Going on a Southern Xinjiang tour is like stepping into a living history book where the ancient Silk Road breathes through bustling bazaars, towering minarets, and the vast Taklamakan Desert. Unlike the alpine scenery of the north, a South Xinjiang tour focuses on the deep cultural soul of the region—offering an immersive blend of Uyghur traditions, Persian influences, and ancient Buddhist heritage.
From the high-altitude wonders of the Pamir Plateau to the legendary city of Kashgar, here is your ultimate guide to the must-visit stops on a Southern Xinjiang circuit.
Highlights of Your Southern Xinjiang Tour
To help you plan your itinerary, we’ve broken down the essential destinations into these key regional experiences:
Kashgar Tour
The spiritual heart of South Xinjiang. Explore the Sunday Livestock Market, the alleys of the Old Town, and the iconic Id Kah Mosque.
Pamir Tour
Journey along the Karakoram Highway to the “Roof of the World.” See the turquoise Bulunkul Lake and the majestic Muztagh Ata peak.
Yarkant County Tour
A hidden gem famous for the Golden Mosque and the Muqam music heritage. It offers a more local, authentic feel of the old Silk Road kingdoms
Khotan Kingdom Tour
The center of jade and silk. Visit the vibrant night markets and learn about the ancient kingdom’s history of papermaking and carpet weaving.
Aksu Tour
Marvel at the towering red cliffs of Wensu Grand Canyon and the ice-capped grandeur of Tomur Peak, marking the breathtaking transition from alpine forests to dramatic desert landscapes
Kuche Tour (Kuqa)
Home to the Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves and the Subash Ruins. Kuche is where ancient Buddhist art meets spectacular canyon landscapes.
Turpan Tour
A must-see on any Southern Xinjiang tour. Marvel at the Flaming Mountains, trek the dunes of the Kumtag Desert, and relax in the lush, world-famous Grape Valley.
Korla Xinjiang Tour
Known as the “City of Pears,” Korla serves as a modern hub with beautiful river views and proximity to the vast Bosten Lake.
Bayanbulak Grassland Tour
A stunning high-mountain steppe where the “Nine Curves and Eighteen Turns” of the Kaidu River reflect the setting sun
Why Choose a Southern Xinjiang Tour?
- Cultural Depth: A South Xinjiang tour is the best way to experience the authentic Uyghur lifestyle. The hospitality in Kashgar and Khotan is world-renowned.
- Diverse Landscapes: Witness the contrast between the world’s second-largest shifting sand desert (Taklamakan) and the snow-capped peaks of the Pamir Mountains.
- Ancient History: Visit UNESCO World Heritage sites that tell the story of trade, religion, and empire-building along the southern Silk Road route.
- Culinary Adventure: No Southern Xinjiang tour is complete without tasting freshly baked Naan bread, hand-pulled noodles (Lagman), and the famous charcoal-grilled mutton.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal window for a South Xinjiang tour is from May to October. During this period, the fruit is in season (especially the melons and grapes of Turpan), and the weather on the Pamir Plateau is mild enough for travel.