The winter of Kanas area is like an ink and brush painting. Photo: Cultural-china.com

The Altai mountains in Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of northwest China are renowned for their stunning scenery. But many tourists have been dismayed to find heavy snow blocking the path to the site. Luckily the route has now reopened and is welcoming its first tourists for a long time.

It’s one of those places where even a single glimpse can take your breath away. Kanas sits right next to the Altai mountains, renowned for its beautiful rivers fed by Kanas lake.

There’s nothing quite like a stay in one of these houses amid the heavenly scenery.

Tourist Zhu Lin said, "I’ve come to Kanas many times but it’s my first time coming in winter. The scenery is simply stunning the blue sky, clouds, trees and the blue water, just beautiful!"

Local authorities have to put up quite an effort to ensure safe passage every year. It seems mother nature doesn’t usually make things particularly easy.

Liu Shengang, Dir. of Communication of Kanas Scenic Spot, said, "We want to remind folks to keep an eye on the weather before they plan their trip and to dress appropriately for the temperature. They should visit our website for information and notices."

The site welcomes over 500 people every day in winter. It’s a site the supervisors think everybody should have a chance to see... if only the weather would cooperate.

Winter scenes in Kanas Lake

Villages of Tuwa people, a Mongolian tribe living at Kanas Lake Photo: China Daily

Villages of Tuwa people, a Mongolian tribe living at Kanas Lake Photo: China Daily