There are multiple options for travel routes from Urumqi to southern Xinjiang. Here are several recommended routes:
1. 8-Day Southern Xinjiang Grand Circle Route:
This route covers multiple highlights of southern Xinjiang and is suitable for travelers who want to explore the region in depth. The route includes Urumqi, Bosten Lake, Korla, Kuqa Grand Canyon, Bayinbrook Grassland, Nalati Grassland, Karakul, Tekes Eight Trigrams City, Kaqizan Folk Village, and other places.
2. 12-Day Southern Xinjiang Circular Route:
This route is relatively more detailed and suitable for travelers with more time. The route arrangement is as follows: Urumqi – Bosten Lake – Korla – Lop Nur Village – Luntai – Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest Park – Tazhong Base – Desert Highway – Minfeng – Hotan – Kashgar – Baisha Lake – Karakul Lake – Kongur Nine Peaks – Tahman Wetland – Tashkurgan – Kashgar – Aksu – Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves – Kuqa王府 (same note as above) – Kuqa – Heshuo – Urumqi
3. 17-Day Southern Xinjiang Grand Circle Route:
This is a more comprehensive tourism route in southern Xinjiang, covering almost all important tourist attractions in the region. The route includes Urumqi, Dahekou, Kuqa Grand Canyon, Kuqa王府 (same note as above), Ancient Qiuci City, Tianshan Tomur Scenic Area, Red Sea Scenic Area, Plateau Populus Euphratica Scenic Area, Aoyitake Glacier Park, Mount Muztagh Ata, Karakul Lake, Kashgar Old Town, and many other places.
In addition, you can also choose specific attractions in southern Xinjiang for in-depth tours according to your interests and time, such as the Taklamakan Desert, Populus Euphratica Forest Park, the Mysterious Grand Canyon of Tianshan, Kuqa王府 (王府 can be translated as ‘王府 Palace’ or omitted if it refers to a specific historic site known by another name internationally), Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, etc.
These attractions all have their own unique characteristics and can fully showcase the natural scenery and cultural charm of southern Xinjiang.
The above routes are for reference only, and the specific itinerary can be adjusted according to personal interests and time. Before traveling, it is recommended to understand the local weather, transportation, and accommodation conditions in advance to ensure a smooth journey.