March Southern Xinjiang Travel Guide: Admire Flowers, Explore Secrets, Experience Ethnic Customs
In March, when the northern regions are still immersed in the lingering cold of winter, southern Xinjiang has already ushered in the footsteps of spring. At this time, the apricot blossoms in southern Xinjiang are in full bloom, like a pink wave sweeping through the valleys, bringing a visual feast to tourists. Here is a detailed March travel guide for southern Xinjiang, helping you admire flowers, explore secrets, and experience ethnic customs.
1. Best Places to Admire Flowers
Pamir Plateau: The most famous place to admire apricot blossoms in southern Xinjiang, with a blooming period generally from mid-to-late March to mid-April. The apricot blossoms here are intertwined with snow-capped mountains, lakes, and canyons, creating a picturesque scene. The recommended route includes Kashgar → China-Pakistan Friendship Highway → Taxkorgan County → Tasha Ancient Road, along which you can enjoy the stunning scenery of snow-capped mountains, blue lakes, and apricot blossom canyons.
Tulgen Apricot Blossom Valley: Located in Yili, the Tulgen Apricot Blossom Valley in March is a sign of the earth awakening. Wild apricot blossoms cover the mountains like pink clouds drifting in the valleys. Every picture taken here is fairyland-like. It is recommended to drive there yourself and quietly enjoy this spring feast.
2. Must-visit Attractions
Kashgar Old City: Stroll through the alleys, taste local snacks, and feel the strong historical atmosphere in the old city. Remember to leave early to avoid the peak crowds.
Aytigar Mosque: Stepping into this ancient mosque is like traveling back to the Silk Road era, full of cultural atmosphere.
Baisha Lake: A plateau lake located in Aktau County, with white sand beaches and azure lake water reflecting each other. Beautiful snow-capped mountains can also be seen in the distance. It is a great place for taking photos and relaxing.
3. Dressing and Sunscreen Suggestions
In spring, there is a large temperature difference between day and night in southern Xinjiang. It is recommended to dress in layers and prepare a thin jacket or fleece for the morning and evening. At the same time, the sunshine in southern Xinjiang is very intense. Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and other sunscreen items. For better photos, you can choose colorful scarves, hats, and other accessories to add a touch of color.
4. Food and Shopping
Southern Xinjiang offers a rich variety of delicious food, such as grilled mutton skewers, big plate chicken, freshly baked naan, etc., all of which are authentic Xinjiang flavors that cannot be missed. In addition, the handicrafts in southern Xinjiang are also quite distinctive, such as carpets, embroidery, silver jewelry, etc. Be sure to bargain when selecting.
5. Practical Suggestions and Pitfalls to Avoid
Check the Weather in Advance: There is a large temperature difference in southern Xinjiang. Be sure to pay attention to the local weather forecast before departure and add or remove clothing in a timely manner.
Transportation Arrangements: Southern Xinjiang is relatively far away, so it is recommended to rent a car in advance or join a local one-day tour group for safety and convenience.
Cultural Respect: Remember to dress appropriately and keep quiet in religious places such as mosques, and respect local customs and habits.
In southern Xinjiang in March, spring is in full bloom with the fragrance of apricot blossoms. Whether you come to admire flowers, explore secrets, or experience ethnic customs, you will definitely gain wonderful memories. I hope this guide can provide useful reference for your trip to southern Xinjiang.