Experience Xinjiang Travel - "Switzerland" in the Heart of Asia

Xinjiang is still known as a famous land for nature tourism, with majestic landscapes and minimal human impact. What's unique about Xinjiang, China? Join Vietjet to explore Xinjiang travel experiences from transportation, prominent destinations, and unique cuisine to essential notes for a complete and memorable trip!

1. Where is Xinjiang, China?

Xinjiang, also known as the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region, is located in the northwest of China. It is one of the largest areas in China, renowned for its majestic natural landscapes and diverse culture. Xinjiang is known as the "Switzerland in the heart of Asia" due to its snow-capped mountain ranges, crystal-clear lakes, and vast grasslands. This has led to an increasing demand for travel to Xinjiang, with Vietnamese tourists also seeking ways to travel there more frequently.

Xinjiang is famous for its characteristic endless grasslands.

2. How to Travel to Xinjiang, China

2.1 Travel from Vietnam to Xinjiang

To travel to Xinjiang, China from Vietnam, tourists can choose international flights from Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, via Vietjet. Currently, there are no direct flights from Vietnam to Xinjiang, so travelers must transit through major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Guangzhou, or Shanghai.

Vietjet offers 0 VND air ticket promotions every Friday for customers booking flights to Xinjiang, China.

2.2 Traveling within Xinjiang

In Xinjiang, tourists can use various means of transportation such as buses, taxis, or rent self-drive cars to move around. The public transportation system in Xinjiang is quite developed, especially in major cities. However, for tourist spots located in rural or highland areas, renting a self-drive car or using tour services will be more convenient.

3. Exploring Xinjiang - "Switzerland" in the Heart of Asia

3.1 Kanas Lake

Kanas Lake is famous for its mystical beauty, with jade-green waters surrounded by snow-capped mountains. This is an ideal destination for those who love pristine and serene natural landscapes.

Kanas Lake has different beauty in each changing season - a promising destination for tourists.

3.2 Ancient City of Kashgar

Kashgar is an ancient city that preserves many distinctive cultural features of the Uyghur people. Here, tourists can visit the large Kashgar market, the old quarter, and the Id Kah Mosque.

An ancient street with the remnants of time is definitely an ideal stop for history enthusiasts.

3.3 Nalati Grassland

Nalati Grassland is likened to a miniature "Mongolian steppe," with lush green fields and herds of grazing livestock. It is an ideal destination for those who want to experience nomadic life and immerse themselves in nature.

3.4 Taklamakan Desert

The Taklamakan Desert, one of the largest deserts in the world, is a place where visitors can experience the vastness and harshness of nature. Visitors can join desert tours, ride camels, and admire the sunset over the sand dunes.

Exciting desert activities are also experiences that are not easily found elsewhere.

3.5 Bezeklik Buddhist Caves

The Bezeklik Buddhist Caves are a famous religious site, preserving many historically and artistically valuable Buddhist murals. Here, visitors can explore unique architecture and learn about the history of Buddhism in Xinjiang.

See more: TOP beautiful and famous tourist destinations in China

4. Five Must-Try Xinjiang Delicacies

Besides its mesmerizing landscapes, Xinjiang is also famous for its unique cuisine, a combination of regional cultures that is hard to find elsewhere. When visiting Xinjiang, China, you can try the following dishes that are considered distinctive and pleasing to every tourist:

Hand-pulled Noodles (Lagman): Handmade noodles served with lamb and vegetables, creating a distinctive flavor.
Grilled Lamb Skewers (Kawap): Lamb marinated with spices, grilled over charcoal, and irresistibly delicious.
Baked Dumplings (Samsa): Dumplings filled with lamb or beef, baked to a crispy perfection.
Uyghur Fried Rice (Polu): Fried rice with lamb, carrots, onions, and raisins.
Goat Yogurt (Naren): Special yogurt made from goat's milk, with a refreshing and tangy taste.

5. Top 3 Great Accommodation Spots

As tourism develops, various types of accommodations are available. Visitors can experience outdoor camping or consider some convenient and comfortable lodging options such as:

Miraj Hotel (Urumqi): A luxurious hotel with modern amenities and a convenient location. Address: No. 305 North Youhao Road, Shayibak District, Urumqi, Xinjiang, China

Tarim Guesthouse (Kashgar): A traditional guesthouse near the grand market and the old town.

Address: No. 144 Renmin East Avenue, Kashgar, Xinjiang, China

Nalati Resort (Nalati): A resort amidst the grasslands, offering an experience close to nature.

Address: Nalati Town, Xinyuan District, Ili, Xinjiang, China

6. Travel Tips for Xinjiang, China

6.1 Xinjiang Weather

Spring (March to May): Nature blooms with flowers covering fields and hills. You can visit the plum blossom valley, Hemu scenic area, Kanas nature reserve, Sayram Lake, etc. During this weather, also bring warm clothes as it gets cold in the early morning and late at night.

Summer (June to August): Hot weather, especially in desert areas, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C. Cooler climates can be found in mountainous and highland areas. This is an ideal time to visit grasslands like Nalati and Bayanbulak, Altay, and Ili. During summer, remember to bring sunscreen, hats, and water.

Autumn (September to November): The most beautiful season in Xinjiang, with vibrant autumn foliage creating a stunning landscape. It is a great time to explore Kanas Lake, Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, etc.

Winter (December to February): The harshest season in Xinjiang, with the coldest weather of the year, especially in highland and mountainous areas, where temperatures can drop below -20°C. Suitable for skiing experiences. Remember to bring warm clothing, anti-slip shoes, and other warm accessories.

6.2 Essential Items to Bring

When traveling to Xinjiang, tourists should prepare warm clothing, comfortable sports shoes, sunscreen, and personal medication. Particularly, remember to bring personal identification documents and cash for convenience in travel and shopping.

See more: Latest China Entry Procedures Guide 2024

The above information provides basic insights for tourists who want to explore Xinjiang before embarking on their journey to this amazing land. We hope Vietjet has provided you with useful information.

And don’t forget, Vietjet operates many flights to China with ticket prices starting from only 490,000 VND, along with opportunities to hunt for cheap tickets, fly, and explore Xinjiang - the “Switzerland" of Asia.

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