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7-Day Travel Guide to Sayram Lake: A Perfect Summer Getaway Without Getting Lost

Pre-Trip Preparation Book round-trip flights or train tickets in advance, and reserve accommodations near Sayram Lake and other destinations along the itinerary. Staying near the East Gate of Sayram Lake is recommended for convenient transportation. Pack sun-protective clothing, hats, sunglasses, sunscreen, warm layers (due to significant day-night temperature differences), comfortable sports shoes, rain gear, and don't forget your ID, some cash, and other important documents. Itinerary - Day 1: Departure - Ürümqi - Morning: Arrive at Ürümqi Diwopu International Airport, take Metro Line 1 to your downtown hotel for check-in and rest. If time permits, visit the Xinjiang Museum (free admission) to get a glimpse of the region's rich history and culture through its extensive collections. - Noon: Head to Lingguan Alley to savor authentic Xinjiang cuisine. Try the crispy and juicy meat-filled naan or the spicy and flavorful laghman noodles with chili peppers. - Afternoon: Drive from Ürümqi to Sayram Lake (approx. 4.5 hours). Known as "the last tear of the Atlantic," Sayram Lake is Xinjiang's largest alpine gem. In June, wildflowers bloom along its shores, and the lake shimmers like a sapphire. Upon arrival, take a lakeside stroll to admire the scenery and spot graceful swans gliding on the water. - Evening: Stay at a nearby guesthouse or hotel, and enjoy the starry night sky, immersing yourself in nature's tranquility and mystery. - Day 2: Sayram Lake - Guozigou Bridge - Huocheng Lavender Farm - Yining - Morning: Wake up early for a breathtaking sunrise over Sayram Lake, with golden rays dancing on the water. Continue exploring the lake by bike for an up-close experience. - Noon: Dine at a local restaurant and try the region's specialty cold-water fish, known for its tender and nutritious meat. - Afternoon: Visit the Guozigou Bridge, a dragon-like structure winding through mountains, offering stunning views of snow-capped peaks and forests—a paradise for photographers. Then head to Huocheng Lavender Farm, where vast lavender fields in June create a romantic Provence-like atmosphere. - Evening: Arrive in Yining and explore the Hanren Street Night Market for local snacks like mianfeizi, michangzi, and handmade ice cream, experiencing the city's vibrant nightlife. - Day 3: Yining - Kazanqi Folk Street - Tekes Bagua City - Morning: Explore Kazanqi Folk Street by traditional blue horse-drawn carriage, winding through ancient alleys adorned with Uyghur-style architecture. Visit local homes to sample homemade delicacies and immerse yourself in the culture. - Noon: Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant, trying polo (pilaf)—fragrant rice with tender lamb, sweet carrots, and raisins. - Afternoon: Travel to Tekes Bagua City, visiting its museum to learn about its unique layout and history. Climb the observation deck for a panoramic view of this ingeniously designed town. - Evening: Savor local dishes like dapanji (big plate chicken) or jiaomaji (spicy chicken), then browse the night market for souvenirs. - Day 4: Tekes - Kalajun Grassland - Morning: Enter Kalajun Grassland by shuttle bus, then hike through wildflower-covered trails, capturing postcard-perfect views. - Noon: Feast on grilled lamb skewers and samsa at a grassland restaurant, or picnic amidst nature. - Afternoon: Visit Kuokesu Grand Canyon by boat, marveling at its rugged beauty, then admire the dramatic cliffs of Crocodile Bay. - Evening: Stay in a Kazakh yurt, join a bonfire party with local herders, and enjoy traditional singing and dancing. - Day 5: Kalajun Grassland - Qiongkushitai - Morning: Watch the sunrise over the misty grassland before departing for Qiongkushitai, a secluded village with century-old wooden houses and babbling streams. - Noon: Enjoy a rustic meal at a local home, such as lamb stew or wild herb salads. - Afternoon: Hike along pastoral trails, encounter herders with their horses, picnic by birch forests, or visit villagers for fresh dairy products and stories of the grassland. - Evening: Sleep in a wooden cabin, lulled by crickets and flowing streams. - Day 6: Qiongkushitai - Sayram Lake - Morning: Return to Sayram Lake, enjoying scenic views en route. - Noon: Relish local specialties like high-altitude whitefish by the lake. - Afternoon: Unwind lakeside—stargaze, take photos, or try boating. - Evening: Bid farewell to the trip under a starry sky. - Day 7: Sayram Lake - Ürümqi - Return - Morning: Drive back to Ürümqi based on your flight/train schedule, stopping for souvenirs. - Noon: Have a final meal in the city before heading to the airport or station. Important Notes 1. Sayram Lake is at high altitude—prioritize sun protection, warmth, and avoid strenuous activity to prevent altitude sickness. 2. Respect local customs, especially in ethnic minority areas. 3. Drive cautiously; some roads are challenging. The lake loop has a 60km/h speed limit, and the south gate to Guozigou section has sharp curves. Vehicles are prohibited after 19:00. 4. Check weather forecasts and pack accordingly—summer nights can be chilly. 5. Some areas have poor signal; download offline maps and carry cash.
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Posted: Jul 14, 2025
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