There are various route options for traveling in southern and northern Xinjiang, which can be selected based on personal time and interests.
Recommended Routes in Southern Xinjiang:
Grand Southern Xinjiang Loop: Approximately 4,800 kilometers in total, requiring about 15 days. This route covers the magnificent scenery of the Pamir Plateau, Kunlun Mountains, Tarim Basin, as well as adventurous attractions such as the盘龙 Ancient Road, Tasha Ancient Road, and Taklamakan Desert Highway. Must-see attractions also include the Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, Kashgar Old City, Muji Crater, Baisha Lake, and Zepu Golden Populus euphratica Forest.
8-day route of Southern Xinjiang Culture + Populus euphratica Forest: Starting from Urumqi, passing through Korla, Lop Nur Village, Tarim Populus euphratica Forest Park, Mysterious Tianshan Grand Canyon, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Old Kashgar City, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, etc., and finally arriving at Taxkorgan County. This route combines natural scenery and cultural customs, especially the magical charm of the Populus euphratica forest that should not be missed.
Recommended Routes in Northern Xinjiang:
Grand Northern Xinjiang Loop: Approximately 5,000 kilometers in total, requiring about 15 days. This route connects famous highways such as the Duku Highway and Yizhao Highway, as well as scenic spots such as Yili River Valley, Xiata Grassland, Karakun Grassland, Nalati, Bayinbrok, Koktokay, Hemu Village, and Kanas. The best travel time is from June to October, allowing you to enjoy diverse landscapes such as grasslands, flower fields, snow-capped mountains, and autumn colors.
8-day route of Kanas + Hemu + Sayram Lake in northern Xinjiang: Starting from Urumqi, passing through Colorful Beach, Hemu, Kanas, World Devil City, Sayram Lake, and Dushanzi Grand Canyon, etc. This route highlights the tranquility and beauty of Kanas and Hemu, while combining the clarity and tranquility of Sayram Lake.
In addition, there are special routes such as the Duku Highway, which can be selected based on personal interests and time. Both southern and northern Xinjiang offer abundant natural landscapes and cultural customs waiting for you to explore.