Xinjiang's vastness means its best season depends on where you're going — the grasslands of the north, the oases of the south, and the deserts each have their own ideal time. Here's your guide.
The grasslands of northern Xinjiang — the Ili valley, Sayram Lake, and the Kazakh prairies — are at their best in summer, when they're green and in flower.
The southern oases — Turpan, Kashgar, and the towns of the Taklamakan edge — are most comfortable in spring and autumn, when the desert heat and winter cold are avoided.
The Taklamakan and Gobi deserts are best in spring and autumn — warm days, cool nights, and clear skies. Summer heat is extreme and winter nights bitter.
Xinjiang is famous for its fruit — the grapes of Turpan (August-September), the pears of Korla (autumn), and the melons of the region. Fruit lovers should time their visit to the harvests.
Spring brings the Navruz celebrations, summer the Naadam and harvest festivals. These cultural moments add richness to any season.
For a broad itinerary covering both north and south, May-June and September-October offer the best all-round conditions. Pack for the region's extremes whatever the season.