The recommended 17-day travel itinerary for Xinjiang is as follows:**
From the 1st to the 2nd day:
Arrive in Urumqi, check into the hotel to rest. In the evening, you can head to the International Bazaar to feel the unique flavor of Xinjiang
Head to Tianshan Tianchi to admire the magnificent scenery of the alpine lake
From the 3rd to the 5th day:
Depart from Urumqi, follow the edge of the Junggar Basin, cross the Gurbantünggüt Desert, and arrive in Burqin
Visit Kanas Lake to admire the magical beauty of the color-changing lake, and head to Hemu Village to experience the primitive life of the Tuvans
From the 6th to the 8th day:
Pass by the乌尔禾 Ghost Town (Urho Devil’s City) to feel the mysterious power of nature, and then arrive at Sayram Lake to enjoy the beautiful scenery by the lake
Head to Nalati Grassland to feel its vastness and tranquility, then visit Bayanbulak Grassland to admire the sunset beauty of the Nine-Bend and Eighteen-Turn River
From the 9th to the 11th day:
Cross the Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon to feel the grandeur of nature, and then visit attractions such as Kuqa王府 (王府 refers to a prince’s mansion or palace, but here it might be a specific historical site in Kuqa) to understand the local history and culture
Arrive in Kashgar and begin to feel the rich flavor of southern Xinjiang
From the 12th to the 17th day (Optional Plan A, focusing on an in-depth tour of southern Xinjiang):
Stroll through the ancient city of Kashgar, ascend the Pamir Plateau, and feel the exotic atmosphere
Cross the Desert Highway, visit the Lop Nur Village, and experience the unique customs of southern Xinjiang
You can choose to visit famous attractions such as Xiangfei Garden and Id Kah Mosque to continue your tour
Afterwards, return to Urumqi according to the schedule to end the trip
From the 12th to the 17th day (Optional Plan B, focusing on self-driving adventures):
Departing from Kashgar, pass by attractions such as Baishahu Lake and Karakul Lake, head to the Pamir Plateau, and stay overnight in Taxkorgan County
In the next few days, travel through Desert Highway No.1, Duku Highway, etc., and visit famous attractions such as the Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, Daxiaolongchi Lake, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, etc.
Enjoy the scenery of rape flowers, Tianma Bathing River, and other attractions in Yining, Zhaosu, and other places, and experience local characteristic accommodations
Finally, return to Urumqi to end the self-driving adventure tour
The above routes are only recommendations, and the actual itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and time arrangements. Xinjiang has a vast territory and numerous attractions. It is recommended to plan the itinerary in advance to ensure a pleasant journey.