Breathtaking Northern Xinjiang ~ Endless Sea of Flowers, Blooming Anew Each Season！ Direct Flight to Urumqi

Text by Qidou Travel Network Photos by Phoenix Travel

Different seasons always bring new surprises from the grasslands of Xinjiang！ In June, the Ili River Valley turns into a vast purple ocean, with the lavender fields in Huocheng becoming an infinitely sprawling purple dreamland. From mid-June to mid-July, it’s also the season for rapeseed flowers, as those in Zhaosu bloom into a dazzling golden tapestry. And then there's the colorful sea of flowers on the Kalajun Grassland deep in the Tianshan Mountains, and the embroidered-carpet-like meadows by Sayram Lake... The beauty is boundless！ In autumn, Hemu Village glows with brilliant golden hues. Every season in Xinjiang is its most beautiful. Phoenix Travel’s “Breathtaking Northern Xinjiang” takes you on a direct flight to Urumqi and straight into the heart of Xinjiang.

Bayinbuluke Grassland: Witness the Nine-Bend Eighteen-Curve Sunset

The call of spring awakens the grasslands. Journey along the central Tianshan Mountains of Xinjiang to Bayinbuluke, whose Mongolian name means “abundant springs”—and the view before you is exactly that.

The Bayinbuluke Nature Reserve is China’s second-largest grassland and the richest summer pasture on the southern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains. On the Swan Lake Wetlands of the grassland, take a horse-drawn carriage or ride to admire the unique alpine wetland ecosystem, where fertile water and grass thrive thanks to rivers, lakes, marshes, and springs—making it a paradise for birds and a haven for birdwatchers. Additionally, head to the Nine-Bend Eighteen-Curve section of the upstream Kaidu River, where the winding river looks like a silvery ribbon, with the Tianshan Mountains reflected in its waters. Especially at sunset, when beams of rosy light shine across the grassland, each bend seems to cradle its own sun—an exceptionally moving sight.

One of the World’s Four Great Alpine Valley Grasslands: Nalati Grassland

Nalati Grassland has been a renowned pasture since ancient times, where crisscrossing rivers, expansive valleys, towering peaks, and dense forests create a stunning tableau. From June to September, wildflowers of all kinds blanket the grassy hills and slopes in reds, yellows, blues, and purples, decorating the landscape in vibrant splendor.

Here, you can also experience the Aiyue Banquet Show at the Aiyue Grand Theater—a feast of rich Northwest cuisine paired with song and dance performances primarily by Kazakh and Uyghur performers, integrating cultural elements from seven ethnic groups in Xinjiang to showcase the unique folk charm of Ili.

The Sapphire Embedded Deep in the Tianshan Mountains ~ Sayram Lake

Every year from May to June, the shores of Sayram Lake resemble an embroidered carpet—the perfect time for sightseeing. At an elevation of 2,073 meters, Sayram Lake, known in ancient times as the “Pure Lake” and called “the lake on the mountain ridge” in Mongolian, is a basin lake nestled among the Tianshan Mountains. With a moist climate and cool summers, it stretches about 30 kilometers from east to west and 25 kilometers from north to south.

The grasslands around Sayram Lake are excellent pastures. In summer, golden wildflowers dot the hillsides, while the crystal-clear blue waters of the lake are complemented by cattle and sheep leisurely grazing on the slopes. Beyond, the snow-capped peaks of the Tianshan Mountains form a harmonious and picturesque pastoral scene.

Welcoming the June Ili Lavender Season

For the entire month from mid-June to mid-July, the Ili River Valley bursts into bloom with lavender, transforming vast fields into a purple ocean. When the wind blows, the flower seas ripple like an endless purple dreamscape stretching across the land, filling the surrounding areas with the sweet fragrance of lavender—a double delight for both the eyes and the senses.

The “Little Switzerland of the East”: Kanas

Located in the Altai Mountains of Xinjiang, Kanas is a hidden earthly paradise. United Nations environmental officials have called it one of the best-preserved natural landscapes on Earth today, and it’s also known as the “Back Garden of the Gods.” A must-visit is Wolong Bay, formed over time by the Kanas River eroding its banks, with a small island perfectly centered in the bay. Viewed from above, it resembles a winged dragon lying quietly in the water—hence its name. In addition, there are the stunning Moon Bay and Fairy Bay, where the mountain and water scenery is overwhelmingly beautiful.

To enjoy Kanas, you can climb to the Fish-Watching Pavilion and ascend step by step for views of Kanas Lake from various angles, or take a boat trip directly into the Three Bays of Kanas. Drifting upstream along the northern side of the lake, you’ll find yourself immersed in a painting-like landscape. Opt to stay at the Kanas Mountain Villa within the Kanas scenic area, just 50 meters from Kanas Lake, where you can freely stroll around the lake, gaze at the mountains, and take in the full charm of Kanas at dawn and dusk.

Hemu Village ~ Step Into a Beethoven Pastoral Symphony, Golden in Autumn

Once rated by Chinese National Geography as one of China’s six most beautiful ancient villages, Hemu has recently emerged as a photography paradise. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, rivers, birch trees, and European aspens, the entire town is breathtakingly beautiful. When autumn arrives, the golden birch leaves reflect the sunlight, with ever-changing light and shadow and photo-worthy views from every angle！

More Related Information
Recommended Itinerary: Breathtaking Northern Xinjiang Journey (11 Days)https://www.travel.com.tw/TOU/TOU0010/6CHW11A

Features: Direct flights to Urumqi, accommodation in hotels within the Kanas scenic area, June Ili Lavender Season
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