Northern Xinjiang refers to the area north of the Tianshan Mountains in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, including cities and regions such as Urumqi, Altay, Tacheng, Changji, Ili, and Bortala. Unlike southern Xinjiang, this region is dominated by mountains and grasslands and is the homeland of Kazakh and Oirat Mongolian peoples, rich in grassland culture.
Northern Xinjiang boasts many stunning natural landscapes: Kanas Lake resembles a fairyland; Hemu Village is hailed as a secluded paradise; Sayram Lake shines like a pearl on the grasslands; Nalati Grassland stretches wide and beautiful; and the colorful stones of the Five-Color Beach look like a natural palette. The natural beauty and diverse cultures of Northern Xinjiang will surely make your trip unforgettable.
Climate Characteristics of Northern Xinjiang
- Spring (March to May): Temperatures gradually rise, snow and ice melt, and grasslands begin to turn green. However, mornings and evenings remain cool, and occasional sandstorms may occur.
- Summer (June to August): Warm and comfortable weather with daytime temperatures around 20°C (68°F). Nights are cool, making it the best season for tourism. Rainfall is scarce, and the air is dry.
- Autumn (September to November): Cool weather with large temperature differences between day and night. The grasslands become colorful, ideal for enjoying natural scenery and harvest season. Mornings and evenings grow colder.
- Winter (December to February): Cold and dry, with temperatures often dropping below -10°C (14°F) or even lower in some areas. Snow covers parts of the region, suitable for winter and ice tourism activities.
Temperature and Precipitation Changes Across Seasons in Northern Xinjiang
- Spring (March to May):
Temperature: Rising gradually from around 0°C (32°F) to about 15°C (59°F), with chilly mornings and evenings.
Precipitation: Low, mostly dry weather, with occasional light rain or snow. - Summer (June to August):
Temperature: Significant rise, averaging between 20°C and 30°C (68°F to 86°F), with some areas exceeding 35°C (95°F).
Precipitation: Rainfall mainly concentrated in July and August, mostly showers or thunderstorms, but total precipitation remains low. - Autumn (September to November):
Temperature: Decreasing gradually from around 20°C (68°F) to near 0°C (32°F), with cool mornings and evenings and large temperature swings.
Precipitation: Diminishing, dry, and crisp air. - Winter (December to February):
Temperature: Cold and dry, with averages below freezing, some areas dropping below -20°C (-4°F). Extreme cold is common.
Precipitation: Sparse, mostly snow, with long-lasting snow cover.
| Season | Months | Avg. Temperature (°C) | Precipitation Characteristics | Travel Tips |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | March – May | 0°C to 15°C | Low precipitation, generally dry | Ideal for flower viewing and spring outings; mornings and evenings remain chilly. |
| Summer | June – August | 20°C to 30°C | Most rainfall occurs, especially June–July | Peak travel season; lush grasslands and clear lakes. |
| Autumn | September – November | 15°C down to 0°C | Decreasing rainfall, dry and crisp air | Best time to enjoy autumn colors; bring layers for temperature swings. |
| Winter | December – February | -10°C to -25°C | Very dry with snow instead of rain | Suitable for winter sports like skiing and snow festivals. |
Best Travel Periods
Overall, the best time to visit Northern Xinjiang is from July to September, when summer transitions to autumn and the natural scenery is at its peak. During this period, the grasslands are lush green, lakes are crystal clear and blue, sunlight makes yellow pines sparkle, and the mixture of red, brown, and white hues paints a picture like an oil painting. Whether you want to experience the vastness of summer grasslands or the colorful autumn forests, these months offer the ideal window for exploring Northern Xinjiang.
Different destinations have slightly varied best travel times:
1.Urumqi: August to September
The weather is pleasant, warm during the day and cool at night, perfect for exploring the city and surrounding natural scenery. Snow-capped Tianshan peaks gleam under the sun, green grasslands and forests thrive, and autumn colors begin to show. This period also coincides with fruit harvest and local festivals, offering rich cultural and culinary experiences.
Tianchi Lake, 110 km east of Urumqi
2.Altay: July to September
Located at Xinjiang’s northernmost tip, Altay has a high latitude and elevation, resulting in cold winters. Summer from July to September is comfortable, with warm days and cool nights, ideal for outdoor activities and photography. Autumn colors transform the forests and valleys into poetic scenes, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Stills from the TV series My Altai
Tourist photos in Altay
3.Kanas: June to October
The best time to visit Kanas covers summer and autumn, with mild climate and beautiful scenery. In summer, the lake is clear and blue, surrounded by lush mountains and blooming wildflowers. Autumn dresses the area in golden forests and colorful hills, creating a natural masterpiece.
Kanas Lake
4.Hemu: June to September
Summer through early autumn is the best season for Hemu. In June, the grasslands are vividly green, wildflowers bloom, and the village is surrounded by a sea of green and colorful flowers—ideal for hiking and photography. By September, autumn colors deepen, with golden and red leaves decorating the village. Morning mist and smoke from chimneys create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Walking along golden village paths and riversides is a memorable experience.
Xinjiang Hemu Village
Recommended Activities by Season in Northern Xinjiang
1.Summer (June to August):
- Kanas Lake tours: crystal-clear waters, hiking around the lake, and boat rides to enjoy stunning scenery.
- Hemu Village exploration: vibrant grasslands and blooming wildflowers make it great for trekking, photography, and experiencing Kazakh culture.
- Sayram Lake cycling: peaceful lakeside rides under blue skies and white clouds.
- Altay highland hiking: cool weather perfect for exploring forests and alpine meadows.
Sailimu Lake
2.Autumn (September to October):
- Autumn foliage viewing: brilliant fall colors, especially in Kanas, Hemu, and Nalati Grassland.
- Fruit picking: harvest season for Xinjiang specialties like Hami melon, grapes, and apples.
- Ethnic festivals: participate in Kazakh and Mongolian traditional celebrations and performances.
- Photography tours: soft autumn light and rich scenery offer excellent photo opportunities.
