14-Day New Year Trip to Urumqi, Northern Xinjiang, and Southern Xinjiang

New Year, New Journey! Here's a 14-day itinerary for Urumqi, Northern Xinjiang, and Southern Xinjiang. Explore Xinjiang without missing a thing!
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🏞️ Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi and check in to your hotel.
Day 2-3: Visit Tianchi Lake, drive along the S21 Desert Highway, and explore Kanas and Hemu Scenic Areas to experience the beauty of nature.
Day 4: Explore Hemu, watch the sunrise, go skiing, and enjoy a winter wonderland.
Day 5-6: Head to Urho and visit Sayram Lake, the last drop of the Atlantic Ocean, to feel the romance.
Day 7: Return to Sayram Lake to see the morning mist and blue ice, then head back to Urumqi.
Day 8-9: Cross the boundary between Northern and Southern Xinjiang, visit Bosten Lake and the Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan, and explore the Kucha culture.
Day 10-11: Admire the Populus euphratica forest in Shaya, taste Kashgar's local delicacies, and feel the charm of the ancient city.
Day 12-13: Visit White Sand Lake, Karakul Lake, and the Pamirs, conquer the Panlong Ancient Road, and take a sleeper train back to Urumqi.
Day 14: Transfer to the airport or train station in Urumqi and end your trip.
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Must-visit attractions:

Sayram Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Address: G30, Bole, Bortala Mongol Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang
Opening hours: 8:00 am–11:00 pm
Recommended visit time: 1–2 days
The lake is clear and blue, making it a great place for photos. The surrounding grasslands are covered with colorful wildflowers, creating a breathtaking view!

Kanas Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Address: S232, Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang
Opening hours: Oct 16, 2024–Apr 30, 2025, 10:00 am–6:00 pm
Recommended visit time: 1–2 days
In addition to the mysterious lake monster legend, the lake changes color, offering a different view every moment.

Tianchi Lake ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Address: 501 Junggar Road, Fukang, Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang
Opening hours: Nov 1, 2024–Mar 31, 2025, 9:30 am–7:00 pm
Recommended visit time: 1 day
The lake is like a mirror, reflecting the magnificent Bogda Peak. Surrounded by spruce trees, it feels like a fairyland.

Hemu Scenic Area ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Address: Hemu Village, Hemu Hanas Mongolian Township, Burqin County, Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang
Opening hours: Oct 16, 2024–Apr 30, 2025, 10:00 am–6:00 pm
Recommended visit time: 1–2 days
Rustic wooden houses are scattered in the mountain valleys, creating a peaceful and beautiful place to experience rural life.
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Travel tips:
🧐 Customs: Xinjiang is home to many ethnic groups. Respect local customs and avoid sensitive topics.
📸 Photo spots: Kanas Lake and Tianchi Lake offer stunning views. Don't forget to take some great photos!
✈️ Airport transportation: Urumqi Airport is a hub. Plan your transfers or connections in advance for a smoother journey.
🍽️ Food: Don't miss the lamb skewers, pilaf, and sweet fruits!
💧 Climate: Northern Xinjiang is humid, while Southern Xinjiang is dry. Pack clothes for temperature changes to stay comfortable.
🛍️ Shopping: Xinjiang offers a variety of specialties, such as dried fruits and carpets. Set aside some budget for shopping.
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From the bustling Urumqi to the majestic Northern Xinjiang and the mysterious Southern Xinjiang, every step of your journey is filled with beautiful scenery waiting to be explored!