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Itinerary
Upon your arrival in Urumqi, your driver will greet you at the airport with a sign displaying your name. Enjoy a seamless transfer to your hotel in the city centre, where you can check in and relax. After settling in, the remainder of the day is yours to explore at your own pace. You may choose to stroll through Urumqi’s vibrant streets and immerse yourself in the city’s energetic atmosphere.
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Stay in Urumqi
After breakfast, we set off on a scenic 8-hour drive to Bosten Lake, located about 500 km from Urumqi. The journey itself offers plenty of breathtaking landscapes, with wide open deserts, mountain views, and local villages along the way.
At Bosten Lake, the crystal-clear waters reflect the sky, creating a beautiful and tranquil scene. The area is surrounded by lush greenery, and the lake is home to diverse bird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
We will arrive in Korla in the evening, where you can relax after a long yet scenic drive.
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Stay in Korla
After breakfast, we set off on a scenic drive to Kuqa, located about 350 km away. As we journey through the region, you’ll be treated to stunning landscapes that make the drive an enjoyable part of the day.
Upon reaching Kuqa, our first stop is the remarkable Kuqa Royal Palace. Spanning over 50,000 square meters, this historical site blends Uyghur, Central Plains, and Russian architectural styles. Wander through its grand halls and learn about the royal family’s contributions to unity and national strength. Inside the palace, you’ll also find the Kucha Museum, which provides deeper insights into the area’s fascinating history.
Next, we visit Kuqa Grand Naan City, a vibrant cultural complex. Here, you can explore a range of traditional foods, local crafts, and exhibitions focused on the region’s naan culture. It’s also a lively space for cultural performances and community events.
In the evening, relax and unwind in Kuqa. Feel free to explore the town at your own pace, or simply enjoy a peaceful night at your hotel in preparation for tomorrow’s adventures.
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Stay in Kuqa
After breakfast, we set off for Tianshan Grand Canyon, located in Kuqa County, approximately 350 km (around 5 hours drive) away. The canyon offers a surreal landscape, with dramatic rock formations and spectacular views that highlight the power and beauty of nature. This unique site is a perfect spot for taking photos and experiencing the natural wonders of the region.
Next, we continue our journey to Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, located in Baicheng County. This site is one of China’s most important Buddhist art treasures, with a vast collection of murals and sculptures dating back to the 4th-9th centuries. The caves provide an exceptional opportunity to admire ancient Buddhist art and delve into the rich cultural and spiritual history of the area.
In the evening, we arrive in Aksu for an overnight stay, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s experiences.
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Stay in Aksu
After breakfast, we depart for Kashgar, a 520 km drive (about 7 hours). With a history dating back over 2,000 years to the Western Han period, Kashgar was a key Silk Road hub, connecting East and West. It served as the headquarters for the Tang Dynasty’s Anxi Protectorate and later became a key city in southern Xinjiang under the Qing Dynasty.
We’ll then visit Kashgar Old City, a 5A scenic spot often referred to as a “living museum of folk customs”. The old town is a labyrinth of thirteen main streets and ninety-nine alleys, where you can wander through charming winding lanes, explore traditional houses and shops, and encounter locals dressed in colourful ethnic costumes, creating a captivating scene of daily life.
In the evening, we check into our accommodation in Kashgar.
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Stay in Kashgar
After breakfast, we begin our scenic journey towards White Sand Lake, located about 360 km away (roughly 6.5 hours by car). The mountain slopes are covered with thick white sand, creating an atmosphere that feels both desolate and mysterious. The clear waters of the lake stand in stark contrast to the surrounding desert, offering a stunning and tranquil landscape.
Next, we visit Karakul Lake, situated in Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, Xinjiang. This high-altitude lake is surrounded by lush forests and towering mountains. The emerald green waters of the lake reflect the majestic peaks, creating a breathtaking view. This is a perfect spot for outdoor activities like hiking and camping, where you can fully immerse yourself in the pristine beauty of the natural surroundings.
In the evening, we continue our journey to Tashkurgan for an overnight stay.
