How can we just go to Northern Xinjiang!
Although there are many good places in Northern Xinjiang.
Let me tell you a route we used to travel by car in Northern Xinjiang.
Start from Urumqi and go north to Altay, of course there is the Cocotuo Sea you mentioned, and some places are included in it, and then go south from Altay to Karamay, Kanas, then enter Yining City, and then go to Nalati.
Korla to Turpan area and back to Urumqi.
The advantage of this route is that it’s fun!
But it costs a lot of time and money, and the road is more dangerous, especially the Nala-Korla section.
As for where to live, there is nothing to worry about. There are not so many people in Xinjiang scenic spots, and there will be accommodation anywhere. Where to stay in Keketuohai, and Nalati is very expensive, so I don’t recommend staying there.
A little over 2 weeks should be enough, but not very rich.