Xinjiang Southern Region Travel Guide Self-Guided Tour
I. Best Travel Time
The best travel time for southern Xinjiang is from October to November each year. At this time, southern Xinjiang’s autumn scenery is picturesque, with places like the Tarim Hu Yang Forest, Tian Shan Mystic Grand Canyon, and Kashgar Old Town being popular destinations for autumn tourism. Tourists can fully experience a golden, fairy tale-like world.
II. Must-Visit Attractions Recommendations
1. Natural Scenery
Tarim Hu Yang Forest: The world’s largest Hu Yang forest. During the golden autumn season, the Hu Yang forest turns golden yellow, creating a spectacular sight.
Tian Shan Mystic Grand Canyon: One of China’s ten most beautiful grand canyons, representative and mysterious.
Taklamakan Desert: One of China’s five most beautiful and mysterious deserts, with a desert highway passing through it, providing a unique experience.
2. Cultural Landscapes
Kashgar Old Town: The only labyrinthine urban neighborhood in China featuring Islamic culture, filled with an exotic atmosphere.
Lop Nor Village: A mysterious village where you can learn about the unique local folklore and culture.
3. Distinctive Routes
Panlong Ancient Road: Also known as the Waqia Highway, it has over 600 S-bends, resembling a giant dragon coiled on the Kunlun Mountains, providing an excellent self-driving experience.
139 Hu Yang Secret Self-Drive Highway: It passes through vast deserts, the Tarim River, and the most primitive ethnic minority villages, making it a Hu Yang scenic avenue.
III. Travel Tips
Documents to carry: Always carry your ID card and keep it in an easily accessible place.
Clothing preparation: Prepare comfortable clothing based on the weather forecast, and you can bring a bright-colored dress for photos.
Sunscreen measures: The ultraviolet rays in southern Xinjiang are strong, so it is recommended to bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and other sunscreen items.
Altitude sickness: Tag County and the Pamir Plateau have high altitudes, so altitude sickness may occur. It is recommended to prepare an oxygen tank in advance.
Time adjustment: Xinjiang time is 2 hours later than mainland China, so please adjust your schedule accordingly
IV. Recommended Itinerary
Below is a recommended 6-day southern Xinjiang loop route for tourists’ reference:
Day 1: Depart from Urumqi and head to Kashgar.
Day 2: Explore glaciers and enjoy the scenery of the Pamir Plateau.
Day 3: Stroll through the ancient city of Kashgar and feel the exotic atmosphere.
Day 4: Head to the Hu Yang Forest in Luntai to admire the most beautiful autumn scenery.
Day 5: Visit the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, the盘龙 Grotto Road, and other distinctive routes.
Day 6: Return to Kashgar and conclude your pleasant journey
Hope this self-guided travel guide for southern Xinjiang can provide assistance for your trip