CHINA · GRAND SCENIC DISCOVERY
Northern Xinjiang 10D9N — Grand Scenic Discovery
Urumqi · Burqin · Kanas · Hemu · Kuitun · Yining · Nalati · Kuitun · Urumqi
Grand Scenic Discovery — Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Sayram Lake & Nalati Grassland
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Northern Xinjiang on this unforgettable ten-day journey through some of China’s most spectacular natural landscapes.
- 10 Days / 9 NightsJourney length
- 4-Star Hotels or Similar, with Traditional Wooden Cabin Accommodation in HemuAccommodation
- Recommended Travel Season: May–June / Mid-August–SeptemberRecommended travel season
Tour Highlights
Kalamaili Desert Park
Burqin Riverside Night Market
Kanas Lake
Moon Bay
Wolong Bay (Dragon Bay)
Fairy Bay
Hemu Village
Five-Coloured Beach
Urho Ghost City
Sayram Lake
Guozigou Bridge
Liuxing Street
Ili Lavender Fields (Seasonal)
Nalati Grassland
Northern Section of Duku Highway (Seasonal)
Dushanzi Grand Canyon
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Open each day for the route and practical arrangements.
01ARRIVAL IN URUMQIWelcome to Northern Xinjiang
Day 1
ARRIVAL IN URUMQI
Upon arrival at Urumqi Tianshan International Airport, meet our friendly local representative and enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel.
Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, is the gateway to the magnificent landscapes of Northern Xinjiang.
After checking in, enjoy some time to relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the surrounding area at your own leisure.
- Transportation
- Airport Transfer
- Meals
- Not Included
- Overnight
- Urumqi
02URUMQI → BURQINS21 Desert Highway – Kalamaili Desert Park – Burqin Riverside Night Market
Day 2
URUMQI → BURQIN
After breakfast, begin your journey north towards Burqin, travelling through the vast desert landscapes of Northern Xinjiang.
S21 Desert Highway
Experience an unforgettable drive along the impressive S21 Desert Highway.
This modern highway stretches across the expansive desert landscapes of Northern Xinjiang, offering spectacular views of open wilderness, distant mountains and endless blue skies.
Enjoy the unique scenery of one of Xinjiang’s remarkable desert transportation routes.
Kalamaili Desert Park
Continue to the desert attraction identified in the original itinerary as Kalamaili Desert Park.
Discover the fascinating desert environment, expansive sandy landscapes and distinctive natural scenery of Northern Xinjiang.
Enjoy sightseeing and photography opportunities surrounded by the region’s vast wilderness.
The attraction’s official English name and exact location are subject to final verification.
Burqin Riverside Night Market
Arrive in Burqin and explore the lively riverside night market.
Discover local handicrafts, regional products and traditional snacks while enjoying the charming evening atmosphere of this northern Xinjiang town.
After sightseeing, transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest.
- Transportation
- Private Tour Coach
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight
- Burqin
03BURQIN → KANAS → HEMUKanas Lake – Moon Bay – Wolong Bay – Fairy Bay
Day 3
BURQIN → KANAS → HEMU
After breakfast, depart for the magnificent Kanas Scenic Area.
Today is one of the most exciting highlights of the journey.
Kanas Lake
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kanas Lake, one of China’s most spectacular alpine lakes.
Surrounded by the majestic Altay Mountains and pristine forests, Kanas Lake is famous for its beautiful turquoise waters and extraordinary natural scenery.
The colour of the lake changes according to sunlight, weather conditions and the seasons.
During autumn, the surrounding forests may transform into brilliant shades of gold, orange and green, creating unforgettable scenery.
Moon Bay
Visit Moon Bay, one of the most photographed locations within the Kanas Scenic Area.
The river forms a graceful crescent-shaped bend as it flows through the forested valley.
Enjoy panoramic views of the beautiful river and surrounding mountain landscapes.
Wolong Bay (Dragon Bay)
Continue to Wolong Bay, famous for its distinctive river formations, peaceful forests and spectacular natural surroundings.
Admire the beautiful combination of winding waterways, green forests and mountain scenery.
Fairy Bay
Visit Fairy Bay, a picturesque location known for its calm waters, forest scenery and beautiful morning mist under suitable weather conditions.
The peaceful atmosphere makes it one of the most enchanting locations in the Kanas region.
After completing the sightseeing programme, continue to Hemu Village.
Accommodation Note: Traditional wooden cabins in Hemu may have different facilities and standards from conventional four-star city hotels.
- Transportation
- Private Tour Coach / Scenic Area Transportation as Arranged
- Accommodation
- Traditional Wooden Cabin Accommodation
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight
- Hemu
04HEMU → BURQINHemu Village – Five-Coloured Beach
Day 4
HEMU → BURQIN
After breakfast, explore the beautiful surroundings of Hemu Village.
Hemu Village
Discover the charming Hemu Village, one of Northern Xinjiang’s most picturesque traditional settlements.
Famous for its wooden houses, peaceful valleys, surrounding forests and magnificent mountain scenery, Hemu offers an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s traditional rural landscapes.
