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Southern Xinjiang, encompassing the Tarim Basin, the Xinjiang portion of the Kunlun Mountains, and the Turpan Basin, is located in the heart of the Eurasian continent, furthest from the ocean. Its climate is dry year-round, and it is home to China's largest desert, the Taklamakan Desert.
Southern Xinjiang has been a multi-ethnic region since ancient times. The art and customs of ethnic groups like the Uyghur and Tajik are vibrant and diverse, creating a cultural landscape rich in ethnic characteristics. Hundreds of ancient cities, tombs, and Thousand Buddha Caves, along the southern and central routes of the ancient Silk Road, bear witness to a rich and turbulent history. However, due to climate change and human destruction, it has become a sparsely populated, desolate place. People primarily live and work in oases along the desert's edge.
Temperate continental arid climate;
Suitable for all seasons, best in summer and autumn
Recommended 7-day tour
Bayinbuluke Grassland
The Bayinbuluke Grassland, also known as the Swan Lake Scenic Area, is surrounded by snow-capped mountains and is one of Xinjiang's most important livestock breeding bases. The area boasts lush grass and water, with rivers and lakes dotting the landscape. The grasslands, in turn, are surrounded by mountains, with rolling hills and vast meadows alternating between them, creating a breathtakingly beautiful landscape. The scenic area boasts famous landmarks such as Swan Lake and the Nine Bends, making it a favorite spot for photographers, with the best vantage point being the Basilik Observation Deck.
Kashgar Old City Scenic Area
The residential complex in the core area of the old city is one of the largest adobe building complexes in the world. Adobe architecture itself holds immense historical significance and value, blending the legacy of the Han and Tang dynasties, ancient Rome, and the characteristics of modern Uyghur life. Kashgar Old City boasts a crisscrossing network of streets and alleys, offering a flexible and diverse layout and winding paths leading to secluded areas. Most of the dwellings are constructed of earth, wood, brick, and wood, many of which date back centuries. This is China's only labyrinthine urban district characterized by Islamic culture.
Pamir Plateau
The Pamir Plateau lies in southeastern Central Asia and the westernmost part of China, straddling Tajikistan, China, and Afghanistan. "Pamir" means "Roof of the World" in Tajik. The plateau, with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,700 meters, boasts numerous peaks. The ancient Silk Road's Southern and Central Routes passed through this plateau, extending westward to Western Asia, South Asia, and Europe. A visit to the Pamir Plateau primarily focuses on the northeastern region of Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County, with its Muztagh Ata Peak, Stone City, and the Khunjerab Pass.
Southern Xinjiang has been a crucial part of the Silk Road, connecting China with Central Asia and beyond. It is home to diverse ethnic groups, rich cultural heritage, and historically important trade routes. The region is also known for its unique landscapes, deserts, and mountains, offering both cultural and natural significance.
Southern Xinjiang covers a broad area in the southern part of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. Key access points include airports in cities like Kashgar, Turpan, and Urumqi. Travel between cities can be done via domestic flights, trains, or long-distance buses. Local transport within cities includes taxis and buses.
The region is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is from May to October when the weather is milder and desert or mountain conditions are more favorable for sightseeing.
Entry fees vary by specific attraction: for example, Heavenly Lake around 180 CNY, Flaming Mountains around 50 CNY. Tickets can usually be purchased online via official websites or local travel platforms, or directly at ticket offices.
Booking in advance is recommended for popular tourist spots, ideally 1–2 weeks ahead, especially during peak season or for group tours.
A full exploration of Southern Xinjiang can take 7–14 days depending on the number of destinations, with shorter trips of 3–5 days focusing on specific cities or scenic spots.
Guided tours are available, primarily in Mandarin and English. Some attractions offer audio guides in multiple languages, especially in major tourist spots like Heavenly Lake and Kashgar.
Common itineraries: start in Urumqi (Heavenly Lake), then Turpan (Grape Valley, Jiaohe Ruins), followed by Kashgar (Old Town, Sunday Bazaar, Karakul Lake), and optionally Kanas Lake for extended trips.
Most natural attractions close at sunset. Night bazaars in Kashgar or Urumqi offer cultural experiences. Special tours like desert night camps may be available with local operators.
Peak season is summer (July–August) and national holidays. Visiting in May–June or September–October reduces crowds and offers better weather.
Accessibility varies: city attractions and museums are generally accessible, while deserts, dunes, and mountainous areas may be challenging for elderly or disabled visitors. Children can participate under supervision in safe areas.
Mobile payments like Alipay and WeChat Pay are widely accepted; some remote areas or small markets may require cash.
Local Uyghur restaurants are common in Kashgar, Turpan, and Urumqi. Many hotels also provide dining options, and street food is abundant in bazaars.
Halal food is widely available. Vegetarian and vegan options exist but may be limited; dishes often include vegetables, noodles, and rice.
Accommodations range from budget hostels to mid-range hotels and resorts in Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan, and Kanas Lake. Book in advance during peak season.
Souvenirs include Uyghur handicrafts, carpets, musical instruments, dried fruits, nuts, and traditional clothing.
