12D11N Discover Southern Xinjiang

Trip Highlights

• Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Southern Xinjiang, from the world’s longest expressway tunnel and tranquil Bosten Lake to the dramatic Kizilia Red Canyon and vast desert scenery
• Discover the ancient Kucha civilisation through the magnificent Kuqa Grand City, vibrant Kucha music and dance performances, historic streets and lively local markets
• Journey across the Taklamakan Desert to discover the legendary Yotkan Ancient City, enjoy an immersive night show and experience the authentic flavours and lively atmosphere of Hotan Night Market
• Wander through the historic Kashgar Ancient City, discover colourful alleys and traditional Uyghur architecture, enjoy the grand opening ceremony and experience a complimentary traditional costume photoshoot
• Explore the spectacular Pamir Plateau, from the crystal-clear Baisha Lake and majestic Muztagh Glacier Park to the vast Tageman Wetland and an authentic Tajik family visit
• Experience the legendary Panlong Ancient Road and Bandir Blue Lake before journeying to China’s westernmost point through colourful Yadan landscapes, dramatic valleys and remote border scenery

1. 1

   Day 1

   Arrival – Urumqi

   Upon arrival in Urumqi, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel for check-in and rest.

2. 2

   Day 2

   Urumqi – Tianshan Victory Tunnel – Bosten Lake – Korla

   Travel through the world’s longest expressway tunnel, the Tianshan Victory Tunnel, before visiting the scenic Bosten Lake. Continue to Korla for an overnight stay.

3. 3

   Day 3

   Korla – Kuqa

   Visit the iconic Kuqa Grand Canyon and enjoy a traditional Qiuci music and dance performance. Explore Resitan Old Street, Menbazha Market and the atmospheric streets of the ancient Qiuci region.

4. 4

   Day 4

   Kuqa – Aksu

   Travel through the spectacular red-rock landscapes of the Keziliya Grand Canyon and discover the unique geological formations of the Flaming Spring. Continue to Aksu for an overnight stay.

5. 5

   Day 5

   Aksu – Falconry Performance – Aral

   Enjoy a traditional falconry performance in Aksu before continuing to Aral. The activity is for viewing only, with no close-contact interaction.

6. 6

   Day 6

   Aral – Desert Highway – Yotkan Ancient City – Hotan

   Travel along the magnificent Taklamakan Desert Highway and visit the ancient Yotkan Ancient City. Enjoy an immersive evening performance showcasing the history and civilization of the ancient Western Regions. Later, explore Hotan Night Market and taste authentic local delicacies.

7. 7

   Day 7

   Hotan – Kashgar

   Explore the ancient city of Kashgar, including Rainbow Alley and Bag Alley. Wander through the distinctive Uyghur residential streets and enjoy a complimentary traditional costume photo experience in a beautiful ethnic courtyard.

8. 8

   Day 8

   Kashgar – White Sand Lake – Muztagh Glacier Park – Tashkurgan

   Travel along the scenic Karakoram Highway to the crystal-clear White Sand Lake and majestic Muztagh Glacier Park. Continue through the vast Tahman Wetland and visit a Tajik family to experience the unique culture and hospitality of the Pamir Plateau.

9. 9

   Day 9

   Tashkurgan – Panlong Ancient Road – Bandir Blue Lake – Kashgar

   Travel along the famous Panlong Ancient Road and visit the crystal-clear Bandir Blue Lake. Enjoy multiple scenic viewpoints along the way and take your time to admire the spectacular landscapes of the Pamir Plateau.

10. 10

    Day 10

    Kashgar – Westernmost Point of China – Kashgar

    Travel through colourful Yadan landscapes, the unique Shell Mountain and spectacular canyon scenery towards the westernmost point of China. Continue to the Irkeshtam border area and admire the distinctive landscapes of China’s far western frontier.

11. 11

    Day 11

    Kashgar City Tour

    Witness the grand opening ceremony of the ancient city and visit Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Xinjiang. Explore the historic Xiangfei Garden and immerse yourself in the thousand-year-old culture and charm of Kashgar’s ancient city.

12. 12

    Day 12

    Kashgar – Departure

    After breakfast, transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule, concluding your unforgettable Southern Xinjiang journey.

What's Included

• 11 nights hotel accommodation
• 11 breakfasts
• Professional tour guide service
• Attraction entrance ticket fees
• Full board private transportation

What's Not Included

• All round-trip air tickets
• Meals not stated in the itinerary
• Attraction entrance fees not stated in the itinerary
• Personal expenses such as data roaming & souvenirs
• Travel Insurance