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1. Plan Your Destinations: Where to Go in Xinjiang
Xinjiang is a vast region of China with numerous destinations for different travel interests to offer.
Here a overview on How to Choose destinations to plan your Xinjiang Trip:
First-time traveler can plan Xinjiang Trip focusing on major cities and their surrounding areas of Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan.
Nature enthusiastic can Plan Xinjiang Trip focusing on picturesque regions of Xinjiang like Kanas Lake and Ili.
For a Grand Xinjiang Road Trip plan your routes through the dramatic landscapes like Taklamakan Desserts.
Foodies? Tasty and fulfilling Xinjiang Food is to be found everywhere in Xinjiang.
| Region | Highlights | Travel Interests |
|---|---|---|
| Urumqi & Surrounding Areas | Scenic lakes, mountain views | Hiking, nature, city exploration |
| Ili Kazakh Autonomous Prefecture | Alpine lakes, grasslands, Kazakh culture | Serene nature, cultural experiences |
| Turpan Prefecture | Ancient sites, desert landscapes, Uyghur culture | History, exploration, cultural experiences |
| Kashgar Prefecture | Historic city, Uyghur culture, Silk Road heritage | Culture, exploration, shopping |
| Western Xinjiang | High-altitude landscapes, mountain views, cultural experiences | Adventure, hiking, cultural exploration |
| Southern Xinjiang | Desert landscapes, ancient sites, cultural experiences | Road Trip, exploration, history |
Urumqi: Gateway for Your Xinjiang Trip.
Urumqi, the capital city of Xinjiang, offers a blend of modern urban amenities and historical attractions.
Ideal as gateway to Xinjiang: Urumqi comes with great accessibility so do plan your Xinjiang Trip with it as a starting point if you are travelling from other regions of China.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Tian Shan Tianchi | Pcturesque lake set in the Tian Shan Mountains. |
| Bogda Mountain | The towering peak visible from Tianchi, offering hiking opportunities. |
| Asia’s Largest Wind Farm | A unique landmark showcasing renewable energy infrastructure. |
| Xinjiang Regional Museum | Comprehensive Museum Showcasing Xinjiang Culture & History |
Turpan: Must-Have in Your Xinjiang Trip Plan
Turpan is a historical region known for its ancient sites, unique landscapes, and Uyghur culture.
Ideal for outback dessert wonders & wine tasting: As one of the hottest destinations, in terms of both travel and climate Turpan depression with vast dessert land is Not to be Missed for your Xinjiang Trip Plan.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Flaming Mountains | Iconic red mountain, story setting for Journey to The West |
| Tuyuq Village | A traditional Uyghur village set in the desert. |
| Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves | Ancient Buddhist grottoes, |
| Jiaohe Ancient City | Ruins of an ancient Silk Road city. |
| Karez Well | Ancient underground irrigation system. |
| Grape Valley | Abundant Fruits, unique vineyard |
Kashgar: Destination to Capture Xinjiang Essence
Kashgar is a historic Xinjiang city at the western end of the Silk Road, known for its Uyghur culture and ancient architecture.
Ideal for Cultural Expedition: To capture the very essence of Xinjiang Kashgar is a must-visit in your Xinjiang Trip Plan.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Kashgar Old City | Ancient mud-brick houses &narrow alleyways |
| Id Kah Mosque | Largest mosque in Xinjiang |
| Hundred-Year-Old Tea House | A famous tea house in Kashgar, from Movie Kite Runner |
| Livestock Market | A vibrant weekly market |
Ili:Kazakh Community, Include Diversity to Plan Your Xinjiang Trip
Ili is renowned for its stunning landscapes and rich Kazakh culture. Plan your trip at the right times for lavender, grasslands, foliage and more.
All nature lovers who prefer a serene and vast grassland backdrop can plan a Xinjiang trip focusing on Ili.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Sayram Lake | A high-altitude alpine lake near the border with Kazakhstan. |
| Lavender Farm | Famous for its vibrant lavender fields, particularly in summer. |
| Naraty Grassland | A vast, lush grassland area ideal for hiking, horseback riding, and experiencing Kazakh culture. |
Western Xinjiang (Karakoram Highway & Pamir Plateau)
This region of Xinjiang offers breathtaking mountain scenery, ancient cultures, and unique landscapes.
