Traveling to southern Xinjiang in October is an excellent experience to explore natural beauty and cultural customs. Here are some recommended attractions and activities:
Recommended attractions:
Lop Nur Village: Located in Yuli County, it integrates desert, the Tarim River, Populus euphratica Forest, lakes, entertainment, and folk customs, making it a great place to experience the primitive customs of southern Xinjiang and taste the red willow fish grilled by the Lop people themselves.
Wensu Grand Canyon: Known as the King of Canyons, it’s a paradise for photographers, with every frame resembling a "living museum of geological evolution".
Bachu Red Sea Bay Scenic Area: A golden secret land with over 6,000 Populus euphratica trees, it’s a lesser-known spot with fewer crowds, offering excellent photo opportunities.
White Sand Lake: Half desert, half lake, the blue and white Sand Lake in southern Xinjiang is like a dream, a dazzling pearl on the Pamir Plateau.
Kashgar Old Town: One of the 36 Western Regions, this ancient city with vitality allows you to feel the historical and cultural heritage of southern Xinjiang.
The盘龙 (Dragon) Ancient Road: It stretches out like it’s from the silver screen, possessing a cinematic charm and fascinating allure.
Special activities:
Night market experience in southern Xinjiang: Places like the Khan Bazaar in Kashgar Old Town and the Hetian Old Night Market allow you to taste Xinjiang’s specialty foods and enjoy song and dance performances.
Populus euphratica Forest viewing: October is the most beautiful season for the Populus euphratica Forest in southern Xinjiang, with the leaves turning golden, making it a great opportunity for photos and autumn appreciation.
Fashion tips:
Due to temperatures ranging from 5°C to 14°C in southern Xinjiang in October, it is recommended to wear windbreakers, hoodies, sweaters, waterproof jackets (with fleece lining), down jackets, and other warm clothing.
Modes of transportation:
You can choose to travel to various destinations in southern Xinjiang by train, plane, car, or carpooling/chartered car. Urumqi has direct trains to Hotan, Korla, Kucha, Aksu, Kashgar, and other places, stopping at most popular tourist destinations in southern Xinjiang along the way.
Precautions:
If you plan to visit high-altitude areas such as Tashkurgan, it is recommended to check in advance if you have altitude sickness and prepare corresponding items such as oxygen tanks.
Xinjiang has a dry climate, please remember to drink water and protect yourself from sunburn.
In summary, traveling to southern Xinjiang in October not only allows you to appreciate the captivating natural scenery but also provides an in-depth experience of the cultural customs of southern Xinjiang. Adequate preparation and planning before departure will make your journey smoother and more unforgettable.