When people think of Xinjiang, their minds often drift to vast deserts and bustling bazaars. But venture north, and you'll discover a very different world — one of alpine forests, glacial rivers, and Kazakh nomadic culture. Welcome to Altay, a region where time slows down and nature speaks louder than words.

A Land Carved by Ice and Sky

Altay (also spelled “Aletai”) lies in the far north of Xinjiang, bordering Kazakhstan, Russia, and Mongolia. Its name comes from the Mongolian word meaning “golden mountains,” and it’s easy to see why.

Here, you’ll find:

• Kanas Lake – A breathtaking turquoise lake surrounded by pine forests and snow-capped peaks. In the early morning, mist floats over the water like something out of a fairy tale.

• Hemu Village – A photogenic wooden village where ethnic Tuva people still live in traditional log homes. It’s like stepping into a painting.

• White Birch Forests – Especially stunning in autumn, when the leaves turn gold and the air smells of pine and earth.

• Altay Mountains – Perfect for trekking, skiing (in winter), and simply breathing in the silence of the wild.

Meet the Nomads of the North

What makes Altay truly special isn't just its scenery — it’s the people. The Kazakh herders of this region still migrate with the seasons, living in yurts and tending to flocks of sheep and horses. Many welcome travelers with warm milk tea, dried fruits, and stories under the stars.

For curious visitors, this is a chance to experience a living nomadic culture — not in a museum, but in the real world.

Tastes of the Wild

After a day of exploring, sit down for a hearty local meal. In Altay, food is simple but deeply satisfying. Try:

• Kazakh-style roast lamb — slow-cooked over an open fire

• Milk tea with butter — rich and savory, perfect for warming up

• Freshly baked naan — soft inside, crispy outside, best with local cheese or yogurt

Everything here is local, organic, and made with centuries of tradition.

Why Choose Altay?

If you’re looking for a destination far from the tourist crowds, Altay is pure, peaceful, and powerful. It’s ideal for:

• Nature lovers

• Photographers

• Culture seekers

• Families and couples looking for meaningful, slow travel

And with private 4x4 tours, local guides, and fully customizable itineraries, Journey West makes it easy to explore Altay at your own pace — whether for 3 days or 10.

A Land of Ancient Footsteps

Altay isn’t just a place of natural beauty — it’s a cradle of human history. Archaeological evidence shows that this region was inhabited as far back as the Paleolithic era. The Altai Mountains are even believed to be one of the original homelands of the Turkic peoples.

Throughout centuries, nomads, traders, and explorers traveled through these valleys, leaving behind petroglyphs, burial mounds, and legends passed down through generations. Some of the most striking ancient rock carvings in Xinjiang can be found here, silently telling stories of hunting scenes, celestial rituals, and tribal life.

Altay has long stood at a cultural crossroads — where East meets West, and where nature and humanity have coexisted for millennia. As you walk its trails, you’re not just following a scenic route — you’re walking through living history.

Your Journey, Your Way

In Altay, you're not just a tourist — you're a guest. A wanderer. A friend. Let the golden mountains welcome you.

Journey West – Travel deeper, not just farther.