The travel guide for southern Xinjiang covers travel preparations, travel methods, must-visit attractions, and the best travel times, among other aspects.
I. Travel Preparations
Documents: Necessary documents such as ID cards, driver’s licenses (if self-driving), student IDs (half-price discounts at some attractions), etc., should be carried with you at all times.
Clothing: Prepare comfortable clothing based on the weather forecast. The temperature in southern Xinjiang is relatively higher than that in northern Xinjiang, but the temperature difference is large. You need to prepare summer clothes, thick outerwear, and sun-protective clothing, etc.
Sunscreen Products: Sunscreen, moisturizing lotion, sunglasses, flying scarves, wide-brimmed hats, etc. The sunlight in southern Xinjiang is intense, so sun protection measures must be sufficient.
Medications: Common medications such as cold medicine, stomach medicine, motion sickness pills, band-aids, etc., for unexpected needs.
Others: Electrical items such as cameras, power banks, selfie sticks, as well as snacks and water. The distances between attractions in Xinjiang are long, so be fully prepared.
II. Travel Methods
Self-Drive Tours: Suitable for tourists with ample funds and no time constraints, but you need to bear the costs and plan the itinerary yourself. Pay attention to driving safety.
Group Tours: Economical, reasonably arranged itinerary, no need to worry too much, suitable for first-time visitors to southern Xinjiang.
Shared Car/Chartered Car Tours: Higher freedom, stop and go as you please, moderate prices, and opportunities to meet new friends. It’s a good choice.
III. Must-Visit Attractions
Kashgar: Kashgar Old City, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Mount Mushtag, Pamir Plateau Tourist Area, etc.
Kuqa: Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, Kuqa王府 (王府 can be translated as ‘Royal Palace’ or left as ‘Kuqa Wangfu’ for cultural specificity)
Aksu: Wensu Grand Canyon, Dolan Tribe, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, etc.
Bazhou: Bayinbuluke, Lop Nor Village, Bosten Lake, Luntai Populus Euphratica Forest, etc.
IV. Best Travel Times
The scenery in southern Xinjiang is suitable for all seasons, but the best time to visit is from May to October each year. During this period, the climate is pleasant and the fruits are ripe, making it the best time to experience the charm of southern Xinjiang.
In summary, the travel guide for southern Xinjiang needs to comprehensively consider travel preparations, travel methods, must-visit attractions, and the best travel times to ensure a pleasant and enriching journey.