Ahe Highway

A breathtaking road trip through Altay, Xinjiang 🌄｜Money-saving tips for Ahe Highway✔️

Explore Xinjiang on a budget! This highly cost-effective route is a must-share with everyone. The scenery along the way is stunning enough to take your breath away, and there are no entrance fees. It’s truly much more economical than shopping in physical stores 💯

🚗 Route Highlights:
Ahe Highway is a hidden gem stretching 58 kilometers. Along the way, you can check off snow-capped mountains, grasslands, wetlands, and Gobi desert landscapes all in one trip. Every snapshot looks like desktop wallpaper! Best of all, it’s open year-round for free, making it a top value for self-driving tours～

📸 Must-visit photo spots:
1️⃣ Snow Mountain Glacier Viewing Platform
There’s an excellent snow mountain viewpoint mid-route. On clear days, the endless snowy peaks are especially stunning. It’s best to arrive before 10 AM for the softest light.

2️⃣ Grassland and Wetland Section
In July and August, wildflowers bloom here. The iconic S-shaped curve is perfect for photos. Remember to wear bright colors for better shots.

3️⃣ Gobi Desert Sunset Spot
The Gobi turns golden at dusk. It’s recommended to wait around 6:30 PM for sunset. Backlit silhouette shots create an amazing atmosphere.

💡 Practical Tips:
- No gas stations along the way, so fill up before you start
- Mobile signal is spotty; download offline maps in advance
- There are many cattle and sheep on the road; drive carefully to avoid them
- Temperature differences are huge! Bring a jacket even in summer

🍖 Nearby Food Recommendations:
After the trip, head back to Altay city for authentic Kazakh cuisine. Try "Altay Jin Zhu Big Plate Chicken" and "Grassland Family" for hand-pulled meat. You can eat your fill for about 50 RMB per person!