Aleitai

Early November marks the transition from autumn to winter, with cold mornings and evenings; some areas may already have snowfall.

Altay has distinctive scenery throughout the year, and different seasons are suited to different activities. At this time, it is best to focus on viewing snowy landscapes and enjoying skiing.

• Kanas Scenic Area: A representative destination in northern Xinjiang, with highlights including the morning mist at Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay and the Fish Viewing Pavilion. In autumn, you can admire colorful forests reflected on the lake; in winter, the frozen lake and deep-blue snow-covered mountains create a different kind of scenery.

• Hemu Village: A traditional village of the Tuvan people, with wooden houses spread along the valley. In the early morning, you can watch mist over the river valley; before sunset, head to Haden Platform for the views. In winter, snow-covered rooftops give the village a distinctive appearance.

• Baihaba: Located on the China–Kazakhstan border, Baihaba is known as the “First Village in Northwest China.” It is quieter and more rustic than Hemu. A border pass is required to visit, making it suitable for travelers who prefer snowy scenery and border landscapes.
• General Mountain Ski Resort: Located near downtown Altay, this resort offers views over the city and sunset. It is one of the few high-mountain ski resorts close to a city, and its snow conditions are suitable for skiing.

• Colorful Beach: Yadan landforms stretch along the Irtysh River, with richly changing light at sunset in autumn. It can be visited on the way from Burqin to Kanas.

Best Time to Visit

• Summer (June–August): The grasslands are lush and the days are long, making this a good time for escaping the heat, hiking and camping.
• Autumn (mid-September to early October): Birch forests and other trees gradually turn golden, making this an ideal period for enjoying autumn colors and photography.
• Winter (November–March of the following year): The snow season is long, making it suitable for skiing, viewing snow mushrooms, trying the water-freezing trick and hiking in the snow.

Recommended Classic 5-Day, 4-Night Itinerary

• Day 1: After arriving in downtown Altay, check in to your hotel and rest. In the afternoon, take a walk in Birch Forest Park or drive to Camel Mountain to watch the sunset. Have dinner on Wubaili Style Street.

• Day 2: Depart from Altay and follow the Ahe Highway to Hemu Village. The journey is about 220 km and it is recommended to allow 5 hours. Along the way, you will pass grasslands, canyons and forests. In the evening, climb to Haden Platform to watch the sunset over Hemu.

• Day 3: Watch the morning mist over the river valley in Hemu, then spend the day visiting Hemu Bridge and the birch forests. At noon, take the shuttle bus to Kanas. In the afternoon, hike along the shore of Kanas Lake and enjoy the scenery of snow-capped mountains reflected against the lake.

• Day 4: Head to Fairy Bay early in the morning to watch the mist, then walk to Moon Bay and Wolong Bay. In the afternoon, climb to the Fish Viewing Pavilion for a bird’s-eye view of Kanas Lake. In the evening, return to Burqin County and try cold-water fish at the night market.

• Day 5: Return from Burqin to downtown Altay, a drive of about 1.5 hours. On the way, shop for souvenirs at Jinshan Market, then visit the Altay Museum to learn about nomadic culture. Finally, depart according to your flight schedule.

Transportation Guide

• Getting There: You can fly to Altay Snow City Airport. If there are no direct flights, transfer in Urumqi. You can also take a train or tourist train to Altay Station.
• Getting Around Locally:
  • Self-driving: An SUV with four-wheel drive is recommended, and winter tires are essential in winter. There are relatively few gas stations in the mountains, so refuel whenever you see one. You can fill up when the tank is half empty.
  • Private car or shared rides: Suitable for travelers unfamiliar with local roads. Local drivers are generally more familiar with mountain roads and weather conditions, and it is also easier to stop along the way when needed.
  • Scenic-area transportation: Private cars cannot enter the villages of Kanas or Hemu. After entering the scenic areas, you need to purchase shuttle-bus tickets.

Accommodation Suggestions

• Hemu Village/Kanas Old Village: If you plan to see the morning mist or snowy nighttime scenery, staying inside the scenic area is recommended. Tuvan wooden cabins are a common choice, but prices are higher during peak periods and advance booking is necessary. Log homestays may have limited soundproofing.

• Burqin County/Downtown Altay: There are more dining options, and accommodation and meals are generally moderately priced. These areas are suitable for overnight stops between destinations and are convenient for resting before your return journey.

Recommended Foods

• Irtysh River Cold-Water Fish: A local specialty of Burqin. The fish is tender and worth trying when dining locally.

• Hand-Pulled Lamb/Roasted Buns: The lamb has a rich flavor and can be dipped in salt and pepper. It can also be served with onions to cut through the richness.

• Xinjiang Milk Tea: Savory and fragrant, it is commonly served with baursak or naan and is a typical local breakfast combination.

• Horse Sausage: A traditional Kazakh food with a distinctive smoked flavor. If you are trying it for the first time, consider ordering a small portion.

Travel Tips

• Staying Warm and Dressing: Temperatures can vary considerably over the course of a day. Dressing in layers is recommended; bring a quick-drying base layer, a sweater and a thick windproof down jacket. In winter, also bring waterproof snow boots, an ear-flap hat and gloves.
• Preventing Your Phone from Freezing: In low outdoor temperatures, phones can lose power quickly. Bring a high-capacity power bank, and you can place a disposable heat pack on the back of your phone to help keep it warm.
• Border Pass: A border pass is required to visit Baihaba. It can be obtained free of charge in advance at your household-registration location or a local government service center. Do not wait until you arrive at the scenic area.
• Sun Protection and Hydration: Ultraviolet radiation is strong on snowy ground, and the local climate is dry. Bring SPF 50+ sunscreen and sunglasses, and remember to stay hydrated.
• Respect Local Customs: When entering Tuvan villages or pastoral areas, respect local ways of life. Ask for permission before photographing people or homes.
• Road Conditions: Mountain roads may be icy or temporarily restricted in winter. Before driving, confirm that the vehicle is properly equipped and that the driver has sufficient experience. Avoid traveling in severe road conditions.

Estimated Costs (Adults, Peak Season)

• Admission: Hemu admission plus shuttle bus costs about 102 yuan; a one-time-entry ticket to Kanas plus shuttle bus costs about 230 yuan; Baihaba requires a border pass, and admission plus shuttle bus costs about 75 yuan.
• Accommodation: Hemu wooden cabins cost about 400–800 yuan per night during peak season; downtown hotels cost about 200–400 yuan per night.
• Total Budget per Person: About 4,500–6,000 yuan for a budget 5-day shared-car trip; about 7,000–10,000 yuan for a comfortable private-car trip.