The southern Xinjiang travel guide mainly includes key points such as the best travel time, must-visit attractions, itinerary planning, and travel tips.
I. Best Travel Time
Southern Xinjiang has four distinct seasons, and each season has its unique scenery and experiences:
March to April: Suitable for enjoying romantic apricot blossoms in southern Xinjiang
May to June: Suitable for seeing the magnificent scene of a lonely smoke rising from the desert in southern Xinjiang
July to September: It is a fruit feast, suitable for tasting the fruits of southern Xinjiang
October to November: Suitable for viewing the spectacular autumn poplar forest
December to February: Suitable for taking photoshoots in Kashgar Old Town and enjoying the slow life of the ancient city
II. Must-Visit Attractions
Southern Xinjiang has many attractions worth visiting:
Pamir Plateau: With grasslands, canyons, lakes, and glaciers, every frame is wallpaper-worthy scenery
Kashgar Old Town: Feel the rich Western Regions atmosphere, as if you are in Morocco in China
Muztagh Ata: Known as the "Father of Glaciers", and there is also a romantic love story associated with it
Taklamakan Desert: Experience the unique life in the desolate desert
Baisha Lake: Half is white sand and half is lake, forming a stunning scene
Panlong Ancient Road: 75 kilometers with 639 turns, providing a visual feast
In addition, Karakul Lake, Wensu Grand Canyon, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, Luntai Poplar Forest, and other attractions are also worth visiting
III. Itinerary Planning
Here is an example of a 14-day itinerary for southern Xinjiang:
From Day 1 to Day 14: Depart from Urumqi and visit Bosten Lake, Kuqa王府 (王府 is a translation challenge as it’s a specific place name, here kept as is for context), Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Wensu Grand Canyon, Kashgar Old Town, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Stone City, Panlong Ancient Road, Muztagh Ata, Kashgar Old City, Hotan Night Market, Taklamakan Desert, Tarim Poplar Forest, Lop Nur Village, Kumtag Desert, Flaming Mountain, Grape Valley, and other places, finally returning to Urumqi
Of course, the itinerary can be adjusted according to personal preferences and time.
IV. Travel Tips
Carry your ID card with you and keep it in an easily accessible place
Be sure to try the various flavors of nang at the bazaar; they are very crispy
Do not carry too much luggage to avoid inconvenience
Taxkorgan County and the Pamir Plateau are at high altitudes, and there may be altitude sickness. It is recommended to prepare oxygen tanks in advance
The scenery along the way is equally beautiful, so take a look out the window
Xinjiang time is 2 hours later than the mainland, please adjust your time accordingly
The above travel guide to southern Xinjiang is for reference only. Specific itineraries and attractions should be adjusted according to personal circumstances. Wish you a pleasant journey!