Destinations: Ancient Silk Road Sites, Uyghur Culture, Deserts, Oases
Southern Xinjiang Cultural Discovery Tour: Dive into 10 days of Silk Road magic in southern Xinjiang: wander the world's best-preserved earthen cities (Jiaohe and Gaochang), get lost in Kashgar's labyrinthine old town and bustling Sunday Bazaar, touch the fiery sands of the Flaming Mountains, and uncover the secrets of Hotan's jade trade - all while traveling in a private car to soak in every cultural and historical gem at your own pace.
Transportation: Private car (for flexible travel between scattered cultural sites)
Day 1: Urumqi Arrival
Arrive in Urumqi. Transfer to the hotel and rest. Evening tour of the Grand Bazaar to immerse in local nightlife.
Day 2-3: Urumqi → Turpan (3-hour drive)
Visit Jiaohe Ruins, the largest and best-preserved ancient earthen city in the world, a key stop on the Silk Road.
Explore the Karez Irrigation System, an ancient underground water project comparable to the Great Wall and the Grand Canal.
Taste sweet Turpan grapes at a local vineyard and visit the Flaming Mountains, made famous by the classic novel Journey to the West.
Day 4-5: Turpan → Kashgar (5-hour drive)
En route, visit the Ruins of Gaochang, another important ancient city on the Silk Road.
Arrive in Kashgar, the westernmost city in China and a hub of Silk Road culture. Check in and explore the Kashgar Old Town, with its winding alleys, traditional Uyghur houses, and bustling bazaars.
Day 6-7: Kashgar Deep Dive
Visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China. Experience the grand morning prayer (non-Muslims can observe from outside).
Wander through the Sunday Bazaar (if timing permits) or the daily International Bazaar, where you can find handicrafts, spices, and local snacks.
Take a day trip to Pamyir Grassland, where you can see nomadic Kyrgyz people, yurts, and snow-capped Pamir Mountains in the distance. Ride a horse or camel and taste Kyrgyz dairy products.
Day 8-9: Kashgar → Hotan (6-hour drive)
Visit Hotan Jade Market, famous for its high-quality nephrite jade. Learn about jade carving from local artisans.
Explore the Desert Highway section near Hotan, with vast Taklamakan Desert on both sides. Stop at a desert oasis to experience local farming life.
Day 10: Hotan → Urumqi → Departure
Take a flight back to Urumqi. Transfer to the international airport for departure.
