Altay（阿勒泰）: A Fairytale World in Northwestern China

Nestled in northern Xinjiang, Altay is a hidden gem where nature’s artistry shines. In autumn, golden birch forests and turquoise lakes like Kanas create a painter’s dream. In winter, it transforms into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing. Explore Hemu Village, a fairytale log-cabin town, or hike through Koktokay Geopark’s dramatic canyons. With Tuvan and Kazakh cultures, starry nights, and untouched landscapes, Altay is a paradise for adventurers and dreamers alike. 

Best Time to Visit: September–October (autumn colors) or June–August (summer escapes).
Visa Tip: Ensure your Chinese visa is valid for Xinjiang entry. Carry your passport at all times.

Day 1: Kanas Lake（喀纳斯） & Tuvan Culture

Highlights:

  • Kanas Lake:

    • Take a boat ride to explore the “Lake Monster” legend.

    • Hike to Fish Watching Pavilion for panoramic views.

  • Three Bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay): Walk along wooden trails for misty morning photography.

  • Tuvan Village: Visit traditional wooden houses, enjoy throat-singing performances, and try homemade milk tea and boursak (fried dough).

Lunch: Local Kazakh dishes like beshbarmak (hand-ripped noodles with lamb) at a village eatery.
Dinner: Tuvan-style roasted fish by Kanas Lake.

Stay:

  • Kanas Old Village Homestay (rustic charm, book via Trip.com).

  • Jiadengyu Hotel (modern comfort near the park entrance).

Transport:

  • Fly to Kanas Airport (direct flights from Urumqi) or hire a private driver from Altay city (4hr drive, ~¥1000/day).

Must-Try Foods in Kanas

  1. Tuvan Milk Tea with Boursak

    • What: Salty milk tea paired with fried dough bites. Perfect for chilly mornings.

    • Where: Tuvan family homestays in Kanas Village.

    • Price: ¥15–20/set.

  2. Kanas Roasted Fish

    • What: Fresh cold-water fish (like Arctic char) grilled over pine wood.

    • Where: Lakeside BBQ stalls near Kanas Lake pier.

    • Tip: Best enjoyed at sunset!

Day 2: Hemu Village （禾木）– A Fairytale Escape

Highlights:

  • Sunrise at Hemu: Hike to Haden Platform for mist-covered log cabins and golden birch forests.

  • Horseback Riding: Explore the valley with local guides (¥200–300/hour).

  • Starry Night: Photograph the Milky Way from your cabin porch.

Lunch: Kazakh polo (rice pilaf with carrots and lamb) at a village cafe.
Dinner: Hotpot with wild mushrooms at a cozy Hemu restaurant.

Stay:

  • Hemu Log Cabin (book early on Airbnb; no luxury but authentic).

Transport:

  • Kanas to Hemu: 2hr by scenic shuttle bus (¥60) or private car.

Must-Try Foods in Hemu Village

  1. Hemu Braised Chicken Feet (二孃鸡爪爪)

    • What: Spicy, tender chicken feet slow-cooked with Sichuan peppercorns.

    • Where: Erniang Chicken Claws shack in Hemu Old Town.

    • Price: ¥30–50/serving.

  2. Kazakh Beshbarmak

    • What: Hand-ripped noodles with boiled lamb, onions, and broth.

    • Where: Kazakh yurts near Hemu Pasture.

    • Fun Fact: Eaten with hands – “Beshbarmak” means “five fingers” in Kazakh.

Autumn Adventures (Sept–Oct)

  1. Golden Birch Forest Hiking 🌲

    • Where: Hemu Village, Kanas Lake trails.

    • Why: Witness fiery foliage, misty valleys, and nomadic herding scenes.

  2. Horseback Riding 🐎

    • Tip: Ride through Tuvan villages for cultural immersion.

Winter Wonders (Dec–Feb)

  1. Dog Sledding & Reindeer Sleigh Rides 🛷🦌

    • Where: Kanas Scenic Area, Hemu Village.

    • Cost: ~¥200–400/person.

    • Tip: Bundle up! Temperatures drop to -20°C.

  2. Skiing & Snowboarding ⛷️

    • Spot: Altay Jiangjunshan Ski Resort (powdery slopes for all levels).

  3. Ice Fishing & Frozen Lake Walks 🎣❄️

    • Experience: Drill holes in Kanas Lake’s ice and try local fishing techniques.

  4. Winter Festivals 🎪

    • Events: Ice lantern displays, Kazakh eagle hunting shows.

Day 3: Koktokay Geopark（可可托海地质公园） & Irtysh River

Highlights:

  • Koktokay National Geopark: Hike through Irtysh Grand Canyon; see Shenzhong Mountain and Couple Tree.

  • No.3 Mine: Discover Cold War-era rare metal mining history.

  • Irtysh River: Collect unique stones along China’s only river flowing into the Arctic Ocean.

Optional Add-On: Colorful Beach (Wu Cai Tan) – Striking red cliffs against green riverside (1hr drive from Altay).

Lunch: Uyghur laghman (hand-pulled noodles) near the geopark.
Dinner: Return to Altay city for Xinjiang-style lamb skewers and nang (flatbread).

Stay:

  • Altay Jinjiang Hotel (4-star, central location).

Transport:

  • Hemu to Koktokay: 3hr drive via private car (¥800–1000).

  • Return to Altay Airport (1hr drive) for evening flights.

Must-Try Foods in Koktokay Geopark

  1. Uyghur Laghman (拉条子)

    • What: Chewy hand-pulled noodles with stir-fried veggies and mutton.

    • Where: Small eateries near Koktokay entrance (look for “拉面” signs).

    • Price: ¥20–35/bowl.

  2. Wild Berry Jam & Naan

    • What: Local seabuckthorn or cranberry jam spread on Uyghur flatbread.

    • Where: Vendors along Irtysh River trails.

    • Souvenir Tip: Buy jars of jam (¥30–50) to take home!