Destinations: Urumqi
Experience the grandeur of northwest China's landscapes – endless grasslands, snow-capped Tianshan peaks, and crystal-clear alpine lakes, paired with nomadic Kazakh culture.
Best Season: Summer (June-August) – lush grasslands, wildflowers, mild temperatures (15-28°C)
Entry City: Urumqi (direct international flights from Moscow, Istanbul, Almaty; connecting flights from Beijing/Shanghai)
Accommodation Standard: 4-star hotels in Urumqi; Kazakh yurts (upgraded with Western toilets, beds, heating) in Narat; lakeside resorts near Sayram Lake
Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi
Morning/Afternoon: Arrive at Urumqi Diwopu International Airport; private transfer to city hotel (30 mins).
Evening: Welcome dinner featuring Xinjiang cuisine (roast lamb, hand-pulled noodles); avoid spicy food upon request. Overnight in Urumqi.
Day 2: Urumqi City & Xinjiang Museum
09:00-11:30: Visit Xinjiang Museum – English-speaking guide explains Silk Road history, ethnic cultures, and mummy exhibition.
12:00-13:00: Lunch at local restaurant (Uyghur-style pilaf).
13:30-17:00: Hongshan Park – climb to Red Hill Top for Urumqi skyline and Tianshan views; visit ancient temple.
18:00: Free evening to explore Grand Bazaar (international market, handicrafts, spices). Overnight in Urumqi.
Day 3-4: Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) of Tianshan
Day 3:
08:00: Drive to Tianchi Scenic Area (1.5h); enter via cable car (20 mins) for panoramic views.
10:00-12:00: Walk along lakeside boardwalk (3km) – turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks; photo stops at "Girl’s Reflection" viewpoint.
12:30-13:30: Lunch at lakeside restaurant (Xinjiang-Western fusion).
14:00-17:00: Optional activities: boat cruise on Tianchi (1h), horse riding (1h), visit Taoist temple.
18:00: Check in at lakeside resort; dinner with mountain views. Overnight in Tianchi.
Day 4:
07:30: Optional sunrise viewing (weather permitting).
09:00: Breakfast; 10:00 drive to Narat Grassland (3h).
13:30: Lunch at halfway restaurant (Kazakh-style meat pies).
15:00: Arrive at Narat; check in at upgraded Kazakh yurt (en-suite bathroom, comfortable beds) .
16:00-18:00: Leisurely walk on grassland – visit nomadic family, learn to milk sheep (optional). Overnight in Narat.
Day 5-6: Narat Grassland Adventure
Day 5:
09:00: Horse riding tour (2h) – guided by Kazakh herdsmen, ride through alpine meadows (no prior experience needed).
12:00: Lunch at yurt camp (barbecue feast: lamb, vegetables, bread).
13:30-16:00: Visit Xuelian Valley (Snow Lotus Valley) – 4km hike (easy) with close-up views of Tianshan peaks; wildflower spotting (July-August).
17:00: Grassland camping preparation – set up tents (with guides), learn to make Kazakh flatbread.
19:00: Bonfire dinner with Kazakh music and dance; stargazing (low light pollution). Overnight in tents/yurts (optional).
Day 6:
08:30: Breakfast; 09:30 visit Hain Sai Village – traditional Kazakh village, watch eagle hunting demonstration (optional) .
12:00: Lunch at village restaurant.
13:30: Drive to Sayram Lake (4h); check in at lakeside resort.
18:00: Dinner with lake view. Overnight near Sayram Lake.
Day 7-8: Sayram Lake Exploration
Day 7:
09:00-12:00: Pine Tree Peak Hike (3km round trip, easy) – wooden boardwalk trail, panoramic lake views, Guozigou Bridge photo spot .
12:30-13:30: Lunch at lake resort.
14:00-17:00: Lakeside activities – cycling (electric bikes available), picnic, bird-watching (migratory birds in June).
18:30: Sunset viewing at east lake shore. Overnight near Sayram Lake.
Day 8:
09:00: Visit nearby Kazakh nomadic camp – try on traditional costumes, taste fermented mare’s milk (kumis), watch felt-making.
12:00: Lunch at camp; 13:00 drive back to Urumqi (5h).
18:00: Check in at Urumqi hotel; free evening. Overnight in Urumqi.
Day 9: Optional Turpan Day Trip (Add-on)
07:00-18:00: Optional day trip to Turpan (2h drive each way):
Visit Grape Valley – taste fresh grapes, walk through vineyards.
Jiaohe Ruins – ancient earthen city, UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Karez Underground Irrigation System – learn about ancient water management.
18:30: Return to Urumqi; farewell dinner. Overnight in Urumqi.
Day 10: Departure
Morning: Private transfer to Urumqi Airport according to flight schedule.
