Honestly, nothing could have prepared me for Xinjiang! After years of dreaming about this incredible corner of China, seeing the snow-capped Tianshan Mountains reflecting in Heavenly Lake took my breath away. Standing there, watching the pristine water mirror those massive peaks, I couldn’t believe my eyes. And don’t even get me started on the surreal rainbow mountains of Zhangye!
From ancient Silk Road cities to vast deserts and towering peaks, these are the most beautiful places in Xinjiang that left me completely speechless. The sheer scale of everything here blew my mind, and trust me, photos don’t do it justice. Ready to discover 12 incredible spots that will change how you see this fascinating region of China forever?
Top Sights to See in Xinjiang
Looking for the coolest things to do in Xinjiang? Explore the majestic Bogda Shan Mountains, marvel at the breathtaking Dushanzi Grand Canyon, and experience the vast beauty of the Human Grassland in Karajun Grassland. Don’t miss the stunning scenery of Jiangbulak Grassland, a paradise for nature lovers. Whether you’re into adventure, landscapes, or culture, here are the top attractions to visit in Xinjiang.
1. Bogda Shan Mountains
Tianchi Lake is hands down one of the most accessible and stunning alpine experiences in Xinjiang, and honestly, it’s way better than I expected when I first saw those photos online. This crescent-shaped lake sits at 1,910 meters elevation, surrounded by towering spruce forests and the snow-capped Bogda Peak (5,445m) reflecting perfectly in the crystal-clear water.
Don’t just stick to the lakeside like most tourists do – you’ll miss the real magic. I actually spent a full day hiking the eastern trail to Black Dragon Pond (Eastern Small Tianchi), where a dramatic waterfall cascades down a 100-meter cliff. The round-trip shuttle bus costs ¥70, but walking the timber boardwalk takes only 10 minutes and gives you better photo opportunities anyway.
The cable car and tourist bus combo to Maya Mountain runs ¥220 (half price for seniors with ID), and it’s absolutely worth it for the panoramic views. From the observation deck, you can see the entire lake, Bogda’s glacier-covered peaks, and on clear days, the sprawling Junggar Basin stretching toward Urumqi.
Current admission is ¥95 (April-October) or ¥45 (November-March), with the park open 8:30-20:00 in summer. June through September offers the best weather, but don’t sleep on autumn visits when golden larch trees create incredible reflections. Winter transforms this into a frozen wonderland perfect for skiing at the nearby Tianshan Tianchi International Ski Resort.
2. Dushanzi Grand Canyon
This geological masterpiece proves that nature’s the ultimate artist, and I’m not even being dramatic here. Dushanzi Grand Canyon stretches 20 miles through rainbow-colored rock layers that shift from deep reds to brilliant yellows throughout the day. Locals call it “Earth’s Art Gallery,” which sounds cheesy but honestly fits perfectly.
The well-maintained boardwalk system makes this surprisingly accessible for all fitness levels. I spent hours photographing the canyon walls as light transformed the colors every few minutes – sunrise and sunset are absolutely magical here. The viewing platforms offer different perspectives, but the real gems are the narrow slot canyons you can explore if you venture beyond the main paths.
What makes this place special isn’t just the Instagram-worthy views (though they’re incredible). Hidden waterfalls tucked into side ravines reward adventurous hikers, and the geological formations tell stories spanning millions of years. The canyon’s carved by the Kuitun River, creating dramatic depths that’ll make you dizzy looking down.
Visit during May-June or September-October for the most vivid colors and comfortable temperatures. Summer can get brutally hot, while winter brings its own stark beauty with frost highlighting the rock formations. The nearest decent accommodation is at Wanda Jin Hotel in Dushanzi City, about 35 miles away.
3. Human Grassland in Karajun Grassland
Karajun Grassland stretches like an endless green ocean, and stepping into this UNESCO World Heritage landscape feels like traveling back centuries. The name means “dark green” in Kazakh, which perfectly captures these rolling hills that seem to go on forever. What locals call “Human Grassland” specifically refers to the sections where Kazakh families still maintain their traditional nomadic lifestyle.
I stayed in an authentic yurt for two nights, and it completely changed my perspective on this place. The hospitality is incredible – families welcome you with homemade dairy products and demonstrate horsemanship skills that’ll blow your mind. Watching skilled riders perform traditional games while their horses thunder across the grassland is genuinely thrilling.
