Traveling in southern Xinjiang is indeed a very good choice, as it boasts numerous breathtaking natural landscapes and a profound historical and cultural heritage. Karakul Lake, Baisha Lake, the盘龙 Gully (Winding Road), Kashgar Old Town, and other places in southern Xinjiang are must-visit attractions.
Karakul Lake is praised as a dreamlike fairyland, with its mirror-like lake surface reflecting the Mustag Ata Mountain, making it an excellent spot for photography. The ticket price is moderate, with high cost-effectiveness, and the scenery along the way from Kashgar, whether by self-drive or chartered bus, is also breathtaking.
Baisha Lake is the essence of the Pamir Plateau, with clear lake water and distant mountains forming a stunning picture scroll. Especially in the morning or at dusk, when the light is soft, it is easier to take good photos. Staying at a local homestay here also allows you to experience the local customs.
The盘龙 Gully (Winding Road) is famous for its challenge of more than 600 turns, each of which offers a new view. It is recommended to visit the Big Winding Road and Small Winding Road viewpoints for photos, where you can capture spectacular road views. However, if you are driving there yourself, be aware of altitude sickness and take cold prevention measures.
Kashgar Old Town is a thousand-year-old city. Walking down its streets, you can feel the passage of time and the strong historical and cultural atmosphere. Khan Bazaar and Impression Street within the old town are both worth trying, while baked stuffed bun and meat in a cup are must-try local delicacies.
In addition, southern Xinjiang also boasts many scenic spots worth visiting, such as the Mustag Ata Glacier No. 4 hiking, Zepu Populus euphratica Forest, Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, Wensu Grand Canyon, Bosten Lake, Tarim Populus euphratica Forest, the 139 Secret Populus euphratica Highway, and the Baicheng Kizil Red Stone Forest.
. These scenic spots each have their own unique characteristics, whether natural scenery or cultural landscapes, all of which make people reluctant to leave.
In general, traveling in southern Xinjiang not only allows you to take in the magnificent natural scenery but also to feel the profound historical and cultural heritage. Whether you are traveling by self-drive or with a tour group, you can find your own travel joy in southern Xinjiang.