2025 Karamay Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in July)

I. Seasonal Weather and Clothing Guide (Focus on Spring and Summer) 1️⃣. Climate Characteristics Northern Xinjiang: Extreme temperature differences between day and night (20-35°C during day, 5-15°C at night), Ili Valley is humid and rainy, Kanas area is cool in summer Southern Xinjiang: Dry with little rain (extreme summer temperatures can reach 40°C), smaller day-night temperature difference than Northern Xinjiang 2️⃣. Spring/Summer (May-August) Clothing Guide Scenarios and Recommended Gear Daily Sightseeing: Short-sleeve + sun protection clothing/light jacket, quick-dry pants/long skirt (UV protection), breathable sports shoes Mountain Areas/Morning & Evening: 3-in-1 jacket/light down jacket, fleece liner, windproof scarf (essential for Kanas and Xata) Special Scenarios: Waterproof snow boots (Sayram Lake snow melting period), sun protection arm sleeves (Devil City Gobi), raincoat (Ili showers) Essential Accessories: UV400 sunglasses, SPF50+ sunscreen, wide-brimmed hat, moisturizing skincare products (Xinjiang is extremely dry) II. Core Attractions Analysis of Northern Xinjiang + Ili ■ Northern Xinjiang Scenic Corridor Kanas (5A Level) Features: Three Bays (Moon/Fairy/Dragon) morning mist, Fish-Viewing Pavilion panorama, Baihaba border village Seasonal recommendation: Wildflowers in June, autumn colors in September, summer Tuva family visits Hemu Village Highlights✨: Wooden house stargazing spots, Harden Platform sunrise, horseback riding through birch forest Hidden experiences: Milky Way photography at 3am, autumn morning mist photography Keketuohai Geological wonders: Shenzhong Mountain granite peak, No.3 Mine pit (Merit Mine), Irtysh Grand Canyon hiking Tips: Recommended to combine with hot spring hotel experience World Ghost City Photography timing: 🌄2 hours before sunset (golden yardang landforms) Combined tour recommendation: Karamay Hundred-Mile Oil Field landscape Ili Grassland Matrix Sayram Lake (Lake Circuit Guide) East bank: Genghis Khan's Command Post (panoramic position) South bank: Swan Lake, S-curve road photo spot West bank: Songshu Trail (overlooking Guozigou Bridge) Nalati Grassland Route options: Sky Grassland route (popular bridge photo spot) River Valley Grassland route (Kazakh cultural experience) Panlong Valley route (self-driving exclusive) Xata Ancient Road In-depth experience: Hike to Flower Platform (June), close view of Muzart Glacier Note: Advance horse team booking required, hiking poles recommended Kurdening/Qiaxi Comparison: Kurdening: King Spruce + Heritage Exhibition Center (educational) Qiaxi: Best value with 30 yuan entrance fee, self-driving friendly III. Classic Itinerary Planning (8-12 days) Plan A: Northern Xinjiang Panoramic Circuit (10 days) Day 1: Home - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - passing Ulungur Lake - Colorful Beach - Burqin Day 3: Burqin - Kanas Lake - Kanas Three Bays - Hemu Day 4: Hemu - Ahe Highway (subject to opening) - passing Tuole Great Grassland - Tongba Forest - Wuxilike - Altay Day 5: Altay - Urho Ghost City - Kuitun Day 6: Kuitun - Sayram Lake circuit drive - Dopamine Six-star Street - Yining Day 7: Yining - Qiaxi - Xinyuan Day 8: Xinyuan - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati Day 9: Nalati - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 10: Urumqi - Departure point Alternative route if Duku Highway is closed: Day 8: Nalati - Nalati Sky Grassland - Jinghe Day 9: Jinghe - Anjihai Grand Canyon - Urumqi Plan B: Ili In-depth Tour (8 days) Day 1: Departure point - Urumqi Day 2: Urumqi - Sayram Lake stroll - Sayram Lake sunset - Sayram Lake East Gate Day 3: Second Sayram Lake drive - in-depth lake circuit - Guozigou Hanging Rock - Dopamine Six-star Street - Yining Day 4: Yining - Yizhao Highway - Xata - Zhaosu Day 5: Zhaosu - Qiafuqihai - Kurdening - Nalati River Valley Grassland - Nalati Day 6: Nalati - Nalati Sky Grassland drive - Tangbula Day 7: Tangbula - Tangbula Hundred-Mile Gallery - Duku Highway - Urumqi Day 8: Urumqi - Departure point IV. Practical Tips 🪪Document Management: Carry ID card at all times (numerous checkpoints) Border permits required for Baihaba/Xata (obtain from hometown or Burqin) 🚘Transportation Recommendations: Prefer 6-person small groups (comfortable vehicle + local driver) Duku Highway/Yizhao Highway limited to vehicles under 7 seats Cultural Taboos: No shorts in mosques, don't point at Muslims Don't trespass fences at nomad homes, ask permission before photographing people Special Notes: Scenic area price reference: Hemu horseback riding 80-150 yuan/hour, Sayram Lake sailing 120 yuan/person Drone flights need advance registration (No-fly zones in Nalati/Baisha Lake) V. Four-Season Travel Calendar Month Northern Xinjiang Highlights Ili Highlights Mar-Apr: Keketuohai ice melt observation, Turgen Apricot Valley bloom May-Jun: Kanas Lake ice breaking period, Sayram Lake wildflowers + Huocheng lavender Jul-Aug: Hemu summer retreat/river rafting, Zhaosu rapeseed fields + Xata hiking golden period Sep-Oct: Kanas autumn scenery + Baihaba morning mist, Nalati golden autumn pasture + pre-closure Duku Highway

