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Classic Xinjiang Itinerary 7 Days for First-Timers
Visiting Xinjiang for the first time? Then, it is essential to plan your 7 Days Xinjiang itinerary to cover iconic destinations with a mix of travel experiences.
Considering how vast Xinjiang can be, 7 days is a minimum for a Xinjiang itinerary for first-timers. So, it is important to choose your attractions wisely so you can make the most of your Xinjiang Itinerary accordingly. Our Travel Expert at Asia Odyssey Travel would be happy to assist you in building your itinerary for a Xinjiang adventure.
Here's your 7 Days Xinjiang Itinerary at a glance:
- Day 1: Arrive at Urumqi Diwopu International Airport.
- Day 2: Explore the Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum.
- Day 3: Travel to Turpan, drive by the Flaming Mountains, and visit Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves.
- Day 4: Explore Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins, the Karez System, and the Emin Minaret.
- Day 5: Fly to Kashgar. Discover Kashgar Old City, including Id Kah Mosque and the Ancient Tea House.
- Day 6: Day trip to Karakul Lake, including views of the Pamir Plateau and Baisha Lake.
- Day 7: Departure
| Day | Itinerary Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Urumqi Arrival | Urumqi |
| 2 | Tianchi Lake, Xinjiang Regional Museum | Urumqi |
| 3 | Turpan: Flaming Mountains, Tuyoq Village, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves | Turpan |
| 4 | Turpan: Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins, Karez System, Emin Minaret | Urumqi |
| 5 | Kashgar: Kashgar Old City, Livestock Market (Sunday Only) | Kashgar |
| 6 | Kashgar: Karakul Lake, Baisha Lake | Kashgar |
| 7 | Kashgar Departure | N/A |
Xinjiang 7-Day Itinerary Day 1-2: Arrive in Urumqi, First-Timer Friendly Gateway to Xinjiang
As a first-time visitor it's best to kick off your Xinjiang Itinerary in Urumqi, the vibrant capital city, and the gateway to Xinjiang.
Start your journey at the bustling theme park-like Grand Bazaar, where you can immerse yourself in local culture, sample delicious Xinjiang Food, hunt for unique souvenirs, Take a selfie with the cartoon statue of Effendi, the beloved Narusdin from Morocco to Xinjiang.
Next, delve into the Xinjiang's fascinating history at the Xinjiang Regional Museum. For a breath of fresh air, take a day trip to the stunning Tianshan Tianchi Lake, an alpine gem framed by snow-capped mountains—a perfect spot for nature lovers, and it's located pretty close to Urumqi city area so and it can be added to your Xinjiang Itinerary with ease.
Xinjiang 7-Day Itinerary Day 3-4: Visit Turpan, See Flaming Mountains in Desserts
Continue your Xinjiang Itinerary in Turpan, a desert oasis famous for its delectable grapes(Do visit Grape Valley if you visit Xinjiang in warmer seasons for a special wine tasting at a vineyard or grape picking).
Marvel at the striking Flaming Mountains, where the landscape appears to glow under the blazing sun. Visit Tuyoq Village, one of the oldest Uyghur settlements, and uncover the ancient wonders of the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Don't miss the chance to learn about the ingenious Karez irrigation System system that has transformed this arid region of Xinjiang into a lush paradise.
Xinjiang 7-Day Itinerary Day 5-7: Unwind in Kashgar to Capture the True Essence of Xinjiang Charms & Pamir Plateau Side Trip
Next for you Xinjiang Itinerary, hop on a flight to Kashgar, a historic Silk Road city teeming with culture.
Wander through the charming streets of the Kashgar Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where traditional Uyghur houses made of earthen structures and mud bricks, along with lively bazaars throughout the city await.
Visit the impressive Id Kah Mosque, one of China's largest, and soak in the local atmosphere at a century-old teahouse. If your visit falls on a Sunday, do go to the bustling Livestock Market, a vibrant display of Kashgar's rich heritage.
Don't rush to wrap up your Xinjiang Itinerary. On Day 6 take a day trip to the breathtaking Pamir Plateau. Explore the serene Baisha Lake, surrounded by unique white sand mountains, and visit Karakul Lake, where the high-altitude waters reflect the stunning peaks.
