Traveling alone in southern Xinjiang in September is an excellent experience, allowing you to enjoy the serene and magnificent natural scenery while deeply experiencing the local cultural customs.
First, in terms of itinerary planning, you can consider starting your southern Xinjiang journey in Kashgar. Kashgar is the soul of Xinjiang. Here, you can explore the ancient city, taste authentic local cuisine such as the grab rice at Ailizhati Grab Rice Restaurant and the cold noodles at Yawage Ancient Cold Noodles and Jelly Shop, and appreciate the profound cultural heritage.
Afterward, you can head to Mushtagh Glacier Park to admire the spectacular permanent glaciers.
If you are interested in plateau scenery, the盘龙古道 (Panlong Ancient Road) and Baishahu Lake on the Pamir Plateau are must-visit attractions, attracting tourists with their winding roads and fantastic lake and mountain scenery, respectively.
In terms of transportation, since you are traveling alone, you can choose public transportation such as planes, trains, buses, etc. This can save costs and allow you to flexibly arrange your itinerary. For example, you can fly directly from Turpan to Kuqa and then take public transportation to other attractions.
Between the major cities in southern Xinjiang, there are also convenient public transportation connections, making it easy for you to visit various attractions.
Regarding accommodation, you can choose a suitable place based on your budget and preferences. During your journey in southern Xinjiang, some homestays and hotels offer affordable and comfortable environments, such as Baijianli Homestay in Aksu.
When choosing accommodation, remember to check reviews and prices in advance to ensure the best lodging experience.
Furthermore, the weather in southern Xinjiang in September is mostly sunny with moderate temperatures, but there is a large temperature difference between day and night. Therefore, you need to prepare some suitable clothing, such as shirts, long dresses, hoodies, sweaters, and windbreakers.
Additionally, since some attractions in southern Xinjiang are at high altitudes, such as Taxkorgan County with an average altitude of over 3500 meters, you need to be aware of altitude sickness prevention and avoid strenuous activities, washing your hair, and taking showers.
Finally, to ensure a smooth and safe journey, it is recommended that you learn about the local culture and customs in advance and respect local traditions. At the same time, keep your phone fully charged, stay in contact with your family at all times, and pay attention to local weather and traffic conditions so that you can adjust your itinerary in a timely manner.
In short, traveling alone in southern Xinjiang in September is an unforgettable experience. You can fully enjoy the blessings of nature here, appreciate the local cultural customs, and gain many fond memories and moving moments.