8-Day Northern Xinjiang-Urumqi Tour: Explore the beautiful scenery and rich culture! With this guide, you can easily explore the pearl of Northern Xinjiang! -------- 🏃 Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, enjoy 24-hour airport/station transfer service 🚘, and start your Urumqi City Walk 🚶‍♂️. Day 2: Gurbantunggut Desert -> Karamay Desert Park -> Ulungur Lake Park Cross the desert, explore the park, and enjoy the beauty of nature 🏜️. Day 3: Hemu Scenic Area -> Hemu Grassland -> Birch Forest Area -> Hemu Bridge -> Hemu Aid Bridge Explore Hemu, stroll through the grassland, visit the birch forest, and feel the charm of the bridges 🌳. Day 4: Hemu Viewing Platform -> Kanas Scenic Area -> Kanas Lake Climb the viewing platform, overlook Kanas, and enjoy the beauty of the lake and mountains 🏞️. Day 5: World Devil City -> World Devil City - Sphinx -> Tianma Changxiao -> Father of the Earth Explore Devil City, admire the unique landforms, and feel the magic of nature 🌍. Day 6: Sayram Lake -> Sayram Lake Point General Platform -> Moon Bay -> Kele Yongzhu -> West Sea Grassland Tour around Sayram Lake, enjoy the lake and mountains, and experience the grassland style 🌊. Day 7: Tianshan Tianchi -> Dinghai Shenzhen Visit Tianshan Tianchi and find the legendary story of Dinghai Shenzhen 🏔️. Day 8: Disband in Urumqi, airport/station transfer service provided 🛫, looking forward to seeing you again! -------- 🎒 Travel Preparation: Northern Xinjiang-Urumqi Travel Essentials 🧥 Clothing: Down jacket, thermal underwear, thick socks, cold and windproof, keep warm. 🎩 Accessories: Warm hat, scarf, gloves, ear protection and frostbite protection, stylish and practical. 💳 Documents: ID card, passport, driver's license, travel essentials, smooth journey. 🧴 Skincare: Sunscreen, lip balm, hand cream, moisturizing and anti-dryness, beautiful travel. 🔋 Others: Power bank, multi-function power socket, charge anytime, no power outage. This is the Northern Xinjiang-Urumqi travel essentials I prepared for you! Remember to add or remove items according to your needs, and have a nice trip! -------- Come to Urumqi and feel the unique charm of this city. Don't forget to leave your footprints and good memories!

6-day tour of Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, a perfect combination of beautiful scenery and culture! Don't miss this amazing itinerary and experience the unique charm of Northwest China! / 🛣️Itinerary DAY 1: Tianshan Tianchi Lake Visit the mysterious Tianshan Tianchi Lake and enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature. DAY 2: Kanas Scenic Area -> Kanas Lake -> Kanas Three Bays -> Kanas River Viewing Platform Immerse yourself in the fairyland of Kanas and discover the secrets of nature in the beautiful scenery. DAY 3: Hemu Scenic Area -> Hemu Viewing Platform Climb up to the Hemu Viewing Platform and overlook the whole view of Hemu Village to feel the charm of the primitive village. DAY 4: Hemu Morning Mist - Hemu Trip Moments (provided) - Populus euphratica Forest City/Kuitun Wake up in the morning mist of Hemu, capture beautiful moments, and then head to Populus euphratica Forest City or Kuitun. DAY 5: Sayram Lake -> Sayram Lake Point General Platform Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Sayram Lake and look back at the vicissitudes of history on the Point General Platform. DAY 6: Dushanzi Grand Canyon Explore the Dushanzi Grand Canyon and marvel at the wonders of nature. / Some tips: 🥇Specialty Prices: Changji's specialties such as potato vermicelli and chickpeas are worth buying, but remember to compare prices. 🍽️Food Recommendations: Don't miss the local specialties in Changji, such as roasted whole lamb and hand pilaf, a paradise for foodies! ✈️Airport Transportation: You can take the airport bus, drive, or take a taxi to Urumqi International Airport, which is convenient and fast. 📸Photo Spots: Laolong River Populus euphratica Forest and Jiangbulake are beautiful photo spots, so don't forget to take beautiful photos! 🔔Note: The climate in Changji varies greatly, so remember to check the weather forecast and prepare clothes. / ✨Don't forget to like and save this itinerary to easily explore Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture and start your dream trip!

# Self-driving Travel #100 Ways to Travel #Xinjiang 🚗We embarked on a self-driving adventure in Xinjiang. In this remote and mysterious land, 🗺️we passed through the Devil City in Karamay, Xinjiang. The Devil City shows the uncanny craftsmanship of nature with its unique Yadan landform. 🌄After years of wind erosion, the rocks have been carved into various strange shapes, as if they were sculptures of the earth. Every part contains natural wisdom and art. 🎨The rich changes in colors are like miracles on the palette, especially at the golden hour of sunrise and sunset, 🌅The entire Devil City is dyed with a golden glow, which is breathtakingly beautiful.

