Explore the Secrets of Northern Xinjiang, Encounter a Wonderland

Altay Travel Guide: Altay, located in the northernmost part of Xinjiang, attracts countless tourists with its magnificent natural scenery, unique folk customs, and rich history. Home to many famous attractions such as Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, and Baihaba Village, it is known as a "wonderland on earth." 1. Best Time to Travel Summer (June-August): The climate is pleasant, the grasslands are lush and green, and flowers are in full bloom, making it a summer retreat. Autumn (September-October): The forests are ablaze with color, making it a paradise for photographers. Winter (November-March): The land is covered in silver, transforming into a world of ice and snow, perfect for experiencing winter activities such as skiing and horse-drawn sleigh rides. 2. Transportation Airplane: There are direct flights to Altay from Urumqi, Xi'an, Chengdu, and other cities. Train: There are trains from Urumqi to Altay, with a journey time of approximately 12 hours. Self-drive: From Urumqi, it takes about 8 hours to reach Altay via the G216 National Highway. 3. Must-Visit Attractions Kanas Lake: One of the most beautiful lakes in China, with clear blue water surrounded by snow-capped mountains, forests, and grasslands. Hemu Village: Known as the "first village of China," it is inhabited by the Tuvan people. Wooden houses, smoke from chimneys, cattle, and sheep create a tranquil idyllic scene. Baihaba Village: The first village in northwest China, bordering Kazakhstan, it retains its pristine natural scenery and simple folk customs. Koktokay: With its unique geological landscapes and rich mineral resources, it is a paradise for adventure lovers. Five Colored Beach: A Yadan landform landscape, where colorful rocks shimmer under the sunlight. 4. Unique Experiences Horseback Riding: Gallop across the grasslands and experience freedom and exhilaration. Rafting: Experience thrilling rafting on the Kanas River and feel the speed and excitement. Tuvan Home Visit: Step into a Tuvan wooden house, taste local delicacies, and learn about their lifestyle and culture. Stargazing Photography: Altay's night sky is clear and bright, making it an excellent location for astrophotography. 5. Food Recommendations Hand-Grabbed Meat: Made with lamb, beef, or horse meat, it is tender and juicy, a traditional local delicacy. Lamb Kebabs: Grilled with fresh lamb, they are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, with an enticing aroma. Milk Tea: Made with milk, tea leaves, and salt, it is an essential drink in the daily life of the locals. Baursaki: A type of fried dough, crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, it is a favorite local snack. 6. Accommodation Recommendations Kanas Scenic Area: Choose to stay in wooden houses or hotels within the scenic area for convenient sightseeing. Hemu Village: Choose to stay in Tuvan wooden houses to experience local life. Altay City: Choose to stay in hotels in the city for convenient transportation and complete facilities. 7. Travel Tips Altay has a large temperature difference between day and night, so pack warm clothes even in summer. Altay has strong ultraviolet rays, so take sun protection measures. Altay has many ethnic minorities, so respect local customs. Some areas in Altay have high altitudes, so be aware of altitude sickness. 8. Itinerary Recommendations Three-Day Tour: D1: Arrive in Altay, visit Koktokay. D2: Travel to Kanas Lake and enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. D3: Visit Hemu Village, experience Tuvan life, and return to Altay. Five-Day Tour: D1: Arrive in Altay, visit Five Colored Beach. D2: Travel to Kanas Lake and enjoy the lake and mountain scenery. D3: Visit Baihaba Village and experience the border scenery. D4: Visit Hemu Village and experience Tuvan life. D5: Return to Altay and end the trip. 9. Conclusion Altay is a charming place with magnificent natural scenery, unique folk customs, and a rich history. I hope this guide can help you better plan your Altay trip. Have a pleasant journey!