Carpooling for travel in Kashgar, Xinjiang; Kashgar carpooling routes
Kashgar Carpooling Reservation Phone: (Same) 0991-8585456
Eight-Day Southern Xinjiang Carpooling Tour
— Lop Nor Village, Tarim Populus Euphratica, Tianshan Grand Canyon, Thousand Buddha Caves, Pamir Plateau, Wacha County Internet Celebrity Highway, Kashgar Old Town
Zebra Commune, Karakul Lake
Product Features:
[Carpooling Age Group]: The most understanding carpooling tour, with an age difference of no more than 10 years in each group, making it easier to chat and enjoy the trip together.
[Guaranteed Room Sharing]: We guarantee successful room sharing for you. If not successful, the single room supplement will be borne by the company, sparing you additional burdens.
[Exclusive Itinerary]: Countless site visits and verifications have led to our exclusive itinerary, making your trip unique in dining, entertainment, and sightseeing.
[Attractions Covered]: Southern Xinjiang Semi-Loop Route, the most classic southern Xinjiang itinerary, covering both cultural and natural landscapes.
[Interactive Experience]: Local experienced drivers will take you to taste the most authentic Uyghur cuisine and interact deeply with the Tajik people, the only white Europoid ethnic group in China.
[Internet Celebrity Spots]: The latest internet-famous Dragon Coil Highway, trendy Zebra Commune, Hat Bazaar, Kashgar Old Night Market, share and impress your friends circle.
[In-depth Interaction]: Stroll through Kashgar Old Town, visit the century-old tea house, and experience local life.
[Natural Scenery]: Populus Euphratica, Desert, Canyon, China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, Mount Muztagh Ata, White Sand Lake, experiencing the magical beauty of nature.
[Service Creation]: Rigorous process and standardized service criteria; over 20 service norms that drivers must abide by!
Package prices are divided into two based on the departure date
Monday, Thursday, Friday, and Sunday prices
————————————-Simplified Itinerary——————————————
Day 1: Departure — Urumqi Accommodation: Urumqi
Day 2: Urumqi — Lop Nor Village — Korla Accommodation: Korla City
Day 3: Korla — Populus Euphratica Forest Park — Kuqa Accommodation: Kuqa
Day 4: Kuqa — Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon — Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves — Aksu Accommodation: Aksu
Day 5: Aksu — Zebra Commune — Kashgar Old Town, Century-old Tea House — Kashgar Accommodation: Kashgar City
Day 6: Kashgar — White Sand Lake — Stone City with Golden Grass Beach — Taxkorgan County Accommodation: Taxkorgan County
Day 7: Taxkorgan County – Wacha Highway – Karakul Lake – Kashgar Accommodation: Kashgar
Day 8: Kashgar – Warm Home
Day 1: Departure – Urumqi (airport pick-up)
Reference hotels in Urumqi: Kongque Ducheng Grand Hotel, Shihezi Building, Ibis, Ruyi Hotel, Yema International Hotel
Welcome to the beautiful Xinjiang! After picking you up from the airport, we will drop you off at the hotel for rest, and then you are free to explore. If time permits, you can visit the recommended attractions by yourself (separate vehicle not included).
Recommendation 1 [Urumqi International Bazaar Night Market] (Free): Taste the special delicacies of Xinjiang. This is also where enthusiastic "Guli" (young women) and hospitable "Balang" (young men) of Xinjiang hang out, allowing you to deeply experience the rich ethnic characteristics of Xinjiang.
Recommendation 2 [Hongshan Tower Park] (Free): This is a landmark attraction in Urumqi. Standing at the top of the mountain, you can overlook the landmark high-rise building of Urumqi – the CITIC Tower. It is also the best location for taking night views.
[Very Important]: Essential tips for traveling in Xinjiang
★Please carry your ID card with you! Please carry your ID card with you! Please carry your ID card with you! Important things said three times!
★The temperature difference between morning and evening in Xinjiang is large. Regardless of the season, please be sure to bring long clothes and pants.
★Most scenic spots in Xinjiang have strong ultraviolet rays. Please bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and other items.
★Xinjiang is vast, and scenic spots are often scattered with long average driving times. Please be mentally prepared before traveling.
★The hotel accommodation conditions in Xinjiang are generally inferior to those in mainland first-tier cities. Please be mentally prepared before traveling.
Day 2: Urumqi – Lop Nur Village – Korla (about 630KM, 10 hours)
Reference hotels in Korla: Tianhong Hotel, Mingyue Crowne Plaza Hotel, Langang Business Hotel, Starway Hotel, Junlan Hotel, Le Meridien Hotel.
Keywords of the day: Coexistence of lakes and deserts, viewing the quaint architecture of the Lop Nur Village.
