8-Day Northern Xinjiang Private Tour: Heavenly Lake, Koktokay, Kanas, and Hemu

Welcome to Urumqi, the gateway to Xinjiang. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you at the airport or railway station and transfer you to your hotel.

The rest of the day is at leisure for you to rest and prepare for the journey ahead.

After breakfast, visit Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), one of Xinjiang’s most famous natural attractions, set high in the Tianshan Mountains. Surrounded by forested slopes and snow-capped peaks, the lake is admired for its tranquil waters and striking alpine scenery.

Depending on weather and site conditions, you may enjoy a boat ride on the lake at your own expense.

After the visit, continue north by road to Fuyun County for the night.

After breakfast, travel to Koktokay (Keketuohai) National Geopark, a scenic area known for its granite mountains, river valley, forests, and rich geological heritage. Explore the beautiful canyon landscape shaped by the Irtysh River and admire the contrast between rocky peaks, wooded slopes, and flowing water.

You will also learn about the area’s mining history, which once played an important role in China’s industrial development.

Later in the day, drive to Burqin, the gateway town to Kanas, and check in at your hotel.

After breakfast, head for the famous Kanas Scenic Area, one of the most celebrated destinations in northern Xinjiang. Visit Kanas Lake, known for its deep blue waters, forested shores, and mountain backdrop. If time and conditions permit, continue to the Fish Pavilion Observation Deck for panoramic views over the lake and surrounding valleys.

You may also enjoy a scenic walk in selected parts of the Kanas area, taking in the beauty of the river bends and forest landscapes at a relaxed pace.

Later, visit Kanas Village to gain a closer look at local Tuva culture and learn about the traditions and daily life of the community.

Overnight in the Kanas area.

After breakfast, travel to Hemu Village, one of the most picturesque settlements in northern Xinjiang. Surrounded by birch forests, meadows, rivers, and wooden houses, Hemu is known for its peaceful atmosphere and distinctive frontier charm.

Explore the village, learn more about local Tuva heritage, and enjoy the natural scenery along the Hemu River. Depending on timing and local arrangements, cultural displays or simple folk performances may also be available.

Overnight in Hemu or a nearby area.

If weather permits, enjoy the early morning atmosphere in Hemu, when mist often lingers in the valley and the village appears especially serene.

Later, drive back toward Burqin, stopping en route at Wucaitan (Five-Colored Beach). This striking site is known for its vividly layered landforms on one side of the river and contrasting vegetation on the other, creating one of the region’s most distinctive natural scenes.

In the evening, enjoy some free time in Burqin, a town known for its lively atmosphere and local character.

After breakfast, drive toward Karamay. On the way, visit Urho Ghost City, one of China’s most famous yardang landform areas. Wind erosion has shaped the landscape into dramatic ridges and formations that resemble ruined fortresses and ancient cities.

As you continue toward Karamay, you may also notice the region’s oil fields, a reminder of the area’s economic importance as well as its stark natural beauty.

Overnight in Karamay.

After breakfast, drive back to Urumqi. Upon arrival, you will be transferred directly to the airport or railway station for your onward journey.

Your journey concludes today, leaving you with memorable impressions of northern Xinjiang’s alpine lakes, forests, villages, and wide-open landscapes.