Ahe Highway: Xinjiang's Hidden Gem

I. Altay Overview

Location: Northernmost part of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, bordering Russia, Kazakhstan, and Mongolia.
Best time to visit:
Autumn (September–October): Forests ablaze with color, a photographer's paradise.
Winter (November–March): Snowy forests, rime ice wonders, a ski resort.
Summer (June–August): Green grasslands, blooming wildflowers, a summer retreat.
Spring (April–May): Melting ice and snow, revival of all things.
Recommended duration: 5–7 days

II. Pre-trip Preparation

Transportation:
Plane: Altay Airport, with direct flights from Urumqi and other cities.
Train: Altay Railway Station, accessible by train from Urumqi and other cities.
Self-driving: Good road conditions, suitable for travelers who enjoy independent travel.
Accommodation: Accommodation options are available in Altay City, Burqin County, Hemu Village, Kanas Village, and other places. It is recommended to book in advance during peak season.
What to wear: Large temperature differences between day and night, so prepare warm clothing. In the harsh winter, you will need down jackets, snow boots, and other cold-weather gear.
Other: Sunscreen, sunglasses, thermos, camera, ID card (required for inspection in border areas).

III. Must-See Attractions

Kanas Scenic Area:
Kanas Lake: A mysterious and unpredictable changing lake, rumored to have monsters.
Fish Viewing Pavilion: The best spot to overlook the panoramic view of Kanas Lake.
Moon Bay, Fairy Bay: Beautiful river bends on the Kanas River.
Hemu Village: A Tuva village, shrouded in morning mist, like a fairyland.
Baihaba Village: The first village in Northwest China, primitive and simple.
Colorful Beach: Yadan landform, colorful, most beautiful at sunset.
Koktokay: National Geopark, deep canyons, rushing rivers.
Ulungur Lake: The second largest freshwater lake in Xinjiang, a bird paradise.
Baisahu Lake: A lake in the desert with clear water and snow-white sand.

IV. Featured Experiences

Horse riding: Gallop across the grasslands and experience the life of Kazakh herders.
Hiking: Traverse forests, grasslands, and canyons to get close to nature.
Photography: Capture the stunning scenery of the changing seasons.
Taste local cuisine: Enjoy Kazakh flavors such as hand-pulled lamb, roasted mutton skewers, and milk tea.
Experience Tuva culture: Listen to Chuwuer performances and taste milk wine.

V. Itinerary Recommendations

5-Day Tour:
D1: Arrive in Altay, visit Colorful Beach, stay in Burqin.
D2: Go to Kanas Scenic Area, visit Kanas Lake and Fish Viewing Pavilion, stay in Kanas Village.
D3: Visit Moon Bay, Fairy Bay, and Hemu Village, stay in Hemu Village.
D4: Go to Baihaba Village, visit Koktokay, stay in Koktokay.
D5: Return trip.
7-Day Tour: You can add a day to visit Ulungur Lake or Baisahu Lake, or go to surrounding attractions such as Ghost City.

VI. Travel Tips

There is a large temperature difference between day and night in Altay, so be sure to keep warm.
Some attractions in the scenic area require taking a sightseeing bus. It is recommended to understand the route in advance.
Protect the environment and do not litter.
Respect local ethnic minority customs.
Border defense permits are required in border areas. It is recommended to consult the local public security agency in advance.