The landscape transforms dramatically through the seasons. July brings the lushest grass and perfect weather for hiking, while spring covers everything in colorful wildflowers. Don’t miss the astronomical experience here – with zero light pollution, the Milky Way appears so clearly you can actually see why ancient cultures built their stories around the stars.
Getting there requires a 50-mile drive north from Urumqi toward the Kazakhstan border. Jili Lodge in the city provides comfortable accommodations, though honestly, camping under the stars in a traditional yurt beats any hotel experience. The elevation (around 2,000 meters) means cool nights even in summer, so pack layers.
4. Jiangbulak Grassland
“Spring Water Grassland” lives up to its name with hundreds of natural springs creating the most pristine alpine meadow I’ve ever seen. Nestled between 5,900-7,200 feet in the Altai Mountains, this remote paradise feels completely untouched by modern tourism – which is exactly why it’s so special.
The trek alongside bubbling brooks that crisscross flower-filled meadows is pure magic. I counted at least fifteen different wildflower species during my July visit: edelweiss, wild poppies, gentian, and carpets of butter-yellow flowers I couldn’t even identify. The contrast between crystal-clear streams and vibrant blooms creates some of the most photogenic landscapes in Xinjiang.
What makes this place really memorable is the genuine cultural exchange. Kazakh families living here still follow traditional pastoral rhythms, and they’ll often invite visitors to share meals and learn about their lifestyle. I learned to milk yaks and helped move sheep to new pastures – experiences you definitely won’t find in typical tourist destinations.
The 280-mile journey northeast from Urumqi requires serious planning since facilities are minimal. Ruby Elegant Hotel in the city provides a comfortable base, but you’ll need to arrange transportation and camping gear. Mid-June through mid-August offers the best weather and peak wildflower season, though the remote location means weather can change quickly.
5. K2 Mountain
Standing at the base of K2 (28,251 feet) is one of those life-changing moments that photos absolutely cannot capture. Known as the “Savage Mountain,” this pyramid of rock and ice commands total respect from anyone who sees it. The Chinese approach through Shaksgam Valley offers turquoise glacial rivers cutting through dramatic gorges that feel like entering another planet.
The trek to advanced base camp at 16,400 feet is serious business – you’ll need proper mountaineering experience and gear. But even getting partway rewards you with views of massive glaciers, alpine meadows dotted with snow leopard tracks, and that first glimpse of K2’s perfect pyramid emerging on the horizon. That moment literally stopped me in my tracks.
What surprised me most was how remote and wild this area feels. Unlike Mount Everest‘s circus atmosphere, K2’s Chinese side sees very few visitors. You’re genuinely in wilderness where weather changes can trap you for days and self-sufficiency is essential. The nearest supplies are in Kashgar, a full day’s drive away.
June through August provides the only reliable weather window, but even then, conditions can deteriorate rapidly. Professional guides are essential unless you’re an experienced mountaineer. The approach requires special permits and coordination with local authorities, so this isn’t a last-minute decision. Accommodation is camping only – K2 Base Camp provides basic tent facilities for serious expeditions.
6. Kanas Lake
The moment Kanas Lake comes into view, you’ll understand why locals call it “the last tear of the Atlantic.” This sapphire jewel nestled among snow-capped peaks and pristine forests creates reflections so perfect they look photoshopped. At 4.9 square kilometers and 105 meters deep, it’s massive enough to explore by boat yet intimate enough to hike around completely.
I spent three days here and honestly could’ve stayed longer. The Three Bays scenic area where the lake curves into dramatic coves surrounded by mountains offers the best photo opportunities. September brings the most spectacular colors when golden larch trees create mirror-like reflections, but summer’s emerald waters and wildflower-dotted shores are equally stunning.
Don’t miss the boat tour (¥120 for 50 minutes) that takes you deeper into areas inaccessible by foot. The double-decker yacht accommodates 50 people, so book early during peak season. The Taiga Forest Corridor boardwalk along the eastern shore offers an 8-kilometer round-trip through ancient forests where you’ll spot squirrels and maybe catch glimpses of the mysterious lake “monster” locals whisper about.
