8-Day Northern Xinjiang Tour: Kanas Lake, Hemu Villages & Sayram Lake

Ni Hao! Welcome to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region! Our local Urumqi tour guide will wait for you and your travel companions in the same group at the arrival hall of the airport and will escort you directly to the downtown area. The guide will assist your group with checking into your hotel. (Note: please tell us your schedule in advance.)

After breakfast, your guide and driver will pick you and your group up at your hotel. You’ll be driven about 70 kilometers (about 1-1.5 hours) to Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled at an elevation of around 1,980 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, this serene alpine lake is surrounded by lush forests, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking landscapes. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, panoramic Bogda mountain views, and connections to ancient myths and legends, Heavenly Lake is a must-see. One such legend involves the Queen Mother of the West (Xi Wangmu), who is said to have hosted a banquet for the Eight Immortals here.

Upon arrival, you’ll first take 40-minute sightseeing bus ride through the dramatic mountains. Then, enjoy 10-minute walk to the picturesque lake. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Heavenly Lake, taking in the fresh mountain air and diverse flora and fauna.

Optional Activities (additional fee required):

1.Boat Ride: Cruise across the peaceful waters of the lake, immersing yourself in its beauty and the reflections of the snow-capped mountains.

2.Cableway Ride: Take a cableway up to Mayashan for even more stunning views of Bogda Mountain.

After the tour, drive 415 kilometers (about 5 hours) north to Fuyun County. Along the way, the landscape gradually changes to the Gobi Desert within the Junggar Basin. Nestled deep within the Gurbandunggut Desert, you will encounter a wildlife paradise, a sanctuary for hoofed animals. Here, you will often encounter wild asses, wild horses, and wild camels.

Fuyun County, nestled in the Altay Mountains and serving as a mid-stop along the Urumqi-Kanas Lake route, offers vast grasslands, deserts, and rivers. Upon arrival, you can witness the beautiful Irtysh River flowing through the entire county, explore the charming riverside park along the Irtysh River, and immerse yourself in the exotic Kazakh culture.

Your and your group will stay overnight in Fuyun.

After breakfast, you and your companions will be escorted to Keketuohai National Geological Park (about 1 hour, 52 km away). Spanning over 788 square kilometers, Keketuohai is home to a variety of geological formations, including rugged mountains, deep canyons, and sprawling grasslands. The majestic Altay Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for the park, offering excellent opportunities for hiking and trekking.

Upon arrival, your group will take a sightseeing bus along the Erqisi River, enjoying breathtaking views of the landscape. You will have the chance to explore the Birch Forest, which thrives on the convex banks of the river and covers an area of 1.5 square kilometers. This forest consists of three islands of varying sizes, primarily featuring birch trees alongside some Siberian poplars, and is classified as a temperate mountain broadleaf secondary forest.

Next, visit Kekesuli, located in the northeastern part of the Tulun Basin in Fuyun County. This naturally formed wetland is created by melting snow from the surrounding mountains and boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters rich in aquatic flora and fauna. During the summer and autumn, a multitude of red geese, white swans, gray cranes, sand gulls, and wild ducks gather here to breed. In autumn, the lake’s surface is adorned with blooming reeds, while over 20 reed islands dance in the wind, creating a lively scene as wild ducks frolic.

You can also enjoy views of Shenzhong Mountain, also known as Amir Sala Peak, a unique granite spire resembling a bell. Rising sharply from the flatlands on the south bank of the river, it stands at an elevation of 1,608 meters, with a relative height difference of 365 meters, making it one of the most scenic peaks in the Altai Mountains. Birch trees, green pines, and Siberian spruces thrive in the crevices of the rock walls. The mountain’s surface features smooth yet steep slopes due to concentric circular layering, shaped by frost weathering and erosion along these planes. 

After that, leave Fuyun County and head to Burqin, which is about 340 km away and takes 5-5.5 hours to drive. In the late afternoon, you will explore Wucaitan (known as Five-Colored Beach). This beach is located beside the clear waters of the Irtysh River, offering a striking contrast between the colorful rocks and the calm, reflective river surface. Its unique beauty comes from multi-colored rock formations shaped by wind and water erosion over millions of years. The landscape features vibrant shades of red, yellow, green, purple, and white, creating a surreal, otherworldly scene, especially when illuminated by the setting sun. This area resembles Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, earning it the nickname “Little Zhangye.”

In this scenic area, you can walk along well-maintained paths and marvel at the vibrant rock formations. You can also enjoy views of the populus euphratica forest on the opposite bank of the Irtysh River. The river, a serene ribbon, mirrors the vibrant tapestry of the banks, creating a symphony of nature’s most beautiful colors. Sunset View: The best time to visit Wucaitan is in the evening, especially at sunset. When the sunlight shines on the rocks, they display a colorful array of hues. It is recommended to arrive 1-2 hours before sunset to fully appreciate the scenery.

After the tour, you will be escorted to Burqin County, where you will stay overnight.

On this day, you and your partners will be transferred from Burqin to Kanas Lake (122 km, about 2 to 2.5 hours’ drive). “Kanas” is a Mongolian word meaning “beautiful and mysterious lake.” Known as one of China’s most stunning lakes, Kanas Lake is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, lush green slopes, and dense forests. This breathtaking combination of the lake and mountains has earned it the title of “God’s Garden.” As the deepest glacial moraine-dammed lake in China, it is as beautiful as a shining pearl. Kanas Lake in autumn is particularly magical, bursting into a kaleidoscope of colors – golden foliage, snow-capped mountains, and the turquoise waters of the lake.

