10 Days Northern Xinjiang Highlights Tour

Northern Xinjiang Highlights Tour Overview

Embark on a breathtaking 10-day journey through the heart of Northern Xinjiang, where rugged landscapes, pristine lakes, and rich ethnic cultures await. This expertly curated tour takes you from the vibrant city of Urumqi to the tranquil beauty of Kanas Lake, the picturesque village of Hemu, and the vast grasslands of Nalati.

Discover hidden gems like the fairytale town of Buerjin, the colorful rock formations of Dushanzi, and the cultural melting pot of Yining. Each destination offers a unique glimpse into Xinjiang’s diverse heritage and natural wonders, making this journey a truly unforgettable experience.

Destinations Covered: Urumqi, Beitun, Kanas, Jiadengyu, Hemu, Buerjin, Kuitun, Dushanzi, Yining, Nalati

10-Day Northern Xinjiang Highlights Tour Itinerary

Day 1: Singapore – Cross International Date Line – Urumqi

Meals Included: Dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Universal Hotel Urumqi or similar

Assemble at Singapore Changi Airport for your international flight to Urumqi, transiting through selected cities. Upon arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by your local guide. Enjoy a relaxing dinner and then transfer to your hotel for check-in and overnight rest.

Note: If your flight arrives before 12:00 noon, a complimentary lunch will be provided.

Day 2: Urumqi – Journey to Keketuohai or Fuyun

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 4-Star Yuan Fang Grand Hotel or similar

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive towards Keketuohai or Fuyun, traveling through some of Northern Xinjiang’s most spectacular landscapes. Along the way, you’ll pass through the vast Gurbantunggut Desert—China’s second-largest desert—before entering the Kalamaili Ungulate Nature Reserve, home to rare and protected wildlife.

Marvel at the dramatic hues of the Flaming Mountains, and take in the region’s untouched beauty marked by diverse terrain, rich vegetation, flowing rivers, and an almost complete absence of human activity—making it a true haven for wildlife.

Note: Tonight’s stay will be in Keketuohai or Fuyun, depending on local arrangements.

Day 3: Keketuohai – Beitun / Altay / Buerjin

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 4-Star Hepanyishu Holiday Hotel or similar

After breakfast, enjoy a full-day exploration of the breathtaking Keketuohai National Geological Park (including a scenic shuttle bus ride). Along the route, you’ll visit a variety of natural attractions such as the Fuguishi (Floating Stone), the serene Birch Forest, the symbolic Husband and Wife Trees, and the majestic Shimen (Stone Gate).

One of the park’s highlights is Shenzhong Mountain, the iconic landmark of Keketuohai. Depending on weather and road conditions, you may have the opportunity to reach the end of the scenic canyon. Later, take a relaxing walk along the Ertix River, with the option (based on your fitness level) to hike further into the stunning Ertix River Grand Canyon.

After lunch, continue your journey by road to Beitun, Altay, or Buerjin, where you will check in for an overnight stay.

Note: Tonight’s accommodation will be arranged in Beitun, Altay, or Buerjin, depending on the itinerary flow.

Day 4: Beitun – Kanas – Jiadengyu

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 4-Star Hongfu Eco-Hotel or similar

After breakfast, set off for the spectacular Kanas National Scenic Area (including shuttle bus service), one of China’s most stunning natural treasures. En route, enjoy scenic views of the Ertix River—the only river in China that flows into the Arctic Ocean—as well as the Burqin River and Kanas River.

Within the Kanas Scenic Area, explore several picture-perfect spots including Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, Immortal Bay, and the serene Yaze Lake. Each location showcases the region’s pristine alpine beauty and seasonal charm.

Ascend to the Fish Watching Pavilion for a panoramic view of Kanas Lake, a stunning body of water nestled among snow-capped mountains, known for its ever-changing hues that reflect the surrounding landscapes.

Note: Entry to the Fish Watching Pavilion requires a same-day reservation. If unavailable, the pavilion can only be admired from a distance.

After a day immersed in natural beauty, return to your hotel in Jiadengyu for dinner and rest.

Day 5: Jiadengyu – Hemu – Buerjin

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 4-Star Hepanyishu Holiday Hotel or similar

After breakfast, travel by regional vehicle to the picturesque Hemu Village, often referred to as a photographer’s paradise. Nestled in a valley surrounded by majestic mountains, this tranquil village offers idyllic pastoral scenery—wooden cottages, grazing livestock, and layers of morning mist—creating a scene straight out of a fairytale.

