Activities & Services:
- Kashgar Ancient City Opening Ceremony
- Visit to Id Kah Mosque
- Visit to Xiangfei Garden
Included: Breakfast
Day 3: Kashgar - Tashkurgan
Embark on a breathtaking drive along the Karakoram Highway, one of the world’s most scenic roads. As you wind through towering mountains and deep valleys, the dramatic landscapes will leave you in awe. Your first stop is the White Sand Lake, a tranquil oasis surrounded by shimmering white sand dunes. The contrast between the blue waters and the white sands creates a surreal and picturesque scene. Next, you’ll visit Karakul Lake, where the majestic Muztagh Ata mountain reflects on the lake’s pristine waters, creating a view that feels almost otherworldly. The stillness of the lake and the grandeur of the surrounding peaks make this a highlight of the day. The day concludes in Tashkurgan County, a charming town bordering Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and Pakistan. The town’s unique blend of cultures and its stunning natural setting make it a perfect place to unwind.
Activities & Services:
- Drive along Karakoram Highway
- Visit White Sand Lake
- Visit Karakul Lake
Included: Breakfast
Day 4: Tashkurgan - Kashgar
Awaken to the beauty of the Pamir Plateau as you explore Alar Golden Grass Wetland Park, a picturesque expanse of grasslands dotted with grazing livestock and framed by distant mountains. The park’s serene atmosphere and stunning views make it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation. Nearby, discover the Stone City Ruins, an ancient fortress that once played a pivotal role on the Silk Road. The ruins, perched on a hilltop, offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and a fascinating window into the region’s storied past. Later, brace yourself for the thrilling Panlong Ancient Road, a winding highway with over 600 S-curves that offers jaw-dropping views of the Pamir Plateau. The road’s dramatic twists and turns, combined with the breathtaking scenery, make it an unforgettable experience. Afterward, you’ll return to Kashgar for the night.
Activities & Services:
- Visit Alar Golden Grass Wetland Park
- Visit Stone City Ruins
- Explore Panlong Ancient Road
Included: Breakfast
Day 5: Kashgar - Hotan
Journey back in time as you visit Shache County, often called the "Kashgar of 50 years ago" for its preserved Uyghur traditions. Here, you’ll explore the Shache Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park, a beautifully restored palace showcasing Uyghur architecture and culture. The park’s vibrant colors, intricate designs, and historical exhibits provide a deep understanding of the region’s heritage. If the park is closed, you’ll enjoy a mesmerizing performance of the Twelve Muqam, a UNESCO-recognized Uyghur musical tradition. The performance, with its haunting melodies and rhythmic dances, is a true cultural treasure. The adventure continues to Hotan, where the lively Hotan Night Market awaits with its grilled lamb skewers, yogurt dumplings, and other local delicacies. The market’s vibrant atmosphere and delicious food make it a must-visit destination.
Activities & Services:
- Visit Shache Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park
- Performance of the Twelve Muqam (if park is closed)
- Explore Hotan Night Market
Included: Breakfast
Day 6: Hotan - Alar
Prepare for an unforgettable journey as you drive along the Taklamakan Desert Highway, the longest desert highway in the world. Traverse the vast Taklamakan Desert, where endless dunes and a unique desert ecosystem create a landscape that feels both desolate and awe-inspiring. The desert’s shifting sands, rugged beauty, and sense of isolation make it a truly remarkable experience. Along the way, you’ll stop to admire the desert’s unique flora and fauna, as well as the occasional oasis that provides a stark contrast to the surrounding barrenness. This drive through one of the world’s largest shifting deserts is a true highlight of the trip. The day ends in Alar, where you’ll rest for the night.
Activities & Services:
- Drive along Taklamakan Desert Highway
Included: Breakfast
Day 7: Alar - Kuqa
Step into the ancient world of Kuqa, once known as Qiuci, a major hub on the Silk Road. Here, you’ll explore the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon (Kizilia), a natural wonder shaped by millions of years of wind and water erosion. The canyon’s red cliffs, narrow passageways, and dramatic rock formations make it a photographer’s dream. As you walk through the canyon, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered another world, where the forces of nature have created a landscape of unparalleled beauty. The play of light and shadow on the canyon walls adds to its mystical atmosphere, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Activities & Services:
- Visit Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon (Kizilia)
Included: Breakfast
Day 8: Kuqa - Korla
Immerse yourself in the golden beauty of the Luntai Tarim Poplar Forest Park, home to one of the world’s oldest and largest poplar forests. The serene landscape, especially in autumn, is a feast for the eyes, with golden leaves creating a magical atmosphere. The park’s tranquil setting, with its winding paths and reflective waters, makes it a perfect place to relax and connect with nature. As you stroll through the forest, you’ll be captivated by the interplay of light and color, as well as the sense of timelessness that pervades the area.
Activities & Services:
- Visit Luntai Tarim Poplar Forest Park
Included: Breakfast
Day 9: Korla - Urumqi
Return to the bustling capital of Xinjiang, Urumqi, where the International Grand Bazaar awaits. As the largest bazaar in the world, it’s a vibrant hub of Islamic culture, offering everything from traditional handicrafts to local delicacies. The bazaar’s lively atmosphere, colorful stalls, and stunning architecture make it a must-visit destination. Here, you can shop for unique souvenirs, sample delicious street food, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Xinjiang. The bazaar’s energy and diversity provide a fitting conclusion to your journey through the region.
Activities & Services:
- Explore International Grand Bazaar
Included: Breakfast
Day 10: Departure from Urumqi
As your journey comes to an end, board a flight from Urumqi to Beijing, taking with you the memories of an unforgettable 10-day adventure through Southern Xinjiang. From the ancient streets of Kashgar to the towering peaks of the Pamir Plateau, and from the vast deserts to the vibrant bazaars, this journey has offered a glimpse into the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of one of China’s most fascinating regions.
Activities & Services:
- Flight from Urumqi to Beijing
Included: Breakfast
