Starting from Urumqi for a southern Xinjiang tour, there are several recommended itineraries. Here is an overview of a classic 8-day 7-night Grand Southern Xinjiang Loop itinerary.
DAY 1: Start from Urumqi with the first stop at the International Bazaar to feel exotic flavors; then visit Lingguan Alley to appreciate Xinjiang’s characteristics. In the evening, visit the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region Museum to uncover historical secrets.
DAY 2: Depart from Urumqi and travel through Bayingolin Mongolian Autonomous Prefecture to arrive in Korla, enjoying natural scenery along the way.
DAY 3: Dive deep into the Tarim Poplar Forest Park and then head to Kuqa County to explore the mysteries of the Aksu region.
DAY 4: Challenge the Tomur Grand Canyon in Xinjiang’s Tianshan Mountains and experience the awesome power of nature.
DAY 5: Head to the Kashgar region to explore its history and culture.
DAY 6: Explore Baisha Lake, Mustag Atash Glacier Park, Aral Golden Grass Beach, and Kashgar Ancient Stone City, enjoying picturesque scenery.
DAY 7: Visit the盘龙古道 (Winding Ancient Road), Pandier Blue Lake, and Karakul Lake, reaching the pinnacle of southern Xinjiang’s beauty.
DAY 8: The itinerary ends with a return to Urumqi or a direct flight back from Kashgar depending on your flight schedule.
In addition, the 10-day Grand Southern Xinjiang Loop itinerary is also highly recommended.
, this itinerary is more in-depth and detailed, covering more distinctive attractions and experiences in southern Xinjiang, such as Lop Nur Village, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Wensu Grand Canyon, and Bachu Red Sea Scenic Area.
If you are pressed for time, you can also opt for a 4-day tour to cross the Taklamakan Desert and feel the unique charm of southern Xinjiang.
Or choose a one-day tour from Urumqi to Turpan, the Grape Manor, and the Kanerjing Irrigation System, to experience Xinjiang’s grape culture and the Kanerjing engineering marvel.
No matter which itinerary you choose, you can appreciate the magnificent scenery of nature and the profound cultural heritage on the vast land of southern Xinjiang. It is recommended to choose the itinerary that best suits your personal interests and schedule.