【Introduction】: How to explore the classic attractions of Northern Xinjiang in a short time and experience the unique charm of Xinjiang. Every day is very fulfilling~ 🛬【Itinerary】: D1: Your location - Urumqi - International Grand Bazaar D2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake Golden Coast Scenic Area - Colorful Beach - Burqin County D3: Burqin County - Kanas Scenic Area - Guanyu Pavilion - Kanas Village D4: Kanas Village - Kanas Three Bays - Hemu Scenic Area - Hemu Village D5: Hemu Village - Hemu Viewing Platform - World Devil City - Karamay D6: Karamay - Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender - Yining - Kazanqi Folk Village D7: Yining - Nalati Tourist Scenic Area (Sky Grassland + Valley Grassland) - Nalati Town D8: Nalati Town - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi D9: Urumqi - Autonomous Region Museum - Your location ⛺【Must-Visit Attractions】: Tianchi Lake, Kanas Scenic Area, Hemu Scenic Area, Sayram Lake, Nalati Tourist Scenic Area, and Duku Highway are classic attractions in Northern Xinjiang, showcasing the natural beauty of Xinjiang. Other attractions include landscapes along the way, such as highways, lakes, yardangs, bridges, flowers, streets, and canyons, enriching the types of scenery. While enjoying the scenery, you won't feel visually fatigued, and these spots are great for photography. 🍩【Must-Try Foods】: Urumqi/Karamay/Yining: Pilaf, baked buns, noodles, kebabs, naan Burqin County: Cold-water fish Sayram Lake: Whitefish Nalati Town: Whole roasted lamb 🏨【Accommodation Guide】: Urumqi: Three-star: All Seasons Hotel/Campanile Hotel... Four-star: Atour Hotel/Urumqi Hengyu International Hotel... Five-star: Urumqi Hantang Hotel/Urumqi Wanda Vista Hotel... Burqin County: Three-star: Burqin Hongyu Furui Hotel/Burqin Baishun Holiday Hotel... Four-star: Burqin Night Light City Holiday Hotel/Burqin Green City Grand Hotel... Five-star: Burqin Kanas Birch Forest Luxury Camp... Kanas Scenic Area: Old Village: Kanas Marmot Band B&B/Deep Mountain Leisure Villa B&B... New Village: Kanas An Encounter Hidden World B&B/Kanas A Litchi Tree Villa... Hemu Scenic Area: Old Village: Hemu Mountain Villa/Hemu Zanjue Guanshan Residence... New Village: Hemu Mountain Cottage B&B/Hemu Cezanne Art B&B... Service Area: Hemu Super 8 Hotel/Burqin Hemu Taoyuan B&B... Karamay: Three-star: Vienna Hotel/Starway Hotel... Four-star: Atour Hotel/Jinjiang Metropolo Hotel... Yining: Three-star: All Seasons Hotel/Orange Hotel... Four-star: Yining Colorful Flower City Hotel/Yining Cloud Hotel... Five-star: Yining Ili River Hotel/Yining Wenzhou International Hotel... Nalati Town: Three-star: Nalati Huashijian Garden Hotel/Nalati Borui Linyin Hotel... Four-star: Xinyuan Huahai Nalati B&B/Xinyuan Huahai Nalati B&B... Five-star: Ctrip Holiday Farm (Nalati Forest Park Joint Venture Store)... 🚌【Transportation Guide】: Xinjiang is vast, and there are no suitable buses to reach each attraction. Besides trains and planes, it is recommended to self-drive or hire a local car. 🧡【Tips】: The weather in Xinjiang changes quickly. It is hot at noon and cool in the morning and evening. Please bring different types of clothes, protect yourself from UV rays, and prevent colds. Urumqi·Xinjiang

Northern Xinjiang, that vast land located in the northwestern part of China, offers a stunning visual feast👀. Stepping onto this land, you will be truly amazed by the breathtaking landscapes. Stroll along the shores of Kanas Lake, as if you are in a fairy tale world; venture into Hemu to enjoy a forest afternoon tea in the gentle breeze; boldly chase the sun to find the most romantic myth of the northern frontier sunset. Don't hesitate anymore, follow Xiaoye this summer to the north of Xinjiang, let's go❗ ⭕Fairy Tale Northern Xinjiang imes 7 Days and 6 Nights ✅Bookable from 2 persons, one order per group ✅Private car service with a drone provided ✅Accompanied by an experienced local driver-guide throughout the journey ✅Complimentary 24h airport transfer and welcome gift ✅6 nights of high-end accommodations throughout the trip for a full experience ✅All scenic area tickets + shuttle vehicles included ✅Breakfast included throughout + Hemu forest afternoon tea ⭕In-depth Experience: 🔅Kanas Lake boat cruise 🔅Guanyu Pavilion to search for the "mysterious lake monster" 🔅Leisurely light trekking at the three bays of Kanas 🔅Stroll through the border village of Baihaba 🔅Hemu Village to watch the stunning sunrise, sunset, and starry sky 🔅Exclusive afternoon tea in the Hemu forest 🔅Seek out the miraculous view of the sunset at the Five-Color Beach 🔅Panoramic view of the Yardang landform of the Devil City 🏡Selected Accommodations: 📍Hemu Youyuan Mountain Homestay Located in Hemu Village, surrounded by a vast birch forest; rooms with two panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows offer direct views of the beautiful backyard and the entire Hemu Village scenery 📍Kanas Leisurely Holiday Homestay Located in the old village of Kanas, the Nordic-style decor is unique within the scenic area; each independent cabin has a courtyard for free movement and occasional encounters with foxes 📍Burqin Birch Forest Wild Luxury Camp Located on the south bank of the Irtysh River, it adopts the design concept of Kazakh nomadic felt tents and extensively uses panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows to integrate naturally with the desert 📍Wuerhe He Yili Chenghuating Hotel Located in the city center, it is a super high-end hotel brand under the Licheng Hotel Group and is currently the only landscape garden-style hotel in Northern Xinjiang ⭕Attraction Introduction: ⭐Kanas One of the most beautiful alpine lakes in China, known as "God's backyard" ⭐Hemu Village The dwelling place of the Tuwa tribe, known as "China's No.1 Village" ⭐Dushanzi Grand Canyon The starting point of the Duku Highway, famed as the "Duku Secret Realm, a billion-year spectacle" ⭐Five-Color Beach A typical colorful hill landform, shortlisted as one of the "Magical Northwest 100 Sceneries" ⭕Itinerary Introduction: D1 Urumqi/Altay gathering - free time D2 Urumqi - Five-Color Beach sunset - Burqin D3 Burqin - Kanas (Kanas Lake) D4 Kanas (Guanyu Pavilion) - Baihaba - Kanas D5 Kanas (Three Bays) - Hemu (Hemu Bridge, Beautiful Peak) D6 Hemu (sunrise, morning mist) - Wuerhe Devil City (sunset) - Wuerhe D7 Wuerhe - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi disband

