Xinjiang Uygur Zizhiqu Hotels China

Xinjiang is the largest administrative division in China, covering over 1. 6 square kilometres. It is an autonomous region and has borders with Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, India, Mongolia and Afghanistan. The Xinjiang area is a large producer of the oil and natural gas which are crucial for China’s population and industry. The Xinjiang region has along and well documented history having been controlled by a succession of different peoples over at least the last three millennia, including the Han and the Mongols.

This has led to significant ethnic diversity in the present day population. Despite its size, much of Xinjiang is uninhabitable with its desert steppe and mountainous areas yet manages to sustain a large population and thriving cities, including its capital, Urumqi. With cold winters and very hot summers, autumn is one of the best times of year to visit.

Urumqi is situated at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains and sustains a population of around two million. This city was once an important stop along the ancient Silk Road. Urumqi is home to the Xinjiang Regional Museum.

This large museum houses regional artefacts dating back into prehistory and also contains the famous Xinjiang mummies. The geography and geology of the Xinjiang region has led to the creation of some areas of outstanding natural beauty. The Heavenly Lake, about 110km east of Urumqi has crystal clear water and views of the snow capped mountains which surround it.

Relaxing boat trips and fishing trips can be enjoyed here throughout the summer months. Visitors to the Xinjiang region will find a good variety of accommodation available in the various cities with hotels to suit all budgets. In Urumqi, the higher end includes the Sheraton Urumqi with its gym and restaurant.

The hotel is close to a variety of other eateries including some western ones and is only around 30 minutes from the airport. Alternatively the Super 8 on Gongyuan North Street is a well reviewed budget option. In the city of Korla, The Garden Hotel on Binhe Road is a well recommended luxury option, whilst in Turpan, the Jiaotong Hotel is a popular choice.