Tour Highlights

16-Day In-Depth Overview of Northern and Southern Xinjiang: A Comprehensive Journey Through Snow-Capped Mountains, Lakes, Deserts, and the Ancient Silk Road

Xinjiang is a vast and diverse land, boasting countless scenic wonders. This meticulously planned 16-day itinerary encompassing both Northern and Southern Xinjiang, showcasing the region's magnificent natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, capturing the most classic facets of Xinjiang in one trip.

The Northern Xinjiang section explores Tianchi Lake, the Ahe Highway, Kanas, Baihaba, and Hemu Village, where snow-capped peaks, lakes, forests, and grasslands intertwine in a pristine, fairytale-like landscape. The Southern Xinjiang section delves into Kuqa, Hotan, Shache, the Pamir Plateau, and Kashgar Old City, experiencing the civilization of the Silk Road, the diverse ethnic cultures, and the breathtaking scenery of the plateau.

The itinerary features selected iconic attractions such as Sayram Lake, the Devil City, the Tarim River Poplar Forest (seasonal only), the Panlong Ancient Road, and Tashkurgan Stone City, paired with comfortable transportation and quality accommodations, ensuring a relaxed and worry-free long-distance journey. This is an in-depth tour designed for those who want to "understand Xinjiang in one go."

A Journey Through Xinjiang's Wonders: A Must-Visit Experience in Northern and Southern Xinjiang

Traverse snow-capped mountains, lakes, deserts, and ancient cities, collecting must-see landscapes of Xinjiang.

This journey spans both Northern and Southern Xinjiang, showcasing the most representative natural wonders and Silk Road culture. Experience the epic scenery captured by photographers, fully immersing yourself in Xinjiang's vastness, purity, and awe.

**Must-Visit Landmarks: Epic Scenery Through the Lens**

Kanas, the "Garden of the Gods"
Stroll through Fairy Bay, Moon Bay, and Crouching Dragon Bay, enveloped in morning mist, like a fairyland descended to earth.

Hemu Village, "China's Most Beautiful Autumn Colors"
Log cabins, cooking smoke, horses grazing, birch forests intertwined with morning mist—every snapshot is a masterpiece.

Tarim Poplar Forest, "King of Desert Poplars"
Millennial golden poplar forests, showcasing a magnificent dialogue between life and the desert (autumn only).

Karakul Lake, "Snow-capped Mountains and Blue Lakes"
Muztagh Ata and Kongur Tagh peaks reflected in the lake's surface—a pure, high-altitude paradise.

Silk Road Culture | Immerse Yourself in a Thousand Years of Civilization
Intangible Cultural Heritage: Shache Twelve Muqam Performance
Experience the most representative music and dance culture of the Uyghur people.

The Ancient Kingdom of Kucha: Kucha Royal Palace
Step into this important Silk Road town and savor the cultural heritage where Western Region history and Buddhist art blend.

⭐ Exclusive Experiences | All-Inclusive Off-the-Beaten-Path Activities
Complimentary travel photography in Hemu and Kashgar Old City, creating unique Xinjiang memories.

A He Highway Trekking: See forests, grasslands, and snow-capped mountains in all four seasons in one day.

Drive along the 600-bend Panlong Ancient Road, a popular scenic route, and challenge yourself on the most breathtaking plateau road.

Tuvan Family Visit Experience: Get up close and personal with the warmth and wisdom of nomadic life.

 

Day 1: Various Destinations - Urumqi (URC)

Arrive in Urumqi, the world's most inland city, a geographical center of Asia and a crucial stop on the ancient Silk Road's northern route. Begin your panoramic tour of northern and southern Xinjiang (airport to city center approx. 30 km).

Hotel: Four Points by Sheraton, George Morandi Hotel, or similar 5-star hotel

 

Day 2: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Fuyun County (approx. 600km)
Visit Tianchi Lake in the Tianshan Mountains, exploring attractions such as the Stone Gate Line and the Sea-Stabilizing Needle, admiring the snow-capped peaks reflected in the lake and the secluded beauty of forests and water. Afterwards, head to Fuyun County, enjoying the expansive scenery of northern Xinjiang along the way.

[Meals] Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Nine Bowls and Three Rows of Dishes; Dinner: Xinjiang Specialty Dishes

Hotel: Vienna Hotel, Marriott Holiday Inn, or 4-star equivalent

 

Day 3: Fuyun - Kegotohai - Altay (approx. 400KM)

Explore the "Green Jungle" and "Blue River Bend" of Kegotohai, stroll through the gentle birch forest, gaze upon the majestic Shenzhong Mountain, and experience the mineral wonders of this extremely cold region and the tranquility of the Altay Mountains. Enjoy a special whole fish banquet in the evening, followed by a free walk in Altay city.

