Southern Xinjiang Loop — Experience the Perfect Fusion of Culture and Nature
If Northern Xinjiang is known for its natural landscapes, Southern Xinjiang offers a perfect blend of cultural heritage and desert scenery.Southern Xinjiang LoopIs it for Xinjiang travel?Best RouteThis route covers key attractions including the Kashgar Old City, Pamir Plateau, Taklamakan Desert, and Tarim Poplar Forest. Starting from Urumqi, it passes through Korla, Kuqa, and Aksu to reach Kashgar, then heads south along the Pamir Plateau to Tashkurgan. From there, it continues via Hotan and Minfeng across the Taklamakan Desert before returning to Urumqi. The total distance is approximately 5000-6000 kilometers; we recommend allocating 10-15 days for this journey.
Southern Xinjiang is the heart of Uyghur culture. Kashgar Ancient City serves as a living museum of this heritage, while attractions like the Id Kah Mosque, Kashgar Grand Bazaar, and the Mausoleum of Princess Xiangfei showcase its distinct exotic charm. The Pamir Mountains form part of the "Roof of the World," where sites such as Muztagh Ata Peak, Karakul Lake, and the Tashkurgan Stone City offer breathtaking views. The Taklamakan Desert, the world's second-largest shifting desert, offers an unforgettable experience when traversed via the desert highway.
This article provides a detailed overview covering route planning, attraction introductions, itinerary scheduling, and practical tips.Xinjiang Travel Guide: Best Route – Southern Xinjiang Loopin every aspect.
Best Itinerary for the Southern Xinjiang Loop
Classic Southern Xinjiang Loop (10-12 days)
This is the most popular Southern Xinjiang loop route, as follows:
Day 1:Urumqi → Korla →Bosten Lake
Day 2:Korla →Tarim River→ Kuqa
Day 3:Kucha →Kucha Grand Canyon→ Aksu
Day 4:Aksu →Wensu Grand Canyon→ Kashgar
Day 5:Kashgar →Kashgar Old City、Id Kah Mosque、Kashgar Grand Bazaar
Day 6:Kashgar →Baisa Lake → Karakul Lake → Muztagh Ata→ Tashkurgan
Day 7:Tashkurgan →Stone City、Pamir Plateau→ Kashgar
Day 8:Kashgar →Xiangfei Garden→ Hotan
Day 9:Hotan → Minfeng → CrossTaklamakan DesertHighway → Korla
Day 10:Korla → Urumqi
Deep Southern Xinjiang Loop (13-15 days)
If time permits, consider adding the following to the classic loop:
• Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest(Late to mid-10)
• Xiatagao Ancient Trail(Hiking Destination)
• Add Hetian Jade Market Experience
• Add desert camping experience
Detailed Guide to Key Attractions on the Southern Xinjiang Loop
Kashgar Old Town: The Living Fossil of Uyghur Culture
Kashgar Old CityA core attraction of the Southern Xinjiang Loop and the most culturally rich area in Xinjiang. The ancient city features maze-like alleys, traditional Uyghur homes, and a bustling bazaar, all radiating an authentic exotic charm.Id Kah MosqueOne of China's largest mosques.Kashgar Grand BazaarA great place to experience local life.
Pamir Plateau — The Roof of the World
Pamir PlateauAt an average elevation of over 4000 meters, it is the most spectacular natural landscape in southern Xinjiang. Traveling south from Kashgar along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway (G314), you will pass through...Baisa Lake、Karakul Lake, finally reachingMuztagh AtaBelow. Muztagh Ata stands at 7546 meters and is known as the "Father of Ice Mountains," a sacred destination for mountaineering enthusiasts.
Taklamakan Desert – the world's second-largest shifting sand desert
Taklamakan DesertCovering an area of approximately 33 square kilometers, it is the world's second-largest shifting desert. Traveling through the Desert Highway (Luntai–Minfeng) offers an unforgettable experience, with breathtaking sand dunes, populus euphratica forests, and desert oases along the way. From mid to late 10,Tarim Populus Euphratica ForestTurn into a golden ocean; it's the best time for photography.
Kuche Grand Canyon – A Spectacular Red Geological Formation
Kucha Grand CanyonAlso known as the Heavenly Mountain Mystery Grand Canyon, its red rock walls display varying hues under sunlight. The canyon is winding and deep, leaving visitors in awe.
Recommended Premium Route: Southern Xinjiang Loop
Love in Pamir: In-depth Southern Xinjiang Tour - 9 Days
9-day immersive journey through southern Xinjiang's culture and natural beauty, featuring key sites like Kashgar Old Town, the Pamir Plateau, Muztagh Ata Peak, and Karakul Lake.View detailed itinerary →
DJI North & South 15 Day Solo Flight
For a single trip spanning northern and southern Xinjiang, the 15-day Grand North-South route is your best choice. From Kanas in the north to Kashgar in the south, experience Xinjiang's most breathtaking scenery all at once.View detailed itinerary →
Best time to travel the Southern Xinjiang Loop
4-5:In spring, temperatures rise in southern Xinjiang and apricot blossoms bloom (Apricot Blossom Village on the Pamir Plateau).
6-8:Summer brings high temperatures but dry air, making it ideal for high-altitude travel. The region is filled with the sweet aroma of fruits.
9-10:Autumn offers pleasant temperatures. The Populus euphratica forest turns yellow in late 10, marking the best viewing period.
11-3:In winter, southern Xinjiang is relatively warm, but the Pamir Plateau may be inaccessible due to heavy snow.
Practical Guide to the Southern Xinjiang Loop
Transportation
Self-driving:The Southern Xinjiang Loop covers approximately 5000-6000 km with generally good road conditions. On the Desert Highway, monitor your fuel level and fill up in advance.
Charter Car:Recommended for 4-6 people: carpool or private hire at approximately 800-1200 USD per day.
Group Tour:Choose a pure-play small group tour for a hassle-free experience.Xinjiang China International Travel ServiceOffer premium routes in Southern Xinjiang.
Important Notes
• The Pamir Plateau is at high altitude (3000-4000 meters); watch out for altitude sickness.
• Southern Xinjiang has a dry climate; remember to moisturize and protect from the sun.
Respect Uyghur customs, traditions, and religious beliefs
• Shoes must be removed to enter the mosque. Women are required to wear a headscarf.
• Gas stations are scarce along the desert highway; fill up in advance.
• Bring plenty of water and food
Conclusion
The Southern Xinjiang Loop is a premier route for tourism in Xinjiang.Best Routeof the region, seamlessly blending cultural heritage with breathtaking natural scenery. From the exotic charm of Kashgar Old Town to the majestic snow-capped peaks of the Pamir Plateau, from the vast expanse of the Taklamakan Desert to the golden sea of poplar forests, every destination invites you to experience it firsthand. For more details on Southern Xinjiang loop itineraries, visitRoute ListPage.
