Underrated Southern Xinjiang is just as stunning as Northern Xinjiang.

Autumn on the Pamir Plateau is like a masterpiece created by nature, with vibrant and majestic colors. From September to November, the weather is pleasant, and the autumn scenery is at its peak, making it the perfect time to explore this mysterious land! Here's a detailed guide—save it now!

🏞️【Must-Visit Attractions】
1. White Sand Lake: Half desert, half lake. In autumn, the lake's water becomes even more azure, contrasting beautifully with the golden meadows and white sand mountains, creating a dreamlike wonderland.
2. Panlong Ancient Road: Stretching 75 kilometers with over 600 bends, it winds through the mountains like a giant dragon. The saying "After walking all the twists and turns today, life ahead will be smooth" perfectly captures the feeling here. It's a fantastic spot for photography!
3. Muztagh Glacier Park: Get up close to Muztagh Ata, the "Father of Glaciers." Under the autumn sunlight, the glacier emits a mesmerizing blue glow—breathtaking and majestic. It's recommended to ride a horse up and down the mountain, as climbing at an altitude of over 4,000 meters can be exhausting.
4. Taheman Wetland: The largest wetland on the Pamir Plateau. In autumn, the water plants turn golden, rivers meander, and the distant snow-capped mountains combine with the wetland scenery to form a stunning autumn oil painting.
5. Stone City and Golden Grassland: The ancient ruins of Stone City tell tales of history, while the Golden Grassland turns golden in autumn, with herds of cattle and sheep roaming. The sunset view here is breathtaking.

🎈【Suggested Itinerary】
Day 1: Arrival in Kashgar
Day 2: Kashgar - White Sand Lake - Karakul Lake - Stone City & Golden Grassland - Tashkurgan
Day 3: Tashkurgan - Khunjerab Pass - Panlong Ancient Road - Bandir Blue Lake - Tashkurgan
Day 4: Tashkurgan - Taheman Wetland - Tree Tunnel Road - Muztagh Glacier - Kashgar
Day 5: Departure

🚗【Transportation Tips】
Self-driving: Drive along G314 for stunning views, but be mindful of road conditions and safety.
Car rental/shared rides: Find reliable drivers or shared ride groups in Kashgar for a hassle-free experience. You can stop anytime for photos, which is the preferred choice for most tourists.
Within scenic areas: Some attractions require shuttle buses, and you can also opt for horseback riding for deeper exploration.

🍱【Food Recommendations】
1. Yak Meat Hotpot: Free-range yak meat from the plateau is firm and has a rich milky aroma. A bowl of hot soup warms you to the core.
2. Tajik Milk Naan: Baked in stone pits, the crust is crispy with a wheat and milky aroma. Pair it with homemade apricot jam for a sweet and tangy treat.
3. Kuniak Herbal Tea: Made from over a dozen herbs, it warms the stomach and relieves greasiness. A cup on the plateau feels incredibly comforting.

📌【Helpful Tips】
1. Altitude Sickness Prevention: The Pamir Plateau averages over 3,000 meters above sea level. Prepare altitude sickness medication in advance and avoid strenuous activities upon arrival. For Muztagh Glacier, some may experience symptoms of altitude sickness—carry small oxygen bottles as a precaution.
2. Warm Clothing: The temperature difference between day and night is significant. Bring a windbreaker and light down jacket. Choose non-slip hiking shoes.
3. Sun Protection: The plateau's UV rays are strong. Bring SPF50+ sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunglasses to prevent sunburn.
4. Border Permits: Obtain border permits in Kashgar or your place of residence in advance, as many attractions require verification.
5. Other Tips: Signal coverage may be poor in some mountainous areas—download offline maps and carry some cash. Respect local customs, especially during visits to Tajik households.