Ideal for Road Trip with Comfort: With a milder climate than Northern Xinjiang and gorgeous flora and fauna, it is ideal to plan a Xinjiang road trip in this area, especially for those who love road trip spectacles while keeping travel comfortable.
| Attraction | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Karakoram Highway | Scenic mountain road leading from Kashgar to the Pakistan border. |
| Baisha Lake | A serene lake located along the Karakoram Highway. |
| Karakul Lake | A stunning high-altitude lake along the highway. |
| Tashkurgan | A town near the Pakistan border, home to the Tajik people. |
| Pamir Plateau | A high-altitude plateau offering stunning vistas and cultural encounters with the Tajik community. |
Southern Xinjiang (Hotan & Surrounding Areas)
Southern Xinjiang is a region known for its deserts, ancient sites, and unique cultural experiences.
Ideal for Grand Road Trip through dramatic landscapes: With extending rivers and largest dessert in China this region of Xinjiang is for the true adventurous spirits. Plan your Xinjiang Trip with a true odyssey Road Trip.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Tarim River | The longest inland river in China. |
| Taklamakan Desert | One of the world’s largest deserts. |
| Yotkan Ancient City | An ancient site near Hotan. |
| Alaer Golden Grasslands | A golden-hued grassland. |
2. Decide When to Visit: Find Your Own Best Time for a Trip to Xinjiang
How to plan your visiting time to Xinjiang? That depends on the region you would like to visit in Xinjiang.
The Best time to Visit Northern Xinjiang is from June to September for outdoor adventure, and The Best Time to Visit Southern Xinjiang is from March to October as the region offers more cultural attractions and climate won’t bring impact on travel as much as Northern Xinjiang.
That being said Xinjiang offers different charms throughout the year, so the Best Time to Visit Xinjiang can vary depending on your travel interest and the travel seasons in Xinjiang. Check Best Time to Visit Xinjiang.
3. Plan Your Travel Length: How Many Days in Xinjiang
To Plan the Length of Your Xinjiang Trip let’s first look at how many days to spend at each region of Xinjiang:
| Region | Recommended Days |
|---|---|
| Urumqi | 2-3 days |
| Turpan | 2-3 days |
| Kashgar and Surrounding Areas | 4-5 days (including Pamir Plateau) |
| Ili | 3-4 days |
| Northern Xinjiang (Kanas, Altay) | 4-5 days |
Allow ample time for your Xinjiang trip, considering the vastness and diversity of Xinjiang as a travel destination.
Also, when planning your Xinjiang trip, do factor in your travel interests, as they might impact the time needed for various depths and paced explorations.
For a Xinjiang trip focusing on cultural experiences, the ideal duration is 7 to 10 days to explore ancient cities and relics, shop at local bazaars in Kashgar, Turpan, etc.
For a Xinjiang trip focusing on nature adventures, the ideal duration is 5 to 13 days to take road trips, hike mountains, go horse riding in grasslands, and traverse vast deserts at Ili, Kanas Lake, and Naraty Grassland, etc.
For an all-rounded Xinjiang trip, 7 to 13 days is ideal to mix and match attractions at different destinations and travel experiences.
Check Xinjiang Itineraries of various length to plan how long to spend for your Xinjiang Trip with more details.
Or simply get in touch with your travel expert at AOT, have everything planned out for you. Travel to Xinjiang with ease, Contact us now!
4. Get Documents Ready: Sort Out China Visa & Xinjiang Travel Permit
To travel to Xinjiang, you first need to apply for a tourist visa to China, which must be done before you enter the country.
If you plan to visit some Xinjiang Attractions at the border, you will need to apply for it after you arrive in Xinjiang.
Here’s documents needed to plan your trip to Xinjiang.
- Passport – A valid passport is essential for all foreign visitors.
- Chinese Visa – A valid visa for entry into China is required, unless you're eligible for visa-free travel, which does not currently cover Xinjiang.
Xinjiang Travel Permit is not a must-must have. That depends on the destination you plan for your Xinjiang Trip.
