If you only have 5 days for a trip to Xinjiang, you can refer to the following itinerary:
I. Classic five-day tour route
Day 1: Urumqi – Sayram Lake – Yining
Depart from Urumqi and head to Sayram Lake to admire the clear lake water and magnificent scenery.
Then head to Yining and rest there at night.
Day 2: Yining – Qiaxi Grassland – Xinyuan County
Visit Qiaxi Grassland and feel its vastness and beauty.
Head to Xinyuan County to experience the local folk customs.
Day 3: Xinyuan County – Nalati Aerial Grassland – Nalati
Visit Nalati Aerial Grassland and admire the perfect combination of grassland and snow-capped mountains.
Rest in Nalati Town and taste local cuisine.
Day 4: Nalati – Bayinbuluke Grassland – Bayinbuluke/Hejing County
Head to Bayinbuluke Grassland to enjoy the sunset scenery of the nine-bend and eighteen-turn river.
Rest in Bayinbuluke or Hejing County at night.
Day 5: Bayinbuluke/Hejing County – Urumqi
Return to Urumqi to end your pleasant journey.
II. Five-day tour route in southern Xinjiang
Day 1: Explore Kashgar Old Town
Upon arrival in Kashgar, visit the historic Kashgar Old Town and experience the rich Uyghur cultural atmosphere.
Day 2:Fantastic Journey at Baishahu Lake
Head to Baishahu Lake to admire the azure lake water and pure white sand beach.
Day 3: Magnificent Panlong Ancient Road
Visit the盘龙古道 (Panlong Ancient Road) and enjoy the magnificent scenery of the desert, mountains, and canyons along the way.
Day 4: Delve into Muztag Ata Glacier
Head to Karakul Lake and Muztag Ata Glacier Park to experience the tranquility and purity of the plateau.
Day 5: Return to Kashgar or travel to other destinations
Based on your personal itinerary, you can choose to return to Kashgar or continue your trip to other southern Xinjiang destinations.
III. Precautions
Itinerary planning: The distances between attractions in Xinjiang are relatively far. It is recommended to plan the itinerary in advance and set aside enough time.
Climate and clothing: Xinjiang has a large temperature difference between morning and evening, and strong ultraviolet rays. It is recommended to bring thick coats, sunscreen, sun hats, and other items.
Transportation and accommodation: Choose suitable transportation options (such as car rental, chartered bus, public transportation, etc.) according to the itinerary and book accommodation in advance.
Respect local customs: Xinjiang is a region inhabited by multiple ethnic groups. Please respect the local culture and customs.
The above routes are for reference only, and the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and time. During the trip, please pay attention to safety and enjoy the beautiful scenery and cuisine of Xinjiang.