Taking the train for a self-guided tour of Xinjiang is an economical and enjoyable way to travel. Below is a detailed guide and estimated expenses:?
I. Transportation?
Taking the train is the most economical way to travel independently in Xinjiang. You can take a train directly from your city to major cities in Xinjiang, such as Urumqi and Kashgar. The price of train tickets varies depending on the departure location, destination, and seat class. Generally, hard seat tickets range from 300 to 800 yuan, while hard sleeper and soft sleeper prices are higher.?
. For example, the price of a flight from Taiyuan to Urumqi is approximately 468 yuan, while the price of a train ticket departing from Urumqi varies depending on the distance of the journey, such as the train ticket from Urumqi to Bole being only 118 yuan.?
II. Accommodation?
There are various accommodation options in Xinjiang, ranging from luxury hotels to budget hotels and youth hostels. To save expenses, you can choose budget hotels or youth hostels, with overnight accommodation costs generally ranging from 100 to 300 yuan.?
. For example, in Urumqi, you can choose to stay at a hotel near the train station for convenient luggage storage and travel.?
III. Diet?
Xinjiang is one of China’s most distinctive culinary destinations. You can taste local specialties such as grilled mutton kebabs, hand-grabbed rice, and large plates of chicken. The cost of dining in a restaurant is approximately between 50 and 100 yuan per person, and if you want to try local snacks, it is approximately 20 to 30 yuan per person per meal.?
. During your trip to Xinjiang, try some local cuisine and let your taste buds enjoy a journey as well.?
IV. Attractions?
Xinjiang has many famous attractions, such as Mount Tianshan, Kanas Lake, Sayram Lake, Hemu Village, etc. Ticket prices vary depending on the attraction, generally ranging from 50 to 200 yuan.?
. For example, the ticket price for Sayram Lake is 145 yuan for adults, 135 yuan for students, and 37.5 yuan for seniors.?
. Additionally, you can participate in some outdoor activities such as hiking, horse riding, etc., with fees varying based on the difficulty and duration of the activity.?
V. Estimated Total Expenses?
Taking an 8-day itinerary as an example, the estimated total expenses are as follows (for reference only):?
Transportation expenses: Depending on the departure location and itinerary arrangements, it is approximately between 1,000 and 2,000 yuan.?
Accommodation expenses: Calculated at 200 yuan per night (budget hotels or youth hostels), the total for 8 nights is 1,600 yuan.?
Dietary expenses: Calculated at 50 yuan per meal (including snacks and restaurant meals), the total for 8 days is approximately 1,200 yuan.?
Attraction tickets: Depending on the selected attractions and ticket prices, it is approximately between 800 and 1,600 yuan.?
Other expenses (such as shopping, activities): Depending on personal spending habits and needs, it is estimated to be around 500 yuan.?
In summary, the estimated total cost for a self-guided train trip to Xinjiang ranges from approximately 4,300 to 6,900 yuan (excluding personal shopping and additional activity expenses). Of course, specific expenses will also be affected by factors such as personal spending habits, itinerary arrangements, and seasons. Making a budget plan and itinerary arrangements before traveling can make your trip to Xinjiang smoother and more enjoyable.?