A Xinjiang train tour is one of the most immersive ways to experience China’s largest province. Separated by the majestic Tianshan Mountains, Xinjiang is divided into North and South. While the North is famous for its lush alpine scenery, the South is a captivating blend of rugged landscapes and deep cultural heritage.
For independent travelers, the South Xinjiang railway forms a perfect loop, allowing you to explore desert oases, ancient kingdoms, and high-altitude plateaus at your own pace.
🗺️ The Perfect Xinjiang Train Tour Itinerary (South Loop)
Stop 1: Turpan – The Gateway to the West
Your Xinjiang train tour begins in Turpan, a city famous for its heat and history.
- Must-See: The Flaming Mountains, the ancient Karez water system, Grape Valley, and the stunning ruins of the Jiaohe Ancient City.
Stop 2: Korla – The City of Pears
Heading south, Korla offers a mix of water and sand.
- Must-See: Bosten Lake (the largest inland freshwater lake) and the unique Lop Nur People’s Village.
Stop 3: Kuqa – The Heart of Ancient Qiuci
Once the capital of the Qiuci Kingdom, Kuqa is a historical treasure trove.
- Must-See: Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, Kizil Grottoes (Buddhist art), and the Subash Ancient City ruins.
Stop 4: Aksu – Gateway to the Canyons
Aksu is the base for exploring some of the world’s most spectacular geological formations.
- Must-See: Wensu Grand Canyon (Tomur Grand Canyon), where the red cliffs meet snow-capped peaks.
Stop 5: Kashgar – The Soul of Xinjiang
No Xinjiang train tour is complete without Kashgar. This is where the Silk Road truly comes alive.
- City Highlights: Kashgar Old Town, Id Kah Mosque, Gaotai Ancient Homes, and the Afaq Khoja Mausoleum (Xiangfei Garden).
- Nature Escape: Take a 3-day side trip to Taxkorgan (Tashkurgan) to see Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, the Muztagh Ata Glacier, and the legendary Panlong Ancient Road.
Stop 6: Shache (Yarkent) – The Capital of Intangible Heritage
A short train ride from Kashgar, Shache is famous for its music and royal history.
- Must-See: The Mausoleum of the Yarkent Khanate and the Shache Intangible Cultural Heritage Park (Yarkent Palace).
Stop 7: Hotan (Khotan) – The Land of Jade
The southern edge of the loop brings you to the desert oasis of Hotan.
- Must-See: Jottekan Ancient City, Tuancheng Ethnic Street, and the famous Yurunkash River where you can still find locals hunting for white jade.
Stop 8: Qiemo or Ruoqiang – The Vast Frontier
These are among the largest counties in China by land area. From here, the train circles back through the desert, returning to Korla and eventually Turpan to complete the loop.
💡 Why Choose a Xinjiang train tour?
- Flexibility for Independent Travelers: The South Xinjiang railway network is ideal for solo or small-group travelers. You can stay longer at the spots you love and skip the ones you don’t.
- Ease of Transport: At each stop, you can easily find car rentals, carpooling, or join local day tours (like the 3-day trip to Taxkorgan from Kashgar).
- Local Experience: Train travel allows you to interact with locals and see the changing desert landscapes from your window.
⚠️ Essential Tips for Your Xinjiang Train Tour
- Booking: Use apps like Trip.com or 12306 to book your train tickets in advance, especially for sleeper berths.
- Clothing: Xinjiang has huge temperature swings. Layers are essential.
- Food & Stay: Accommodations range from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels at every major railway stop.