Located in the Urho District of Karamay City, Xinjiang, the World Devil City sits on a desolate Gobi desert. Here, the wind seems to be the ruler of the world, constantly carving the Gobi with its powerful 'wind knives', creating a spectacular array of ever-changing Yardang landforms. There are many Yardang landforms in our country, which not only have scientific research value but also possess high tourism value. They show us the powerful and mysterious forces of nature, awakening in humans a reverence and admiration for the beauty of nature amidst desolation and grandeur. The World Devil City in Xinjiang Urho is an outstanding representative of China's Yardang landforms. It has been praised by 'China National Geography' as the first among 'China's three most beautiful Yardang landforms'. In 2020, it was newly promoted to a national 5A-level tourist attraction. The Yardang landforms displayed by the Devil City originate from billions of years of crustal movement and wind erosion. This place was once a freshwater lake, and dinosaurs were found to have lived and bred here. The influence of crustal movements caused the lake to disappear, replaced by the Gobi and sandstorms. The barren land next door became nature's canvas, with the wind leaving stripes of varying depths, forming the unique landscape of the Devil City. Today, the vicissitudes of time have endowed this land with endless charm, captivating people's hearts.

There are always some beautiful things in the world worth rushing to! This summer, let's go to Xinjiang! Visit the vast grasslands, this magical place like the Emerald City of Oz, take a rest on the grassland that feels like a green carpet for a while. As the wind blows, you feel like you're floating on the sea, reaching out as if you could touch the blue sky and white clouds, being there, you can't help but marvel at the beauty of nature. (Kanas + Yili Loop 10-Day Tour) D1: Urumqi - S21 Desert Highway - Ulungur Lake (road view) - Burqin D2: Burqin - Kanas Lake - Kanas Village D3: Kanas - Strolling through Three Bays - Hemu D4: Hemu - World Devil City - Karamay D5: Karamay - Sayram Lake - Qingshui River D6: Qingshui River - Yining Kazanqi Folk Village - Zhaosu D7: Zhaosu - Xiatang Forest Park - Tekes Bagua City D8: Tekes - Nalati Sky Grassland - Nalati D9: Nalati - Tangbula Hundred Mile Gallery - Northern Section of Duku Highway - Kuitun D10: Kuitun - Dushanzi Grand Canyon - Urumqi

Xinjiang Travel🔥|8 days 7 nights small group🏜️average 6k➕|||If autumn is very beautiful🍁 Northern Xinjiang accounts for seven points😆 God is not stingy The most beautiful oil painting in the world🌅 All sprinkled on this land If you have already missed the summer in Northern Xinjiang🍃 Then you must not miss the autumn colors of Northern Xinjiang🍂 Snow mountains and layered forests surround Hemu Birch forest falls into a golden color🌅 - 🌈Recommended route Day1 All over the country—Airport/Station pick-up—Urumqi Stay: Urumqi Day1 Urumqi—Tianshan Tianchi—S21 Desert Highway---Burqin Stay: Burqin Day2 Burqin—Kanas Guanyutai—Kanas Lake—Kanas Stay: Kanas Scenic Area Day3 Kanas—Kanas Sanwan—Hemu Stay: Hemu Scenic Area Day4 Hemu—World Devil City—Karamay Stay: Karamay Day5 Karamay—Sayram Lake—Jinghe Stay: Jinghe Day6 Jinghe—Anjihai Grand Canyon—Urumqi Stay: Urumqi Day8 Urumqi—Airport/Station drop-off—Warm home Happy end of the trip - 🌈Trip highlights 🔴No stop during the Spring Festival, set off immediately 🔴Deep play for 8 days, small group of 6 people, average 💰5K+ 🔴2 nights in original log cabin accommodation 🔴24-hour online customer service, airport pick-up - 🔥What the trip includes 1. Transportation: Local comfortable car, guarantee one seat per person 2. Accommodation: Hotels listed in the package itinerary, 4 nights comfortable accommodation + 2 nights log cabin 3. Hotel: Clean and comfortable double standard room with private bathroom 4. Section car: Kanas, Hemu, Devil City, Sayram Lake, Tianchi, Keketuohai - 🍁——Travel Tips——🍁 ✨The temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang is large, please bring enough clothes ✨The sunshine time is long, please bring sun protection products ✨Xinjiang has a 2-hour time difference, meal times are late ✨The climate in Xinjiang is dry, please bring hydration products etc. ✨Photo matching: sunglasses, scarves, ethnic costumes, decorations, etc. ✨In ethnic minority areas, please respect the local people's lifestyle etc. -

Traveling through Xinjiang you pass by the city of Karamay and stop by the Ghost town of the world. this place has many rock formations that resemble different animals and people. Also this place was used to film many popular Chinese movies. #yearofrabbit #newyearadventure #tripblazers

[Self-driving Xinjiang, the most beautiful road, flying life, Dushanzi Grand Canyon] In Xinjiang, in addition to the Kuqa Grand Canyon, there is also a Dushanzi Grand Canyon, which is not known by too many people. Here is the location of the movie "Flying Life" and the TV series "Kyushu". Located 28 kilometers south of the Dushanzi District, Karamay City, Xinjiang, it is in an undeveloped state and has the most original desolate beauty. After the river rushes out of the Tianshan Mountains, it cuts the sloped plain in the southwest of Dushanzi, and melts the upper reaches of the Kuitun River in Dushanzi. After hundreds of years of snow and rain, it forms a magical canyon. The cliffs on both sides of the canyon have formed a unique scene after years of glory, like a clay wall with different shapes. With the special geographical location, the first 5D crystal glass suspension bridge in Xinjiang is located in the scenic spot. There are also thrilling projects such as Grand Canyon swings, high-altitude bicycles, and skywalks. Address: 100 meters east of 250 County Road, Dushanzi District, Karamay City

