The Southern Xinjiang's Silk Road
Designed by DEMI from Gopagoda Travel
A journey through Southern Xinjiang's Silk Road to rediscover yourself
Xinjiang, China’s largest region, is a land of breathtaking diversity. Over 11 days, we explored its towering mountains, expansive deserts, sparkling lakes, and winding rivers, while wandering through ancient cities rich with history. Along the way, we met locals, shared in their daily lives, and heard their stories, discovering the vibrant culture and enduring spirit that make this region truly unforgettable.
Key Highlights
- Ancient Silk Road and desert landscapes
- Kuqa Grand Canyon & Alar desert wonders
- Yarkand history & Turpan vineyards in the Flaming Mountains
Kaxgar
Kaxgar → Kizilsu
Kizilsu → Kaxgar
Kaxgar → Hotan
Hotan → Aksu
Aksu
Aksu
Aksu → Bayingolin → Turpan
Turpan
Turpan → Ürümqi
Ürümqi
Day 1 · Kaxgar · Kaxgar
2025-09-06 • Kaxgar
Good morning! A wonderful day awaits! After breakfast, please make sure you have all your belongings before we set out. Today is a free-and-easy day. We can reach the attractions by taxi or on foot. Since we’ll be visiting a mosque today, please wear sleeves and full-length pants. Avoid sleeveless tops and shorts.
Kashgar Ancient City
Warm Reminder
Plan ahead and adjust the experience to your pace.
Gaotai House
Warm Reminder
Plan ahead and adjust the experience to your pace.
Apak Hoja Tomb (Fragrant Concubine Tomb)
What to Expect
Take a deep breath here—can you still sense the fragrance of “Xiangfei”? Tickets have been booked in advance. Simply present the QR code for entry.
Warm Reminder
Take a deep breath here—can you still sense the fragrance of “Xiangfei”? Tickets have been booked in advance. Simply present the QR code for entry.
Id Kah Mosque
Warm Reminder
Plan ahead and adjust the experience to your pace.
Day 2 · Kaxgar → Kizilsu · Day 2
2025-09-07 • Kaxgar → Kizilsu
Today, we’re heading to Tashkurgan, so we’ll check out before departing. Please make sure you have all your belongings. Some items can be stored at the hotel since we’ll return tomorrow. Double-check that you have all essentials, especially documents, before we begin today’s journey! A private car has been arranged. The driver will wait in the hotel lobby and will contact us in advance. If you don’t hear from them, please reach out to the travel consultant online.
Day 3 · Kizilsu → Kaxgar · Day 3
2025-09-08 • Kizilsu → Kaxgar
After breakfast, we’ll head back to Kashgar. Wear anti-slip shoes for easier walking in the glacier park. Today, we’ll pass through Panlong Ancient Road, Bandier Blue Lake, and Muztagh Glacier Park. If you’re prone to motion sickness, be prepared—Panlong Road will help us “finish all the curves of this life”! When checking out, double-check your belongings. We won’t be coming back this way.
Day 4 · Kaxgar → Hotan · Day 4
2025-09-09 • Kaxgar → Hotan
Today, we’re leaving the Kashgar area and heading east. When checking out, ensure you have all your belongings—we won’t be returning. Compared to the past few days, today’s schedule is relatively relaxed, and we’ll experience a different landscape. Let’s get ready and set off!
Day 5 · Hotan → Aksu · Day 5
2025-09-10 • Hotan → Aksu
Today involves a long drive. You may want to buy some snacks and fruits for the journey. The desert landscape and occasional poplar trees along the way will surely catch your eye! Rest or review the itinerary during the ride.
Day 6 · Aksu · Day 6
2025-09-11 • Aksu
New surprises await every day! After admiring the poplar forest, we’ll head to Kuqa. Before setting off, double-check your belongings to ensure nothing is left behind.
Day 7 · Aksu · Day 7
2025-09-12 • Aksu
We’ll be staying here again tonight, so travel light today! However, we’ll be doing a lot of walking and spending extended time outdoors. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sun and rain protection, just in case.
Day 8 · Aksu → Bayingolin → Turpan · Day 8
2025-09-13 • Aksu → Bayingolin → Turpan
Today, we depart for Turpan. We’ll set off relatively early because this will be the longest drive of our trip. Pack your belongings, bring snacks, and prepare for the journey. We’ll make a brief stop at Bosten Lake—be mindful of the time to avoid arriving in Turpan too late.
Day 9 · Turpan · Day 9
2025-09-14 • Turpan
You must be tired from yesterday’s journey! Today’s schedule is much more relaxed. After breakfast, we’ll set out leisurely. We’re staying here again tonight, so no need to worry about luggage. How hot will the famous Flaming Mountain be today? Let’s find out!
Day 10 · Turpan → Ürümqi · Day 10
2025-09-15 • Turpan → Ürümqi
After today’s activities, we’ll head to Urumqi, so we’ll check out before departing. Pack your belongings, and then we’ll visit Huoyun Valley.
Day 11 · Ürümqi · Day 11
2025-09-16 • Ürümqi
Today is the last day of our journey. We’ve left countless footprints on this land and gathered many unique experiences—memories we’ll cherish! Our return flight departs in the evening. We need to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours early for check-in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about traveling with a Travelbook
What exactly is a Travelbook?
A Travelbook is your personalized travel playbook — a comprehensive guide crafted by local experts that includes day-by-day itineraries, restaurant recommendations, transportation tips, cultural insights, and insider knowledge. It's everything you need to travel independently with confidence.
How is this different from a group tour?
Unlike group tours with fixed schedules and 30+ strangers, a Travelbook gives you complete freedom. Travel at your own pace, eat where you want, and stay longer at places you love. You get expert guidance without sacrificing independence.
What support do I get during the trip?
You'll have 24/7 WhatsApp support from our travel experts. Whether you need restaurant recommendations, help with directions, or emergency assistance, we're just a message away.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely! Every Travelbook is tailored to your preferences. Tell us what you love — food, history, nature, photography — and we'll craft an itinerary that matches your travel style.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking at least 2-3 weeks before your trip to allow time for customization. However, we can accommodate last-minute requests when possible.
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