July to August, encounter the dreamlike realm of Northern Xinjiang

In my heart, Xinjiang in July and August is the pinnacle of scenic beauty. Divided by the Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang is split into Southern Xinjiang and Northern Xinjiang. Southern Xinjiang is rich in cultural charm, while Northern Xinjiang is a paradise of natural landscapes. If this is your first time visiting Xinjiang, I strongly recommend starting with Northern Xinjiang. Here, the vast grasslands, towering snow-capped mountains, lively river valleys, and mysterious hidden spots perfectly blend in this season, creating a beauty like a dreamland. Now, I will share with you our 8-day Northern Xinjiang loop itinerary. Northern Xinjiang Loop 8-Day Itinerary D1 Depart from Guangzhou and arrive in Urumqi, kicking off this Northern Xinjiang journey. D2 Depart from Urumqi to Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, admire the gem-like blue waters, then embark on the S21 Desert Highway, heading all the way to Altay City. D3 Depart from Altay to the fairy-tale world of Kanas. D4 From Kanas, head to Populus Euphratica River. D5 Depart from Populus Euphratica River, circle around Sayram Lake, soaking in the intoxicating blue, and finally arrive in Yining. D6 From Yining, head to Nalati to explore the beauty of this grassland. D7 Depart from Nalati, return to Urumqi along the Duku Highway, known as one of "China’s Most Beautiful Roads." D8 Return from Urumqi to Guangzhou, concluding this unforgettable Northern Xinjiang trip. Must-Visit Places in Northern Xinjiang Heavenly Lake of Tianshan Only 1.5 hours’ drive from Urumqi, it is a natural alpine lake. The water is as blue as a gem, and legend says this is the Jade Pool of the Queen Mother of the West. Standing by the lake, you can also gaze at the magnificent Bogda Peak, feeling as if you are in a fairyland. S21 Desert Highway This is the must-pass route from Urumqi to Altay. It traverses gobi, desert, and yardang landforms, and you can also encounter Ulungu Lake. There are service areas along the way where you can get close to the desert and camels, experiencing the grandeur and vastness of nature. Kanas Kanas in summer is like a fairy tale world, including attractions such as Guanyu Pavilion, Three Bays, Kanas Lake, and Baihaba. All routes require returning to the transfer center before heading to the next stop. Sayram Lake There is a shade of blue called Sayram Lake Blue, known as "the last tear of the Atlantic Ocean," unbelievably beautiful. Near Kele Yongzhu, many swans gather, and Songshutou is a must-see. Climb a small hill to take in the panoramic view of Sayram Lake—it's simply breathtaking! Nalati There are three main routes: Sky Grassland, Valley Grassland, and Panlong Valley Trail. Among them, the Sky Grassland is the essence of Nalati, with three stops. The first stop, Tianjie Terrace, offers grass skiing, which is very fun; the most photogenic is the third stop, the Nomad’s Home, where many check in at the popular bridge. The further you go in, the fewer people and the more beautiful the scenery. Duku Highway Stretching 561 kilometers across the north and south of the Tianshan Mountains, it is one of "China’s Most Beautiful Roads." Starting from Dushanzi and winding up the mountains, the scenery changes continuously with rivers, snow mountains, forests, and grasslands, allowing you to experience four seasons in one day—truly spectacular. Even more surprisingly, when passing Tangbula, we discovered a hidden and stunning spot—Kash River S Bay, near the Qiaorma service area, and it’s free of charge! Northern Xinjiang Travel Tips 1. The UV rays here are strong, so be sure to do sun protection and moisturizing. 2. The climate in Northern Xinjiang is changeable with large temperature differences between morning and evening, so remember to carry a windbreaker at all times.