Kanas Lake & Hemu Village Trekking Tour

Your Kanas Lake trekking tour starts in Urumqi, the capital city of Xinjiang, the largest province in western China, renowned for the Uyghur culture and the ancient Silk Road. Over the next 10 days, you will hike deep into Northern Xinjiang to explore the mysterious Kanas Lake, the unspoiled Hemu Village, and many more attractions.

Upon arrival, a local driver will pick you up and transfer you to your hotel in Urumqi. The rest of the day is left free for you to explore Urumqi (you might want to visit the Grand Bazaar Urumqi) or adjust to the jet lag. Note that the clock time in Urumqi, Xinjiang, is the same as Beijing Time, but the sunset here occurs 2 hours later compared to mainland China.

In the morning, you will be transferred to Urumqi airport for the flight to Kanas. The airport near Kanas Lake is 50 km away from the lake itself. Upon arrival, your local trekking guide will pick you up and transfer you to a hotel in Jiadengyu, the entrance town to Kanas Lake. After settling down, the guide will help you review all the equipment and share the schedule for the following days’ trekking.

Start trekking to Hemu Village this morning, passing through meadows and woods. Your destination today is the Delta Campsite, which is about 20 km (12 mi.) from Jiadengyu. You will see a pine forest covering the surrounding mountains along both banks of the Buerjin River. The confluence of the Kanas and Hemu rivers will be the campsite.

The hike today takes about 6 to 7 hours. Upon arrival at the Delta Campsite, find a smooth meadow in the woods near the river and the horse path. Set up camp here as it is a safe and suitable place for the evening.

Continue trekking for about 4 to 5 hours, and you will reach Hemu Village. First, hike northward for 5 km (3.1 mi) along the west bank of the Hemu River. Then, after passing through a birch forest and crossing the Hemu Bridge, you will truly arrive in Hemu.

Ranked by China National Geography as one of the six most beautiful villages in China, Hemu Village is a peaceful settlement of the Tuwa people. Upon your arrival, take a walk around to explore the unique cultures of the locals. Do not forget to use your camera to capture the breathtaking scenery around the village. Stay overnight at local guest house or hotel. 

Today serves as a break from your trekking tour, as you will stay in the peaceful Hemu Village to explore its unique beauty. Rise early and embark on a one-hour trek up the wooden steps leading to the grassland on the hill opposite the village, where a breathtaking sunrise awaits. The panoramic view from this vantage point is simply majestic, showcasing the entire village with its wooden houses, birch trees, and a vibrant green river winding through the landscape. You also have the option of a short horse riding experience on the grassland (additional fee required and pay it locally).

Continue your exploration in Hemu Village and take this opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting a Tuwa family, experiencing their way of life, and learning about their rich traditions. Spend the night at a hotel in Hemu Village.

Today is a challenging day as you will hike to the campsite by Black Lake, which is 20 km (12 mi) away from Hemu Village. After leaving the village, hike northwest to reach the valley, then spend about 5 hours navigating your way and finally ascend to 2,350 m (7,710 ft) high Daban, the highest point of this Kanas trekking tour.

Descending from Daban, you will see Black Lake located in the valley at the foot of the mountain. Upon your arrival, your local guide will help you set up camp beside the lake. Afterwards, you will enjoy a picnic dinner or have food with local nomad family (pay it locally) under your guide assistance. Please make sure to keep warm while sleeping, as it gets cooler at night than during the day.

The highlight is coming today as you will reach the spectacular Kanas Lake. After trekking westward from Black Lake, you will see a majestic ridge standing at a height of 2,200 m (7,218 ft.). Climb over this ridge and hike another 5 km (3 mi) to reach Kanas Village, where you will stop for a rest.

Afterwards, leave the village and trek along the river valley. A magnificent view of Kanas Lake will greet you after you pass through a dense pine forest. The rest of the day is for you to capture the enchanting scenery of Kanas. This evening, you will stay at a local hotel in Kanas Nature Reserve.

Today, we suggest taking the shuttle bus to visit Guan Yu Tai (Fish Watching Pavilion), the highest point within the reserve that offers a stunning panoramic view of the entire lake. Kanas Lake is renowned for its ever-changing colors, which transform from deep green to sky blue, gray, and white throughout the day. As you ascend to higher vantage points, you’ll be treated to a captivating display of vibrant hues. This evening, you will stay at a local hotel in Kanas Nature Reserve.

You’ll have another day to further enjoy the beauty of the Kanas Lake Nature Reserve.Today, we recommend you walk and enjoy the beauty of Kanas Lake in Lying Dragon Bay, Immortal Bay, and Moon Bay. These bays are the most well-known and beautiful spots in the area.  Late afternoon return to Jiadengyu for overnight. 

In the morning, drive to Kanas airport (about a 1-1.5 hour drive) for the flight back to Urumqi, concluding your travel service with WindhorseTour. If you wish to continue your journey, we are experts in tailor-made trips and are ready to assist you in extending your stay in China.