Why you should make a special trip to Southern Xinjiang
Many first-time visitors to Xinjiang stick to Northern Xinjiang, exploring Kanas, Ili, and the Duku Highway. But if you're interested in China's rich cultural heritage or want to experience a different kind of exotic charm, Southern Xinjiang is where you truly belong.
Southern Xinjiang is a homeland for ethnic minorities including the Uyghurs and Tajiks, with a civilization history spanning over 2,000 years.Kashgar Old CityIt is a key node on the Silk Road and still preserves a complete Uyghur traditional district.Pamir PlateauThis was a necessary route for the ancient Silk Road to cross the Pamir Mountains. The mountain pass, located above 4000 meters in elevation, connects China and Pakistan. On the edge of the Taklamakan Desert,Tarim Populus Euphratica Forestis the world's largest populus euphratica forest, turning golden every 10 month.
Southern Xinjiang offers a more diverse travel experience than Northern Xinjiang. You can sip herbal tea and watch copper artisans at work in Kashgar's Old City, view the snow-capped Muztagh Ata Peak on the Pamir Plateau, ride camels through the desert along the Tarim River, and enjoy grilled eggs and rose jam at Hotan Night Market. This unique blend of culture and nature is something Northern Xinjiang cannot provide.
Top Southern Xinjiang Classic Routes
Route 1: Heading South for 10 Days
Target Audience:Travelers seeking an immersive experience of Southern Xinjiang's culture and natural landscapes
Trip Highlights:Kashgar Old Town, Pamir Plateau, Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest, Desert Highway
Reference Price:5500-7500 per person (excluding major transportation)
Detailed Itinerary:ViewTraveling south for 10 days
This is the most classic in-depth tour route in Southern Xinjiang, connecting its top attractions over 10 days. Starting from Kashgar Old City, you'll visit Muztagh Ata Peak and Karakul Lake on the Pamir Plateau, cross the Taklamakan Desert via the Desert Highway, and end at the Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest to see golden poplars. The itinerary features a well-paced schedule with ample time for each attraction.
Route 2: Hiyou Northern & Southern Xinjiang 14-Day Tour
Target Audience:Travelers who want to complete both Southern and Northern Xinjiang in one trip
Trip Highlights:Northern Xinjiang: Kanas + Southern Xinjiang: Kashgar & Pamir, covering two core regions of Xinjiang.
Reference Price:8000-12000 per person (excluding major transportation)
Detailed Itinerary:ViewExplore North and South Xinjiang for 14 Days
For a complete North and South Xinjiang journey, this route is ideal. Over 14 days, start from Urumqi to explore Kanas and Hemu in Northern Xinjiang, then cross into the Ili River Valley. Head south along the Duku Highway to Bayinbuluke before entering Southern Xinjiang to visit Kashgar and the Pamir Plateau. This itinerary covers more than 80% of Xinjiang's most iconic landscapes.
Route 3: Solo flight over the Great Wall for 15 days
Target Audience:Travelers with ample vacation time seeking a comprehensive experience
Trip Highlights:The most comprehensive Northern and Southern Xinjiang itinerary, covering Keketuohai, Kanas, Hemu, Sayram Lake, Nalati, Bayinbuluke, Kashgar Old Town, and the Pamir Plateau.
Reference Price:9000-13000 per person (excluding major transportation)
Detailed Itinerary:ViewDJI North & South 15 Day Solo Flight
This is the most comprehensive North and South Xinjiang itinerary. In 15 days, it covers all the highlights from Altay to the Pamirs. The pace is well-balanced—no rushing—with ample time at each destination.
Introduction to Core Attractions in Southern Xinjiang
Kashgar Old City
Kashgar Old CityThis is the best-preserved traditional Uyghur neighborhood in China, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. The ancient city features countless alleys, bazaars (markets), and craft workshops where you can witness daily life: copper smiths, naan bakers, and dried fruit vendors. Admission is free; we recommend setting aside half a day to a full day to explore at your own pace.
Kashgar's cuisine is worth trying: lamb in a pot, roasted buns, pigeon soup, rose jam, and yogurt zongzi—each offers a unique taste experience. We recommend relaxing at a century-old tea house in the Old City, sipping herbal tea, and soaking in the city's slow pace.
