Xinjiang Travel Guide | Just back from Xinjiang, this guide is super practical!

| Just back from Xinjiang, this guide is super practical! I've prepared a super detailed Xinjiang travel guide for you today, hoping to help those planning a trip to Xinjiang!

🌸 Must-sees in Northern Xinjiang (4-7 day trip)
Sayram Lake: In April, Sayram Lake boasts the spectacle of ice shoves and lakeside wildflowers, offering stunning views! A second visit is recommended for better photo opportunities.
Turgen Apricot Valley: The world's largest wild apricot forest, with the best viewing period for the pink sea of flowers from late March to mid-April.
Xiata Trail: A hiker's paradise in May, with picturesque scenery featuring snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and grasslands.
Kuerdening: A lesser-known spot with pristine spruce forests, perfect for photos and features the same photo spots as Yi Mengling.
Tip: Nalati Grassland doesn't turn green until May. For early spring, consider heading to Qasi Grassland for more scenic beauty.

🕊 Must-do experiences in Southern Xinjiang (3-7 day trip)
Kashgar Old City: Wander through the maze-like city of the Western Regions and take Uyghur-style photos. Renting traditional clothing is a bargain at just CNY 50/day during the off-season.
Baisha Lake: The "blue tears" of the Pamir Plateau, with a dreamy half-ice, half-water lake surface in March.
Panlong Ancient Road: 75 kilometers with 600 bends, perfect for aerial photography capturing the essence of "taking all the detours today."
Taxkorgan Apricot Village: The apricot blossoms are in full bloom from March 15th to April 2nd. Stay in a century-old Tajik stone house and experience the local culture.
Note: Visiting Muztagata Glacier requires a 4WD vehicle with snow chains, and access is easier after April.

🍲 Xinjiang Food Recommendations
Dapanji (Big Plate Chicken): Tender chicken and soft potatoes, paired with onions, create an irresistible aroma.
Lamb Skewers: Grilled to perfection, these fragrant skewers are a signature Xinjiang dish.
Nang Pit Meat: Aromatic roasted meat, paired with nang bread, is incredibly satisfying.
Pilaf: Fluffy rice served with mutton, carrots, and raisins, offering a nutritious and flavorful meal.
Baked Buns: Crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside, these are a traditional Xinjiang snack.
Yogurt Rice Dumplings: Indulge in these at local food streets and savor their unique flavor.
Xinjiang Banmian (Mixed Noodles): La Tiao Zi noodles are hand-pulled from high-quality flour and served with mutton, tomatoes, peppers, and various vegetables for a truly satisfying meal.
Fried Rice Noodles: Thick and chewy rice noodles in a rich broth, available with chicken, beef, mushroom, and other flavors.

🗓 7-Day, 6-Night Itinerary for Spring Flower Viewing in Ili
📅 Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi from various locations nationwide
📅 Day 2: Urumqi - S101 - Kenswat - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Kuitun
📅 Day 3: Kuitun - Sayram Lake Loop - Sayram Lake Afternoon Tea - Trip Moments at Sayram Lake
📅 Day 4: Sayram Lake - Turgen Apricot Valley/Kuerdening - Nalati
📅 Day 5: Nalati - Nalati Aerial Grassland - Jinghe/Shuanghe
📅 Day 6: Jinghe/Shuanghe - International Grand Bazaar - Urumqi
📅 Day 7: Departure from Urumqi

🌟 Xinjiang is a place full of natural beauty and ethnic charm. Whether it's the snow-capped mountains and grasslands of Northern Xinjiang or the ancient cities of Southern Xinjiang, your trip is sure to be filled with excitement. I hope this guide helps you plan your trip with ease and enjoy a perfect Xinjiang adventure! Save it and get ready to go!