The recommended 17-day tourism route in Xinjiang is as follows:**
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, check into your hotel to rest, and in the evening, you can visit the International Bazaar to feel the unique customs of Xinjiang.
Day 2: Depart from Urumqi and head to Tianchi Lake in the Tianshan Mountains to admire the magnificent scenery of the alpine lake.
Day 3: Cross the Gurbantunggut Desert and follow the edge of the Junggar Basin to arrive in Burqin.
Day 4: Depart from Burqin and visit Kanas Lake to admire its magical changes.
Day 5: Head to Hemu Village to experience the primitive life of the Tuwa people.
Day 6: Pass by the Wuhe Devil’s City to feel the mysterious power of nature, and then head to Karamay.
Day 7: Arrive at Sayram Lake and enjoy the beautiful scenery by the lake.
Day 8: Head to Nalati Grassland to feel the vastness and tranquility of the grassland.
Day 9: Visit Bayanbulak Grassland and enjoy the sunset scenery of the Nine-Bend and Eighteen-Turn River.
Day 10: Cross the Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan Mountains and arrive in Kuqa to feel the grandeur of nature.
Day 11: Visit attractions such as Kuqa王府 (王府 can be translated as ‘Prince’s Mansion’) to understand the local history and culture.
Day 12: Arrive in Kashgar and start to feel the rich customs of southern Xinjiang.
For the next few days, you can continue your trip based on the following suggestions:
From Day 13 to Day 14: You can visit attractions around Kashgar, such as the Amanisha Khan Mausoleum in Shache and the Yarkand Palace, or choose a route in the direction of Hotan to experience the fun of picking jade along the Hotan-Kashi River.
From Day 15 to Day 16: You can choose to visit places like Huyang Forest in Luntai, Subashi Ancient City, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, or drive along the southern section of the Duku Highway to visit scenic spots such as the Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan Mountains and Big and Small Dragon Lakes.
Day 17: As the last day of the trip, you can depart from Urumqi and return to your departure point, or choose to have free activities in Urumqi city and buy some specialty products of Xinjiang as souvenirs.
This route covers many famous attractions in Xinjiang, including lakes, grasslands, gorges, deserts, etc., allowing you to fully experience the natural scenery and cultural customs of Xinjiang. Of course, the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and actual conditions.