Pamir Plateau
Pamir PlateauIt is a necessary route on the ancient Silk Road for crossing the Pamir Mountains, with an average elevation above 4000 meters. Departing from Kashgar via the China-Pakistan Highway (G314), the journey passes through...Baisa LakeandKarakul Lakeand gaze into the distanceMuztagh Ata(At 7546 meters, known as the "Father of Ice and Snow"). After arriving at Tashkurgan, you can visit the Stone City ruins and the Jincaotan Wetland.
Note: A border permit is required to visit the Pamir Plateau. You can obtain it at the Kashgar Public Security Bureau's permit hall, where it's issued on-site and free of charge. For detailed guidance, please refer to our guide.Do I need a border pass to visit Xinjiang?。
Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest
Tarim Populus Euphratica ForestThis is the world's largest Populus euphratica forest. The best viewing period is from mid-10 to early 11. Inside the park, a 13-kilometer scenic train line winds through vast stands of Populus euphratica and desert, making it one of the most spectacular autumn sights in southern Xinjiang.
The timing of the Populus euphratica's color change depends on temperature. Generally, 10 month 18 to 10 month 30 is the best viewing period. If you want to see golden poplars, we recommend visiting Southern Xinjiang during this time. For specific viewing dates, please refer to ourBest time to visit the Populus euphratica forests in Southern Xinjiang。
Taklamakan Desert
Taklamakan DesertIt is China's largest desert and the world's second-largest shifting sand desert. The Desert Highway (from Lunan to Minfeng) spans 522 kilometers, cutting through the heart of the desert with endless dunes along the way. You can stop midway for photos and experience the desert's vastness.
For more desert activities, consider camel riding, sandboarding, or off-road adventures. Prices range from 100 to 300 yuan.
Practical Tips for Traveling in Southern Xinjiang
Best time to travel
The best time to visit Southern Xinjiang is 10. The weather is cool and comfortable (daytime temperatures range from 15°C to 25°C), the poplar forests turn golden, and Kashgar's Old City isn't as hot as in summer. If you want to see the poplar forests, we recommend visiting between 10 18 and 10 30.
Dress recommendations
In southern Xinjiang during 10, a long-sleeve shirt or light jacket is sufficient for daytime; bring a thicker jacket for mornings and evenings. Due to the high altitude and low temperatures on the Pamir Plateau, pack a windbreaker or lightweight down jacket. For a detailed packing guide, see ourWhat to wear in Xinjiang from 9 to 10。
Important Notes
- A border pass is required to visit the Pamir Plateau. Obtain it in advance in Kashgar.
- The southern Xinjiang climate is dry. Drink at least 2 liters of water daily, and bring lip balm and moisturizer.
- Southern Xinjiang uses Beijing Time, but actual daylight occurs about 2 hours later than in inland regions.
- Respect local customs. Remove shoes before entering mosques and obtain permission before taking photos.
- Security checks in Southern Xinjiang are strict. Please carry your ID card with you.
How to choose a group tour in Southern Xinjiang
When booking a guided tour of Southern Xinjiang, consider the following:
1. Choose a pure-play tour.Confirm that your itinerary includes no shopping stops or optional paid activities. For guidance on selecting the right tour package, please refer to our recommendations.How to choose a tour group for Xinjiang travel。
2. Choose small groups.Small groups of up to 15 offer a much better experience than large groups with more than 30 people.
3. Confirm accommodation.Request the travel agency to provide specific hotel names and check reviews on Ctrip or Meituan.
4. Check the travel agency's qualifications.Verify that the travel agency holds a valid business license and travel liability insurance. For guidance on how to identify a legitimate agency, refer to our guide.Xinjiang Travel Agency Pitfall Avoidance Guide。
Summary
In-depth Cultural Tour of Southern XinjiangThis is the most unique and culturally rich experience in Xinjiang tourism. The Uyghur culture of Kashgar Old City, the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Pamir Plateau, and the golden autumn hues of the Taklamakan Poplar Forest are landscapes that northern Xinjiang cannot replicate. Choose a well-established group tour for a stress-free journey—save your energy for the scenery and experiences.
To learn more about Southern Xinjiang itineraries, check out ourTraveling south for 10 daysandExplore North and South Xinjiang for 14 Days, or contact a travel consultant for detailed itineraries.