Enjoy the scenic drive along the Karakoram Highway or China-Pakistan Highway, taking in panoramic views that showcase the plateau's natural beauty—an unforgettable experience for any traveler. Yes, Xinjiang is also a great destination for Road Trips for various travel interests.
Check out Best Xinjiang Road Trip options.
For a hands-off and hassle-free Xinjiang trip, simply get in touch with your Travel Expert at Asia Odyssey Travel. Contact us now!
1 Week Northern Xinjiang Itinerary for Nature Lovers
How vast can Xinjiang be? Well, it is Vast. To put it in a more tangible perspective, lt can take over 2,000 kilometers (1,243 miles) to drive from one end of Xinjiang to the other.
It is a journey that stretches farther than the distance between London and Rome,traversing diverse landscapes, including snow-capped mountains, vast deserts, and fertile oases, especially so in Northern Xinjiang.
That's why a we have crafted this 7-day Northern Xinjiang Itinerary. This Xinjiang Itinerary is perfect for nature enthusiasts, with a focus on Xinjiang's diverse landscapes, stunning natural scenery, and rich biodiversity.
Here's your 7-day Northern Xinjiang Itinerary at a glance:
- Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi, check-in at the hotel.
- Day 2: Explore Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, visit Xinjiang Regional Museum and Urumqi Grand Bazaar.
- Day 3: Drive to Hemu Village, visit Tuva family, enjoy sunset views.
- Day 4: Visit Kanas Lake, explore Three Bays (Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay).
- Day 5: Drive to Burqin, explore Wucaitan , visit Kanas Tower Bridge.
- Day 6: Drive to Karamay Urho Ghost Town, explore eerie yardang formations.
- Day 7: Departure from Urumqi.
| Day | Itinerary Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Urumqi Arrival, Xinjiang Regional Museum (optional), Urumqi Grand Bazaar (optional) | Urumqi |
| 2 | Heavenly Lake of Tianchi, Bogda Mountain View | Beitun |
| 3 | Hemu Village, Tuva Family Visit, Sunset View | Hemu |
| 4 | Hemu Village Sunrise, Kanas Lake, Three Bays | Jiadengyu |
| 5 | Wucaitan (Five-colored Beach) | Burqin |
| 6 | Karamay Urho Ghost Town | Urumqi |
| 7 | Urumqi Departure | - |
1 Week Northern Xinjiang Itinerary Day 1-2: Arrive in Urumqi then Beitun for Lake & Dessert Views
Get warmed up with your Northern Xinjiang Itinerary in the bustling capital, Urumqi. Explore the city's vibrant Grand Bazaar or visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum to learn about the region's rich history.
Escape the city and head to the stunning Heavenly Lake of Tianshan. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests, this serene lake offers breathtaking views. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the lake or take a boat ride to experience its beauty from the water.
Then for a more contrasting twist drive through the dessert to Beitun, enjoy a changing view of the Tianshan Mountain in the vast dessert land.
1 Week Northern Xinjiang Itinerary Day 3-4: Visit Kanas Lake; Hemu Village for Serene Sunrise View, Lake Shore Stroll
Continue north with your Northern Xinjiang Itinerary to Hemu, a picturesque village nestled in the Altai Mountains.
Explore the traditional wooden houses, visit a local Tuva family, and witness the breathtaking sunset over the village.
Wake up early to catch the sunrise over Hemu Village. Then, head to Kanas Lake, one of China's most stunning lakes.
Explore the Three Bays: Shenxian Bay, Moon Bay, and Wolong Bay, each offering unique landscapes and breathtaking views.
1 Week Northern Xinjiang Itinerary Day 5-6: Reach Jiadengyu, Burqin for Wucaitan (Five-colored Beach)
Move on to more natural scenery with your Northern Xinjiang Itinerary to Jiadengyu. Discover the vibrant colors of Wucaitan, a unique geological formation. Stroll along the beach, marvel at the colorful rocks, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
1 Week Northern Xinjiang Itinerary Day 6: Venture to Karamay for Urho Ghost Town Dare
Explore the eerie and otherworldly landscapes of Karamay's Urho Ghost Town. Wander through the towering yardangs and imagine the ancient history of this place.
Instead of merely admiring the attractions with your eyes, listen to the marvelous artwork created by nature; as the wind whistles through the Yardang landform, you will hear sounds like devils howling in the wild.