[Meals] Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Luhua Chicken; Dinner: Whole Fish Banquet

Hotel: Lanfeng Hotel, Fairy Tale Border Town Hotel, Shangshi Hotel, or 4-star equivalent

 

Day 4: Altay - Ahe Highway - Hemu (approx. 220KM)

Traverse the Ahe Highway, connecting diverse landscapes including the Gobi Desert, canyons, forests, and snow-capped mountains, capturing cinematic moments at every turn. Arrive in Hemu, the "Cloud Tribe," and check into a log cabin overlooking the pristine scenery of flowing streams, grazing horses, and forests. Enjoy a complimentary photo shoot in the ancient city, capturing the beauty of the mountains and countryside.

【Meals】Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Specialty Mixed Noodles; Dinner: Hemu Hot Pot

Hotel: Xuanyuan Mountain Villa, Yuyuan Mountain Villa, Yexu Xunhe Courtyard, or similar

 

Day 5: Hemu - Kanas - Baihaba / Kanas (approx. 130KM)

Step into the "Fairyland on Earth," Kanas, and hike through Wolong Bay, Moon Bay, and Fairy Bay, immersing yourself in the stunning lake and mountain scenery and tranquil forests. Visit a herder's home, enjoy traditional Tuva performances such as throat singing and black horse riding, and experience the simple and warm hospitality of the Tuva people. Afterwards, transfer to a shuttle bus to the border village of Baihaba or stay in the scenic area for a more in-depth exploration.

[Meals] Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Xinjiang Specialty Dishes; Dinner: Tuva Style Dinner

Hotel: That Year's Memories, Linhu Xiaozhu, Ruixing Mountain Villa or similar

 

Day 6: Baihaba / Kanas - Devil City - Urho (approx. 400KM)

Visit Baihaba, known as the "First Village in Northwest China," and enjoy the magnificent scenery and village charm of the China-Kazakhstan border. Afterwards, head to Urho Devil City to explore the bizarre mud sculptures sculpted by wind and sand erosion and experience the unique atmosphere of howling winds.

[Meals] Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Cold-water Fish; Dinner: Xinjiang Specialty Pilaf

Hotel: Urho He Yi Li Cheng Huating Hot Spring Hotel or 5-star or similar

 

Day 7: Urho - Urumqi - International Grand Bazaar (approx. 400KM)

Cross the Gurbantunggut Desert and the edge of the Junggar Basin, passing through the new oil city of Karamay before returning to Urumqi. In the afternoon, visit the Erdaoqiao International Grand Bazaar, immersing yourself in Islamic culture, distinctive architecture, and bustling commercial atmosphere. In the evening, savor Xinjiang cuisine and enjoy ethnic song and dance performances.

【Meals】Breakfast: Included Lunch: On your own Dinner: Special Xinjiang cuisine

Hotel: Four Points by Sheraton, George Morandi Hotel, or similar 5-star hotel

 

Day 8: Urumqi - Bosten Lake - Korla (approx. 530KM)

Cross the Gangou Pass, the geographical dividing line between northern and southern Xinjiang, and visit Bosten Lake, China's largest inland freshwater lake, admiring the ecological landscape where snow-capped mountains, oases, and lake water blend harmoniously. Arrive in Korla in the evening and enjoy a night cruise on the Peacock River, experiencing the city's night view and vibrant atmosphere.

[Meals] Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Special Mixed Noodles; Dinner: Sea Buckthorn Spicy Chicken

Hotel: Korla Fontainebleau, Renaissance Hotel, Wanda Jin Hua Hotel, or similar 5-star hotel

 

Day 9: Korla - Tarim River Poplar Forest - Kuqa Royal Palace - Kuqa (approx. 380KM)

Encounter the Tarim River Poplar Forest, known as "The World's Poplars are in China," and experience the magnificent vitality of these millennia-old trees in the desert. Travel to Kuqa, the "Capital of Kucha," and visit the Kuqa Royal Palace, a blend of Central Plains and Islamic styles, touching the imprints of centuries-old history. After checking in, you can explore the ancient Kucha ferry and farmers' market to experience the local life.

[Meals] Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Lamb Pilaf; Dinner: Xinjiang Specialty Dishes

Hotel: Kuqa Tianyuan International Hotel, Chaoyu Wanhua International Hotel, or similar 5-star hotel

 

Day 10: Kuqa - Tianshan Grand Canyon - Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves - Alar (approx. 380KM)

Explore the mysterious, ochre-red Tianshan Grand Canyon, experiencing the magical light and shadow under the sunlight and the exotic charm of its winding paths. Visit the Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, a relic of the eastward transmission of Buddhism along the Silk Road, and feel the power of faith through the remaining grottoes and murals.

[Meals] Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Xinjiang Big Plate Chicken; Dinner: Stewed Lamb

Hotel: Alar Yinggedi, Moshang Qingya, Xinrui International or similar 4-star hotel

 

Day 11: Alar - Desert Highway - Yotkan Ancient City - Hotan Night Market - Hotan (approx. 450KM)

Starting from the starting point of the Alar-Hotan Desert Highway, traverse the core area of ​​the Tarim Basin, admiring the desolate and magnificent scenery of "a lone plume of smoke rising straight from the desert." Visit the ancient city of Yotkan, a blend of Persian and Greek styles. In the evening, stroll through the Hotan Night Market and enjoy a feast of Western Region delicacies such as roasted whole lamb, lung noodles, and fruits.

