Starting from Urumqi (Wushi), there are multiple exciting travel routes and attractions to choose from for a trip to southern Xinjiang. Here are some suggestions:
Core recommended route:
D1: Urumqi – Northern Section of the Duku Highway – Nalati
D2: Nalati – Bayinbuluk
D3: Bayin – Southern Section of the Duku Highway – Tianshan Grand Canyon – Kuqa
D4: Kuqa – Kashgar
D5: Kashgar – Northern Shore of Baisha Lake – Muji Volcano – Eighteen Arhats Peaks – Karakul Lake – Tashkurgan County
D6: Tashkurgan County -盘龙 Ancient Road – Pandir Blue Lake – Golden Grass Beach – Stone City – Tahman Wetland – Tashkurgan County
D7: Tashkurgan County – Muttagh Glacier Park – Oytag Red Valley – Kashgar
D8: Kashgar – Colorful Yadan Landform – Conch Mountain – Intersection of Tianshan and Kunlun Mountains – Westernmost Point of China – Smkhana Village – Irkeshtam Port – Kashgar
Other recommended attractions and activities:
Pass by the Dabancheng Wind Power Station to feel the grandeur of nature.
Explore the China’s Dead Sea Salt Lake and experience its mystery and beauty.
Visit the Lop Nur Village, as if being in a secluded paradise in the desert.
Experience the historical significance at the Kuqa王府 and taste authentic Xinjiang naan bread.
Head to the Wensu Grand Canyon to appreciate the magnificent works of nature.
Stroll through the Old Town of Kashgar, as if traveling back in time to the Western Regions of a thousand years ago, experiencing authentic local customs.
Visit Karakul Lake to admire the magnificent scenery of Mount Mushtag.
Explore the Stone City in Tashkurgan County to feel the historical charm of the Silk Road.
Visit the Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves to appreciate the artistic charm of the mural paintings in the grottoes.
Travel Tips:
Urumqi Diwopu Airport is close to the downtown area and has convenient transportation.
Admission to the Xinjiang Museum is free, but it is closed on Mondays. It is recommended to plan ahead.
The Id Kah Mosque in Kashgar is a famous attraction, and the nearby night market is also worth visiting.
A border pass is required to visit border areas such as the Pamir Plateau.
A trip to southern Xinjiang not only allows you to appreciate the magnificent natural scenery but also offers an in-depth experience of the local culture and history. I hope these suggestions can help you plan an unforgettable journey to southern Xinjiang!