Early Morning: Sunrise and Hemu Morning Mist

1. Wake up early to enjoy the magical morning mist of Hemu Village. The mist in the early hours creates a mystical atmosphere, especially over the river and forests, with snow-capped peaks in the background.

2. If you're lucky, you might witness the sunrise as it breaks through the mist, casting a warm glow on the village and surrounding nature—ideal for photography enthusiasts.

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Depart from Hemu Village to Kanas Lake

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Explore Kanas Scenic Area

Upon arrival at Kanas Scenic Area, the main highlight is Kanas Lake. Known for its serene waters and spectacular surroundings, Kanas Lake is one of the most beautiful and mysterious spots in the region. It is known as the “Switzerland of China” due to its clear, turquoise waters, lush forests, and snow-capped mountains.​

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Take a boat ride on Kanas Lake for a close-up view of the water and surrounding scenery. You can also hike around the lake to explore different viewpoints and capture the beauty of the area from various angles.

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Visit Kanas Three Bays (喀纳斯三湾)​

From Kanas Lake, visit the famous Kanas Three Bays: Shenxian Bay (神仙湾), Wolong Bay (卧龙湾), and Yueliang Bay (月亮湾). Each bay offers a unique view, making it one of the most scenic parts of the Kanas region.

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• Shenxian Bay (神仙湾): This bay is known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains and forests. It’s an excellent spot for nature walks and photography.​

• Wolong Bay (卧龙湾): Named after the winding, dragon-like shape of the bay, this is a quiet spot where you can enjoy peaceful views of the lake and its surrounding landscape.​

• Yueliang Bay (月亮湾): This bay is shaped like a crescent moon, offering picturesque views that are especially mesmerizing at sunrise or sunset.​

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Scenic Walks and Optional Activities​

After lunch, you can take a leisurely scenic walk around Kanas or enjoy optional activities such as horseback riding, nature trekking, or photography to capture the beauty of the lakes, forests, and wildlife.​

Visit the Kanas Nature Museum to learn more about the history, culture, and biodiversity of the area. The museum offers insight into the region’s flora, fauna, and unique cultural heritage.

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Overnight in Kanas Village

Day 5

Kanas Village to Karamay - Explore the Devil’s City & Karamay River

Depart from Kanas Village to Karamay

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Visit the Devil’s City (世界魔鬼城)

Upon arrival in Karamay, head straight to the Devil’s City (also known as World Devil’s City, 魔鬼城), a remarkable and otherworldly landscape formed by wind erosion over millions of years.

The Devil’s City is a natural wonder located in the Burtin Desert and is famous for its strange rock formations that resemble towers, caves, and pyramid-like structures. These eerie formations make it one of the most surreal landscapes in China. The area is particularly dramatic when illuminated by the sun during the morning or late afternoon, casting long shadows and highlighting the unique contours of the rock structures.

You can take a guided tour of the park to learn about the geological processes behind the formations and discover the legend behind the "Devil’s City" name, which was given due to the unusual and harsh desert environment.

You can also explore the park on foot or by tourist bus to see the most famous spots in the area, including Wind-eroded Towers, Gobi Desert Viewpoints, and Cave Clusters. The fascinating shapes of the rocks create an ideal setting for photography.

Visit Karamay River Scenic Area (克拉玛依河景区)

In the afternoon, head to the Karamay River Scenic Area. The Karamay River flows through the heart of the city, and its banks are lined with lush greenery, offering a contrast to the desert landscape. The river valley is a great spot for leisurely walks, offering peaceful views of the water and the surrounding mountains.

You can explore the riverbanks, enjoy a boat ride, or simply relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.

The Karamay River also holds historical significance, as it has been an important water source in the region for centuries. As you explore, you’ll have the chance to learn about the local culture and the vital role the river plays in the life of the people in this area.

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Return to Karamay City for the Night​

Day 6

Karamay to Bole City - Visit Sayram Lake (赛里木湖)

Depart from Karamay to Bole City

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Arrive at Sayram Lake

Along the route, make a stop at the breathtaking Sayram Lake, a high-altitude freshwater lake located in the Tianshan Mountains. Sayram Lake is often called "The Sea of Heaven" due to its crystal-clear waters and stunning surrounding scenery. The lake is famous for its tranquility and natural beauty, making it one of the most popular destinations in Xinjiang.

Explore Sayram Lake by walking along the shores, enjoying the serene views, and taking in the clean mountain air. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and green pastures, creating a perfect setting for relaxation and photography. Depending on the time of year, you may see yaks grazing along the lakeside or even wildflowers blooming in the surrounding meadows.

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Enjoy Afternoon Tea at the Scenic Area

After a stroll along the lake, relax at a nearby scenic restaurant where you can enjoy a lovely afternoon tea. This is an ideal time to unwind, sip tea, and savor local snacks, such as dried fruits, fresh bread, or honey cakes. You can also try some Xinjiang-style pastries, made with ingredients like flour, nuts, and spices

As you enjoy the tea, take in the majestic views of Sayram Lake and the surrounding Tianshan Mountains. The peaceful ambiance of the area makes it a great spot to reflect on your journey.

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Depart for Bole City

After your afternoon tea, continue your journey towards Bole City. The drive is relatively short from Sayram Lake (about 1.5-2 hours). During the journey, enjoy the scenic landscape of the region, with wide-open plains, rolling hills, and traditional Uyghur settlements.

Upon arrival in Bole City, check into your hotel and take the rest of the evening to relax and unwind.

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Overnight Stay in Bole 

Day 7

Bole City to Urumqi - Visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon

Depart from Bole City

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Visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon (独山子大峡谷)

Arrive at Dushanzi Grand Canyon, one of Xinjiang’s most stunning natural attractions. The canyon is known for its dramatic landscapes, featuring towering cliffs, colorful rock layers, and deep ravines carved by centuries of natural forces.

Take a walk through the canyon’s hiking paths and enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. The canyon is particularly famous for its red sandstone cliffs and unique rock formations, which create a striking contrast against the blue sky and green vegetation. For a more adventurous experience, there are options for guided tours or photography sessions to capture the beauty of the canyon.

You can also explore the surrounding area, which includes views of rivers and mountain ranges, making it a great place for hiking and nature lovers.​​

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Arrival in Urumqi​

Day 8

Urumqi Departure - End of Tour