1 Week Northern Xinjiang Itinerary Day 7: Urumqi Departure | Hotel Check-out and Airport See-off
Conclude your Northern Xinjiang Itinerary with a visit to any remaining attractions in Urumqi before heading to the airport for your departure.
Xinjiang Itinerary to Explore Cultural Diversity in 8 Days
Did you know that Xinjiang is a crossroads of cultures, where diverse religions and ethnicities have flourished for centuries? Yes, with its captivating history and diverse culture, Xinjiang deserves at least a 8-day itinerary to explore Xinjiang's soul-capturing treasure trove of cultural and Silk Road Heritage.
Xinjiang is a vibrant tapestry of cultural diversity, historically home to various ethnic groups, including the Uyghurs, Sogdians, and Han, among others.
Along with the Uyghurs, Xinjiang is inhabited by Han, Kazakhs, Hui, Kyrgyz, and Tajiks, each contributing to Xinjiang's rich cultural heritage, such as the Tajik nomads in the Pamir Plateau.
What's more interesting is that Manichaeism, Nestorian Christianity, Zoroastrianism and Buddhism all once thrived in Xinjiang, leaving Urumqi Attractions for you to discover.
Here's your 8-day Xinjiang Itinerary of cultural insights at a glance:
- Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi.
- Day 2: Visit Heavenly Lake of Tianshan and Xinjiang Regional Museum.
- Day 3: Travel to Turpan, drive by Flaming Mountains, visit Tuyoq Village, and Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves.
- Day 4: Explore Turpan's Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins, Karez System, and Emin Minaret.
- Day 5: Fly to Kashgar; visit Kashgar Old City, Id Kah Mosque, and the Livestock Market (if Sunday).
- Day 6: Journey via Pamir Plateau; visit Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake, meet a Tajik family.
- Day 7: Return to Kashgar, go to Alaer Golden Grasslands and embrace nomads life .
- Day 8: Depart from Kashgar.
| Day | Itinerary Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Urumqi Arrival, Xinjiang Regional Museum (optional) | Urumqi |
| 2 | Heavenly Lake of Tianshan | Urumqi |
| 3 | Flaming Mountains (drive-by), Tuyoq Village, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves | Turpan |
| 4 | Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins, Karez System, Emin Minaret | Turpan |
| 5 | Urumqi to Kashgar by Flight, Kashgar Old City (Id Kah Mosque, Ancient Tea House), Livestock Market (optional) | Kashgar |
| 6 | Kashgar to Tashkurgan via China-Pakistan Highway: Pamir Plateau, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake | Tashkurgan |
| 7 | Tashkurgan: Stone City (Tashkurgan Fort), Alaer Golden Grasslands | Tashkurgan |
| 8 | Tashkurgan to Kashgar via China-Pakistan Highway, Kashgar Departure | - |
Xinjiang 8-Day Itinerary for Diversity Day 1-2: Land in Urumqi, the Capital & Melting Pot of Xinjiang
Begin your Xinjiang Itinerary in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, where people of all cultural background gather and chase their dreams.
Dive into the city's vibrant culture, exploring the Grand Bazaar, a bustling marketplace showcasing Uyghur handicrafts, spices, and delicacies.
Next on your Xinjiang Itinerary, visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum to learn about the region's rich history and diverse ethnicities, including Uyghurs, Han, Kazakhs, Tuvan, Mongolian and more.
For a taste of nature, take a day trip to Tianchi Lake, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, which, supposedly served as a SPA centre for an ancient Goddess, the Queen Mother of the West, or Si Wang-mu(西王母).
Xinjiang 8-Day Itinerary for Diversity Day 3-4: Turpan, A Desert Oasis, Setting for Journey to the West with Buddhism Legacy
Next on your Xinjiang Itinerary, venture to Turpan, a desert oasis known for its grape production and ancient history.
Explore the striking Flaming Mountains, a geological wonder that appears to glow like fire under the desert sun. Interestingly, this is also where part of the most exciting story from Journey to the West took place.
Wukong and Princess Iron Fan had an epic battle in the very Flaming Mountains. As you might have learnt in the recently launched game The Black Myth: Wukong.
Then go on with your Xinjiang Itinerary with a more down to earth visit to Tuyoq Village, one of the oldest Uyghur villages, and marvel at the ancient Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Learn about the ingenious Karez System irrigation system that has transformed the desert into a fertile oasis that cultivated both crops and diverse cultures in Xinjiang.