Reference itinerary time:
06:30-07:30 The driver will pick you up from the hotel at the agreed time. After everyone has arrived, we will leave Urumqi.
07:30-14:00 Travel south along the highway, passing through the narrow geographical corridor of the Gangou in the hinterland of the Tianshan Mountains. It is arid and rainy here throughout the year, making it the geographical boundary between northern and southern Xinjiang. The road conditions are good, but speed limits are strictly enforced.
14:00-18:30 Have a simple lunch for one hour during the afternoon, and head to the Lop Nur Village after the meal.
18:30-20:30 Arrive at the Lop Nur Village Scenic Area in Yuli County, where you can see the edge of the Taklamakan Desert, as well as the sparse poplar trees that grow alongside it, the Tarim River disappearing into the desert, the mysterious Lop people, and the primitive and quaint dwellings. The Lop people who live here once made a living by fishing and hunting in Lop Nur. Later, due to the drying up of the lake and desert encroachment, they were forced to migrate and settle here, continuing to make a living by fishing and hunting.
20:30-22:00 In the evening, return to Korla City, the Pearl of Southern Xinjiang, and check into the hotel.
Lunch recommendation (at your own expense): Simple meals along the way, approximately 30 yuan per person
Dinner recommendation (at your own expense): Korla whole roast sheep, grilled meat, etc., average cost per person is about 80 yuan
Tips:
1. Today’s road conditions are very good, but speed limits are strict. The driving time is relatively long and can be tiring. Please be mentally prepared.
2. There are many mosquitoes in the scenic area, and the climate is dry. Before visiting, be prepared for mosquito prevention by wearing scarves and bringing insect repellent.
3. Disposable slippers, eye masks, headrests, and motion sickness medication.
4. Southern Xinjiang is arid, so please be sure to wear sunscreen.
5. There is a time difference of about 2 hours in southern Xinjiang, so breakfast takeaways are common. Please understand.
Day 3: Korla City—Populus euphratica Forest Park—Kuqa County (about 420KM, 6.5 hours)
Reference hotels in Kuqa County: Parkyard Boutique Hotel, Kuqa International Hotel, Kuqa Hotel, Lido Hotel, Kuqa Qiuci, Kuqa Lanshe
Keywords of the day: Luntai Populus euphratica Forest
Reference itinerary time:
09:00-12:00 After breakfast, take a car to [Luntai Populus euphratica Forest Park], about 3 hours’ drive.
12:00-14:30 Arrive at the scenic area. 90% of Populus euphratica in China grows in southern Xinjiang, mainly around the Tarim River. Today, we will explore the magical Populus euphratica with a “three thousand years” lifecycle. The National Forest Park of Tarim Populus euphratica Forest in Luntai County is located in the middle reaches of the Tarim River on the northeastern edge of the Taklamakan Desert. In terms of area and quantity, it represents the entire Tarim River basin and even Xinjiang. Populus euphratica, with its tenacious vitality, fights against the arid climate. Whether it’s lush green leaves, cracked trunks, or dried-up branches, they all symbolize the power of life. Around October 15th each year, the leaves of Populus euphratica will naturally turn golden yellow, displaying a magnificent scene like “the whole city is covered with golden armor”.
14:30-15:30 Lunch break for about 1 hour
15:30-19:00 Head to the hotel in Kuqa.
Lunch recommendation (at your own expense): Simple meals along the way, approximately 30 yuan per person
Dinner recommendation (at your own expense): Free dining in Kuqa, average cost per person is about 40 yuan
Friendly Reminder:
1. Populus euphratica belongs to the unique tree species in the arid regions of Xinjiang. Its green leaves are vibrant, yellow leaves are golden and beautiful, and withered leaves show perseverance. The yellow leaf period is from mid-October to November each year, which may also vary depending on weather conditions. Please be aware.
Day 4: Kuqa County—Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon—Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves—Aksu City (about 520KM, 9 hours)
Reference hotels in Aksu City: Pudong Holiday Hotel, Tianfu Hotel, Longhua Hotel, Liangyou Grand Hotel
Keywords of the day: Experience the uniqueness of the Red Grand Canyon; the glory left by the Ancient Silk Road
Reference itinerary time:
08:00-10:00 After finishing breakfast, head to the first attraction of the day—Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon.
From 10:00-12:00, arrive at [Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon]. The southern slope of Mount Tianshan is composed of arid sandstone mountains, especially here where the mountains appear reddish-brown. Under the sunshine, the rock walls glow as if burned by flames, creating a spectacular sight. The mouth of the canyon is wide open, with a flat bottom and winding paths leading to secluded spots. The cliffs on both sides reach up to the sky, and with the movement of sunlight, countless shadows and lights create an exotic atmosphere.
