September weather in Xinjiang is pleasant with an average daily high temperature of 25°C (77°F). Compared to hot August, September temperatures are cooler, particularly in the northern regions, offering Xinjiang's most comfortable weather. Turpan, however, still experiences hot summer temperatures.
September has low rainfall, with less than five rainy days in most cities. The prevailing clear weather opens up many possibilities for your Xinjiang trip.
4 Places to Visit and Things to Do in September
September is one of the best times for hiking and sightseeing. If you are a nature lover, it is recommended to go to Urumqi and Kanas. The southern Xinjiang cities of Kashgar and Hotan would suit culture lovers more.
Urumqi
In September, Urumqi experiences mild daytime temperatures of about 20°C (68°F) and minimal rainfall. The crisp autumn weather makes Urumqi an ideal place for enjoying outdoor activities.
For first-timers, Heavenly Lake is a must-visit place in Urumqi. You could admire the picturesque mountain scenery by hiking, taking a cable car, and enjoying a boat cruise on the lake.
Climbing Red Hill in Urumqi offers a unique way to explore the city. The highlights there are the pagoda and the top of the hill, where you could have a bird's-eye view of Urumqi city. Opt for a sunny afternoon visit to witness a picturesque sunset against the backdrop of the city.
For lovers of Silk Road culture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum is highly recommended. One standout feature is the remarkably preserved 4,000-year-old corpses that were discovered and unearthed along the Silk Road.
Heavenly LakeKanas
September is the most beautiful season in Kanas. The forests paint a vibrant and fairy-tale-like panorama of colors. Kanas Lake, Hemu Village, and Baihaba Village are the top three destinations that perfectly capture the essence of Kanas.
Every autumn, Kanas Lake becomes a paradise for photographers, and the morning fog over Fairy Bay could be the subject of the most amazing photos taken by your camera. Taking a boat trip with your loved one across the crystal-clear lake is a romantic way to feel the beauty of nature. You could go to Guanyu Observation Deck (Guanyutai) for a panoramic view or embark on a hike alongside the lake, especially from Fairy Bay to Moon Bay to Wolong Bay, where you could see the most beautiful scenery.
Hemu VillageHemu Village and Baihaba Village are two good places for cultural experiences in Kanas. Hemu Village is the most popular Tuvan village, while Baihaba Village offers a more tranquil atmosphere. Visit a Tuvan family and chat with them to learn about their daily life. You could stay in a local wooden house and experience the local life.
Kashgar
September weather in Kashgar is pleasant with daily high temperatures of about 26°C (79°) and minimal rainfall. It is comfortable weather for sightseeing and exploring the city.
View exotic Islamic architecture in Kashgar Old City. Visit the biggest mosque in Xinjiang to feel the spirit of the local religion. Enjoy a traditional meal at a Uyghur family's home and learn about their folk cuisine from the hostess. Take a break with locals at a teahouse with over a century's history. Experience the interesting Livestock Market on Sunday.
Kashgar Old CityIn the Great Pamir mountain range, you could unwind with a leisurely stroll along Baisha ('White Sand') Lake or embark on a hike through the rocky valley to discover the elusive Shipton's Arch. Venture into the Taklimakan Desert and partake in exciting activities, such as camel riding, sand dune slides, and riding in an off-road vehicle.
Hotan
Hotan in September experiences warm daily high temperatures of about 27°C (81°F) and minimal rainfall, which offers ideal weather for old town exploration.
Have a relaxing walk along the old streets of Hotan, which are full of a rich Uyghur flavor. Take a happy photo with some lovely Uyghur children in the old streets.
Explore the local Jade Bazaar and find jade stones from the nearby Khotan River. It is interesting to see how people present their jade treasures and how others negotiate to buy the most beautiful stones.
If you are a foodie, Hotan Night Market should not be missed. You could taste traditional snacks there, such as lamb shashlik, roast dumplings, roast eggs, Xinjiang fried rice, and watermelon pigeon soup.
What Should I Wear in September?
You need to prepare summer clothing, such as T-shirts and shorts as well as a warm coat, light sweater, down jacket, etc. During the day, you need lightweight long-sleeved shirts and casual pants in northern Xinjiang, while breathable summer clothing is needed in southern Xinjiang.
Sunglasses and facial coverings are essential accessories to protect against the strong sunshine and sand that blows around in the desert areas.
How Much Should I Spend in September?
Based on 4/5-star hotels, you could expect to spend about US$350–400 daily per person on a private tour. We recommend that you spend at least 1 week in Xinjiang to fully experience it, so trip prices would start at US$2,450–2,800.
To benefit from savings, we recommend that you book in advance for a better price when it comes to transport and accommodation. Contact us for a customized private tour that makes the best of your travel opportunities.