The Xigema International Hotel, located in Dushanzi District, Karamay City, Xinjiang has a beautiful park nearby, providing an excellent leisure spot for hotel guests and local residents. The park is adorned with a profusion of colorful flowers. Against a lush green backdrop, you can see clusters of vibrant pink hollyhocks, swaying gracefully in the breeze. There are also large expanses of golden coreopsis and black-eyed Susans, as bright as sunshine, adding lively energy to the park. In addition, scattered blue cornflowers and small white blossoms add a touch of freshness and layering to this sea of flowers. Beyond the abundant flora, the park's design is also quite ingenious. A winding pathway encircles a central water feature, where babbling water brings vitality to the park. Uniquely shaped stones are dotted within the water feature, creating a natural, rustic charm. Two rustic wooden pavilions are situated along the pathway, offering visitors a place to rest and find shade. The entire park boasts an elegant environment with ample shade from trees, making it an excellent spot for leisurely strolls and relaxation. #summervacay#thingstodo#myitinerary #travel #familytravel

The Dushanzi Xigema International Hotel is situated on Daqing East Road in Dushanzi District, Karamay, Xinjiang. It offers a convenient location near the renowned Duku Highway and its attractions. The hotel provides clean and comfortable accommodations with a varied breakfast selection. Amenities include complimentary public parking, a 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, a fitness room, and it accepts most card payments. Serving as a practical choice for exploring the Duku Highway area or for business in Karamay, Xigema International Hotel focuses on meeting essential guest needs for convenience and comfort. #summervacay#familytravel #travel #thingstodo #myitinerary

Wind-scoured rock layers split open here, revealing a slumbering realm of prehistoric beasts. Jagged stone pillars rise like petrified dinosaur spines piercing the sky. Rust-red ravines cradle fossilized footprints—frozen moments of ancient flight. Winding through "Rib Canyon" and "Claw-Mark Slope", visitors trace fingers over vertebrae imprints in sandstone strata. Listen: the wind hisses through crevices, still carrying the breath of giants from 150 million years past. #summervacay#myitinerary #thingstodo #familytravel #travel

Lead-gray clouds converged suddenly, rain-arrows whipping down on Devil City. Visitors abandoned the spectacle of the Seven Swords peaks, dashing toward the UTV rental outpost beneath the cliffs. The camouflage netting stretched over a frame, it is not designed to stop rain effectively. When the rain-curtain fell, rust-red rock walls wept ancient tears, resonating with the low growl of Polaris RZR engines within the shelter. #summervacay#travel #familytravel #myitinerary #thingstodo

At Devil City’s desolate Yardang landforms, the "Chongjian III Petroleum Heritage Viewpoint" stands like a time capsule preserving wilderness pioneering history. Weathered oil derricks, abandoned worker barracks, and rusted pipelines silently recount the gritty saga of 20th-century oil exploration. The true highlight is the deep-desert steel-tube vehicle adventure. Boarding open-frame steel tube vehicles, visitors lurch through Devil City’s heart. As the carriage threads past wind-carved cliffs, swirling dust blurs the lines between industrial relics and natural sculptures—like traversing a post-apocalyptic planet. When the ride pauses at a viewpoint, Bactrian camel caravans ascend nearby dunes with riders. The tinkle of camel bells mingles with distant cracks from the shooting range, composing an unexpected symphony across this billion-year-old terrain. Here, human exploration resonates in three layers: the echoes of industry, the thrill of modern adventure, and the ancient pact with desert ships. #summervacay#thingstodo #myitinerary #travel #familytravel

Tucked within the otherworldly expanse of Devil City lies a surprising pocket of life: its Camel Garden. Here, amidst the towering, wind-sculpted sentinels of rock, a herd of sturdy Bactrian camels rests and grazes. Their presence offers a poignant contrast to the stark, silent landscape. These patient animals, adapted perfectly to the arid environment, seem like ancient guardians of the stone labyrinth. Visitors are often drawn to them, captivated by their calm demeanor and the opportunity for a unique perspective. A camel ride through designated paths provides not just transportation, but a slower, rhythmic way to absorb the scale and surreal beauty of Devil City, connecting the ancient geology with the enduring spirit of the Silk Road caravans that once traversed such terrains. It’s a reminder of life's resilience within this dramatic, sculpted wilderness. #summervacay#familytravel #travel #thingstodo #myitinerary

Entering Devil City is like stepping onto another planet. Eroded by relentless winds over millennia, the earth has transformed into a labyrinth of towering, fantastical formations resembling castles, beasts, and silent sentinels. The silence is profound, broken only by the wind whistling through the narrow canyons. This desolate yet stunning landscape is a testament to nature's raw, sculpting power. Navigating its paths feels like exploring a colossal, open-air art gallery crafted by the elements. #summervacay#myitinerary #thingstodo #familytravel #travel

On the Gobi Desert of Xinjiang, the 100-kilometer-long Karamay Oil Field stands with thousands of pumping units, resembling a forest of steel that works day and night. With an annual output of 15 million tons of crude oil, wells reaching depths of 5,000 meters, and cumulative production exceeding 480 million tons, these "pulses of the earth" pump 0.5 tons of oil per second. They channel this "black gold" as the nation’s energy bastion in the desert. #summervacay#familytravel #myitinerary #thingstodo #travel

