Explore Ancient Silk Road Cities, Desert Landscapes & the Cultural Heart of Xinjiang

A journey to China’s western frontier. Discover ancient cities, desert roads, alpine lakes, snow-covered mountains, and authentic local traditions while exploring the history and beauty of southern Xinjiang.

12 DaysXinjiang, Northwest China

Discover the Ancient Soul of Southern Xinjiang

Travel deep into southern Xinjiang, a region shaped by thousands of years of Silk Road history, where ancient cities, desert landscapes, and diverse cultures meet.

Experience Authentic Uyghur Culture

Meet local communities, explore traditional neighborhoods, taste regional cuisine, and experience the unique customs of southern Xinjiang.

Visit Karakul Lake & Pamir Mountain Scenery

Admire the stunning beauty of Karakul Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect the towering peaks of the Pamir Mountains.

Itinerary

12-Day Southern Xinjiang Adventure Tour

Day 1
Arrival in Urumqi — Gateway to Xinjiang
Welcome to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang and the starting point of your southern Xinjiang adventure.
Upon arrival, your private guide and driver will meet you at the airport or train station and transfer you comfortably to your hotel.
Depending on your arrival time, enjoy some free time to relax or explore the unique atmosphere of this multicultural city.
Urumqi sits between mountains and desert landscapes and serves as the perfect introduction to Xinjiang’s vast geography and cultural diversity.
Day 2
Urumqi → Turpan — Desert Oasis & Ancient Silk Road Heritage
Today, travel from Urumqi to Turpan, an important oasis city along the ancient Silk Road.
Turpan Exploration
Discover the unique landscapes surrounding Turpan, where desert scenery, vineyards, and ancient irrigation systems create a fascinating contrast.
Ancient Silk Road Culture
Explore the historical atmosphere of this legendary trading center and learn how different civilizations once met and exchanged ideas here.
Experience the distinctive climate, architecture, and traditions that make Turpan one of Xinjiang’s most unique destinations.
Day 3
Turpan Cultural Discovery — Ancient Ruins & Desert Landscapes
Continue exploring Turpan’s historical treasures.
Ancient City & Historical Sites
Visit important cultural landmarks that showcase Turpan’s role as a major Silk Road destination.
Explore ancient ruins, traditional architecture, and historical remains that reveal the region’s rich past.
Local Oasis Culture
Experience the lifestyle of communities living in the desert environment.
Discover traditional agriculture, local customs, and the unique relationship between people and the surrounding landscape.
Day 4
Turpan → Korla — Journey Through Xinjiang’s Vast Landscapes
Today, continue your journey deeper into Xinjiang.
Travel through wide-open landscapes where deserts, mountains, and remote countryside create unforgettable scenery.
Korla Experience
Arrive in Korla, an important city in southern Xinjiang known for its location between mountains and desert.
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and experience another side of Xinjiang away from the major tourist routes.
Day 5
Korla → Kuqa — Ancient Kingdoms & Cultural Heritage
Today, travel to Kuqa, a historic city once located on an important section of the Silk Road.
Kuqa Historical Exploration
Discover the cultural heritage of this ancient region, where Buddhist traditions, trade routes, and diverse civilizations once flourished.
Explore the unique atmosphere created by centuries of cultural exchange.
Local Landscape Experience
Enjoy the dramatic scenery surrounding Kuqa, where mountains, valleys, and desert environments meet.
Day 6
Kuqa → Aksu — Natural Landscapes & Southern Xinjiang Culture
Continue your journey through southern Xinjiang toward Aksu.
Southern Xinjiang Scenery
Travel through changing landscapes, from desert areas to mountain regions, experiencing the incredible diversity of Xinjiang’s geography.
Aksu Experience
Discover Aksu, a city known for its natural scenery, agricultural traditions, and important role in southern Xinjiang.
Enjoy the local atmosphere and learn more about life in this fascinating region.
Day 7
Aksu → Kashgar — Arrival in the Silk Road City
Today, travel to Kashgar, one of the most famous cities along the ancient Silk Road.
Kashgar Old Town
Explore Kashgar Old Town, where traditional houses, narrow streets, workshops, and local communities preserve the city’s unique cultural identity.
Walk through historic neighborhoods and experience the authentic atmosphere of this legendary trading city.
Local Culture Experience
Discover the traditions, architecture, and lifestyle that make Kashgar one of Xinjiang’s most fascinating destinations.
Day 8
Kashgar Cultural Exploration — Markets & Traditional Life
Today, continue discovering Kashgar’s rich cultural heritage.
Kashgar Bazaar Experience
Visit traditional markets filled with local products, handicrafts, textiles, spices, and regional specialties.
Experience the lively atmosphere of a historic Silk Road marketplace.
Uyghur Culture Experience
Discover local traditions, cuisine, music, and craftsmanship while learning about the diverse cultural identity of southern Xinjiang.
Day 9
Kashgar → Karakul Lake — Karakoram Highway Adventure
Today, begin one of the highlights of your journey along the spectacular Karakoram Highway.
Karakoram Highway
Travel through one of the world’s most scenic mountain routes.
Enjoy breathtaking views of:
- Snow-covered peaks
- Mountain valleys
- High-altitude landscapes
Karakul Lake
Visit Karakul Lake, a stunning alpine lake located beneath the towering Pamir Mountains.
The reflection of snow-covered peaks on the clear blue water creates one of Xinjiang’s most unforgettable natural scenes.
Day 10
Karakul Lake → Kashgar — Return Through Mountain Landscapes
Enjoy your final views of the Pamir Mountains before returning to Kashgar.
Mountain Scenery Experience
Continue appreciating the dramatic landscapes along the Karakoram Highway.
The journey offers endless views of glaciers, valleys, and remote mountain environments.
Return to Kashgar and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 11
Kashgar → Urumqi — Return to Northern Xinjiang
Today, travel back to Urumqi.
Enjoy the changing scenery as you cross Xinjiang’s vast landscapes.
From mountains and deserts to open plains, experience the incredible scale and diversity of this region.
Upon arrival in Urumqi, enjoy your final evening in Xinjiang.
Day 12
Urumqi Departure — End of Southern Xinjiang Adventure
After breakfast, enjoy your final moments in Urumqi.
According to your departure schedule, your private driver will transfer you to Urumqi airport or train station.
Your southern Xinjiang journey concludes with unforgettable memories of Silk Road history, desert landscapes, mountain scenery, and the rich cultures of western China.