8-Day Guide from Changsha to Kashgar｜The Scenery and Local Life of Southern Xinjiang Are Etched in My Heart!

Who would understand! Flying direct from Changsha to Kashgar, the moment you land feels like stepping into another world! In 8 days, you can take in the snow-capped Pamir Mountains, the thousand-year-old poplar forests, and the rich culture of Kashgar and Shache. Southern Xinjiang in October is truly, truly, truly worth it!

🌟 8-Day Itinerary for the Lazy Traveler (with Highlights)

1. Day 1-2: Deep Exploration of Kashgar Old Town
Head straight to the old town upon arrival! Colorful earthen walls, carved doors and windows—every step feels like a scene from an exotic movie. Don’t miss the "Id Kah Mosque" to experience the solemnity of faith; in the evening, settle into a "century-old teahouse," order a pot of tea, listen to locals play the dutar, and look up to see the sky painted with sunset clouds—this is the true way to experience Kashgar!

2. Day 3-4: Chasing Scenery on the Pamir Plateau
Drive 3 hours from Kashgar to Taxkorgan. Along the way, "Bai Sha Lake" looks like a sapphire, with lake waters reflecting the snowy mountains—any photo you take needs no filter! You must visit "Muztagh Ata Peak"; standing at its base, you’ll understand the awe of the “Father of Glaciers.”
⚠️ Important reminder: The plateau is very cold in October, so bring a down jacket! After November, the plateau basically closes, so if you want to go, catch the tail end of the peak season!

3. Day 5-6: Cultural Exploration in Shache
Take a 1.5-hour train ride from Kashgar to Shache, known as the “Hometown of the Twelve Muqam”! At night, visit the "Shache Intangible Cultural Heritage Expo Park" to watch an authentic Muqam performance—goosebumps guaranteed when the singing starts. The old town is quieter than Kashgar; elders sit chatting on doorsteps, children run around—full of everyday life vibes.

4. Day 7-8: Luntai Poplar Forest + Return
Spend the last two days at the "Luntai Poplar Forest." In October, the poplars turn fully golden; sunlight filters through the golden-red trees, and walking on the boardwalk feels like stepping into a fairy tale. After enough photos, head back to Kashgar, buy some dried fruits as souvenirs, and wrap up a perfect trip~

🍜 Must-Try Foods for Foodies

Southern Xinjiang’s cuisine is absolutely amazing! You’ll want to keep coming back for every dish:

• Yellow Noodles with Cold Skin: Tangy and spicy, perfect with grilled meat—carb happiness maxed out!

• Beef Noodles: The broth is super fresh, noodles are chewy; add a braised egg and beef for a super satisfying breakfast bowl.

• Grilled Buns & Grilled Gluten: Freshly baked grilled buns have crispy crusts and fragrant lamb filling; grilled gluten is slathered in sauce and deliciously spicy.

• Fruits: Grapes, pomegranates, and apples are all incredibly sweet! Local fruits are naturally sugary, so any purchase is a win, and prices are super cheap~

🏨 Accommodation Recommendations (Best Value for Money)

Stayed in hotels around 300 RMB per night throughout, with great experiences:

• Hotels in Kashgar city around 300+ RMB are very clean and close to the old town, super convenient for outings.

• Highly recommend homestays on the Pamir Plateau! Just over 200 RMB per night, with floor heating for comfort. The hosts are very warm and welcoming, and opening the window reveals snowy mountains—value for money is unbeatable!

✨ Little Tips and Reminders

• October to November is peak season in Southern Xinjiang, with stunning scenery, but be sure to book hotels and train tickets in advance.

• The plateau has big temperature differences; besides a down jacket, don’t forget hats, scarves, and gloves.

• The locals are very simple and kind; it’s polite to greet them before taking photos—they’re very friendly~

The beauty of Southern Xinjiang lies in the grandeur of snow mountains and poplar forests, as well as the lively atmosphere of old towns and teahouses. Flying here from Changsha is truly worth every bit!