As part of our Silk Road tour, we have travelled by buses and highspeed trains over desert and mountains to reach Urumqi, capital of Xinjiang Autonomous Region. I felt a mixture of excitement and curiosity. It was our first visit to this remote and mystical part of China, a place Rosa and I had longed to explore. We were among 28 tourists from the U.S., embarking on an adventure led by Signet Tours. The journey promised to be unforgettable, filled with breathtaking scenery and rich cultural experiences.
Our first stop was Hemu Village, often hailed as the most beautiful village in China. Nestled in the Altai Mountains, the village is home to the Tuva people, a Turkic ethnic group. The sight of the quaint wooden houses against the backdrop of lush green meadows and towering peaks was nothing short of a fairy tale. We were warmly invited into the home of a Tuva family, where we enjoyed a mesmerizing performance of traditional music and dance. The melodic tunes played on ancient instruments resonated with the history and soul of the land, leaving us in awe.
Next, we made our way to Kanas Lake, known as the deepest freshwater lake in China, with its depths reaching 188.5 meters. The lake’s crystal-clear waters reflected the surrounding snow-capped mountains, creating a picture-perfect panorama. Kanas Lake is shrouded in mystery, with legends of the Redfish—a mythical creature said to dwell in its depths. According to local folklore, the Redfish, resembling a giant sturgeon, has been spotted by locals and tourists alike. Some say it brings good luck, while others believe it guards a hidden treasure. As we gazed at the tranquil waters, it was easy to get lost in the stories and imagine the secrets the lake might hold.
During our visit, we couldn’t escape the buzz surrounding the popular TV series “My Altai,” also known as “My Aletai” or “To the Wonder.” The show had captivated audiences, sparking a surge in visitors eager to see the stunning landscapes featured on screen. We felt lucky to experience these beautiful places firsthand, far from the crowds that had begun to flock to the region.
Our journey continued to the Heavenly Lake in Urumqi, a serene and picturesque alpine lake set against the backdrop of the Bogda Mountain. The emerald-green waters and pristine surroundings made it a perfect place for reflection and relaxation. As we strolled along the lake’s edge, we couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer beauty of Xinjiang. From the lush valleys of Hemu Village to the mystical waters of Kanas Lake and the tranquil Heavenly Lake, each place had left an indelible mark on our hearts.
As our trip came to an end, Rosa and I felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity to visit such enchanting and diverse landscapes. Xinjiang had exceeded our expectations in every way, offering us a glimpse into its rich cultural tapestry and breathtaking natural beauty. It was a journey we would cherish forever, filled with memories of the most beautiful places in this remarkable region.
