When traveling to southern Xinjiang, you can refer to the following guide:
I. Recommended Travel Route
There are various travel routes in southern Xinjiang that can be selected according to personal time and preferences. Here is a classic 12-day circular tour route of southern Xinjiang
DAY1: Urumqi – Bosten Lake – Korla
DAY2: Korla – Lop Nur Village of罗布 People – Luntai
DAY3: Luntai – Tarim Huyanglin Park – Tazhong Base
DAY4: Tazhong Base – Desert Highway – Minfeng
DAY5: Minfeng – Hotan
DAY6: Hotan – Kashgar
DAY7: Kashgar – Baisha Lake – Karakul Lake – Kongur Tagh Nine Peaks – Tahman Wetland – Tashkurgan
DAY8: Tashkurgan – Kashgar
DAY9: Kashgar – Aksu
DAY10: Aksu – Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves – Kuqa王府 (王府 should be translated as王府 mansion or王府 palace, but here I’ll keep it as is) – Kuqa
DAY11: Kuqa – Heshuo
DAY12: Heshuo – Urumqi
Additionally, there is a 10-day essential self-driving route
and the 8-day conventional tour route of southern Xinjiang
etc. for selection. Tourists can plan according to their actual situation.
II. Best Travel Time
The best travel time in southern Xinjiang is from June to September, when the Duku Highway is open, making it the best period for self-driving tours in southern Xinjiang.
. Tourists can enjoy the magnificent natural scenery and rich ethnic culture of southern Xinjiang. It is recommended to avoid the peak summer vacation period to save on travel costs and enjoy a better travel experience.
III. Accommodation and Dining
During your travel in southern Xinjiang, accommodation and dining are also important factors to consider. It is recommended to book hotels or homestays on platforms like Ctrip in advance to ensure comfortable and safe accommodation. Additionally, the cuisine in southern Xinjiang is also a major attraction, such as whole roasted sheep, hand-grabbed rice, and mutton kebabs. Tourists can taste authentic southern Xinjiang cuisine at local restaurants or night markets.
IV. Precautions
Climate and Clothing: The climate in southern Xinjiang is dry with strong ultraviolet rays. It is recommended to wear long-sleeved clothes and sun-protective clothing, and apply sunscreen. Additionally, due to the large temperature difference between morning and night in southern Xinjiang, appropriate warm clothing should be brought according to the season.
Respect Local Customs: Southern Xinjiang is inhabited by ethnic minorities, so tourists should respect local customs and religious beliefs to avoid offending local taboos.
Safety and Health: Xinjiang has strict security checks, so please be sure to carry your ID card. Additionally, it is recommended to bring common medications in case of unexpected needs. During your travel, pay attention to food hygiene and safety to avoid food poisoning or accidental injuries.
I hope this travel guide to southern Xinjiang can help you with your trip and wish you a pleasant journey!