From 12:00-14:00, head to Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves.
From 14:00-16:00 in the afternoon, visit [Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves]. As an important grotto on the Silk Road for the eastward transmission of Buddhism, it was once filled with Buddhist chants. A thousand years later, only remnants of grottoes and faded murals remain, evoking a sense of melancholy. At the entrance, the sculpture of the eminent monk Kumarajiva gazes with slightly closed eyes at the footsteps of today’s visitors. Ascend the steps leading to the cliff, where dozens of grotto sites are scattered across the escarpment, imparting a sense of the power of faith. Light meals will be provided during the return journey from the scenic area.
From 16:00-21:30, head to the hotel in Aksu for accommodation in the evening.
Lunch recommendation (at your own expense): Simple meals along the way, approximately 30 yuan per person
Dinner recommendation (at your own expense): Aksu is a relatively large city in southern Xinjiang. If you’ve had enough of Xinjiang cuisine in the past few days, you can switch things up here. Average cost per person is about 40 yuan.
Friendly Reminder:
1. It is recommended to bring your own snacks and drinking water just in case.
2. It is recommended to bring colorful scarves for beautiful photos.
3. It is recommended to wear travel shoes or outdoor shoes. Do not wear sandals or flip-flops, as your soles will get rubbed raw by small stones and sand after walking for a while.
4. Be sure to follow the instructions of the scenic area staff at all times. In case of sudden weather changes, floods may occur, so immediately leave the scenic area.
5. Strictly prohibit climbing. No photos, bags, or water allowed inside Thousand Buddha Caves.
Day 5: Aksu City – Zebra Commune – Kashgar Old Town, Century-old Teahouse – Kashgar City (about 460KM, approximately 6 hours of driving)
Accommodation: Kashgar City. Reference hotels: Qiniwake Friendship Hotel, Lijing Hotel, GreenTree Inn, Shenzhen Airlines International Hotel, Nanhu Holiday Hotel, Shangke Youpin Hotel, Xiyu Holiday Hotel, Vienna Hotel
Keywords of the day: Zebra Commune, Kashgar Old Town, Century-old Teahouse, Kashgar Night Market – Enjoy Slow Life
Reference itinerary time:
Depart from Aksu at 09:00 and head to Kashgar City, an important town in southern Xinjiang. Kashgar is the westernmost city in China. Light meals will be provided during the journey.
Arrive in Kashgar from 16:00-19:00. First, head to the Kashgar Tourist Service Center to apply for a border pass. Next, we’ll visit Zebra Commune, which was originally a mosque. Later, a couple took it over and turned it into their dream place. Inside, there are numerous ancient artifacts. You can sit here, chat, take photos, read books, and enjoy the leisurely time of slow life. It’s both picturesque and Instagram-worthy. Zebra Commune is right next to Hat Bazaar, and nearby, we can also stroll around Kashgar Old Town. Inside Kashgar Old Town, there’s also an internet-famous old teahouse. Order a pot of fruit tea unique to southern Xinjiang and some baked buns, sit back leisurely, watch Uyghur elders play music and sing, and enjoy the unique slow pace of southern Xinjiang. Across from Kashgar Old Town in the evening is the famous Kashgar Night Market, where you can indulge your taste buds with various delicacies.
Lunch recommendation (at your own expense): Simple meals along the way, approximately 30 yuan per person
Dinner recommendations (at your own expense): Pigeon soup, Century-old Teahouse, Grilled mutton, Pomegranate seeds, Yogurt, Grilled stuffed buns, Cantaloupe, Kashgar has too many delicious foods. Go to the night market to discover them.
Day 6: Kashgar City — Pamir Plateau — Mount Muztagh Ata — Jincaotan, Stone City — Taxkorgan County (about 300KM, 8 hours)
Recommended hotels in Tashkurgan Township: Benleixin Hotel, Lantian Hotel, Jinxiujiangshan Hotel, Yonghong Grand Hotel, Youyi Grand Hotel
Keywords of the day: Pamir Plateau towering into the sky, White Sand Lake as a painting in water, Jincaotan under the setting sun
Reference itinerary time:
From 08:00 to 14:30, after breakfast, we will pass by布伦口White Sand Lake and enjoy the distant White Sand Mountain and the shimmering waves nearby. Take photos to record your encounter with this beauty. In Tajik, Pamir means "roof of the world". When playing today, avoid large movements such as running and jumping to prevent altitude sickness and discomfort. The flat China-Pakistan Friendship Highway connects the plateau, climbing all the way from Kashgar. As the altitude increases, the mountains also rise to meet the sky.
From 14:30 to 15:30, have lunch for about 1 hour.