During autumn, golden forests and occasional morning mist create a magical atmosphere around the village.
Enjoy sightseeing and photography while appreciating the peaceful natural surroundings.
Five-Coloured Beach (Wucaitan)
After leaving Hemu, travel towards Burqin and visit the famous Five-Coloured Beach.
Located along the Irtysh River, this remarkable geological landscape is known for its colourful rock formations.
The hills display beautiful shades of red, yellow, orange, purple and brown.
When weather and travel schedules permit, enjoy the spectacular scenery during the late-afternoon sunlight.
After sightseeing, continue to the hotel.
- Transportation
- Private Tour Coach
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight
- Burqin
05BURQIN → KUITUNUrho Ghost City
Day 5
BURQIN → KUITUN
After breakfast, depart for Kuitun.
Along the way, visit one of Xinjiang’s most fascinating geological attractions.
Urho Ghost City (World Ghost City)
Explore the extraordinary Urho Ghost City, famous for its dramatic Yardang landforms.
Over thousands of years, wind erosion has shaped the rocky landscape into unusual formations resembling ancient castles, towers and buildings.
The vast desert surroundings and impressive geological formations create a remarkable natural spectacle.
Enjoy sightseeing and photography while discovering the geological wonders of this unique landscape.
After the visit, continue to Kuitun for hotel check-in.
- Transportation
- Private Tour Coach
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight
- Kuitun
06KUITUN → YININGSayram Lake – Guozigou Bridge – Liuxing Street
Day 6
KUITUN → YINING
After breakfast, travel towards the beautiful Ili Valley.
Sayram Lake
Visit the magnificent Sayram Lake, one of Xinjiang’s most famous alpine lakes.
Surrounded by mountains and open grasslands, the lake is celebrated for its brilliant blue waters and peaceful natural scenery.
Enjoy breathtaking lakeside views and excellent photography opportunities.
The itinerary includes a scenic journey around the lake, subject to local traffic and operating arrangements.
Guozigou Bridge
Continue through the spectacular Guozigou Valley.
Admire the impressive Guozigou Bridge, a remarkable engineering landmark surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Enjoy beautiful views of the bridge and surrounding valley along the route.
Note: This is a drive-by sightseeing arrangement.
Liuxing Street
Arrive in Yining and explore Liuxing Street, a charming historical neighbourhood known for its distinctive street layout, colourful buildings and multicultural atmosphere.
Enjoy an evening stroll through this lively cultural district.
- Transportation
- Private Tour Coach
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight
- Yining
07YINING → NALATISeasonal Lavender Fields – Nalati Grassland
Day 7
YINING → NALATI
After breakfast, continue your journey through the picturesque Ili Valley.
Lavender viewing: June–September only; flowering is not guaranteed.
Ili Lavender Fields (Seasonal)
Visit the lavender-growing region of Ili, famous for its beautiful purple flower fields during the blooming season.
The original itinerary specifies lavender viewing from June to September.
Nalati Grassland
Continue to the magnificent Nalati Grassland, one of Northern Xinjiang’s most beautiful alpine grassland destinations.
Admire rolling green meadows, distant mountains, peaceful valleys and traditional pastoral landscapes.
The vast open scenery offers wonderful opportunities for sightseeing and photography.
Explore the scenic area known for its spectacular alpine grassland landscapes.
- Transportation
- Private Tour Coach / Scenic Area Transportation as Arranged
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight
- Nalati
08NALATI → KUITUNNorthern Section of Duku Highway – Dushanzi Grand Canyon
Day 8
NALATI → KUITUN
After breakfast, begin your scenic journey towards Kuitun.
Northern Section of Duku Highway
Travel along the famous Duku Highway, one of China’s most spectacular mountain roads.
The highway winds through the magnificent Tianshan Mountains, offering breathtaking views of mountain valleys, forests and dramatic landscapes.
Important: The Duku Highway is a seasonal mountain road. Its opening dates depend on weather, snow clearance and official traffic regulations.
If the highway is closed, an alternative route may be arranged.
Dushanzi Grand Canyon
Visit the impressive Dushanzi Grand Canyon, famous for its steep cliffs, deep valleys and extraordinary geological formations.
Admire the spectacular panoramic views and enjoy photography opportunities overlooking the dramatic canyon landscape.
After sightseeing, continue to Kuitun for hotel check-in.
- Transportation
- Private Tour Coach
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight
- Kuitun
09KUITUN → URUMQIXinjiang International Grand Bazaar
Day 9
KUITUN → URUMQI
After breakfast, travel back to Urumqi.
Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar
Visit the famous Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, one of Urumqi’s most recognisable cultural and commercial landmarks.
Explore its distinctive architecture, colourful markets, traditional handicrafts and regional products.
Enjoy the lively atmosphere and discover the cultural diversity of Xinjiang.
After sightseeing, transfer to the hotel for check-in.
- Transportation
- Private Tour Coach
- Meals
- Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Overnight
- Urumqi
10URUMQI ✈ RETURN HOMEFarewell to Northern Xinjiang
Day 10
URUMQI ✈ RETURN HOME
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Urumqi before transferring to the airport.
