There are multiple options for a 10-day southern Xinjiang tour route. Below is one recommended itinerary**:
Day 1: Airport pick-up in Urumqi, check into the hotel, adjust to the time difference, and in the evening, visit nearby Grand Bazaar to experience Xinjiang’s unique cuisine and Uyghur culture
Day 2: Depart from Urumqi to visit Tianshan Tianchi to admire the stunning scenery of clear water surrounding snow-capped mountains
Or choose to visit Bosten Lake to feel the beauty of the lake and mountains
Day 3: Head to Kuitun or Korla, with options to enjoy magnificent scenery along the way, and visit local attractions upon arrival
Day 4: Explore Bayinbrook Grassland or Tarim Poplar Forest to feel the grandeur and mystery of nature
If choosing Bayinbrook, you can also visit Tianshan Grand Canyon
Day 5: Visit Kuqa王府 (王府 means mansion or palace) and Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves to learn about historical relics and ethnic culture
Day 6: Cross the Taklamakan Desert to head to Hotan, and experience the spectacular Kunlun Sky Road and Kunlun Sacred Land
Day 7: Head to Kashgar, with options to visit attractions like Restan Street along the way, and visit Kashgar Night Market in the evening
Day 8: Explore Kashgar Old Town to feel its exotic charm, and also visit places like Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, and Mount Muztagh to admire the beauty of the plateau, snow-capped mountains, and lakes
Day 9: Visit the盘龙 (Winding) Ancient Road to experience its magical, mysterious, magnificent, and exciting scenery, then return to Kashgar Old Town
Or choose to visit Taxkorgan County to see attractions such as Stone City
Day 10: Free time in Kashgar to taste local cuisine such as grilled meat, whole roasted lamb, pilaf, etc., followed by airport transfer for return trip
This itinerary covers multiple famous attractions and unique experiences in southern Xinjiang, but the specific schedule can be adjusted appropriately according to personal interests and time.