In October, for a 5-day tour in Xinjiang, it is recommended to choose the essence routes of southern or northern Xinjiang to experience the autumn scenery and unique culture.
For a 5-day tour of southern Xinjiang, you can refer to the following itinerary:
Day 1: Depart from your warm home and arrive in Kashgar to visit Kashgar Old City and feel the historical depth of Xinjiang’s only intact and lively ancient city.
Day 2: Enjoy a semi-free tour in Kashgar Old City, and then proceed to Baisha Lake to admire the interesting contrast between the red and yellow leaves in October and the mirror-like green lake.
Day 3: Visit the Wakhan Corridor,盘龙古道 (Winding Ancient Road), Bandir Blue Lake, and Stone City to experience the desolate scenery of the ancient Silk Road, the winding charm of the internet-famous highway, the picturesque lake view, and the mysterious stone castle.
Day 4: Head to Taxkorgan County to visit Tafaman Wetland, Snow Willow Cave, Karakul Lake, and Mushtagh Glacier Park, and feel the pastoral scenery surrounded by mountains and the magnificent scenery of the glacier park. Note that a border pass is required to visit Taxkorgan County.
Day 5: Arrange some free activities or shopping, and then prepare for the return trip.
For a 5-day tour of northern Xinjiang, there are also good options:
Day 1: Depart from Urumqi for Kanas, enjoying the magnificent scenery of the Altai Mountains on the way. Upon arrival, visit Kanas Lake and experience the tranquility and beauty of the lake and mountains.
Day 2: Deep dive into Kanas, visit Tuwa Village and Hemu Village, explore the traditional houses of the Tuvas, and feel the primitive grassland scenery and the beauty of the golden autumn season.
Day 3: You can arrange some sightseeing around Kanas, such as the wooden houses of the Tuvas, Hemu River, etc., to continue experiencing the tranquility and beauty of nature.
Day 4: Visit the Colorful Beach, Wuerhe Devil City, and Populus euphratica Forest to admire the colorful landforms, unique Yardang landforms, and golden Populus euphratica forest.
Day 5: After visiting Dushanzi Grand Canyon, return to Urumqi to end your pleasant journey.
In the golden autumn of October, Xinjiang is ablaze with autumn colors. Both the cultural customs of southern Xinjiang and the natural scenery of northern Xinjiang are worth visiting. Please choose a suitable route based on your personal preferences and actual situation, and make travel plans and preparations in advance.