's First Village." Hemu, officially named "Hemu Kanas Township," is located in Burqin County in northern Xinjiang, near the borders of Mongolia, Russia, and Kazakhstan. Burqin is a tidy border town where the Irtysh River flows gently, flanked by birch forests and fields of sunflowers. The green land is dotted with locals' white yurts, rivers, wooden houses, smoke from kitchens, birch forests, and people herding on the Hemu Bridge. At dusk, the birch trees glow golden in the sunset, creating a peaceful and beautiful scene like a colorful oil painting.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Special Dinner
★★★★★ Burqin Kanas White Birch Forest Luxury Camp or Similar
After breakfast, continue to enjoy the serene beauty of the Altay region. Drive to Altay Airport and fly to Yining. After dinner, rest well to prepare for more beautiful scenery ahead.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Drive to Sailimu Lake, a high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains, known as the "Blue Gem of the Mountains." Sailimu Lake is a fault basin lake in the Tianshan Mountains, with clear waters and expansive grasslands around it. In summer, the meadows are lush, and wildflowers bloom everywhere. If the timing is right, visit the lavender fields, where waves of purple flowers sway in the wind, creating a beautiful sea of lavender. Along the way, admire the magnificent scenery of the Guozigou Bridge, a crucial point on the northern route of the ancient Silk Road with rich historical and natural landscapes.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Special Dinner
Drive to Nalati Grassland, one of China's most beautiful grasslands and one of the world's four major alpine valley grasslands. The scenic area consists of a highland grassland sightseeing area, a Kazakh folk customs area, and a tourism living area. In summer, the pastures are green and endless, with wildflowers blooming in vibrant colors. After June, herders bring large flocks of livestock here, marking the golden season of the grassland. You will have the opportunity to enjoy Kazakh folk activities and experience their traditional culture.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, fly back to Urumqi, then drive to visit the Heavenly Lake of Tianshan. The Tianshan Mountains, which stretch across central Xinjiang and extend into Kazakhstan, feature the towering Bogda Peak, covered with snow year-round, earning the nickname "Sea of Snow." The mid-mountain Heavenly Lake, formed by melting snow, is vast and serene, believed to be the "Yaochi" where the Queen Mother of the West resides in legend. Take a boat ride on the beautiful Heavenly Lake (unavailable in April due to weather) and stroll along the lakeside paths into the ancient forests, enjoying the natural beauty. Return to the hotel for a farewell dinner tonight.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, bid farewell to the plateaus, lakes, cattle and sheep, blue skies, and vast grasslands. Fly back to Beijing and transfer to a luxurious hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.
Included: Breakfast
With hearts full of joy and memories, board a flight back to your sweet home, looking forward to revisiting these beautiful places in the future.
Included: Breakfast
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Experienced and knowledgeable tour guide throughout China.
Daily comprehensive sightseeing program as outlined in the itinerary.
Air-conditioned tour coach with professional driver service.
A bottle of mineral water is provided on the bus every day.
Easy recognized luggage tag, badge, and document holder are provided for your convenience.
Create your ideal getaway with the following upgrade options. Extensions and upgrades can be added during the booking process or speak to one of our travel advisors to tailor your perfect trip.
The "Airfare" displayed on our website reflects real-time ticket prices and includes airline fuel surcharges, government taxes, and one checked baggage allowance. Please note that seat selection fees are not covered. For seat selection, you may contact the airline directly after your ticket has been issued to arrange and pay for this service.
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