The tourist routes in southern Xinjiang are very rich. The following is a classic southern Xinjiang tourist route that covers many famous attractions and unique scenery in southern Xinjiang:
Urumqi – Dushanzi Grand Canyon – Duku Highway – Nalati Grassland – Bayinbuluke – Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon – Kuqa – Kashgar – Tashkurgan County -盘龙 Ancient Road – Kashgar Old Town.
The specific itinerary can be referenced as follows:
Departing from Urumqi, head to Dushanzi Grand Canyon to feel the magnificent work of nature.
Proceed along the Duku Highway, which is known as the "Most Beautiful Highway in Tianshan". Along the way, you can enjoy diverse landscapes such as snow-capped mountains, grasslands, canyons, and forests.
Arrive at Nalati Grassland to experience its vastness and grandeur, and then head to Bayinbuluke to admire the beautiful lakes and grassland scenery.
Next, head to the Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon to explore its depth and mystery. Then arrive in Kuqa to visit Kuqa王府 (王府 means royal palace) and Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, and experience the historical culture of southern Xinjiang.
Drive to Kashgar, an important city in southern Xinjiang, which boasts rich historical and cultural heritage and unique ethnic customs. In Kashgar, you can visit the night market and taste local cuisine.
Departing from Kashgar, head to Tashkurgan County, and along the way, you can enjoy the magnificent scenery of the Pamir Plateau, including famous attractions such as Mount Muztagh Ata and Karakul Lake.
In Tashkurgan County, you can challenge the盘龙 Ancient Road, a winding mountain road, but the scenery along the way is definitely worth a try.
Finally, return to Kashgar Old Town to feel the local cultural atmosphere at a slow pace, and visit famous attractions such as Xiangfei Garden and mosques.
This route covers the natural scenery, historical culture, ethnic customs, and many other aspects of southern Xinjiang, allowing tourists to fully experience the charm of southern Xinjiang. Of course, the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and time.