When winter arrives in China, most travelers head south—but those in the know go northwest to Xinjiang. From November to December, Xinjiang transforms into a snow-covered paradise, where frozen lakes sparkle like glass, deserts glow under golden light, and ski resorts come alive.
Whether you want to experience authentic Uyghur culture in Kashgar, ride horses through white grasslands, or soak in hot springs beneath snow-capped peaks, Xinjiang in winter offers an unforgettable adventure unlike anywhere else in China.
What to Expect: Weather & Travel Conditions
Winter in Xinjiang is cold, crisp, and breathtakingly beautiful.
-
Northern Xinjiang (Altay, Kanas, Urumqi): Heavy snowfall and alpine scenery, perfect for skiing and photography. Temperatures range from -10°C to -25°C (14°F to -13°F).
-
Southern Xinjiang (Kashgar, Hotan, Turpan): Milder but still cool, around 0°C to 10°C (32°F to 50°F). The air is dry, and the skies are crystal clear.
Good to know: Roads and flights remain open, and most attractions are accessible. You’ll find fewer tourists, cheaper hotels, and a quieter, more authentic experience.
Top Winter Destinations in Xinjiang
① Altay & Kanas: The Fairyland of Snow
If there’s one place that defines winter in Xinjiang, it’s Kanas Lake. By November, the lake and surrounding forests turn into a snow wonderland.
Kanas Lake
-
Visit Hemu Village, one of China’s most beautiful winter villages. Wooden houses, white rooftops, and smoke curling from chimneys create a postcard-perfect view.
-
Try dog sledding, skiing, or snowmobiling in Altay, China’s best region for winter sports.
✨ Highlight: Altay was the birthplace of skiing thousands of years ago—local Kazakh herders still use handmade wooden skis!
② Urumqi & Tianshan Mountains: Urban Meets Wilderness
Urumqi serves as the gateway to winter Xinjiang. From here, it’s easy to reach the Nanshan Ski Resort or Tianshan Tianchi (Heaven Lake)—a turquoise alpine lake surrounded by snowy peaks.
Heavenly Lake of Tianshan
-
Tianchi in winter is especially magical, with frozen reflections and tranquil silence.
-
The Urumqi Ice and Snow Festival (December–February) features snow sculptures, ice lanterns, and cultural shows.
✨ Tip: Warm up with lamb kebabs and hot naan bread in the city’s night markets after a chilly day outdoors.
③ Kashgar: Ancient City in the Snow
Down south, Kashgar stays relatively mild in winter, making it ideal for exploring its Old Town, Id Kah Mosque, and Sunday Bazaar without the crowds.
Snow sometimes dusts the rooftops, turning the ancient mud-brick streets into a winter fairytale.
Kashgar
Don’t miss:
-
Handmade crafts at local bazaars.
-
Uyghur cuisine like polo (rice pilaf) and roasted lamb.
-
Tea houses where locals gather to chat and play music.
✨ Bonus: From Kashgar, you can drive along the Karakoram Highway, one of the world’s most scenic winter roads, leading to Lake Karakul beneath Muztagh Ata.
④ Turpan: Desert Winter Charm
Turpan is one of China’s lowest and driest regions—and in winter, it’s refreshingly calm.
Visit the ancient city of Jiaohe, the Flaming Mountains, and the Karez underground irrigation system. Though it’s cold, the desert scenery under low sunlight is breathtaking.
You can also enjoy local hot springs and taste sweet winter grapes that Turpan is famous for.
Best Winter Activities in Xinjiang
Skiing & Snowboarding – Altay, Nanshan, and Silk Road Ski Resort near Urumqi offer world-class slopes.
Horseback Riding on Snowfields – Experience Kazakh nomad life in Hemu or Nalati.
Hot Springs – Relax in Tianshan or Kanas hot springs surrounded by snow.
Ice Festivals – Visit Urumqi or Altay during the Ice and Snow Festival season.
Cultural Photography – Winter light in Xinjiang is soft and golden—perfect for portraits and landscapes.
Travel Tips for November–December
- Dress in layers: Thermal underwear, down jacket, gloves, hat, and waterproof boots are essential.
- Bring camera protection: Cold weather can affect battery life—carry spares.
- Shorter daylight hours: Plan activities between 10:00 and 17:00.
- Travel with a local agency: Xinjiang is vast, and distances between sites are long. Booking with China Dragon Travel ensures a safe, well-organized experience with English-speaking guides and reliable vehicles.
Why Travel to Xinjiang in Winter
-
Fewer tourists: Enjoy major attractions peacefully.
-
Lower prices: Hotels and flights cost less.
-
Unique scenery: Snowy mountains, frozen lakes, and desert sunsets.
-
Rich culture: Festivals, food, and hospitality at their warmest.
Winter is when Xinjiang feels most authentic and untouched—a time to experience the region’s vastness, silence, and soul.
Suggested 10–12 Day Winter Itinerary
Day 1–2: Arrive in Urumqi → Explore the city and Nanshan Mountains.
Day 3–5: Fly to Altay → Visit Hemu and Kanas Lake.
Day 6–7: Return to Urumqi → Visit Heaven Lake.
Day 8–10: Fly to Kashgar → Explore Old Town, Bazaar, Karakul Lake.
Day 11–12: Return to Urumqi → Depart.
✨ All-inclusive winter tours available with China Dragon Travel, including comfortable hotels, local meals, private guides, and airport transfers.
Conclusion
Visiting Xinjiang in November or December means seeing China’s northwest at its most magical and peaceful. Snow, silence, and star-filled skies create a landscape of pure wonder.
Whether you dream of frozen lakes in Kanas, desert sunsets in Turpan, or historic streets in Kashgar, winter Xinjiang will surprise and inspire you.
With China Dragon Travel, you can experience the region’s hidden beauty—safely, comfortably, and authentically.
