Xinjiang's Alpine Wonder: Kanas Lake Photography Tour
From Urumqi's Bazaars to the "Oriental Switzerland" of Northern China
Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi - Gateway to Xinjiang
Cultural Immersion at Erdaoqiao Grand Bazaar
Meals: No meal Accommodation: In Urumqi
Arrive in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, where unparalleled scenery meets cultural diversity. After airport pickup and hotel transfer, explore the vibrant Erdaoqiao International Grand Bazaar - the largest outdoor market in the city. Capture the essence of Uyghur culture through your lens and enjoy authentic local cuisine for dinner.
Day 2: Heavenly Lake Expedition
Photographing Tianchi's Pristine Landscapes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Accommodation: In Urumqi
Journey 120km northeast to the sacred Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), where turquoise waters mirror the snow-capped Bogda Peak. Spend 3 hours capturing this alpine paradise surrounded by rugged pines and cypresses. Return to visit Xinjiang Autonomous Region Museum, documenting the region's history through ancient artifacts, including the famous mummies.
Day 3: Flight to Kanas - Hemu Village Cultural Encounter
Documenting Tuva Ethnic Traditions
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: In Hemu Village
Take a scenic 1-hour flight to Kanas Airport, then travel 80km (2 hours) to Hemu Village. This remote settlement within Kanas Nature Reserve offers unparalleled opportunities to photograph the Tuva ethnic people, who maintain ancient traditions of animal grazing and hunting. Capture authentic cultural moments before overnighting in the village.
Day 4: Kanas Lake Natural Reserve Exploration
Sunrise Photography and Alpine Landscapes
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: In Jiadengyu
Begin with sunrise photography at Hemu viewing deck, capturing the golden light over traditional villages. After breakfast, take the scenic shuttle 35km (1 hour) to Kanas Lake Natural Reserve. Spend the day photographing the stunning "Oriental Switzerland" landscapes - crystal-clear waters, dense forests, and majestic mountain backdrops. Transfer to Jiadengyu for overnight stay.
Day 5: Return Journey Through Altay Mountains
Farewell to Northern Xinjiang's Wilderness
Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, embark on a picturesque 3.5-4.5 hour drive through the Altay Mountains to the airport. Fly back to Urumqi for your departure flight, carrying memories and photographs of one of China's most spectacular natural wonders.