According to your confirmed flight schedule, proceed to Urumqi Tianshan International Airport for your departure flight.
Conclude your unforgettable journey through Northern Xinjiang, bringing home wonderful memories of magnificent lakes, colourful forests, vast grasslands and spectacular mountain landscapes.
End of Tour — Thank You for Travelling With HalalWorldTour!
- Transportation
- Airport Transfer
- Meals
- Breakfast
- Overnight
- Not Applicable
Departure Dates & Pricing
Travel Information
- Recommended Travel Season: The recommended travel periods are May–June and mid-August to September.
- Seasonal Landscapes: Flower blooming, grassland conditions and autumn foliage depend on local weather, altitude and actual travel dates. Specific seasonal scenery cannot be guaranteed.
- Lavender Fields: Lavender viewing is arranged only during the applicable flowering season, generally June to September according to the original itinerary.
- Duku Highway: The Northern Section of Duku Highway is subject to seasonal opening, weather conditions and official traffic regulations. Alternative routing may be necessary if the highway is closed.
- Hemu Accommodation: Accommodation in Hemu is arranged in traditional wooden cabins. Facilities may differ from conventional four-star hotels.
- Long-Distance Travel: Certain days involve extended driving distances. The sightseeing sequence may be adjusted to accommodate road conditions, weather and attraction operating hours.
- Scenic Area Transportation: Some attractions require designated scenic shuttle buses. The exact services included will be confirmed in the final package quotation.
- Itinerary Adjustments: The tour operator reserves the right to make reasonable adjustments to the sightseeing sequence due to weather, traffic, attraction operating conditions or other operational requirements. Any adjustments will aim to preserve the planned sightseeing experience.
- Flight Arrangements: Final flight schedules, departure dates and package prices will be confirmed separately.
Travel arrangements
From the majestic Altay Mountains and turquoise waters of Kanas Lake to the charming wooden houses of Hemu Village, the magnificent Sayram Lake and the vast alpine grasslands of Nalati, this journey brings together the very best of Northern Xinjiang.
Travel along scenic desert highways, explore extraordinary geological formations, admire peaceful alpine lakes and discover traditional villages surrounded by magnificent mountain scenery.
Experience the remarkable natural diversity and fascinating cultural heritage of China’s northwestern frontier.
This journey is especially suitable for travellers seeking an immersive experience of Northern Xinjiang’s mountains, lakes, grasslands, forests and local traditions.
Tour style: Scenic Discovery, Alpine Lakes, Grassland Experiences, Natural Wonders & Cultural Heritage
4-Star Hotels or Similar, with Traditional Wooden Cabin Accommodation in Hemu. Private Air-Conditioned Tour Coach.
The tour includes nine nights of accommodation.
City Accommodation: Four-star hotels or similar.
Hemu Accommodation: Traditional wooden cabin accommodation, subject to local availability and facilities.
Final hotel arrangements will be confirmed before departure.
Daily overnight destinations are indicated in the itinerary.
According to the daily itinerary:
- Day 1: Meals not included.
- Day 2–9: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.
- Day 10: Breakfast.
Total: 9 Breakfasts + 16 Main Meals.
Halal meal arrangements and special dietary requirements must be confirmed with the local tour operator before departure.
Package inclusions
The following services are subject to the final confirmed package quotation:
Package exclusions / confirmation required
The following items require confirmation before final publication:
Seasonal travel notes.
Recommended Travel Season: May–June / Mid-August–September
Northern Xinjiang offers spectacular landscapes throughout the warmer months, with each season presenting a different natural experience.
May–June | Spring & Early Summer
Enjoy beautiful alpine lakes, refreshing mountain scenery, lush grasslands and seasonal wildflowers. The Ili Valley is particularly attractive during this period.
Mid-August–September | Late Summer & Early Autumn
Experience magnificent mountain landscapes, beautiful lakes and changing seasonal colours.
From September onwards, the forests surrounding Kanas Lake and Hemu Village may gradually transform into stunning shades of gold, orange and red.
Important Seasonal Notice
Flower blooms, grassland conditions, autumn foliage and mountain scenery depend on local weather, altitude and actual travel dates.
The Duku Highway is subject to seasonal opening and official traffic regulations. Alternative routes may be arranged when necessary.
Plan your journey
Enquire about travel dates, pricing, flights and the final confirmed package. Flower blooms, grassland conditions, autumn foliage and road access depend on actual conditions.
Nine nights: four-star city hotels or similar, plus a traditional wooden cabin in Hemu. Meals: 9 breakfasts and 16 main meals.
Seasonal landscapes cannot be guaranteed. Duku Highway access is subject to weather, seasonal opening and official traffic regulations.
Enquire for departure dates and a confirmed quotation.
Enquire on WhatsApp ↗End of Tour — Thank You for Travelling With HalalWorldTour!
Discover the best of Northern Xinjiang — where magnificent lakes, golden forests, alpine grasslands and ancient cultural traditions create an unforgettable journey.