Written by Clementine |
Kanas is located in the middle of the Altai Mountains in XinjiangĀ and is the bright pearl of Xinjiang.Ā You may have read many Kanas travel guides which say that the best time to visit Kanas is from June to October. Now I have to say Kanas is beautiful in summer, but it presents more surprising beauty in winter.
The winter season here lasts for more than half a year. Kanas in winter turns into an amazing world of snow and ice.Ā You can easily find various ways to amuse yourself and have a great time here.Ā Kanas in winterĀ is definitely a fantasticĀ place to visit for a China Silk Road tourĀ and Xinjiang tour. Hope this can provide some clues for your travel in Xinjiang and help you have a different experience in China.
The Weather of Kanas in Winter
Kanas in winterĀ is very cold, with average temperatures around -13ā, and can reach -30āin cold weather. The weather of Kanas in winter is characterized by predominantly sunny days but with occasional snowstorms.Late December, late January and February are the best periods for winter tourism in Kanas.
If you are traveling to Kanas in winter, it is recommended that you wear thick sweaters, down jackets, punching jackets, ski jackets and so on. Bring a scarf, sunglasses, hat, waterproof gloves and warm patches.
What to See in Kanas in Winter
Kanas Lake
Located in Northern Xinjiang, Kanas Lake is an alpine lake nestled in the dense forests of the deep Altai mountains.Ā The color ofĀ Kanas LakeĀ changesĀ in different seasons and weather. In winter, itās like a wonderland covered by snow. The lake and mountain just melt into the sky, making a beautiful picture of a silvery white worldĀ only dotted with some naughty pine trees and lake water poppingĀ their heads to give the world a different touch.
The surface of Kanas Lake in winter is covered with a thin layer of ice, like a huge mirror, reflecting the surrounding birch forests, snow-capped mountains and the blue sky. Birch tree branches around the lake are hung with crystal ice hangings. The sunlight shines between the trees, forming dappled light and shadow.
Kanas Fish Watching Platform
The Fish Watching Platform is one of the iconic attractions of Kanas, located on the northeastern shore of Kanas Lake. In winter, the Fish Viewing Platform is covered with silver and the lake surface is frozen. It is the best place to enjoy the panoramic view of Kanas Lake. Tourists can enjoy the magnificent snow scenery and the lake and mountain colors here.
Three Bays of Kanas
Fairy Bay of Kanas in winterĀ is a unique scenic place. The sun shines down from the mountains to shine on the freezing fog hanging from the trees on both sides of the river. In winter, the river in Moon Bay turns into a silver-white glacier, like a curved moon set between the forests.
Wolong Bay looks like a huge dragon sleeping under the snow and ice. The majestic river is covered with snow and ice, but it has a more tranquil and peaceful atmosphere.
What to Do in Kanas in Winter
Visit the Hemu Village
Hemu VillageĀ is a must-see attraction in Kanas in winter.Ā When it comes to the HemuĀ Village, you must first learn about the Tuwa people. This ancient ethnic minority still retainsĀ itsĀ uniqueĀ customs and language. They live in wooden cabins and mainly eat dairy, beef, mutton and noodles.
You can visit their houses to sip a cup of milk tea or milk wine and listen to them performing KhoomeiĀ (a Mongolian throat-singing technique) and ChoorĀ (a special musical instrument ).Ā Early in the morning, standing on the hillside near the village, you can see the full view of Hemu Village. At sunrise or sunset the sky blossoms into a gorgeous sunset, the tranquility and beauty of which is mesmerizing.
Also experience snow wrestling competitions, archery competitions, and snow horse races, which are local specialties. Adventurous tourists can also try snowmobiling and experience the feeling of traveling through the mountains and forests.
Experience Exciting Skiing
For skiers, you can also experience skiing in Kanas in winter.Ā The Jikepulin International Ski Resort is located 5 kilometers east of HemuĀ Village, next to the Kanas to HemuĀ highway. It is less windy in winter, providing visitors with a comfortable skiing experience.
The ski resort is divided into two areas, east and west, with beginner, intermediate and advanced trails for all levels of skiers.Ā Visitors will be surprised by the top-quality powder snow and the vast trails of the snow resort. The snow park is also well equipped. There are service centers in both the east and west areas, with restaurants, snow gear rentals, and rest areas.
