The best travel times for an in-depth self-guided tour of Southern Xinjiang are May-June, July-September, and October-November. The recommended itinerary includes classic attractions such as Kashgar, Hotan, Taklamakan Desert, and Panlong Ancient Road.?
An in-depth self-guided tour of Southern Xinjiang is an excellent journey to explore the mysterious flavor of the Western Regions. Here is a detailed travel guide:?
I. Best Travel Time?
The best travel times in Southern Xinjiang are mainly concentrated in May-June, July-September, and October-November. In May-June, you can experience the ethnic minorities’ New Year celebrations with colorful ethnic performances; July-September is the season when fruits and melons ripen, allowing you to taste sweet and delicious local fruits; October-November is the most beautiful season for poplar forests, with a golden landscape like entering a golden fairy tale world.?
II. Recommended Itinerary?
Kashgar: As the gateway to Southern Xinjiang, Kashgar is a must-visit destination. You can visit Kashgar Old City to experience the rich flavor of the Western Regions, as if you are in Morocco in China. In addition, you can explore Xiangfei Garden to learn about the story of this legendary woman.?
Hotan: Hotan is known as the "Hometown of Jade", "Hometown of Silk", "Capital of Carpets", and "Hometown of Fruits and Melons". You can visit Hotan Night Market, taste local cuisine, and explore Kunlun Sky Road and Kunlun Holy Land to feel the grandeur of nature.?
Taklamakan Desert: As the largest desert in China, the Taklamakan Desert is a paradise for explorers. You can choose to cross the desert highway, admire the magnificent scenery along the way, and feel the desolation and grandeur of the desert.?
Panlong Ancient Road: This highway is famous for its winding path and is known as one of the "Most Beautiful Highways in China". Driving on this highway, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of Mount Kunlun and feel the awe-inspiring work of nature.?
In addition, you can visit classic attractions such as Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Mount Muztagata, and Wensu Grand Canyon. Each location has its unique scenery and stories waiting for you to discover.?
III. Precautions?
Safety: The safety situation in Southern Xinjiang is good, but you still need to pay attention to the safety of personal belongings while traveling and try to avoid traveling alone at night.?
Climate: The climate in Southern Xinjiang is dry with intense sunshine. Please take sunscreen measures before traveling and carry enough water.?
Transportation: Transportation in Southern Xinjiang is relatively convenient, but some remote areas may require self-driving or chartered vehicles. Please plan your transportation in advance.?
I hope this in-depth self-guided travel guide to Southern Xinjiang can help you plan an unforgettable journey to the Western Regions!?