【Meals】Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Braised Pork in a Clay Pot; Dinner: Hotan Night Market (own expense)

Hotel: Hotan State Guest House or similar (5-star)

 

Day 12: Hotan - Shache Old Town - Twelve Muqam Performance - Shache (approx. 320km)

Stroll through Shache Old Town, the former site of the Yarkand Khanate, and experience the diverse ethnic customs in the old teahouses and bazaars. Watch the intangible cultural heritage performance of the Twelve Muqam, where artists dressed in Atlas silk costumes use traditional instruments to tell Silk Road stories, providing an immersive interactive experience.

【Meals】Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Roasted Pigeon; Dinner: Xinjiang Lazha (Noodles)

Hotel: Kashgar Old City Hotel, Kashgar Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn or similar (5-star)

 

Day 13: Shache - Karakul Lake - Golden Grassland Stone City - Tashkurgan (approx. 420km)

Encounter the pristine beauty of Karakul Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, and admire the reflection of Muztagh Ata Peak in its waters. Stroll along the "Kidney of the Earth," the Alar Golden Grassland, witnessing the lush grasslands and herds of cattle and sheep, exploring the ruins of the ancient Stone City, and reminiscing about the prosperity of the ancient Silk Road.

【Meals】Breakfast: Included; Lunch: Xinjiang Specialty Dishes; Dinner: Yak Hot Pot

Hotel: Taxkorgan Snow Crown Hotel, Banlan Hotel, Encountering Stars Camp, or 5-star or equivalent

 

Day 14: Taxkorgan - Panlong Ancient Road - Xueliushu Cave - Taghman Wetland - Kashgar (approx. 290KM)

Drive along the popular Panlong Ancient Road in the Kunlun Mountains (over 600 bends; when closed, it's replaced by the Wakhan Corridor), experiencing "speed and passion." Along the way, visit the Xueliushu Cave Highway, explore the Taghman Wetland surrounded by mountains, and enjoy distant views of snow-capped mountains and pastoral scenery. Arrive in Kashgar in the evening.

【Meals】Breakfast: Included Lunch: Xinjiang Specialty Dishes Dinner: Pigeon Soup + Pigeon Noodles

Hotel: Kashgar Old City Inn, Kashgar Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn or similar (5-star)

 

Day 15: Kashgar Old City - Century-Old Teahouse - Mosque - Old City Photoshoot - Kashgar

Participate in the opening ceremony of Kashgar Old City and stroll through the labyrinthine streets with Islamic style. Visit the century-old teahouse, a filming location for "The Kite Runner," and experience the relaxed local atmosphere; visit the largest mosque in Xinjiang, the Id Kah Mosque. Participate in the complimentary Old City photoshoot, and enjoy a farewell dinner in the evening to reminisce about the journey.

【Meals】Breakfast: Included Lunch: Kashgar Old City (own expense) Dinner: Farewell Dinner

Hotel: Kashgar Old City Inn, Kashgar Hotel, Hilton Garden Inn or similar (5-star)

 

Day 16: Kashgar KHG - Various Destinations

Fly home, carrying with you the magnificent scenery, cultural memories, and authentic flavors of Northern and Southern Xinjiang, concluding your unforgettable journey. 【Friendly Reminder】Airport transfer only includes vehicle service; no tour guide is provided. We welcome your valuable feedback and wish you a safe journey. We look forward to seeing beautiful Xinjiang again!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Please read the terms and conditions carefully before registering.

Is this tour suitable for me?

• ​​Suitable age: Due to quality considerations and local restrictions, only applicants over 12 years old will be accepted
• ​Wheelchair access: Due to limited facilities, some attractions may need to be waived without refund. VIPs using wheelchairs must be accompanied by an assistant, and the tour guide cannot assist separately
• Special diet: Please let us know when you register, and we will try our best to arrange it. We apologize for some special diets that are more restrictive, but we apologize for not being able to provide them​​

Local conditions :

• Triple rooms are not available for this tour
• ​Please check the description of the daily itinerary in detail

Visa：

• Under the epidemic control, the procedures and requirements for entering the country for foreigners are different from the past, please contact Sonic Tour for the latest information
• If the visa is issued by Sonic Tour, once the document is delivered, no refund will be made under any circumstances

Documents：

• Please provide a copy of your passport when registering to avoid inconvenience during your trip by mistake; It is also recommended to bring a copy of your passport with you in case you need it
• During the whole trip, you need to use the same documents as when you registered, so as not to delay the itinerary or cause unnecessary expenses or losses to the VIP if the documents do not match.
• The passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of return and at least 2 blank pages marked "Visas."

Flights & Baggage:

• Most airlines require a fee to pre-reserve a seat, which you can do online up to 24-48 hours before departure.
• For guests who have booked their own tickets, if there is a transfer, it is recommended to reserve at least 3 hours of transfer time.
• The weight and number of checked baggage are according to the regulations of each airline's international flight, and the excess weight fee must be borne by the VIP guests.