Private Tour
8 Days Northern Xinjiang: Heavenly Lake, Kanas & Hemu
8
Days
6
Destinations
Overview
Journey through the spectacular landscapes of Northern Xinjiang, where snow-capped mountains, alpine lakes, traditional villages, and vast desert scenery create an unforgettable travel experience. This private tour takes you from the scenic shores of Heavenly Lake to the dramatic valleys of Keketuohai and the pristine wilderness of Kanas. Along the way, discover the traditional culture of the Tuva people, explore the charming wooden settlements of Hemu, and witness the remarkable geological formations of Wucaitan and Urho Ghost City. Combining natural wonders with authentic cultural encounters, this journey offers a fascinating introduction to one of China’s most beautiful and diverse regions.
Admire the breathtaking alpine scenery of Heavenly Lake, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Tianshan Mountains.
Discover the remarkable granite formations and geological wonders of Keketuohai National Geopark.
Enjoy spectacular views of Kanas Lake from Fish Pavilion and explore the scenic bays along the Kanas River.
Experience the traditional lifestyle of the Tuva people through a visit to a local family in Kanas Village.
Explore the charming wooden houses and cultural heritage of Hemu Village, one of Northern Xinjiang’s most picturesque settlements.
Explore the extraordinary wind-carved landscapes of Urho Ghost City, a remarkable example of Xinjiang’s unique Yardang landforms.
Itinerary
Day 1|Arrival in Urumqi
Upon arrival, meet your private guide and driver at the airport. Transfer to your hotel and settle in after your journey. The rest of the day is free for you to relax or explore the city at your own pace.
Day 2|Urumqi – Heavenly Lake – Fuyun
Enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeshore or take an optional boat ride to appreciate the reflections of the surrounding mountains on the clear water.
In the afternoon, leave the mountain scenery behind and continue north to Fuyun County, a peaceful town surrounded by the vast landscapes of Northern Xinjiang.
Day 3|Fuyun – Keketuohai National Geopark – Burqin
Follow the scenic routes through the park and admire the striking rock formations along the Irtish River, where forests and mountain landscapes create a picturesque setting.
Continue to the historic No. 3 Mine, an important geological site once associated with China’s strategic mineral resources. Discover its fascinating mining history and learn about its role in the country’s industrial development.
Later, drive to Burqin, a charming town that serves as the gateway to the Kanas region.
Day 4|Burqin – Kanas Lake – Tuva Family Visit
Head to Fish Pavilion for an elevated view of the lake and its changing shades of blue and green. Continue exploring the scenic area, where the winding Kanas River forms several beautiful bends and bays.
Later, visit Kanas Village and meet a local Tuva family. Discover their traditional wooden homes and learn about their daily routines, cultural traditions, and way of life in this remote mountain community.
Day 5|Kanas – Hemu Village
Visit a local Tuva Cultural Museum to discover the community’s history, traditional clothing, and everyday objects. You may also have the opportunity to enjoy a performance of traditional Tuva music.
Later, take a leisurely walk along the Hemu River, enjoying the tranquil scenery of wooden houses, grazing animals, and forested hillsides.
Day 6|Hemu – Wucaitan – Burqin
After breakfast, depart for Burqin. Along the way, stop at Wucaitan (Five-Color Shore), a fascinating landscape where colorful rock formations contrast with the greenery along the Irtish River.
The area’s distinctive geological features create a striking scene, with riverbanks, desert terrain, and multicolored cliffs forming a unique natural landscape.
Upon arrival in Burqin, enjoy some free time to explore the town’s streets and local restaurants.
Day 7|Burqin – Urho Ghost City – Karamay
This extraordinary landscape is known for its dramatic Yardang formations, shaped over thousands of years by wind erosion. The unusual rock structures resemble castles, towers, and other mysterious shapes scattered across the desert.
When strong winds pass through the formations, they can create haunting sounds that contribute to the area’s intriguing name.
Continue to Karamay, an important petroleum city in Xinjiang. Along the way, observe the extensive oil fields and pumpjacks that reflect the region’s significant energy resources.
Day 8|Karamay – Urumqi Departure
Enjoy the changing landscapes along the way as you travel from the western desert region towards Xinjiang’s capital.
Upon arrival, transfer to Urumqi Airport for your departure flight to your next destination or home, bringing your Northern Xinjiang adventure to an end.
What’s Included
- Services of a professional, licensed English-speaking or other language tour guide.
- 7 nights’ accommodation in a 4-star hotel.
- Entrance tickets to all attractions mentioned in the itinerary.
- Applicable service charges, taxes, and parking fees.
- Private vehicle and driver throughout the tour, including airport pick-up and drop-off.
- Daily breakfast and lunch as specified in the itinerary.
- Traveler's Accident Insurance
- Bottled water provided daily during the tour.
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