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Stay in Tashkurgan
After breakfast, we set off on a drive towards Stone City, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Puli, one of the 36 Kingdoms of the Western Regions. Situated at the crossroads of the ancient Silk Road’s central and southern routes, this site was a strategic junction connecting various paths to the Pamir Plateau. The fortress is perched on a high hill, offering a commanding view. The outer walls are made of overlapping stone mounds, creating the distinctive “Stone City” landscape.
Next, we visit Golden Grassland in Aral, located just outside Tashkurgan. Named after the nearby village of Aral, the area is a beautiful blend of lush grasslands and vibrant landscapes. The Tashkurgan River runs through this region, enriching the land and supporting herds of sheep and cattle. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, the scene is especially stunning at sunset when the golden light bathes the grassland, and white yurts and grazing sheep become even more picturesque.
After a day of exploration, we return to Kashgar for a restful night.
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Stay in Kashgar
In the morning, we start by heading to the Kashgar Old City to experience its opening ceremony. As the first light of day breaks over the misty city, the ancient walls come alive, marking the start of a new day. The winding streets, traditional houses, and vibrant local life paint a vivid picture of Kashgar’s rich cultural heritage.
By midday, we visit the impressive Id Kah Mosque, one of the largest and most significant Islamic sites in Xinjiang. Built in 1442, it showcases stunning Arabic architectural style and remains a key religious landmark.
In the afternoon, we explore the Fragrant Concubine Garden, the final resting place of Ipah Khan, the beloved consort of Emperor Qianlong. Known for her unique fragrance, the garden offers a glimpse into ancient Arabian-style architecture.
Later, we take a flight back to Urumqi, concluding the day’s cultural journey.
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Stay in Urumqi
After breakfast, the day is free for you to relax and reflect on your unforgettable journey through Xinjiang. Depending on your flight time, you may have a chance for some last-minute shopping or a brief stroll around the city.
Your guide will then transfer you to the Urumqi Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of this incredible adventure. We hope you take with you the memories of the stunning landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality of Xinjiang.
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In Kashgar, you can experience the ancient Id Kah Mosque, explore the Fragrant Concubine Garden, witness the opening ceremony of the Old City at dawn, and shop at the bustling Kashgar Bazaar for traditional Uyghur goods and crafts.
The Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves in Baicheng County are a significant Buddhist art site, showcasing murals and sculptures from the 4th to 9th centuries. This UNESCO-listed treasure provides a deep insight into the region's ancient Buddhist culture.
Yes, the tour covers major Silk Road sites, including Kashgar, Kuqa, and Tashkurgan, which were vital trading hubs on the ancient Silk Road. These sites offer a glimpse into the historical and cultural connections between the East and West.
Southern Xinjiang is a great place to shop for unique handmade carpets, silk fabrics, Uyghur jewelry, and spices like cumin and chili. The Kashgar Bazaar and Kuqa Grand Naan City are ideal places to find souvenirs that reflect the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Yes, Southern Xinjiang is generally safe for tourists. The region is a popular destination for domestic and international travelers. However, like any remote destination, it’s always a good idea to follow safety guidelines, respect local customs, and travel with a guide, especially if you are venturing into more remote areas.
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good tour
Hina Suzuki –
Been wanting go Xinjiang since long time, this tour have all places I wanna see!
interesting
Sung Hyun Kim –
I thinked this tour is very interesting, the places looks amazin especially the lake and that palace.
heritage and diversity
Paul Williams –
I appreciate that this tour includes places like Tashkurgan and the Fragrant Concubine Garden. It’s not just about the big sights—it really dives into the region’s heritage and diversity.
Xinjiang is so underrated
Tanner Wilson –
Southern Xinjiang is so underrated. From the oasis towns to majestic lakes like Karakul, this 9-day itinerary really covers the cultural highlights, but wished I could’ve stayed longer. Definitely adding this to my travel wishlist.
mix of ancient history and landscapes
Flynn Miller –
This tour looks incredible! I’ve always wanted to visit the Kizil Caves and explore Kashgar Old City. The mix of ancient history and breathtaking landscapes sounds like a dream trip.