There are multiple options for a 5-day tour in Xinjiang. The following provides two distinct itineraries focusing on the scenery of southern Xinjiang and northern Xinjiang, respectively.
I. 5-Day Itinerary for Southern Xinjiang
Day 1: Exploring Kashgar Old Town
Upon arrival in Kashgar, first visit the historic Kashgar Old Town to feel the rich Uyghur cultural atmosphere, admire ethnic architecture and handicrafts, and taste local specialty cuisine.
Visit Baisha Lake, known as the
Day 3: Magnificent Panlong Ancient Road and Lop Nur罗布人村寨 (note: specific English name unavailable)
In the morning, visit the Panlong Ancient Road, crossing deserts, mountains, and canyons to admire the picturesque scenery and magnificent grotto rock paintings along the way. In the afternoon, proceed to the Lop Nur罗布人村寨 (note: specific English name unavailable) to experience the fun of camel riding and desert motorcycles.
Day 4: Muztagh Glacier and Luntai Hu Yanglin Forest
Head to Karakul Lake to overlook the changing colors of the lake and gaze at the towering snow-capped mountains in the distance. In the afternoon, visit the Muztagh Glacier Park to feel the tranquility and purity of the plateau, or choose to visit the Hu Yanglin Forest in Luntai and take a sightseeing bus to admire the scenery along the way.
Day 5: Taklamakan Desert Highway
Drive along the endless Taklamakan Desert Highway, stop anytime to admire the scenery, and taste local fruits such as watermelon and Hami melon. Be cautious of wildlife while driving.
II. 5-Day Itinerary for Northern Xinjiang
Day 1: First Impressions of Urumqi
Upon arrival in Urumqi, visit Hongshan Park to overlook the panoramic view of the city. Then proceed to the International Bazaar to experience the ethnic atmosphere, purchase specialty handicrafts, and taste Xinjiang cuisine.
Day 2: Tianshan Tianchi One-Day Tour
Take a tourist bus or a chartered car to Tianshan Tianchi, admire the surrounding snow-capped mountains and clear lake water. You can also take a boat ride on the lake or hike to explore the surrounding forests and alpine meadows.
Day 3: Kanas Lake Exploration
Fly from Urumqi to Kanas, visit Kanas Lake, and admire scenic spots such as Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay. You can also take a boat ride on the lake to explore the mysterious lake monster.
Day 4: Hemu Village and Burqin
Head to Hemu Village to enjoy the village bathed in morning light, surrounded by endless birch forests, with picturesque scenery. In the afternoon, experience the lifestyle of the Tuwa people and engage in activities such as horse riding; then proceed to Burqin.
Day 5: Colorful Beach and Return Trip
Visit the Colorful Beach to admire the colorful riverbank and the lush green valley scenery across the river; then return to Urumqi to conclude a delightful trip to northern Xinjiang.
The above two itineraries showcase the unique scenery and cultural characteristics of southern Xinjiang and northern Xinjiang, respectively. Visitors can choose a suitable route based on their interests and schedule.