The August travel guide for southern Xinjiang mainly covers attractions in Turpan, Kashgar, and surrounding areas, precautions, and itinerary planning.?
Recommended Attractions?
Turpan:?
Grape Valley: Although Turpan is hot in August, Grape Valley is a cool oasis with lush grapevines and abundant fruits, where you can taste fresh grapes.?
Jiaohe Ancient City, Beziklik Thousand Buddha Caves: Turpan also has many historical sites that witness the long history and splendid culture of this land.?
Flame Mountain Scenic Area: Feel the wonders of nature. The Turpan Night Market is also lively at night, where you can taste local cuisine.?
Kashgar and Surroundings:?
Kashgar Old City: You can freely roam around the old city to experience the simple culture of southern Xinjiang.?
Baisha Lake, Kalakul Lake (Mount Mushtag), Taxkorgan: This is a classic southern Xinjiang tourist route where you can view Mount Mushtag from a distance, visit Taxkorgan, and feel the unique frontier atmosphere.?
Stone City, Tree Hole Highway: Attractions near Taxkorgan. The Stone City has a long history, and the Tree Hole Highway is a uniquely scenic road worth visiting.?
Precautions?
Climate and Clothing: There is a large temperature difference between day and night in Xinjiang. Although August is summer, you still need to prepare a thick coat to cope with the low temperatures in the morning and evening.?
Tickets and Documents: Student IDs, military IDs, tour guide IDs, and other documents can enjoy ticket discounts, so remember to bring them with you.?
Safety and Health: Some areas in Xinjiang have high altitudes, but except for the Pamir Plateau in Taxkorgan, southern Xinjiang, there is almost no altitude sickness to worry about.?
However, it is still necessary to maintain good physical condition to avoid altitude sickness.?
Cash and Signal: Some road sections and scenic areas have poor signals, so it is recommended to prepare some cash for emergencies.?
Itinerary Suggestions?
Here is a suggested 5-day itinerary for southern Xinjiang:?
Day 1: Kashgar – Baisha Lake – Kalakul Lake (distant view of Mount Mushtag) – Taxkorgan?
Depart from Kashgar in the morning to visit Baisha Lake and Kalakul Lake, with a distant view of Mount Mushtag.?
Arrive in Taxkorgan in the afternoon, visit local attractions, and feel the frontier atmosphere.?
Day 2: Taxkorgan – Stone City – Badir Blue Lake – Panlong Ancient Road – Kashgar?
Visit the Stone City and Badir Blue Lake, then head to the Panlong Ancient Road to experience the unique highway scenery.?
Return to Kashgar in the afternoon to rest and adjust.?
Day 3: Kashgar – Amanishahan Memorial Tomb – Yarkand Palace – Old City of Yarkant – Yarkant?
Visit Amanishahan Memorial Tomb and Yarkand Palace to understand the historical culture of southern Xinjiang.?
In the afternoon, visit the old city of Yarkant to feel the local lifestyle.?
Day 4: Yarkant – N39 Desert Exploration – Kashgar?
Experience the N39 Desert Exploration and feel the magnificent and magical desert.?
Return to Kashgar in the afternoon to prepare for the next day’s itinerary.?
Day 5: Free activities in Kashgar City?
Free activities in Kashgar City, taste local cuisine, and purchase souvenirs.?
This itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and time to ensure a pleasant and fulfilling trip.?