The world is not meant to be viewed, but to be traversed. Only by venturing further, can we draw nearer to its essence. My recent five-day self-drive adventure in Ili, Xinjiang, was a testament to this philosophy. Here’s a glimpse into my personal journey, which I hope will aid fellow travelers in their pursuit of an enriching experience.
5-Day, 4-Night Itinerary:
D1: Urumqi – Baili Danxia – Anjihai Grand Canyon – Kuitun
D2: Kuitun – Sayram Lake – Yining
D3: Yining – Nalati Aerial Grassland (originally planned for Kalajun Grassland, but due to snowy and inclement weather conditions, we made a last-minute switch)
D4: Nalati River Valley Grassland – Scenic Routes – Turpan
D5: Turpan – Kumtag Desert – Urumqi
(Note: Weather conditions in Xinjiang can vary greatly from place to place. It is advisable to contact the scenic spots in advance to understand the local weather conditions.)
Rental Vehicle: It is imperative to rent an SUV for this trip. We opted for the Baowo X7, which handled the terrain with ease. While highways offer a smooth ride, they often miss out on the breathtaking scenery. National and provincial roads, on the other hand, offer a more immersive experience, taking you over snow-capped mountains, across vast gobi deserts, and through lush grasslands. However, the roads can be quite rough, especially during rainy weather, necessitating a durable and high-ground-clearance vehicle.
Attire for Photography: The landscapes of Xinjiang are particularly suited for outfits in shades of yellow, white, light blue, and pink. Dresses and shirts with a flowy silhouette will photograph beautifully. Alternatively, a cool and edgy look pairs well with the stark beauty of the snow-capped mountains. However, it is crucial to layer up with a warm outer garment as the wind can make the temperature plummet to freezing levels. Trust me, it’s not a pleasant experience!
Skincare and Makeup: Sun protection is paramount in Xinjiang. Be sure to pack a mask, hat, outerwear, and sunglasses. Additionally, sunscreen, lip balm, hand cream, body lotion, and face masks are absolute must-haves. Even my oily-skinned friends found the dryness unbearable. As for makeup, while I am a beauty blogger by trade, the drifting raindrops and chilly winds of the mountains are the ultimate makeup removers. It’s best to prioritize skincare and opt for a natural look with the help of a pair of sunglasses, which not only enhance your photos but also make editing a breeze.
Essential Tip: Your ID card is more important than anything else in Xinjiang. Every checkpoint, toll station, and gas station will require it. Be sure to keep it handy at all times. Additionally, as cellular signal can be sparse on many stretches of the road, it’s advisable to download music and podcasts beforehand and stock up on snacks and dry food. With each scenic spot being at least a three to five-hour drive away, it’s easy to miss mealtimes, so these snacks will come in handy.
My Personal Ranking of Scenic Spot s: Sayram Lake > Nalati Aerial Grassland > Kumtag Desert > Scenic Routes Along the Way
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