8 Days South Xinjiang Tour

Welcome to Hotan! Your adventure begins as your flight touches down in this vibrant city. Upon arrival, our friendly team will greet you at the airport exit with a warm welcome sign and transfer you to your local hotel for check-in. After settling in, the rest of the day is yours to explore the city at your leisure. Take a stroll through the bustling streets, soak in the local atmosphere, and get ready for an unforgettable journey ahead.

After a hearty breakfast, your day kicks off with a visit to the Atlas Silk Workshop, a fascinating place where you'll witness the entire process of silk-making, from cocoon to weaving. The workshop is open daily, and tours are free. Don't forget to check out the showroom, where you can purchase exquisite Atlas silk by the meter or as beautifully crafted scarves, bags, dresses, and more.

Next, we'll take you on a walking tour of the Yuetegan Ancient City, a stunning site painted in white, reminiscent of Moroccan architecture. This ancient city, inspired by the historical state of Hotan, blends traditional and modern aesthetics, offering a perfect backdrop for your travel photos.

In the afternoon, you'll board a train to Kashgar, where more adventures await.

You'll dive deep into the heart of Kashgar on this day. Meet your guide and driver in the hotel lobby, and get ready for a full day of exploration. Your first stop is the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China and a sacred place for local Islamic practices. Around 10:30, you'll witness the Old Town Opening Ceremony, a cultural spectacle that welcomes visitors with traditional performances and a glimpse into the local way of life.

Next, you'll visit the famous Sunday Bazaar, a lively outdoor market where farmers and buyers gather to trade animals. The atmosphere is vibrant, with people arriving by donkey carts, trucks, bicycles, and even on horseback. It's a unique opportunity to observe the art of bargaining in action.

After a delicious local lunch, your tour continues to the Apak Hoja Tomb, a holy site and architectural gem in Xinjiang. The day concludes with a stroll through Handicraft Street, where you'll find dazzling jewelry, handmade pottery, unique musical instruments, and other local treasures.

Special Highlight: Enjoy a Local Tea House Experience, where you can relax and soak in the authentic atmosphere of Kashgar.

Today, you'll embark on a scenic drive along the China-Pakistan Highway, one of the most breathtaking routes in the world. Your first stop is Bulongkol Lake, also known as White Sand Lake, located in the Pamir Plateau. This stunning landscape, with its snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear waters, is a photographer's dream.

Next, you'll visit Karakul Lake, a serene and picturesque spot where the surrounding mountains and grazing livestock are reflected in the tranquil waters. This is also where the Kirghiz herdsmen settle and graze their herds, offering a glimpse into their traditional way of life.

After soaking in the beauty of Karakul Lake, you'll return to Kashgar and board an overnight train to Kuqa, where more wonders await.

Arrive in Kuqa early in the morning, where you'll be greeted and taken for breakfast. Your first stop is the Tianshan Grand Canyon, also known as Keziliya Grand Canyon, a natural wonder shaped by wind and rain over billions of years. The dramatic rock formations and vibrant colors make this a must-see destination.

Next, you'll visit the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves, a treasure trove of ancient Buddhist art. These caves are renowned for their exquisite murals, which are considered some of the most beautiful in Central Asia. The diamond grid pattern is particularly striking, with each grid telling a story of Buddha's reincarnation.

After your visit, you'll be transferred to the airport for a short flight to Turpan. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved rest.

Get ready for another exciting day! Your first stop is Tuyoq Village, the oldest Uighur village in Turpan, nestled in the heart of the Flaming Mountain Canyon. This ancient village, once a holy site for both Buddhism and Islam, is divided into four parts: the Canyon scenery, Thousand Buddha Caves, Maza Tomb, and the old village buildings.

Next, you'll visit the Karez Well, an ingenious ancient irrigation system that has been in use for centuries. This underground network of wells and canals is not only a marvel of engineering but also a refreshing escape from the summer heat.

Your final stop in Turpan is the Jiaohe Ruins, a 2,300-year-old ancient city perched on a cliff between two rivers. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best-preserved ruins of its kind in China, offering a fascinating glimpse into the past.

After your exploration, you'll drive back to Urumqi and visit the Xinjiang International Bazaar, the largest bazaar in the city. Here, you'll find a vibrant market filled with fruits, clothing, crafts, knives, carpets, and more. It's the perfect place to pick up some unique souvenirs.

On the final day, you'll escape the city and head to the breathtaking Heavenly Lake, nestled among snow-capped mountains, blooming wildflowers, and evergreen pine trees. Take a leisurely trek along the lake, or hop on a cable car to explore Maya Mountain for panoramic views of the surrounding peaks.

After soaking in the natural beauty, you'll return to Urumqi and visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum, home to a vast collection of archaeological treasures from the Silk Road and artifacts showcasing Xinjiang's rich minority cultures. This is your chance to delve deeper into the history and traditions of this fascinating region.

Your incredible journey through Xinjiang comes to an end today. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight home. We hope you've enjoyed every moment of your adventure and taken home unforgettable memories. Thank you for traveling with us, and we look forward to welcoming you back soon!