Summer in Altay: Herding Time on the Cloud Pastures

When cities sizzle under heatwaves, summer in Altay, Xinjiang unfolds like a 20°C-cooled masterpiece. Nestled within the embrace of the Altai Mountains, this land weaves snow-capped peaks, forests, grasslands, and lakes into a flowing poem, making every visitor yearn to "waste" an entire season here. 🌊 1. Mountain & Water Wonderland: Nature’s Spilled Palette Kanas Lake breathes like an emerald, shifting between dreamy blues and greens under changing light. At dawn, climb the Fish-Watching Pavilion to see clouds surge like waves, with occasional golden glints on the lake—as if the legendary lake monster is passing by. Stroll along the Hemu River as morning mist, thick as milk, drifts over wooden boardwalks, revealing century-old log cabins like an elven village. Drive the Ahe Highway to witness glacial meltwater dancing through Xiaodonggou’s rocks, while meteorites and ancient glacial relics silently face off in Wuxilike Wetland. Wild Card Canyon frames snow mountains and spruce forests in a stunning contrast of warm and cool tones. 🐎 2. Grassland Ballad: The Nomads’ Summer Celebration Kazakh yurts dot seas of wildflowers, blending the scents of milk and blossoms. On June 19th, Yuxibuzao Village echoes with the melodies of *dombra* during the Aken Singing Festival, as herders sing atop horses and tourists join the lively "Black Steed" dance circle. At Burqin Riverside Night Market, the smoky aroma of grilled *gouyu* fish mingles with the tangy sweetness of kvass, while vibrant embroidered felt at Kazakh grandmothers’ stalls whispers tales of nomadic wisdom. 🌸 3. Floral Feast: Monet’s Garden Comes Alive From late June to mid-July, Koktokay’s alpine meadows transform into flower oceans—purple irises and golden rapeseed stretch toward snowy peaks. Wild peonies bloom fiercely at Kanas’ coniferous edges, while globeflowers surge like tides across grasslands, saturating the air with sweetness. Hike the Ahe Highway to discover wildflowers and birch groves forming nature’s gallery, occasionally meeting migrating sheep, their bells rippling through valleys. 🚗 4. Cool Itinerary: How to Embrace a 20°C Summer • **Transport**: Fly to Altay Airport, then rent a car or hire a private driver. The Ahe Highway allows vehicles under 9m all day, offering scenic drives. • **Attire**: Daytime calls for T-shirts + sun protection; pack a light jacket for chilly nights. • **Must-Dos**: Drift through Koktokay’s birch forests (14°C thrill!), camp under starry skies in Hemu Village (Milky Way guaranteed!), or cycle along Kanas Lake. • **Eats**: Hand-torn lamb with *kumis*, grilled *gouyu* at Burqin Night Market, and Kazakh *bawrsak* (fried dough). 📌 **Tips** • **Best Time**: June-August; wildflowers peak in July. • **Sun Protection**: High-altitude UV demands hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen. • **Culture**: Join June’s Intangible Heritage Week for felt-making or traditional ski displays. Altay’s summer is an adventure of freedom and healing. As sunset gilds the grasslands, herders’ songs soar with homing birds’ wings—and you’ll realize: this isn’t just a destination, but where the heart belongs. · Altay Prefecture, Xinjiang