Current admission runs ¥160 plus ¥70 for the round-trip shuttle (valid 48 hours). Accommodations inside the park fill quickly – Taiga International Hostel offers dorm beds for ¥160, while Jiadengyu Castle Hotel provides upscale options. The journey from Urumqi takes 18 hours by bus or you can fly to Altay and drive four hours through increasingly dramatic scenery.
7. Karakul Lake
Karakul Lake sits at 3,600 meters elevation, and yeah, you’ll feel that altitude immediately. But once you catch your breath and see this sapphire mirror reflecting Muztagh Ata (7,546m) and Kongur Tagh (7,649m), you’ll forget all about the thin air. This is hands-down one of the most photogenic spots in the Pamir Plateau.
The drive here along the China-Pakistan Highway is almost as spectacular as the destination itself. Winding mountain roads offer glimpses of glaciated peaks and traditional Tajik and Kyrgyz villages that seem frozen in time. I stayed in a yurt beside the lake and watched the water change from deep blue to emerald green as clouds cast shadows across the surrounding peaks.
Early morning photography here is absolutely essential – mist rises from the water while golden sunlight hits the mountain peaks, creating some of the most dramatic lighting I’ve ever captured. Local Kyrgyz shepherds often bring their flocks down to the shoreline, adding authentic cultural elements to your shots.
The lake sits 200 kilometers from Kashgar via well-maintained but winding mountain roads. August through September offers the clearest weather and most comfortable temperatures, though you’ll still need warm clothing for mornings and evenings. Vatica Kashgar Ancient City Hotel provides comfortable accommodations in the historic old town, but honestly, camping beside the lake under star-filled skies beats any hotel experience.
8. Kumtag Desert
Kumtag Desert holds a world record that sounds impossible until you see it yourself – it’s literally the closest desert to any major city on earth, yet these golden sands have never invaded nearby Shanshan County despite existing for thousands of years. The name means “Sand Mountain” in Uyghur, perfectly describing the massive dunes that ripple toward the horizon like a frozen golden sea.
The sand here is incredibly fine and soft, changing colors from amber to deep gold as the sun moves across the sky. I spent hours sandboarding down massive dunes – the rush of racing down 200-foot slopes beats any amusement park ride. Desert jeep tours bounce across the landscape, offering access to remote areas where the dunes create otherworldly formations.
What makes this place really special is the stark contrast with the nearby oasis towns. You can literally walk from green vineyards and bustling markets into pure desert wilderness in minutes. Dawn photography here is incredible as shadows create dramatic patterns across the rippled sand surfaces, while sunset transforms everything into shades of fire.
The desert sits 90 kilometers from Turpan City in eastern Xinjiang. March through September provides the best visiting conditions, though summer temperatures can be brutal. Super 8 Hotel Toksun offers practical accommodations in the area. Activities include camel riding, sand sliding, desert camping, and sunrise/sunset viewing tours. Just remember to bring plenty of water and sun protection – the desert doesn’t forgive careless preparation.
9. Sayram Lake
Nicknamed “the last tear of the Atlantic,” Sayram Lake shimmers like a massive sapphire at 2,073 meters elevation in the Tianshan Mountains. At over 450 square kilometers, this alpine wonder never completely freezes despite harsh winters, creating a mysterious beauty that changes dramatically with each season.
Summer transforms the surrounding grasslands into an artist’s palette that’ll make you question if the colors are real. Purple wildflowers dominate the northern shore while yellow blooms carpet the western edge, creating this incredible contrast with the blue waters and snow-capped peaks. I visited during July and caught the Naadam Festival when Kazakh horsemen gather for traditional horse races and wrestling matches – absolutely thrilling cultural experiences you won’t find anywhere else in China.
The circumnavigation by sightseeing bus takes several hours and offers completely different perspectives from each side of the lake. Don’t just stick to the organized tours though – hiking the nearby trails provides intimate views without crowds. Wildlife watchers should bring binoculars for the diverse bird species that nest around the shoreline.
Located 100 kilometers from Bole City and 520 kilometers from Urumqi, the lake requires dedicated travel time but absolutely rewards the effort. June through July brings the peak wildflower season and most comfortable weather. Ruby Elegant Hotel in Urumqi provides elegant accommodations with traditional Uyghur design elements, though camping beside the lake under star-filled skies creates unforgettable memories.