⛽ Karamay 3-day intense travel guide! A magical journey from the Gobi oil city to the Devil City~ 📅 Day 1: Black Oil Mountain Adventure Day 🌅 Morning: Watch the oil fountain at Black Oil Mountain ✳️ Black Oil Mountain Scenic Area (opens at 8:00) The bubbling oil pool looks like a black chocolate fountain🍫 The kid pokes the ground and exclaims, "Mom, is this the earth’s milk tea?"☕ Must-try: pick up volcanic rocks as natural marbles 🍳 Noon: Xiao Lizi Pilaf ✳️ Old shop on Junggar Road (12:00-14:00) Must order: lamb rib pilaf!🍚 Tender lamb with glossy rice, paired with yogurt to cut the grease is a killer combo🥄 Also, the baked buns burst with fragrant lamb fat when bitten 🌇 Evening: Karamay River night view ✳️ Century Park Music Fountain (starts at 20:30) Free! Free! Free!💦 The kid dances in the fountain: "Mom, is this an oil-made rainbow waterfall?"🌈 The riverside lights at night look like a spilled palette 📅 Day 2: Devil City Adventure Day ☀️ Morning: Watch the sunrise at Urho Devil City ✳️ World Devil City (opens at 9:00) The yardang landforms look like a Mars base🚀 The kid rides on a yardang shouting, "Mom, I’m the alien commander!"👽 Must-try: play "wilderness survival" in the yardang maze 🍱 Noon: Poplar Forest Big Plate Chicken ✳️ Urho Town Restaurant (12:30-14:30) Must order: Shawan big plate chicken!🍗 Wide noodles soaked in broth paired with belt noodles is amazing🍜 Also, dried beef with milk wine is super hearty 🌆 Evening: Star gazing at Ailik Lake ✳️ Ailik Lake Ecological Area (closes at 20:00) Free! Free! Free!🌌 The kid lies by the lake counting stars: "Mom, is the Milky Way spilled diamond dust?"💎 At night, fireflies glow softly among the reeds 📅 Day 3: Oil Culture Experience Day 🌄 Morning: Karamay Museum ✳️ Black Oil Mountain Museum (opens at 10:00) The moving oil extraction machine model looks like a Transformer🤖 The kid crawls into the drilling platform model: "Mom, I’m a little oil worker!"⛏️ Must-try: interactive screen game "oil drilling" 🍲 Noon: Ma’s Braised Goose ✳️ Old shop on Youyi Road (12:00-14:00) Must order: braised goose with belt noodles!🦢 Tender goose meat with flavorful broth mixed with noodles is plate-licking good🍽️ Also, nan pit roasted meat with pita bread is super satisfying 🌇 Evening: Huijia Times Square Night Market ✳️ Commercial pedestrian street (closes at 21:00) Free! Free! Free!🛍️ The kid spins holding a grilled egg roll: "I’m a mobile snack radar!"📡 Neon signs at night create a cyberpunk vibe 🏨 Accommodation Recommendation 👉 Karamay Tianqi Mercure Hotel ✔️ Feature: floor-to-ceiling windows with views of Black Oil Mountain sunset ✔️ Reason: 10-minute walk to Century Park, the kid says "I can see the oil fountain glowing before bed"💡 🚌 Transportation Tips ✅ Car rental + car sharing: renting saves time and effort, driving on desert roads is super cool 💢 Hardship point: surface temperature in Devil City reaches 60℃, almost melted shoe soles🥵 💡 Tips ❗️ Go early to Devil City to avoid the heat ❗️ Bring a magnifying glass to Black Oil Mountain to find fossils ❗️ Museum closed on Mondays, don’t go empty-handed 🍜 Must-eat Food List 1️⃣ Xiao Lizi Pilaf: tender lamb ribs with glossy rice 2️⃣ Poplar Forest Big Plate Chicken: wide noodles soaked in broth, a killer dish 3️⃣ Ma’s Braised Goose: tender goose with nan pit roasted meat 4️⃣ Baked buns: crispy outside, tender inside, bursting with lamb fat aroma 5️⃣ Nan pit roasted meat: charcoal-grilled meat with onions to cut the grease 6️⃣ Yogurt zongzi: honey yogurt with glutinous rice, sweet but not greasy 💰 Expense List Accommodation: 500 RMB (2 nights) Meals: 600 RMB Transportation: 300 RMB (car rental + fuel) Tickets: ? RMB Others: 600 RMB Total: about 2000 RMB (and you can buy oil-themed fridge magnets!) Karamay is just that cool! In 3 days, become a "little oil expert + wilderness adventurer." The oil fountain at Black Oil Mountain is even more magical than cartoons🛢️ The yardang landforms in Devil City are more beautiful than sci-fi movies, and the starry sky at Ailik Lake can heal all unhappiness! Hurry and bring the kids to be "Gobi...

After much research, I realized driving myself around Xinjiang alone with a child was out of the question—safety first for us moms. Private cars were too expensive, and carpooling groups were mostly young travelers with different interests. After careful consideration, I decided to try an RV tour. I discovered these tours typically include 3-7 families, and the best part? Kids get playmates! 🥰 Imagine how amazing it is—8 days of travel with little companions to play with, plus a tour leader organizing fun activities and games. Finally, this mom could relax and enjoy the scenery hands-free! - Here’s the inside scoop on the tour experience: • Each family gets their own RV with a dedicated driver/butler. No rushing—play to your heart’s content at each scenic spot, rest in the RV when tired, and no more bathroom emergencies thanks to the onboard toilet! • The RV has a fridge—nothing beats an ice-cold drink in summer 😎! Xinjiang’s watermelons are huge, sweet, and cheap. Chill them in the fridge for the perfect thirst-quencher—just like home! • The tour leader and driver were great with kids, organizing group games. With multiple families’ children playing together, us adults could truly unwind and soak in the views! • Xinjiang’s attractions are stunning but vast. Going solo, you might miss hidden gems. The leader guided us to the best spots for fun and photos—super thoughtful! - Unforgettable experiences we unlocked: • Flying kites in cartoon-like cloud meadows • Milking cows, feeding sheep, and kite-flying on the grasslands • Hunting for July blue ice fragments at Sayram Lake • Becoming a swan feeder at Sayram Lake • Driving the Duku Highway, experiencing four seasons in one day • Sketching landscapes from the RV, adding color to our journey • Exploring glaciers, snow mountains, and streams while making natural fruit coolers • Learning the dutar from a Uyghur grandpa • Trying naan-making by the tandoor • Family dance-offs under grapevines - Itinerary revealed: D1: Arrive in Ürümqi D2: Ürümqi—Wild Horse Cultural Park—Dushanzi Grand Canyon—Kuitun D3: Kuitun—Sayram Lake—Yining D4: Yining—Kazanqi—Liuxing Street D5: Yining—Nalati Grassland D6: Nalati—Tangbula Grassland—Grassland RV Camp D7: Tangbula—Qiaoerma—Duku Highway—Kuitun D8: Kuitun—Shihezi—Ürümqi - This isn’t your typical tour—every experience was unforgettable and immersive! After comparing 3 RV tour operators for service, reputation, professionalism, and value, I wholeheartedly recommend this one! - Options available: 【Private Car Tours】【Custom Tours】【Private Group Tours】 Want the same itinerary? Tap 【Chat Now】 at the bottom left 👇👇 to get your plan! -