For areas close to international borders, such as Tashkurgan,, you may need the following:
Additional Documents for Xinjiang Travel Permit:
- Passport – Original and photocopies.
- Chinese Visa – Valid visa for foreign nationals.
- Permit Application Form – Completed through a licensed travel agency or local Public Security Bureau (PSB).
- Itinerary Details – Proof of travel plans, including transportation and accommodation bookings.
- Photos – Passport-sized photos for the application (if required by local authorities).
Bring the required documents to the local PSB in person to apply for your Xinjiang Travel Permit. You should receive your travel permit in less than 10 minutes.
The only issue with planning all the documents needed for the Xinjiang trip is finding the right office in Xinjiang to apply for the permit. Not every office you find on the map is able to issue the Xinjiang Travel permit to foreigners.
It's advisable to verify the latest requirements and apply through a local agency or at the appropriate PSB, particularly if you're traveling to sensitive areas near the borders.
Sign up for a Xinjiang tour with Asia Odyssey Travel. With a decade-long experience in the travel business, we have you covered.
5. Plan Transportation to Xinjiang
Xinjiang is located in the western part of China, which means that if you are traveling from the central plains of China, an airplane is always a good choice to cover the east-to-west distance in China.
In the meantime, the train journey is also a lot of fun; however, it would take significantly longer to reach Xinjiang.
6. How to Get Around in Xinjiang
When navigating within the Xinjiang Region it is important to keep in mind how vast Xinjiang is in a geographical sense—It can take over 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) to drive from one end of Xinjiang to the other—a journey that stretches farther than the distance between London and Rome, traversing diverse landscapes and vast terrains along the way.
To get from one city to another with a longer distance a flight is more practical while train offers a more adventurous journey navigating with the limited public transportation and language barrier.
To get around within one region of Xinjiang taxi or transportation arranged by your Tour Agency are the Best choice.
Join a tour with Asia Odyssey Travel to enjoy hassle free transportation all the way! Contact us now!!
7. Choose Xinjiang Accommodation: Where to Stay in Xinjiang
The general advice for planning accommodation in Xinjiang is to choose a guest inn or homestay in at least one destination.
Select your accommodation (guest inn) near major attractions, as this will offer a unique and immersive experience, providing local insights and easy logistics.
Here are some tips for planning your accommodation in Xinjiang:
Book in Advance: Especially during peak tourist seasons.
Consider Tour Group: If traveling with a group, you may enjoy insider deals.
Bring Your Own Sleeping Bag and Pillow: For homestays or guest inns are pretty boutique in the major cities of Xinjiang, however if you are travelling to the remote areas in Xinjiang expect basic accommodations, and options may be limited.
8. Plan Your Budget for Xinjiang Trip
Xinjiang trips can be more expensive than those to other regions in China due to its remote location, which requires longer travel times and higher transportation costs.
Limited accommodation options and the need for guided tours in some areas further increase expenses.
That being said, a Xinjiang trip is worth it; with all the charms and diverse travel experiences you won’t find anywhere else in the world, it’s like multiple trips combined.
So yes, it can cost more than trips to other regions in China. Plan your travel costs for your Xinjiang trip accordingly.
Alternatively, join a tour to enjoy great value for money with local insider deals through Asia Odyssey Travels curated Xinjiang Tour. Contact us now!
How to Plan Xinjiang Trip Cost as Budget Traveler: 800-1,000 RMB per day
Accommodation: Hostels or budget guesthouses.
Transportation: Public buses and trains for local travel. Consider shared taxis or ride-sharing for convenience.
Food: Street food and local eateries. Enjoy affordable dishes like noodles and dumplings.
Attractions and Activities: Focus on free or low-cost attractions. Explore natural parks, local markets, and cultural sites.
How to Plan Xinjiang Trip Cost as Comfort Traveler: 1,000-2,000 RMB per day
Accommodation: Mid-range hotels or boutique guesthouses. Enjoy more comfort and amenities.
Transportation: Mix of public transport and private transfers (around $10-$30 per journey). Consider domestic flights for long distances.
Food: A mix of street food and restaurants ($20-$30/day). Enjoy local specialties and occasional dining at nicer venues.
