The recommended 21-day tour route in Xinjiang is as follows: A comprehensive self-driving route connecting Northern Xinjiang, Southern Xinjiang, and special attractions. This itinerary allows you to fully experience the natural beauty, cultural customs, and unique landforms of Xinjiang.?
Itinerary Overview?
The entire itinerary starts from Urumqi and is divided into two major parts: Northern Xinjiang and Southern Xinjiang, with a final crossing of the Taklamakan Desert for the return. You can appropriately adjust the itinerary pace and stay time according to your personal interests and physical condition.?
Northern Xinjiang Itinerary (about 12 days)?
Urumqi: After airport pickup, start your journey in Xinjiang.?
Tianshan Tianchi, Koktokay Town: Visit the magnificent scenery of Tianshan Tianchi and stay overnight in Koktokay Town.?
Ulungu Lake, Burqin: After exploring Koktokay, head to Ulungu Lake and stay overnight in Burqin.?
Hemuhe River, Hemu Bridge, Birch Forest: Depart from Burqin, visit the Hemuhe River, Hemu Bridge, and Birch Forest, admire the Hemu starry sky, and stay overnight in a characteristic wooden cabin in Hemu.?
Kanas: Depart from Hemu, visit Kanas Lake, and stay overnight at Jiadenyu.?
Baihaba: Depart from Kanas, visit Baihaba Village, and experience the border customs.?
Ghost City of the World, Karamay: Depart from Burqin, visit the unique landforms of the Ghost City of the World, and stay overnight in Karamay. Afterward, you can visit the Karamay Oilfield and Ulho Desert Poplar Forest.?
Southern Xinjiang Itinerary (about 9 days)?
Sayram Lake: Depart from Karamay, visit Sayram Lake, and stay overnight at the Sayram Lake scenic area.?
Guozigou Bridge, Huocheng Lavender Base: Depart from Sayram Lake, visit Guozigou Bridge and Huocheng Lavender Base, and stay overnight in Huocheng.?
Horgos Port, Kazanqi Folk Village: Depart from Huocheng, visit the Horgos Port, and experience the ethnic customs of Kazanqi Folk Village.?
Yizhao Highway, Xiata Scenic Area: Depart from Yining, cross the Yizhao Highway, and visit the Xiata Scenic Area.?
Jongkushitai, Kalajun: Subsequently, you can visit attractions such as Jongkushitai and Kalajun to experience the grassland and mountain scenery of Southern Xinjiang.?
Kashgar Old Town, Tashkurgan: Take a train or drive to Kashgar, visit Kashgar Old Town, and experience the border customs of Tashkurgan.?
Crossing the Taklamakan Desert: Finally, cross the Taklamakan Desert to end the Southern Xinjiang itinerary and prepare for the return trip.?
Precautions?
There are many speed limits and winding mountain roads in Xinjiang, so it is recommended for experienced drivers to drive themselves; beginners can consider carpooling for freedom of travel.?
During the trip, you can appropriately adjust the time spent at attractions and the pace of the itinerary according to your personal interests and physical condition.?
Pay attention to the climate and geographical environment of Xinjiang, and take measures for sunscreen, warmth, and hydration.?
This 21-day tour route covers Northern Xinjiang, Southern Xinjiang, and special attractions, allowing you to fully appreciate the natural beauty and cultural customs of Xinjiang. I hope your trip to Xinjiang is enjoyable and unforgettable!?