Northern Xinjiang Tour to Kanas Lake & Nalati Grassland

Upon arrival at Urumqi Airport, your guide will meet you and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for rest or optional exploration. We recommend visiting the bustling Erdaoqiao Grand Bazaar, one of the most iconic markets in Xinjiang. It’s a vibrant place to experience local culture, sample Uyghur delicacies, shop for traditional crafts, and enjoy music and dance performances. In the evening, the bazaar is especially lively and beautifully lit. Overnight in Urumqi.

Drive along the scenic S21 desert highway to Burqin. The route offers vast desert plains, wind farms, and views of distant mountain ranges. Upon arrival, visit the Colorful Beach (also known as Rainbow Beach), a striking multicolored landscape formed by wind and water erosion along the Irtysh River. Its vivid hues create an otherworldly setting, especially beautiful at sunset. Later, explore the Grilled Fish Night Market, a lively street food scene renowned for its fresh river fish and local snacks. Overnight in Burqin.

Travel through the forested hills and river valleys of the Altai region to Hemu Village, considered one of the most beautiful villages in China. Located in a scenic valley of the Altai Mountains, Hemu is home to the Tuwa people, an ethnic minority known for their wooden houses, horseback culture, and harmony with nature. Visit a local Tuwa household and stroll the peaceful village. For panoramic views, hike up to Meilifeng behind the village, where the surrounding forests and valleys stretch endlessly. Late afternoon head to Jiadengyu, a small town serves as the main gateway to the Kanas Lake Scenic Area. Overnight in Jiadengyu.


Spend the full day exploring Kanas Lake Scenic Area, a highlight of Northern Xinjiang. Ride the shuttle bus through dense Taiga forests and past clear streams and valleys to reach Laying Dragon Bay, Immortal Bay, and Moon Bay—three of the lake’s most photogenic points. These scenic bays are known for their still waters and mystical beauty. Optionally, ride a sightseeing boat to admire the clear blue waters and towering peaks. Visit the Watching Fish Pavilion, perched above the lake, for a sweeping panorama of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Overnight in Jiadengyu.

Drive across the arid western edge of the Dzungarian Basin, a stark contrast of open steppe and desert landscapes. Arrive in Wu’erhe and explore Devil’s City (Yardang Ghost City), a dramatic and eerie landscape shaped by centuries of wind erosion. The rock formations resemble castles and mythical creatures, and the whistling wind gives the area a ghostly atmosphere. Along the way, pass through the Hundred-Mile Oil Field, a vast petroleum-rich zone. Overnight in Wu’erhe.

Drive across rugged, highland terrain to reach the spectacular Dushanzi Grand Canyon. The road reveals expansive grasslands and stark cliffs before arriving at this geological marvel. Formed over millions of years by wind and river erosion, the canyon features towering cliffs, sculpted rock walls, and vibrant sediment layers. Overnight in Dushanzi.

Drive along one of the most scenic routes in Xinjiang. Pass through forested valleys, winding mountain roads, and lush pastures before stopping at the majestic Sayram Lake, the largest alpine lake in Xinjiang. Often called the “Pearl of the Tianshan Mountains,” its vivid turquoise waters are encircled by snow-capped peaks and blooming grasslands in spring and summer. Cross the impressive Guozigou Bridge, a modern engineering marvel offering panoramic canyon views. Overnight in Yining.

Drive through the fertile Ili River Valley and alongside forested slopes to reach Kazanqi Folk Culture Village to learn Uyghur heritage, where you can ride horses, visit a Uyghur family, enjoy traditional ice cream, and watch folk dances. Then follow the Kunes River to reach the famed Narat Grassland, a vast expanse of green meadows and rolling hills. Known for its sunrise views and alpine charm, the area is dotted with yurts, grazing horses, and dense spruce forests. Overnight in Narat.

Morning visit to Narat’s Flower Sea, especially beautiful in spring with wild Ashan nasturtiums and dandelions in bloom. Then drive back to Yining Railway Station to board the high-speed train (C844, 16:17–21:42, 5.5 hours train ride) back to Urumqi. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. Overnight in Urumqi.

After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to Urumqi Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your unforgettable journey through the stunning landscapes and cultures of Northern Xinjiang.