Discover Altay Prefecture

Altay Prefecture offers one of China’s most scenic northern frontier travel experiences, combining snow mountains, forests, grasslands, rivers, lakes, nomadic culture, winter sports, and some of Xinjiang’s most cinematic natural landscapes. Located in northern Xinjiang near the borders with Mongolia, Russia, and Kazakhstan, Altay is especially known for Kanas, Hemu, winter snow scenery, golden autumn forests, and outdoor routes that feel remote and wide open.

A visit can include exploring Kanas Lake, staying in Hemu Village, seeing autumn birch forests, skiing in winter, visiting grasslands and river valleys, experiencing Kazakh and Tuva cultural elements, and enjoying long scenic drives through mountains and forests. The best time to visit is September to October for autumn colors, or December to February for snow, skiing, and winter scenery. Altay also works well as part of a northern Xinjiang route with Kanas Lake, Hemu, Burqin, Karamay, Ili, and Ürümqi.