From 15:30 to 19:00, we head to Taxkorgan County. Along the way, we will take a distant view of Mount Muztagh Ata, with yaks and sheep dotted around like a painting, and the sky scenery seems to have a built-in filter.
From 19:00 to 20:30, visit the Jincaotan Wetland Park. Wetlands are known as the "kidneys of the earth", and it is even more rare to see wetlands at such a high altitude. Under the setting sun, take photos of herds of cattle and sheep to capture the harmony of nature. Afterwards, proceed to the Ancient Stone City to visit the ruins and relive the prosperity of the ancient Silk Road.
Lunch recommendation (at your own expense): Simple meals along the way, approximately 30 yuan per person
Dinner recommendation (at your own expense): Yak beef hotpot in Taxkorgan County, approximately 80 yuan per person
Tips:
1. The 200-kilometer journey from Kashgar to Kalakul Lake has a speed limit of 40 km/h, resulting in slow driving. Please be mentally prepared.
2. There are checkpoints along the way to Kalakul Lake where photography is prohibited. Please cooperate and understand.
3. Today’s itinerary involves increasingly higher altitudes, with the highest point reaching around 4000 meters. If you feel unwell, you can rent an oxygen bag along the way, and avoid running or jumping when getting off the bus to prevent discomfort.
4. It is recommended to bring your own snacks and drinking water in case of need.
5. The Zhongba Snow Mountain Highway may be interrupted in case of natural disasters such as flash floods. Please be aware of this; if there is an interruption, other scenic spots will be arranged for visit according to the season.
Day 7: Taxkorgan County – Wakha Internet-famous Highway – Karakul Lake – Kashgar (about 300KM, 8 hours)
Accommodation: Kashgar City. Reference hotels: Qiniwake Friendship Hotel, Lijing Hotel, GreenTree Inn, Shenzhen Airlines International Hotel, Nanhu Holiday Hotel, Shangke Youpin Hotel, Xiyu Holiday Hotel, Vienna Hotel
Keywords of the day: Karakul Lake, Wakha Zigzag Highway
Reference itinerary time:
08:00-12:00 After breakfast, head to the Wakha盘龙 (Wakha Zigzag) Highway. The Wakha Zigzag Highway is located in Wakha Township, Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County, Kashgar Prefecture. Locally known as the Wakha Highway, this fully winding mountain road spans over 600 turns and a total length of 75 kilometers, with an altitude of about 4,100 meters. The perfect combination of the black highway and earth-colored mountains, coupled with the distant snow-capped mountains in the background, belongs exclusively to the Pamir Plateau.
12:00-13:00 After lunch, return to Kashgar city.
13:00-22:30 Along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, descending from the Pamir Plateau, we can see wild yak in the mountains and enjoy a distant view of Kongur Tagh Nine Peaks and Mount Muztagh Ata. Along the way, we will visit Karakul Lake, overlooking the vastness and waves of the lake, as well as its changing colors, allowing you to pose to your heart’s content. The towering snow-capped mountains such as Mount Muztagh Ata, Kongur Peak, and Kongur Tagh Nine Peaks surround Karakul Lake. On clear days, the water reflects the snow-capped mountains, and standing by the lake, you can gaze at the towering mountains in the distance and observe the calm lake up close. This lake is adorned with magical and beautiful hues.
22:30 Arrival in Kashgar city, marking the end of the southern Xinjiang tour and disbandment of the group.
Day 8: Kashgar – Warm Home (Airport Transfer)
Airport transfer arrangements based on flight schedules.
Happy times always pass quickly. It’s time for us to say goodbye. I hope that your brief trip to Xinjiang has left you with wonderful memories and that we look forward to meeting you again.
More beautiful scenery of the magnificent Xinjiang awaits your appreciation~
——————————Costs Included——————————-
Transportation: Local designated vehicle type, ensuring one seat per person.
Accommodation: The hotels listed in the itinerary, with comfortable accommodation for seven nights throughout the trip.
Hotel: Standard double room by default.
Tickets: The first-entry tickets and shuttle buses for the attractions listed in the itinerary, including tickets and shuttle buses for 7 scenic areas (Lop Nur Village, Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Karakul Lake, Golden Grass Beach, Stone City, and Lop Nur Poplar Forest).
Driver-guide: Local Chinese-speaking driver, excellent chauffeur, and guide for business vehicles.
Other: Complimentary travel accident insurance (coverage amount of 200,000 yuan).
Note: After booking this product, customer service will communicate with you about the itinerary and require you to provide your ID number and name for insurance purchase.
Carpooling for southern Xinjiang tours – Free and easy carpooling in southern Xinjiang
Carpooling reservation phone number for southern Xinjiang tours: (same) 0991-8585456