Upon arrival, you’ll first take the sightseeing bus from Jiadengyu Visitors’ Center and head to Kanas Lake. The first stop is the Fish Pavilion , named after multiple reported sightings of a supposed “lake monster” in this area. From the pavilion, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the magnificent Kanas Lake. The lake’s surface resembles a giant mirror, reflecting the surrounding snow-capped mountains, forests, and blue sky. (Walking tips: Climbing up to the pavilion requires ascending about 1,068 stairs, which can be a bit physically demanding.) 

Later, you will spend some quiet time strolling around the lake on the plankway to admire even more of its beautiful landscapes. 

After that, continue your trip to the Three Bays: Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay. Take the sightseeing bus, and your first stop will be Shenxian Bay (or Immortal Bay). The lake’s surface resembles a mirror, gently wrapped in a thin fog. In the distance, a blend of gold, red, and orange colors forms a stunning forest that feels like a fairyland. Next, head to Moon Bay. A short walk will offer you a panoramic view of the bay. At first glance, you’ll notice a hint of sapphire blue, like a gemstone nestled in the forest. Named for its crescent moon shape, it’s the brightest jewel of Kanas Lake. Afterward, you can either take the bus or hike to Wolong Bay (or Hidden Dragon Bay). There’s a wooden walkway leading down to the lakeside, where you can immerse yourself in the stunning scenery. In autumn, Wolong Bay becomes even more serene, wrapped in the vibrant colors of fall. The red and yellow trees, emerald green lake, and fascinating mountain ranges are simply breathtaking! 

After the tour, be transfered to Jiadengyu for accomodation.

After breakfast, your group will depart from the Kanas Lake area to Hemu Village, which is a 1-hour drive away.

Hemu , a remote and picturesque village nestled in the Altai Mountains of northern Xinjiang, is often referred to as one of the most beautiful villages in China. Known for its traditional wooden houses, vast grasslands, dense birch forests, and breathtaking mountain views, the village offers a glimpse into a simple way of life. It is home to the indigenous Kazakh and Tuvan ethnic groups, who maintain their nomadic lifestyles and deep connection to nature. The village feels like a step back in time, with horse-drawn carts and rustic wooden cabins adding to its charm. (Hemu in Summer & Autumn Photography: In summer, Hemu gives you a feel of lush greenery, blooming wildflowers. In autumn, the world turns into a living painting, and the mountains are painted in vibrant shades of gold, orange, and red.)

Upon arrival in Hemu, take the sightseeing bus to the service center, then continue to Hemu Village. Explore this poetic village at your leisure, sample local cuisine, and capture the perfect photos of snow-capped mountains, birch forest and traditional wooden houses.

After the tour, your group will be escorted to Burqin, which is about 156km away and 3-hour drive. You will stay overnight in Burqin County. 

After breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to Burqin and be escorted to Karamay Urho Ghost Town (about 236km, 3 hours’ drive). Karamay Urho Ghost Town, also known as Wuerhe Wind City (Wuerhe Fengcheng), is an outstanding example of China’s Yardang landforms. It is ranked first among “China’s Three Most Beautiful Yardang Landforms” by National Geographic China.

Famous for its eerie and otherworldly rock formations, this area has been shaped by millennia of wind and water erosion, giving it a dramatic, surreal atmosphere. It’s called “Ghost Town” because when the wind blows through the rocks, it produces eerie, whistling sounds, resembling ghostly howls. It was also a filming location for Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. You will explore the site via sightseeing bus, allowing you to walk among the towering yardangs. Discovering formations that resemble castles, faces, and animals is a captivating experience.

After the tour, your group will be transferred to Kuitun (about 245km, 2.5-3 hours’ drive). Stay overnight in Kuitun.

After breakfast, your group will be transferred from Kuitun to Sayram Lake (about 310 km, 3.5 hours’ drive). Perched at 2,071 meters above sea level, Sayram Lake is a serene jewel hidden amidst the majestic Tian Shan Mountains. This vast, oval-shaped lake spans 30 kilometers from east to west and 25 kilometers from north to south, covering a breathtaking area of 453 square kilometers. As a landlocked body of water, it is often referred to as “The Last Tear of the Atlantic Ocean”, a name that perfectly captures its ethereal beauty and remote location.

Travel Tips for Visiting Sayram Lake:

• Explore from the East Gate:Begin your journey at the East Gate for easy access and stunning views right at the start of your visit.
• Lake Road:The entire road around Sayram Lake is a 90 km circular route, taking about 5-6 hours to complete the full sightseeing tour. Based on today’s schedule and actual conditions, you will explore part of the lake.
• Sunset Views:If weather permits, don’t miss the spectacular sunset over the lake, a true highlight of the experience.
• Best Time to Visit:June to August is the perfect time to visit Sayram Lake, with warm weather, clear skies, and vibrant flowers. These summer months are ideal for outdoor activities and water-based fun, attracting the most visitors during this peak season.

After the tour, you will be escorted to Yining city for accomodation. Have a good sleep tonight.

After breakfast, your group will be escorted to the Yining Railway Station to take the high-speed train to Urumqi (about 5-5.5 hours). The service will end in Yining, Xinjiang.

Thank you for choosing Manjing Travel for your China Xinjiang tour. We are dedicated to enhancing your travel experiences and look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure in China other destinations. Have a safe journey home!