Today's travel plan—Altay!

The Altay region, located at the northernmost tip of Xinjiang, borders Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia. It is renowned for the magnificent Altai Mountains, pristine forests, lakes, and the unique Tuvan culture. Key scenic spots include Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, Baihaba Village, and Keketuohai National Geopark. Best Time to Visit • Autumn (mid-September to early October): The forests are ablaze with color, with golden birch trees mirroring the azure lakes—a photographer's paradise. • Winter (December to February): A fairytale world draped in white, a haven for skiing (e.g., General Mountain Ski Resort). • Summer (June to August): A summer retreat, with blooming grasslands ideal for hiking. • Spring (May): As the snow melts and wildflowers bloom, fewer tourists visit during this time. Transportation Guide How to Get There 1. By Air: • Kanas Airport (open during peak season, June to October): Direct flights to Kanas Scenic Area. • Altay Xuedu Airport: Open year-round, transfer from Urumqi, then take a bus to the scenic area (approx. 4 hrs). 2. By Train: Arrive at Beitun City Railway Station, transfer to a bus/charter a car to Altay (approx. 1.5 hrs). 3. By Car: Urumqi to Altay is about an 8-hour drive. You can visit the S21 Desert Highway and Ulungur Lake along the way. Local Transportation • Inter-Scenic Transportation: Shuttle buses are available between Kanas, Hemu, and Baihaba (tickets required). Private cars are not allowed to enter the core area during peak season. • Chartering/Carpooling: Flexible and convenient, recommended for 4–6 people. The cost is approximately CNY 500–800 per day. Recommended Itinerary (5–7 Days) Day 1: Arrive in Altay City • General Mountain Ski Resort (winter) or Birch Forest Park (autumn). • Enjoy local Kazakh cuisine for dinner. Hand-pulled lamb and baursaki (fried dough) are recommended. Days 2–3: In-depth Kanas Lake Tour • Kanas Three Bays: Shenxian Bay (morning mist), Yueliang Bay, and Wolong Bay. • Guanyutai: Climb to the top for a panoramic view of Kanas Lake and explore the legend of the "lake monster." • Tuvan Villages: Visit local homes and experience Tuvan culture, including the morin khuur (horsehead fiddle) and khoomei (throat singing). • Hiking/Horseback Riding: Explore the lakeside boardwalk or the Kuailehu (Happy Lake) trail. Day 4: Hemu Village • Sunrise and Morning Mist: Climb to the Harden Platform early in the morning for a breathtaking view of Hemu Village shrouded in mist. • Stroll through the Birch Forest: Golden in autumn like an oil painting, and a fairytale wonderland in winter. • Stargazing: With no light pollution, the Milky Way is clearly visible at night. Day 5: Baihaba Village (the First Village in the Northwest) • China-Kazakhstan Border Scenery: A border defense permit is required in advance (obtainable with your ID card at the Kanas transfer center). • Pristine Village: Wooden houses, cattle, sheep, and snow-capped mountains create a tranquil scene. Day 6: Keketuohai National Geopark • Irtysh River Grand Canyon: Unique rock formations and colorful forests in autumn. • No. 3 Mine: A meritorious mine of the People's Republic of China, learn about the history of rare metal mining. Day 7: Departure or Extended Trip • Optional: Ulungur Lake (winter fishing festival), Wucaitan (sunset Yadan landforms). Must-Try Highlights 1. Kanas Lake Cruise: Experience the changing colors of the lake up close. 2. Horseback Riding through Hemu: From Hemu to Meili Peak, experience the intersection of grassland and forest. 3. Horse-drawn Sleigh Ride (winter): A traditional mode of transportation, gliding through the snowy forests. 4. Tuvan Bonfire Party: Listen to the suling (grass flute) and enjoy the Hei Zou Ma dance. Food Recommendations • Cold Water Fish Feast: Zheluo salmon (large red fish) and pike from Kanas Lake. • Kazakh Cuisine: Beshbarmak (boiled meat and noodles), milk tea, and horse sausage. • Xinjiang Specialties: Baked buns, pilaf, Dapanji (big plate chicken), and Kurt (dried yogurt). Accommodation Recommendations • Hemu/Kanas: Wooden guesthouses within the scenic area are preferred (e.g., Hemu Century-old House) for convenient sunrise and morning mist viewing. • Altay City: Many hotel options in the city center (e.g., Jindu Hotel) offer good value. • Winter Accommodation: Confirm heating availability in advance, as some guesthouses close during winter. Important Notes 1. Documents: Carry your ID card at all times. A border defense permit is required for Baihaba. 2. Temperature Difference: Large temperature differences between day and night. Bring a jacket even in summer, and down jackets and non-slip boots in winter. 3. High-Altitude Sun Protection: Strong UV rays, sunglasses and sunscreen are essential. 4. Respect Local Customs: Tuvans and Kazakhs avoid stepping on doorsills. Do not take photos of locals without permission. 5. Environmental Protection: Protect nature, do not litter. Budget Reference (per person) • Transportation: Round-trip airfare/train tickets CNY 2,000–4,000, car rental approximately CNY 300 per day. • Entrance Fees: Kanas + shuttle bus CNY 230, Hemu CNY 102, Keketuohai CNY 126. • Accommodation: Guesthouses CNY 200–600 per night, prices double during peak season. • Food: CNY 80–150 per day. Altay is a land of pristine wilderness and poetic charm. Whether you are chasing autumn colors, exploring winter snow, or immersing yourself in nomadic culture, you will experience the gifts of nature. Check the weather and scenic spot opening information before departure. Have a pleasant trip!