Attractions and Activities: Include guided tours and popular attractions ($10-$30). Budget for a mix of free sites and paid experiences like museum entry.
How to Plan Xinjiang Trip Cost as Luxury Traveler: 2,000 RMB+ per day
Accommodation: Luxury hotels or high-end boutique stays ($80-$200/night). Enjoy top-tier services and amenities.
Transportation: Private drivers or domestic flights for convenience (around $30-$100 per journey). Comfort and flexibility in travel.
Food: Fine dining and upscale restaurants ($30-$60/day). Savor gourmet meals and local delicacies in stylish settings.
Attractions and Activities: Private guided tours and exclusive experiences ($30-$100). Budget for unique activities like cultural performances or adventure excursions.
9. Pack up for Xinjiang Trip: Xinjiang Travel Packing Tips
There's a saying in Xinjiang that paints a vivid picture of Xinjiang’s dramatic climate: eating watermelon at noon with a fan on, and staying cozy by the fireplace at night in a down coat. When traveling in Xinjiang, you can experience four seasons in one day.
So, plan your packing list for your Xinjiang trip—diversity is key! Pack versatile layers.
In short, if you are visiting Xinjiang outside of summer (or even just visiting the Xinjiang attractions at higher altitudes), do pack a variety of clothing, as you might be traveling through regions of Xinjiang where the weather changes rapidly.
Other than the obvious choices, here are the essentials to pack for your Xinjiang trip:
Sun Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are essential, especially for the desert regions in Xinjiang!
Scarf, Hat, Windbreaker: You might encounter strong winds with rolling sand on a Xinjiang road trip, so do pack for wind and sand.
Comfortable Sandproof Footwear: Sturdy shoes for hiking in mountainous areas and exploring ancient sites are recommended.
Large Water Bottle: Considering the bone-dry climate in the outback of Xinjiang deserts, go extra large with your water bottle and stay hydrated at all times.
10. Plan Your Trip Beyond Xinjiang: Xi’an, Gansu, Qinghai, Central Asia
Xi'an (2-4 days):
Terracotta Warriors: Visit the world-famous Terracotta Army, an impressive UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Muslim Quarter: Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food in this bustling area.
Gansu Tours (3-5 days):
Zhangye Danxia Landform: Discover the colorful rock formations of Zhangye National Geopark, known for its stunning landscapes.
Dunhuang: Visit the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, famous for its ancient Buddhist art and manuscripts.
Qinghai (3-4 days):
Qinghai Lake: Relax by China’s largest saltwater lake, where you can bike around its shores or enjoy stunning views.
Chaka Salt Lake: Visit this surreal salt flat known for its mirror-like reflections, perfect for photography.
Central Asia (5-14 days):
Kyrgyzstan: Explore the stunning landscapes of Ala Archa National Park or stay in a yurt near Issyk-Kul Lake.
Kazakhstan: Visit Almaty for its parks and cultural sites or venture to the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkestan.
Silk Road Cities: Discover historical cities like Samarkand and Bukhara in Uzbekistan, rich with Silk Road heritage.
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel, Culture & Nature Xinjiang Tour
First-time visitor or not, Xinjiang is Not What You Think. It's More Than What You Imagine!
Looking for natural grandeur? Experience the the sunrise at pristine Kanas Lake, the sky-touching Naraty Grassland, the boundless Taklamakan Desert along the acient Xinjiang Silk Road.
Looking to broaden your horizons? Discover exquisite Uyghur crafts at the bazaars at Kashgar, the nomadic dances of Tajiks on the Pamir Plateau at Tashkurgan, and the finest vineyards at Grape Valley at Turpan. You can even visit the oldest Buddha Grottoes in China!
Your Xinjiang Trip will be an eye-opening adventure and a soul-touching journey!
Asia Odyssey Travel: Your Best Xinjiang Guide
- Genuine Service: Not just an agency—we are your travel companions.
- Exclusive Access: Secure your tickets and accommodations even in high season.
- Authentic Experience: Best local guides with cultural insights.
- Travel Made Easy: Flights, hotels, activities—all taken care of!
- Skip the Tourist Routine: Avoid all tourist traps and travel down to earth
- 24/7 Support: Always on-line for your peace of mind
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