Continue onward to Buerjin, where you’ll visit the stunning Wucai River (Five-Colored River). Known as the Oasis of the South Shore, this surreal landscape is formed by the interplay of desert, vibrant rock formations, and the crystal-blue sky. The area has been shaped by the rushing Irtysh River and wind erosion, resulting in otherworldly, colorful terrain that’s a feast for the eyes.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner featuring local cold-water fish, a specialty of the region.

Day 6: Buerjin – Kuitun – Dushanzi

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Local 5-Star Dushanzi West Goma Hotel or similar

After breakfast, travel toward Karamay to explore the legendary “Devil’s City” (also known as Urho Wind City, including regional bus ride). This world-famous site is renowned for its eerie, wind-sculpted rock formations and surreal desert landscape.

Formed over millions of years by powerful winds and flowing water, the Yadan landform here features ochre and grey-green rock mesas that resemble a ruined city. The howling wind adds to its mysterious atmosphere—hence the nickname “Devil’s City.” This natural wonder is a must-see highlight of Northern Xinjiang.

After your visit, continue your journey to Dushanzi via Kuitun, and check in to your hotel for dinner and rest.

Day 7: Dushanzi – Sayram Lake – Yining

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Longxin International Hotel or similar

After breakfast, set out for the breathtaking Sayram Lake, often referred to as the “Pearl of the Tianshan Mountains” (includes shuttle bus service). Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush grasslands, Sayram Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque alpine scenery.

Next, continue your journey through the impressive Guozigou Bridge, one of the most iconic engineering feats in the region and the first scenic highlight of the Yili area. Spanning 700 meters with a clearance of 200 meters above the valley floor, this architectural marvel is part of National Highway 045. It is also recognized as China’s first highway bridge to feature a double-tower, double-cable, steel truss cable-stayed design.

Arrive in Yining in the evening and check into your hotel for a comfortable overnight stay.

Day 8: Yining – Nalati Grassland – Return to Yining

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: 5-Star Longxin International Hotel or similar

After breakfast, head out to explore the stunning Nalati Grassland, also known as the Sky Grassland (includes shuttle bus service). Regarded as one of the four largest grasslands in the world, this sub-alpine meadow zone is famed for its majestic natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.

With its rolling grasslands, towering peaks, deep gorges, dense spruce forests, and open river valleys, Nalati has long been cherished as a historic pastureland. The area is deeply rooted in Kazakh traditions, offering an authentic cultural experience alongside breathtaking views. Particularly impressive are the natural spruce forests of the Gongnaisi Valley, set against the dramatic backdrop of the Tianshan Mountains.

On your return journey to Yining, take in the sweeping landscapes of the Yili River Valley. Then, visit the charming Kazanchi Folk Village, where you’ll enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride, traditional Kazakh song and dance performances, handmade ice cream, and a walk through authentic local residences.

Day 9: Yining – Urumqi (via High-Speed Train)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation:

• 5-Star Universal Hotel Urumqi or similar (for Urumqi stay)

• 5-Star Guiyang Kempinski Hotel or equivalent (if flying to Guiyang)

Today, enjoy a comfortable intercity train journey back to Urumqi, taking approximately 5 hours. For your convenience, large luggage will be transported separately by a designated vehicle, so you can travel light and relax during the ride.

Upon arrival in Urumqi, visit the lively International Grand Bazaar, the largest and most vibrant market in the region, located in the heart of the Uyghur community. This bustling ethnic marketplace offers a wide array of Xinjiang specialties, local crafts, and cultural souvenirs—perfect for an afternoon of immersive shopping and cultural exploration.

In the evening, experience a lively cultural performance of traditional Uyghur music and dance at the Grand Bazaar, capping off your day with authentic local flair.

Note: For guests flying with Tianjin Airlines (GS), the itinerary continues with a flight to Guiyang, followed by check-in at a local hotel for overnight rest.

Day 10: Urumqi – Departure to Singapore

Meals Included: Breakfast (and Lunch for Tianjin Airlines travelers)

Enjoy free time this morning for personal activities until your scheduled transfer to the airport. Then, board your flight back to Singapore, concluding your unforgettable Northern Xinjiang journey.

Note: For travelers flying with Tianjin Airlines (GS), after breakfast, you will visit the charming Qingyan Ancient Town and explore the bustling Qingyun Market. Following these visits, you will be transferred to Guiyang Longdongbao Airport for your flight back to Singapore.