Xinjiang 8-Day Itinerary for Diversity Day 5: Kashgar, Trading Hub on Silk Road
Now move on with your Xinjiang itinerary with a Flight to Kashgar, a historic city on the Silk Road.
Explore the Kashgar Old City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander through its narrow streets filled with traditional Uyghur houses and bustling bazaars.
Visit the Id Kah Mosque, one of China's largest mosques, and experience local life at a century-old teahouse.
If you're lucky, you might even catch the lively Livestock Market on a Sunday, where nomads from multiple cultural backgrounds, including Kazak, Tajik, Uyghur, Han, and more, gather and conduct their weekly trade.
Xinjiang 8-Day Itinerary for Diversity Day 6-7: Drive Up to Pamir Plateau, Kazakh Heartland
Before wrapping up your Xinjiang Itinerary, take a day trip to the Pamir Plateau, a region known for its stunning natural beauty and Tajik heritage.
Feel the refreshing breeze at Baisha Lake, a stunning plateau lake surrounded by white sand mountains, and explore Karakul Lake, a high-altitude moraine lake with stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains.
Finally visit a Tajik family at Tashkurgan, join the community for a tea party, learning about their nomadic lifestyle and traditions.
Xinjiang 8-Day Itinerary for Diversity Day 8: Kashgar Departure
You will return to Kashgar from Tashkurgan for your departure flight.
For a hands-off and hassle-free Xinjiang trip, simply get in touch with your Travel Expert at Asia Odyssey Travel. Contact us now!
Build Your Itinerary for Xinjiang & Beyond: From Terracotta Army, Mogao Grottoes to Central Asia
A Xinjiang itinerary can be so much more.
The boundless, changing landscapes of Xinjiang call for an epic road trip. Here are more travel ideas for four Xinjiang road trip routes traversing the magnificent region of Xinjiang.
Check out Best Xinjiang Road Trip options.
Being a paramount region on the Silk Road, your Xinjiang itinerary can extend far beyond Xinjiang, from the ancient capital of China, Xi'an, all the way to Central Asia!
Check out more travel ideas for an in-depth Silk Road itinerary featuring Xinjiang, Xi'an, Dunhuang, Lanzhou, Zhangye and more:
Check out best Silk Road Itinerary options.
More Travel Inspiration for Xinjiang Itineraries
Xinjiang is vast. Check out Xinjiang Maps to plan your own Xinjiang Itinerary.
5-Day Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Turpan - Urumqi Itinerary
Itinerary Highlights: Explore Urumqi's Grand Bazaar, Tianchi Lake, Turpan's Flaming Mountains, and ancient sites.
- Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi
- Day 2: Day trip to Tianchi Lake and the Xinjiang Regional Museum.
- Day 3: Travel to Turpan; visit Flaming Mountains, Tuyoq Village, and Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves.
- Day 4: Return to Urumqi; explore Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins, Karez System, and Emin Minaret.
- Day 5: Departure from Urumqi.
5-Day Kashgar - Tashkurgan - Kashgar Itinerary
Itinerary Highlights: Discover Kashgar's Silk Road heritage, local markets, and stunning Pamir Plateau landscapes.
- Day 1: Arrival in Kashgar.
- Day 2: Explore Kashgar Old City, Id Kah Mosque, and Sunday Livestock Market.
- Day 3: Day trip to Tashkurgan; visit Pamir Plateau, Baisha Lake, and Karakul Lake with a Tajik family visit.
- Day 4: Return to Kashgar; visit Stone Fortress and Aral Golden Pasture.
- Day 5: Departure from Kashgar.
8-Day Comprehensive Kashgar - Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Turpan Itinerary
Itinerary Highlights: A thorough exploration of Xinjiang's diverse cultures and breathtaking landscapes.
- Day 1: Arrival in Kashgar.
- Day 2: Day trip to Tashkurgan; explore the Pamir Plateau, Baisha Lake, and Karakul Lake with a Tajik family visit.
- Day 3: Return to Kashgar; explore Kashgar Old City and the livestock market.
- Day 4: Travel to Urumqi; visit Tianchi Lake and the Xinjiang Regional Museum.
