Hanas National Nature Reserve Travel Guide

Discover the natural and cultural wonders of Hanas National Nature Reserve in Xinjiang, China. From outdoor adventures to local cuisine, plan your trip with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Hanas National Nature Reserve

Hanas National Nature Reserve, located in Dzungarian, Xinjiang, is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in China. This vast protected area consists of 34,262 hectares of lakes, forests, mountains, and grasslands, and is home to an abundance of flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. The reserve is recognized as a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, and is an important site for conservation and scientific research.

Visitors to the reserve can expect to be impressed by the stunning natural scenery and unique cultural heritage of the region. The area is home to several ethnic groups, including Kazakhs and Mongolians, who have been living in harmony with nature for centuries.

List of Places to Visit in Hanas National Nature Reserve

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Hanas Lake: Also known as Black Lake, this is one of the most famous attractions in the reserve. Hanas Lake is a large alpine lake surrounded by forests and mountains, and is the source of the Kanas River. Visitors can take a boat tour around the lake, or hike the surrounding trails for stunning views.

  • Kanas Scenic Reserve: This reserve is located in the northern part of the Hanas region and is home to some of the most spectacular scenery in the area. With its crystal-clear waters, towering peaks, and lush forests, it’s not hard to see why this is a must-visit destination. The reserve is also home to several ethnic minority villages, where visitors can experience local culture and customs.

Natural Attractions of Hanas National Nature Reserve: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Hanas Glacier Forest Park: Here, visitors can witness the awe-inspiring sight of the Hanas Glacier, which is surrounded by a beautiful forest. Take a tour with a local guide or simply hike through the forests and marvel at the natural beauty.

  • Yaze Lake Scenic Area: A beautiful area in the eastern part of the reserve, Yaze Lake is a stunning alpine lake surrounded by mountains and forests. Here, visitors can hike through beautiful trails, or simply relax and enjoy the views.

  • Hiking Trails: For those who love outdoor adventures, Hanas National Nature Reserve has several hiking trails. The most popular trails include the Yekushan Trail, the Haixingshan Trail, and the Yangbairo Trail. All of these trails offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Hanas National Nature Reserve

  • Yekushan Trail: This trail is located in the northeast part of the reserve and is a popular hiking route. The trail follows the path of the Kanas River and leads hikers through beautiful forests and grasslands. The highlight of the trail is the Yekushan Observation Deck, which offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

  • Haixingshan Trail: This trail is located in the southeast part of the reserve and is a popular spot for beginner hikers. The trail leads to the summit of Haixingshan Mountain, where hikers can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

  • Yangbairo Trail: This trail is located in the western part of the reserve and is a popular spot for experienced hikers. The trail leads hikers through a beautiful forest and ends at the top of Yangbairo Mountain, where visitors can enjoy incredible views of the surrounding mountains.

Best Things to Do in Hanas National Nature Reserve: Activities and Tours

  • Horseback Riding: Horseback riding is a popular activity in Hanas National Nature Reserve, and visitors can take a guided tour through the grasslands and forests of the area. Horseback riding tours can be arranged through local tour operators.

  • Boating: Visitors to Hanas Lake can take a boat tour around the lake, which is a great way to see the stunning scenery of the area. The boat tours are available from several vendors at the lake.

  • Local Village Visits: Several ethnic minority villages are located in the reserve, and visitors can take a guided tour to learn about local culture and customs. The most popular villages to visit include Tuwa, Kazakh, and Mongolian villages.

Week-Long Itinerary for Hanas National Nature Reserve

Day Activity
1 Arrival and check-in
2 Hike the Yekushan Trail
3 Visit local ethnic minority villages
4 Boat tour of Hanas Lake
5 Horseback riding in the grasslands
6 Visit Kanas Scenic Reserve
7 Departure

Food and Drink Scene of Hanas National Nature Reserve

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kazakh Milk Tea: This tea is made with black tea, milk, and salt, and is a popular drink in the region.

  • Lamb Kebabs: Kebabs are a popular street food in the area, and lamb kebabs are a must-try dish. The lamb is marinated in a mixture of spices and grilled over an open flame.

Local Beverages

  • Kumis: A traditional Mongolian alcoholic beverage made from fermented mare’s milk.

  • Xinjiang Beer: A locally brewed beer that is popular in the region.

Where to Stay in Hanas National Nature Reserve: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Kanas Lake Hotel: This hotel is located on the shores of Hanas Lake and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. The hotel has a restaurant, bar, and several outdoor activities available for guests.

  • Kanas Youth Hostel: A budget-friendly option for travelers, this hostel is located near Kanas Scenic Reserve and offers dormitory-style accommodations.

  • Kanas Guesthouse: This guesthouse is located near Hanas Lake and offers comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local cuisine.

What to Buy in Hanas National Nature Reserve: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Handmade Crafts: Local artisans create beautiful handmade crafts, including pottery, textiles, and woodcarvings, which make great souvenirs to bring back home.

  • Yaks Wool Products: Yaks are a common sight in the reserve, and their wool is used to create warm and cozy clothing and accessories that make great souvenirs.

Local Culture and Customs of Hanas National Nature Reserve

The area is home to several ethnic minority groups, including Kazakhs and Mongolians, who have their own unique customs, traditions, and festivals. Visitors are encouraged to learn about and respect local culture during their stay.

Best Time to Visit Hanas National Nature Reserve

The best time to visit Hanas National Nature Reserve is during the summer months (June - August), when the weather is warm and stable. However, visitors can enjoy the stunning beauty of the reserve year-round.

Do’s and Don’ts of Hanas National Nature Reserve

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions
  • Pack warm clothing, even in the summer, as the weather can be unpredictable
  • Bring sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Leave no trace - practice responsible tourism

Don’t:

  • Give money to beggars or take photos without asking for permission
  • Harm or feed animals
  • Wear revealing clothing in cultural or religious sites

Safety and Health

Safety in Hanas National Nature Reserve

Hanas National Nature Reserve is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, visitors should take precautions against altitude sickness, particularly when hiking in the mountains.

Health in Hanas National Nature Reserve

Visitors should ensure that they have all necessary vaccinations and take precautions against mosquitoes and other insects. Visitors should also avoid drinking tap water and only consume bottled water.

Getting to Hanas National Nature Reserve: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Hanas National Nature Reserve

The closest airport to Hanas National Nature Reserve is Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, located approximately 800 kilometers away.

Bus Stations Near Hanas National Nature Reserve

Visitors can take buses from Urumqi to Buerjin County, which is the gateway to Hanas National Nature Reserve. Buses also operate between Buerjin County and the reserve.

Other Options

Visitors can also take a private car or hire a driver to transport them to the reserve.

How to Get Around in Hanas National Nature Reserve

The best way to get around Hanas National Nature Reserve is by hiring a local guide or joining a tour group. Visitors can also rent bicycles or take taxis to get around the area.

Where to Go Next from Hanas National Nature Reserve: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Karamay: A city located in northern Xinjiang known for its oil fields and natural landscapes.

  • Sayram Lake: A stunning alpine lake located near the border of China and Kazakhstan.

  • Junggar Basin: A vast basin located in northern Xinjiang known for its unique geological features.

Conclusion

Hanas National Nature Reserve offers visitors the chance to experience the stunning beauty of nature while immersing themselves in the unique cultures of the local ethnic minorities. Whether you’re interested in outdoor activities, cultural tours, or simply relaxing in a beautiful natural environment, Hanas National Nature Reserve has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and discover the beauty of one of China’s most unique destinations.

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