The Grand Loop Route of Northern and Southern Xinjiang is an in-depth tour route covering rich natural landscapes and unique ethnic cultures, spanning approximately 4,800 kilometers and requiring at least half a month to complete. This route not only allows you to enjoy the autumn scenery of Kanas in northern Xinjiang but also experience the charm of the Taklamakan Desert in southern Xinjiang, making it the pinnacle of self-driving tours in Xinjiang.
Northern Xinjiang section
The northern Xinjiang loop route departs from Urumqi, with main attractions including:
Qinggeda Lake: Breathtaking lake and mountain scenery.
Koktokay: Unique natural landscapes and rich mineral resources.
Colorful Beach: Colorful Danxia landforms.
Kanas: With clear lakes and charming scenery, it is one of the iconic attractions in Xinjiang.
Hemu Village: An original Tuwa village full of ethnic charm
In addition, there are Nalati Grassland and Tangbula Grassland along the northern section of the Duku Highway. In autumn, the birch forests covering the mountains turn golden, combined with misty lakes in the morning, making it ideal for photography.
Southern Xinjiang section
The southern Xinjiang loop route showcases another kind of charm, with main attractions including:
Taklamakan Desert: China’s largest desert, with a desert highway crossing it, flanked by endless dunes.
Ancient cities and Thousand Buddha Grottoes: Historical relics that tell the stories of the Silk Road.
Populus euphratica forest: In autumn, it turns golden, making it a paradise for photographers.
Kashgar Old Town: With a rich Uyghur flavor, it is an excellent destination to understand southern Xinjiang culture.
Itinerary suggestions
Time arrangement: Due to the numerous attractions on the Grand Loop Route of Northern and Southern Xinjiang, it is recommended to allocate at least half a month for the tour.
Mode of transportation: Self-driving is the best choice, allowing for flexible itinerary arrangements and an in-depth experience of Xinjiang’s beauty and culture. However, note that mountain roads such as the Duku Highway are complex, and caution is required when driving.
Best season: June to September is the best season to visit Xinjiang, with pleasant weather, good road conditions, and grasslands and forests in their most beautiful state.
Specific itinerary reference
A typical Grand Loop Route itinerary of Northern and Southern Xinjiang may include:
Assemble in Urumqi for free activities.
Head towards Dushanzi Grand Canyon and proceed to Kuitun after the visit.
Visit Nalati Grassland and Tangbula Grassland.
Head towards Bayinbuluke Grassland to watch the sunset.
Follow the southern section of the Duku Highway to Kuqa and visit the Daxiaolongchi and Xiaoxiaolongchi Lakes.
Head towards the Wensu Grand Canyon, and then proceed to Aksu City.
Visit Kashgar Old Town to experience southern Xinjiang culture.
Head towards Mount Muztagh Ata and Taxkorgan County to admire the plateau scenery.
Head towards the盘龙 Gu Dao (Winding Dragon Road) along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway and experience the joy of driving on mountain roads.
Disband in Kashgar, ending a pleasant journey
Of course, the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and time. The Grand Loop Route of Northern and Southern Xinjiang is an unforgettable travel experience, whether it’s natural scenery or cultural landscapes, they are all worth exploring and discovering.