- Day 5: Journey to Turpan; visit the Flaming Mountains and Tuyoq Village.
- Day 6: Return to Urumqi; explore ancient sites and the Karez system.
- Day 7: Departure from Urumqi.
10-Day Urumqi - Turpan - Heavenly Lake - Korla - Kuqa - Hotan - Kashgar Itinerary
Itinerary Highlights: An extensive road trip through Xinjiang's natural wonders and cultural landmarks.
- Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi.
- Day 2: Visit Tianchi Lake and the museum.
- Day 3: Drive to Turpan; explore Flaming Mountains and Karez system.
- Day 4: Journey to Korla; visit ancient ruins and irrigation systems.
- Day 5: Travel to Kuqa; visit Kizil Grottoes and Tianshan Grand Canyon.
- Day 6: Drive to Aral; see ancient watchtowers and the Tarim River.
- Day 7: Cross the Taklamakan Desert to Hotan.
- Day 8: Explore Hotan; visit local markets and cultural sites.
- Day 9: Travel to Kashgar; visit Yarkand and local bazaars.
- Day 10: Departure from Kashgar.
10-Day Northern Xinjiang Itinerary
Itinerary Highlights: Scenic exploration of northern Xinjiang's landscapes and ethnic diversity.
- Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi.
- Day 2: Visit Tianchi Lake and Bogda Mountain.
- Day 3: Travel to Kanas Lake via Fuyun; explore geological parks.
- Day 4: Visit Hemu Village and experience Tuvan culture.
- Day 5: Enjoy sunrise at Hemu; drive to Karamay.
- Day 6: Visit Sayram Lake.
- Day 7: Explore Naraty Grassland.
- Day 8: Departure from Urumqi.
7-Day Deep Ili Exploration Itinerary
Itinerary Highlights: In-depth cultural and natural experiences in the Ili region.
- Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi.
- Day 2: Visit Sayram Lake and enjoy local farms.
- Day 3: Explore the scenic areas of Zhaosu.
- Day 4: Discover the Tekes region.
- Day 5: Experience Naraty and Xinyuan.
- Day 6: Return to Ili.
- Day 7: Departure from Urumqi.
These Xinjiang itineraries offer a diverse exploration of Xinjiang, combining cultural immersion with stunning natural landscapes, perfect for first-time visitors to Xinjiang.
Have specific travel interests? Talk to your Travel Expert at Top Asia Travel Agency, Asia Odyssey Travel. We would love to craft tailored Xinjiang Itinerary just for you. Contact us now!
Travel Ideas for Xinjiang Tour
Urumqi (1-2 days): Start your journey in Urumqi. Visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum and explore the Grand Bazaar. Consider a day trip to the scenic Heavenly Lake for hiking and relaxation.
Kashgar & Tashkurgan (3-4 days): Explore the Old Town, dazzling Bazaars. Take a day trip to Tashkurgan to see the stunning scenery of the Pamir Plateau and visit Tajik family.
Turpan & Korla (2-3 days): Travel to Turpan, famous for its unique desert landscape and historical sites like the Karez irrigation system and the Flaming Mountains. Then, head to Korla to explore the ancient Iron Gate Pass and enjoy local Xinjiang Food.
Kuqa & Hotan (2-3 days): Next, visit Kuqa to explore the Kizil Caves and local culture. Continue to Hotan, known for jade, silk production and the ancient ruins of the Hotan Kingdom.
Aletai, Hemu Village & Kanas Lake (3-4 days): Venture north to Aletai, where you can explore picturesque valleys and enjoy outdoor activities. Visit Hemu Village for rural experiences, and head to Kanas Lake for breathtaking sunrise/sunset views.
Burqin & Karamay (2 days): Visit Burqin to see the Rainbow Mountains and enjoy outdoor activities. Then, explore Karamay, known for its unique geological formations and the Ghost City.
Yining & Naraty Grassland (2-3 days): Travel to Yining, explore local markets and attractions. visit Naraty Grassland for horseback riding and a taste of pastoral culture.
When planning your Xinjiang Itinerary, do consider how vast Xinjiang is as a travel destination. So allocate your time to maximize your Xinjiang Trip.
Browse more Xinjiang tours with Asia Odyssey Travel or simply get in touch with your Travel Expert; tell us your travel interest, we have you covered. Contact us now!
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
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