An 11-day trip to Xinjiang can be planned as a rich circular route covering multiple classic attractions in Northern and Southern Xinjiang, experiencing local culture and natural scenery.
Recommended 11-day Self-driving Route in Northern Xinjiang
Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, free activities, you can stroll around the downtown area to get a preliminary impression of Xinjiang.
Day 2: Depart from Urumqi and head to Sayram Lake for a self-driving tour around the lake to admire the lakeside scenery.
Day 3: Depart from Sayram Lake, pass through the Guozigou Bridge, and head to Qiongkushitai Village to feel the rural charm.
Day 4: Depart from Qiongkushitai, visit Qiaxi Grassland, and then head to Xinyuan or Gongliu.
Day 5: Depart from Xinyuan or Gongliu, head to Nalati Aerial Grassland, and experience the vastness and grandeur of the grassland.
Day 6: Depart from Nalati, cross the southern section of the Duku Highway, admire the Big and Small Dragon Lakes, then head to Tianshan Grand Canyon or Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, and finally arrive in Kuqa.
Day 7: Depart from Kuqa, visit Wensu Grand Canyon, and then head to Wensu County.
Day 8: Depart from Wensu County and head to Kashgar Old Town to feel its unique charm.
Day 9: Depart from Kashgar, visit Baisha Lake and Jincaotan Stone City, and then head to Taxkorgan County.
Day 10: Depart from Taxkorgan County, visit the盘龙古道 (Winding Ancient Road), Pandir Blue Lake, Karakul Lake, and then return to Kashgar.
Day 11: Free activities in Kashgar, you can visit the Kashgar Grand Bazaar, Gaotai Residential Area, etc., and then end the trip.
Highlights of the Trip and Unique Experiences
Clear Planning of the Circular Route: Avoid backtracking and make the itinerary smoother.
Rich Attractions: Cover all the classic attractions in Xinjiang, such as Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, Kashgar Old Town, etc.
Cultural Experience: Participate in bonfire parties to experience local culture; feed eagles with the falcon knights of Hemu Village to experience unique customs.
Natural Scenery: Chase the sunset in Northern Xinjiang and feel the grandeur of nature; visit the Gobi Desert and relive the fun of childhood.
Food Enjoyment: Taste Xinjiang’s special foods such as mutton kebabs, hand-seized rice, and naan to satisfy your taste buds.
Precautions
Travel Time: June to August is the most beautiful season in Xinjiang, and the Duku Highway will soon be open. It is recommended to visit at this time.
Transportation and Accommodation: Choose high-quality accommodations and comfortable vehicles to ensure the quality of your trip; consult clearly in advance about transportation and accommodation to avoid unnecessary troubles.
Safety and Health: Be aware of altitude sickness and sun protection, carry necessary medications and protective equipment.
Respect Local Culture: Respect the customs and traditions of ethnic minorities such as the Uyghurs and communicate politely.
Through the above plan, you can fully experience the natural scenery and cultural charm of Xinjiang and enjoy an unforgettable 11-day trip to Xinjiang.