Traveling in southern Xinjiang is an excellent choice for exploring the diverse natural scenery and rich culture of southern Xinjiang. Southern Xinjiang, namely the southern part of Xinjiang, encompasses the Tarim Basin, the Xinjiang section of the Kunlun Mountains, and the Turpan Basin. It boasts various landscapes such as deserts, oases, snow-capped mountains, and grasslands, as well as the art and customs of ethnic groups such as Uyghurs and Tajiks, forming a human landscape with strong ethnic characteristics.
There are numerous tourist attractions in southern Xinjiang, including but not limited to Old Kashgar City, Bayin布鲁克 Grassland, Tianshan Mystic Grand Canyon, Pamir Plateau,Cattle and Sheep Bazaar, Bosten Lake Scenic Area, Tarim River Populus Euphratica Forest Park, Muztagh Ata, Kuqa Grand Canyon National Geological Park, Hongqilafu Border Defense Post, Hongqilafu Port, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Baisha Mountain – Baisha Lake, etc.
These attractions each have their unique characteristics, some showcasing the natural beauty of southern Xinjiang, while others reflect its historical and cultural heritage.
For travelers who wish to deeply experience southern Xinjiang, they can choose multiple classic tourist routes. For example, a 12-day tour around the magnificent landscapes of southern Xinjiang, starting from Urumqi and passing through Bosten Lake, Korla, Lop Nur Village, Luntai, Tarim River Populus Euphratica Forest Park, Kashgar, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, and other attractions, ultimately returning to Urumqi.
Furthermore, there are various route options such as a self-drive tour of the Grand Southern Xinjiang Loop and a classic 3-day tour of Kashgar, which can be arranged according to personal schedules and interests.
When traveling in southern Xinjiang, it is important to pay attention to local transportation, accommodation, and dietary habits. There are many airports in southern Xinjiang, and trains are one of the cheapest modes of transportation. However, accommodation conditions may be relatively basic, especially in smaller towns and villages. Additionally, most areas in southern Xinjiang follow Islam, and the dietary habits are predominantly steam-cooked foods.
In summary, traveling in southern Xinjiang is an unforgettable experience, and both its natural scenery and cultural landscapes are worth exploring. Adequate preparation and planning before the trip will enhance your enjoyment of this journey.