10. Taklamakan Desert
The legendary Taklamakan Desert isn’t called “the Sea of Death” for nothing – this 337,000-square-kilometer expanse represents China’s largest desert and the world’s second-largest shifting sand desert. Ancient travelers whispered that its name meant “enter and never return” in Uyghur, which honestly feels dramatic but appropriate when you’re standing at its edge.
Modern adventurers can now cross this once-impenetrable barrier via two incredible desert highways that showcase engineering marvels amid otherworldly landscapes. Golden dunes rise over 300 feet in some areas, creating an ocean of sand that shifts and changes with every windstorm. The desert’s edges hide historic treasures – ancient Silk Road cities that were eventually swallowed by advancing dunes.
What fascinated me most were the green corridors where rivers create life-sustaining oases through the arid landscape. These waterways allowed trade and culture to flourish for centuries, and you can still see remnants of ancient settlements that once thrived along these routes. The contrast between barren sand seas and these verdant ribbons creates some of the most dramatic photography opportunities in China.
The desert spans across southern Xinjiang’s Tarim Basin, accessible from multiple cities including Urumqi, Kashgar, and Korla. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) provide the most comfortable temperatures for exploration. Four Points by Sheraton Urumqi offers modern accommodations for pre-expedition preparation. Activities include driving the desert highways, camel trekking, visiting oasis towns, and exploring ancient Silk Road ruins scattered throughout the region.
11. Tianshan Lake (Tianchi Lake)
Ancient mythology places the Queen Mother of the West at Tianshan Lake, and honestly, one look at this alpine paradise explains why immortals would choose it as their home. This crescent-shaped jewel nestles between snow-capped peaks and emerald forests of spruce and pine, transforming dramatically with each season into what National Geographic called one of the “50 Places to Visit in Your Lifetime.”
Summer brings wildflowers carpeting the shoreline and perfect boating weather on the crystal-clear waters. The cable car to Maya Peak (¥220 including tourist bus) offers breathtaking panoramic views that stretch for miles across the Tianshan Mountains. I hiked the eastern path to Black Dragon Pond, a smaller lake surrounded by pristine forest where most tourists never venture.
Winter completely transforms this place into a frozen wonderland where the lake turns to ice and snow-draped spruces stand like sentinels. The nearby ski resort becomes operational, and the cable car ride up Maya Peak offers different but equally spectacular views of Bogda Peak‘s snow-covered summit. If you’re lucky, you might witness the incredible phenomenon of colorful clouds creating rainbow effects across the frozen landscape.
Located 110 kilometers east of Urumqi at 1,980 meters elevation, the lake requires shuttle bus transport from the park entrance (¥70 round-trip). Current admission runs ¥95 (summer) or ¥45 (winter). Yunbo Youth Hostel provides budget-friendly accommodations with traditional Xinjiang decor. June through September offers the best weather, but don’t overlook winter visits for skiing and unique frozen lake photography.
12. Urumqi
As the world’s most inland major city – farther from any ocean than anywhere else on earth – Urumqi serves as your gateway to Xinjiang’s natural wonders while offering fascinating cultural experiences of its own. The name means “beautiful pasture” in Mongolian, hinting at the region’s pastoral heritage beneath this modern metropolis of diverse cultures.
The International Grand Bazaar buzzes with energy as vendors sell everything from hand-forged knives to dried fruits and intricate textiles. Don’t miss the Xinjiang Regional Museum where eerily well-preserved mummies showcase the region’s diverse ancient inhabitants spanning thousands of years. Evening brings the food streets alive with incredible aromas – lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and nan bread straight from traditional ovens.
What surprised me most was discovering that Urumqi hosts representatives from all 56 of China’s recognized ethnic groups, creating a cultural mosaic unlike anywhere else in the country. You’ll hear Mandarin, Uyghur, Kazakh, and dozens of other languages just walking through the markets. Red Hill Park offers city views and peaceful walking paths, while day trips to Tianshan Mountains provide easy access to alpine scenery.
The city sits at the northern foot of the Tianshan Mountains, making it an ideal base for exploring the region. May through October offers the most comfortable weather and abundant fresh local produce. Holiday Inn Express Urumqi Station provides reliable accommodations with easy transportation access. Modern amenities, diverse dining options, and efficient transport links make this the logical starting point for any Xinjiang adventure.
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