The scenery of this scenic spot is actually quite beautiful, and it is also free to watch. However, there are several exciting rides, such as aerial riding, step by step, glass plank road, canyon magic net, canyon zip line, ground rail pulley, canyon ice and snow world. You can buy tickets separately, or you can buy a package of 4 rides or 8 rides, which will be discounted. I originally just wanted to quietly enjoy the beautiful scenery, but in order to see the canyon more closely, I needed to walk down more than 300 steps in the sun and then walk up, so I bought a round-trip ground rail pulley. While watching the beautiful canyon, take pictures and check in. There are many food stalls, a coffee shop and other souvenir shops in the scenic area. I heard a girl shouting loudly in the air while playing step by step. She was too scared to move forward, and the people behind her had to wait for her to reach the end before they could finish. My friend caught a cold because he did not change his wet clothes immediately after playing in the ice and snow world. I heard that it seems that you can buy a raincoat on the spot to avoid getting your clothes wet.

Hey guys! Still struggling to find the ultimate travel spot in Karamay? This newly discovered Jiulongtan is like a hidden urban paradise, and everyone who's been there can't stop raving about it. Bookmark this guide now! 🌟 【Highlight: A Visual Feast of Mountains and Water】 Jiulongtan is the source of the Karamay River, blending cultural and natural beauty. Upon entering, you'll be greeted by nine lifelike golden dragon sculptures spouting water, creating a spectacular artificial waterfall. The mist refracts sunlight into dazzling rainbows—pure visual magic! Stroll along the pathways with crystal-clear rivers and lush greenery, evoking the charm of Jiangnan water towns and the grandeur of the Northwest. From the viewing platform, gaze at the emerald waves, distant mountains, and blue skies—a living landscape painting perfect for photos! 🚗 【Ultimate Travel Guide】 🎫 Admission: Free! Unbelievable value for such stunning views. 🕙 Hours: Open all day. Best visited at dawn for tranquility or dusk for breathtaking sunsets. 1-2 hours covers the highlights. 🚌 Transport: Conveniently located in northeast Karamay. Take buses 103 or 106 to Jiulongtan Station. Driving? Parking is easy. 🗺 Route: Start at the entrance, admire the dragon waterfalls, then wander the riverside boardwalk. Multiple rest spots and scenic overlooks lead to a panoramic view of snow-capped mountains. 🍢 【Food Guide: Taste of Karamay】 After exploring, dive into local flavors nearby: 🍗 Spicy Chicken: Tender, chewy chicken drenched in numbing peppery sauce—addictively spicy! 🍜 Stir-Fried Noodles with Meat: Hand-pulled noodles with juicy meat and crisp veggies—pure comfort. 🍦 Yogurt Zongzi: Chilled yogurt over sticky rice dumplings, topped with nuts and honey—refreshingly sweet-tart. ⚠ 【Must-Know Tips】 👗 Attire: Pack a light jacket for temperature swings. Light dresses or ethnic outfits = photo gold. ☀ Sun Protection: UV is fierce—sunscreen, hats, and shades are a must. 🚶 Traction: Watch your step near slippery waterfall areas. 🌿 Eco-Friendly: Pack out trash to preserve the beauty. Guys, Jiulongtan is a must-visit! Whether you're here to unwind or snap Insta-worthy shots, it’s got you covered. Grab your crew and go—adventure awaits!

Don't say Karamay only has deserts and yardangs anymore! We've struck gold this time — Eriq Lake! A fairytale-like healing paradise hidden deep in the Gobi Desert that will instantly captivate you with its gentle charm~ 🌟【Scenic Highlights: Romance of the Gobi Pearl】 Eriq Lake is hailed as "a pearl on the Gobi Desert," Karamay's only natural freshwater lake. Standing by the shore, you'll be greeted by endless crystal-clear waters, where the azure sky mirrors the lake, and clouds seem within reach—every snapshot is Instagram-worthy! Lakeside reeds sway and rustle in the wind, while flocks of wild ducks and swans play on the water, with occasional elegant egrets skimming the surface. The evening is pure magic! The sunset paints the sky in pink and purple hues, reflecting off the shimmering lake—it's like stepping into an oil painting, so romantic it takes your breath away! 🚗【Ultimate Travel Guide】 🎫 Admission: Free! Free! Free! Say it three times—such beautiful places that cost nothing are rare! 🕙 Best Time to Visit: Arrive after 4 PM to avoid the midday sun and catch the breathtaking sunset. 2-3 hours is plenty to explore the area. 🚌 Transportation: Self-driving is recommended—navigate to "Eriq Lake," about a 1-hour drive from downtown Karamay with good roads and Gobi views. Alternatively, carpooling from the city is convenient and budget-friendly. 🗺 Itinerary: Stroll along the lakeside path, enjoy the breeze, and don’t miss the observation deck for panoramic views and perfect photo ops! Photography lovers, bring a telephoto lens for crisp shots of waterbirds. Pack a picnic mat for a lakeside feast—relaxing with the view and lake breeze is pure bliss! 🍖【Food Guide: A Taste of Karamay】 After exploring, treat your taste buds! Eriq Lake has cozy farmhouses and local eateries nearby. 🍗 Big Plate Chicken: Tender chicken, soft potatoes, and belt noodles soaked in rich sauce—huge portions best shared with friends! 🐟 Lake Fresh Fish: Eriq Lake fish is tender and sweet, perfect steamed or braised—you can taste the lake’s purity in every bite! 🍞 Naan: A Xinjiang specialty! Freshly baked naan is crispy outside and fluffy inside, paired perfectly with milk tea—eat it hot! ⚠【Must-Know Tips】 👗 Outfits: Bring a thick jacket for temperature swings; white or light-colored dresses are photo-perfect! ☀ Sun Protection: Xinjiang’s UV is intense—sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and UV clothing are a must, or you’ll regret it! 🐝 Bug Repellent: Lakeside plants mean mosquitoes—pack repellent to avoid bites. 🌿 Eco-Friendly: Help preserve this beauty—take your trash and protect the environment! Eriq Lake is an underrated treasure! Whether you seek relaxation or stunning photos, it delivers. Add it to your travel list now for an unforgettable healing escape!

