For a self-guided tour in Xinjiang, you can customize your itinerary according to your interests and time. Here are some suggestions to help you plan an unforgettable trip to Xinjiang:
The recommended travel time for a self-guided tour in Xinjiang is 7-15 days. You can choose the Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop Route, the Southern Xinjiang Route, or an in-depth tour of specific areas, such as the Yili Loop Route and Tianshan Tianchi.
Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop Route
The Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop Route is one of the most classic tourist routes in Xinjiang, covering many famous attractions such as Tianshan Tianchi, Kanas Lake, and Sayram Lake. Here is a 15-day itinerary suggestion for the Northern Xinjiang Grand Loop Route
Day 1: Urumqi-Tianshan Tianchi-Qitai
Day 2: Qitai-Jiangbulake-Fuyun
Subsequent Days: Visit Koktokay, Colorful Beach, Burqin, Hemu, Kanas, World魔鬼城 (Ghost City), Kuitun, Sayram Lake, Fruit Valley, Lavender Base, Yining, and other places in sequence, and finally return to Urumqi.
Southern Xinjiang Route
The southern Xinjiang route focuses on cultural landscapes and ethnic customs. You can visit Kashgar Old Town, Hetian Jade Market, Bayanbulak Grassland, and other places. This route is also suitable for travelers who enjoy in-depth cultural experiences.
In-depth Tour of Specific Areas
If you are particularly interested in a specific area of Xinjiang, you can also choose to take an in-depth tour of that area. For example:
Yili Loop Route: You can visit places such as Sayram Lake, Lavender Manor, Kazanqi Folk Village, and Yizhao Highway to experience the natural scenery and ethnic customs of Yili.
Tianshan Tianchi: As one of the landmark attractions in Xinjiang, Tianshan Tianchi attracts many tourists with its beautiful landscapes. You can take a one-day excursion here or choose a nearby resort for leisure and vacation.
Travel Tips
Transportation: Xinjiang has a vast territory and the distances between attractions are relatively far. It is recommended to rent a car or drive yourself. At the same time, you can also consider taking public transportation such as bullet trains and high-speed trains.
Accommodation: There are various accommodation options in Xinjiang, ranging from star hotels to youth hostels. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure a smooth trip.
Food: The cuisine in Xinjiang is rich and diverse, such as mutton kebabs, baked naan, and hand-grabbed rice. During the trip, you might as well try the local specialty dishes and experience the unique flavor of Xinjiang.
Safety: Xinjiang is a safe tourist destination. However, during the trip, you still need to pay attention to personal property and personal safety. It is recommended to abide by local laws and regulations and respect local customs and habits.
In general, Xinjiang is a place full of charm and mystery. No matter which way of traveling you choose, you can find your own unique experience here. I hope these suggestions can help you plan an unforgettable trip to Xinjiang!