There are multiple routes to choose from for a five-day tour in Xinjiang. Here are two recommended travel routes:
Route 1: Classic five-day tour north of Mount Tianshan
Day 1: Depart from Urumqi and head to Sayram Lake. Enjoy the beauty of the lake and flower fields, and experience the changing weather and stunning scenery of Sayram Lake.
You can choose to stay near Sayram Lake in the evening for convenient continuation of your travels the next day.
Day 2: Depart from Sayram Lake, head to Karamay, and then visit Kanas Snow Mushrooms and Ink Wash Three Bays. The snow scenery and unique natural scenery of Kanas are a major highlight of tourism in Xinjiang.
You can stay in a Kanas snowscape cabin in the evening, experiencing a unique accommodation environment.
Day 3: Continue to explore Kanas Scenic Area and then proceed to Hemu. The snow-covered pine trees and snow scenery in Hemu are a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
You can choose to stay in a snowscape cabin in Hemu in the evening, experiencing the peaceful rural night.
Day 4: Wake up early to enjoy the morning fog and snow scenery in Hemu, and then participate in a travel photography activity with a professional photographer. In the afternoon, head to Burqin, where you can enjoy the unique natural scenery of Xinjiang along the way.
Day 5: Depart from Burqin, visit Wulungu Lake and the Devil’s City on the Sea, and then return to Urumqi along the S21 Desert Highway. End your five-day journey in Xinjiang.
Route 2: Five-day tour of Kashi and its surroundings in southern Xinjiang
Day 1: Arrive at Kashgar Ancient City, apply for a border defense certificate, and feel the charm of the ancient city. You can stay at a Gaotai homestay in the evening to experience local accommodation and taste authentic cuisine from century-old restaurants.
Day 2: Head to Muji Crater and Baisha Lake to explore natural wonders. Muji Crater is known as the "Eye of Pamir", while Baisha Lake is famous for its peaceful and beautiful lake scenery.
Day 3: Visit the盘龙 Ancient Road and Bandier Blue Lake. The 盘龙 Ancient Road, with 600 turns, is a paradise for driving enthusiasts. Bandier Blue Lake is praised as a dazzling sapphire on the Pamir Plateau.
Day 4: Head to Muztagh Glacier and Karakul Lake for an exploration of glaciers and lakes. You can touch Muztagh Glacier with your own hands and feel the mystery of the glacial lake. Karakul Lake attracts many tourists with its mysterious legend of water monsters.
Day 5: Disperse the group in Kashi, ending the pleasant journey of southern Xinjiang. You can choose to leave Kashi by plane or train and return to your city.
These two routes cover the classic attractions north of Mount Tianshan in Xinjiang and in Kashi and its surroundings in southern Xinjiang, respectively. Tourists can choose the route that suits them based on their interests and time. During the trip, pay attention to the weather changes and time difference in Xinjiang, arrange your itinerary reasonably, and enjoy a wonderful trip to Xinjiang.