Guys! Karamay actually hides a fairyland on earth! Every autumn, the Wuerhe Poplar Forest transforms into a golden fairy tale kingdom, where every snapshot is a stunning masterpiece—you’ll cry if you miss it 😭! Check out this ultimate guide to immerse yourself in the romance of the Northwest~ 🌟 【Highlight: The Autumn Feast of Millennial Poplars】 The Wuerhe Poplar Forest is one of the oldest and largest poplar forests in the world, covering a whopping 300,000 acres! From September to November each year, it’s as if God spilled a palette of colors 🎨. Thousands of poplars shed their green leaves and don golden "coats," swaying in the breeze under the blue sky and white clouds, creating a rustling symphony of gold. Strolling through the forest, you’ll see the sturdy trunks of poplars in all shapes—some like mighty dragons, others like phoenixes spreading their wings. These ancient trees, standing for millennia, seem to whisper tales of time. At sunset, it’s absolutely magical! The golden light bathes the forest in an amber glow, and every shot you take is a vibe-worthy masterpiece for your social feed! 🚗 【Ultimate Travel Guide】 🎫 Admission: Free! Free! Free! Such a treasure trove costs nothing—practically a free visual feast! 🕙 Best Time: Late September to mid-October is the peak season for the poplars. Arrive after 3 PM for soft, photogenic lighting. A 3-4 hour visit is perfect. 🚌 Transportation: About 100 km from downtown Karamay. Self-driving is recommended—navigate to "Wuerhe Poplar Forest" (1.5-hour drive) and enjoy the Gobi scenery along the way. Alternatively, join a day tour from the city. 🗺 Route: There’s no fixed path—exploring freely is the way to go! Follow the wooden boardwalks deep into the forest or wander through the soft sand. Don’t miss the viral "King Poplar" photo spot—this ancient tree is so massive it takes several people to hug it! 🍖 【Food Guide: A Taste of Karamay】 After exploring, treat yourself to local delights at nearby farmhouses or in the city: 🍗 Spicy Lamb Trotters: Tender, chewy lamb trotters coated in a spicy sauce—melt-in-your-mouth goodness! 🍜 Ding Ding Stir-Fried Noodles: Diced noodles stir-fried with lamb and veggies—chewy and full of homely flavor. 🍨 Sea Buckthorn Juice: Tart and sweet, packed with vitamins—refreshing and healthy! ⚠ 【Must-Know Tips】 👗 Outfit: Big temperature swings—layer with light clothes and a thick jacket. White or red dresses pop against the golden poplars for photos! ☀ Sun Protection: Xinjiang’s UV is strong—sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses are a must to avoid sunburn. 🦟 Bug Spray: The forest has mosquitoes—bring repellent to avoid bites. 🌿 Eco-Friendly: The poplar forest is a precious ecosystem—don’t break branches, take trash with you, and help preserve its beauty~ Guys, the beauty of Wuerhe Poplar Forest is beyond words! Whether you’re seeking soul therapy or Instagram-worthy shots, this is the place to be! Grab your friends and embark on a golden fairy tale adventure~

Stepping into the Dushanzi Grand Canyon in Xinjiang feels like opening a textbook on Earth's history. Located on the northern slope of the Tianshan Mountains, this grand canyon was formed by the long-term erosion caused by melting snow and seasonal floods from the Tianshan Mountains. Over tens of millions of years, the forces of cutting and erosion have sculpted this awe-inspiring natural masterpiece. The canyon is composed of sedimentary rocks from the Mesozoic to Cenozoic eras, with its layered rock walls clearly displaying the geological annual rings that record Earth's transformations. Looking up from the canyon floor, the cliffs resemble a history book flipped through by time; from an aerial view, hundreds of gullies form a complex yet orderly network, akin to nature's neural pathways. During this visit to Dushanzi, I made a special trip to the suspended glass bridge. Standing on the transparent bridge surface, I could see the vertical canyon stretching dozens of meters below my feet! The mix of accelerated heartbeat and amazement left me in awe of nature's power. With the gentle breeze brushing my face and the geological cracks formed over millions of years beneath me, I felt as if I were floating above Earth's history.

The journey is long but worth it, I hope I can stay longer

This part of Xinjiang might not be very well-known amongst foreigners but it’s definitely worth visiting. The journey began in Urumqi. We then traveled by car along the Duku Highway which is a famous route. Our first notable stop was at the Nalati Grasslands; they’re especially green and beautiful in the summer. After that we headed to the snow mountain. At all these tourist spots there are horses to ride instead of hiking. The next significant stop was at the Sayram lake. The weather was not very good when we arrived but we stuck around a bit and the rain clouds got blown away by the strong winds and the sun came out. Our last stop was at the Dushanzi Grand Canyon. There were many activities to do there including: crossing a glass bridge suspended over a part of the canyon, cycling over the canyon in a suspended bicycle, visiting the ice world with ice slides and fun activities. One night we also stayed at Bagua city. The urban planning in this city is unique and historical; it’s definitely worth a visit. The whole city has no traffic lights and its design incorporates Chinese philosophy related to balance (yin-yang).