Travel Guide to Southern Xinjiang in Late October
Late October is one of the best times to visit southern Xinjiang, especially as the poplar forest enters its best viewing period. The golden leaves contrasting with the blue sky create a breathtakingly beautiful scene.
Transportation Guide
Airplane: Fly directly to Kashgar or Urumqi and transfer to major cities in southern Xinjiang for quick and convenient travel.
Train: Starting from Urumqi, there are multiple trains directly to southern Xinjiang with picturesque scenery along the way.
Car/Chartered Bus: Southern Xinjiang is vast and sparsely populated, with distant attractions. Chartering a bus or carpooling is a good choice, and having a local driver can be more reassuring.
Must-Visit Attractions
Tarim Poplar Forest: In late October, the poplar forest turns golden, making it a paradise for photographers.
Kashgar Old Town: Experience the maze-like streets and rich Islamic culture.
White Sand Lake: The azure lake surrounded by white sand and snow-capped mountains creates a scenic fairyland.
Muztagh Glacier: A year-round glacier with distinct layers that are breathtaking.
Winding Ancient Road: Twisting mountain roads that challenge driving skills while offering breathtaking scenery.
Lop Nur Village of罗布人: It integrates desert, rivers, poplar forests, lakes, and other natural landscapes with folk customs.
Dress Code Suggestions
In late October, the weather in southern Xinjiang gradually cools down. It is recommended to bring windbreakers, hoodies, sweaters, and other warm clothing, especially when heading to high-altitude areas such as the Pamir Plateau, where extra warmth is needed.
Meanwhile, due to the intense sunshine in southern Xinjiang, it is recommended to bring sunscreen, sun hats, and other sun protection items.
Precautions
Shopping: Avoid purchasing items at tourist spots or places with many intermediaries to prevent being overcharged.
Safety: Do not skate or walk on non-open ice surfaces, do not climb rocks, and ensure travel safety.
Itinerary Arrangement: Southern Xinjiang has long routes and scattered attractions, with long travel times that can lead to fatigue. It is recommended to plan your itinerary reasonably and avoid self-driving.
Accommodation: During peak travel times, accommodations may be fully booked. It is recommended to book in advance.
Recommended Itinerary (Example)
Day 1: Urumqi – Korla, visit Lop Nur Village of罗布人
Day 2: Korla – Kuqa, visit the Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon
Day 3: Kuqa – Aksu, visit Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves
Day 4: Aksu – Kashgar, visit Kashgar Old Town
Day 5: Kashgar – Taxkorgan County, visit Stone City, Khunjerab Pass, etc.
(Subsequent itinerary can be arranged according to personal interests and time)
In late October, southern Xinjiang offers breathtaking natural and cultural landscapes that make visitors reluctant to leave. I hope this guide can add some excitement to your trip to southern Xinjiang!