- Verified itinerary · Updated regularly
12-Day South Xinjiang Adventure Tour
Discover Xinjiang China on this 12-day South Xinjiang adventure tour, a private Silk Road journey through ancient cities, desert landscapes, and local culture. Travel from Urumqi and Turpan to Kuqa, Khotan, Kashgar Old Town, and Karakul Lake along the ancient Silk Road and Taklamakan Desert Highway. Explore Jiaohe Ancient City, the Bezeklik and Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Subashi Ancient City, and the China-Pakistan Highway with a private guide, private vehicle, and airport or train station transfers.
12 Days / 11 Nights
A classic South Xinjiang private tour with Silk Road cities, desert highway adventure, and rich history
Urumqi → Turpan → Kuqa → Khotan → Kashgar
Ancient city ruins, thousand buddha caves, old towns, and natural landscapes in one route
Private Tour Experience
Private vehicle, local guide, flexible pacing, and airport or train station pickup
Kashgar Old Town & Karakul Lake
Islamic culture, grand bazaar, snow-capped mountains, and the legendary Pamir scenery
What Makes This Journey Different
A Hong Kong–registered travel group
Backed by a Hong Kong group, with local teams across China.
Secure payments
Pay safely by Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, PayPal, or bank transfer.
24/7 support
Real human assistance before, during, and after your journey in China.
Custom experiences
Activities and pacing tailored to your interests and travel style.
12-Day South Xinjiang Adventure Tour Route Overview
| Days | Destination | Experience Focus |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Urumqi | Arrival, airport or train station transfer, hotel check-in |
| 2 | Urumqi → Turpan | Tuyugou Village, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, Flaming Mountain, Jiaohe Ancient City |
| 3 | Turpan → Korla | Emin Minaret, Karez Well System, Turpan’s ancient irrigation system, transfer to Korla |
| 4 | Korla → Kuqa | Subashi Ancient City, Subashi Ancient Temple, Kizilgaha Beacon Tower, ancient Silk Road heritage |
| 5 | Kuqa | Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Buddhist art, Tianshan Grand Canyon, red sandstone landscapes |
| 6 | Kuqa → Alear | Kuqa Grand Mosque, Kuqa Royal Palace, Islamic culture, Tarim River scenery |
| 7 | Alear → Khotan | Taklamakan Desert Highway, desert crossing, golden sand dunes, South Xinjiang overland experience |
| 8 | Khotan | Khotan Museum, Khotan Historical Relics Exhibition, Yuetegan Ancient City, Silk Road culture |
| 9 | Khotan → Kashgar | Yarkant heritage, Amanisahan Mausoleum, drive to Kashgar |
| 10 | Kashgar | Kashgar Old Town, Handicraft Street, Id Kah Mosque, Grand Bazaar, local life |
| 11 | Kashgar → Karakul Lake → Kashgar | China-Pakistan Highway, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, snow-capped mountains, Pamir scenery |
| 12 | Kashgar | Departure, airport or train station transfer |
Travel Deeper Across South Xinjiang
Discover South Xinjiang on a 12-day private journey through Silk Road cities, desert landscapes, ancient grottoes, and the legendary Pamir scenery. From Urumqi and Turpan to Kuqa, Khotan, Kashgar, and Karakul Lake, this route brings together history, culture, and overland adventure in one unforgettable experience.
With a private guide, private vehicle, and airport or train station transfers included, the journey is designed for comfort, flexibility, and a smoother travel experience across one of China’s most fascinating regions.
Domestic Flights for Longer Distances
High-Speed Trains for Shorter Routes
Why Travelers Love This South Xinjiang Tour
Cross the Legendary Taklamakan Desert Highway
Drive across the vast Taklamakan Desert, often called the “Sea of Death,” on one of the most unforgettable road journeys in Xinjiang China. From golden sand dunes to remote oasis settlements, this is a defining experience of a true South Xinjiang adventure tour.
See the Pamirs on the China-Pakistan Highway
Travel along the famous China-Pakistan Highway to admire Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, glaciers, and snow-capped mountains. The contrast between desert and highland scenery is one of the most memorable parts of the journey.
Explore Ancient Silk Road Kingdoms
Step into the world of the ancient Silk Road as you visit Jiaohe Ancient City, Subashi Ancient City, beacon towers, and old oasis towns that once linked China with Central Asia.
Discover Buddhist Art in Thousand Buddha Caves
Visit the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves and Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, where rare murals and cave temples reflect the exchange of Buddhist culture along the Silk Road.
Feel the Atmosphere of Kashgar Old Town
Walk through Kashgar Old Town, visit Handicraft Street, relax in a historic teahouse, and admire the beauty of Id Kah Mosque, one of the most important landmarks of Islamic culture in Xinjiang.
Real Moments in South Xinjiang
See what this 12-day South Xinjiang adventure tour feels like — from ancient Silk Road cities and Kashgar Old Town to the Taklamakan Desert Highway and the Pamir landscapes around Karakul Lake.
Real moments of desert travel, local life, Islamic culture, and timeless history in Xinjiang China.
Itinerary Quick Look
Here is a thoughtfully designed itinerary for your 12-day South Xinjiang adventure tour. It can be customized to match your interests, pace, and travel style.
Day 1 – Arrival in Urumqi
Arrive in Urumqi, where your private guide will meet you at the airport or train station and escort you to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure before your South Xinjiang journey begins.
Day 2 – Urumqi to Turpan: Ancient Silk Road Wonders
Travel from Urumqi to Turpan, one of the most important oasis cities on the ancient Silk Road. Along the way, visit Tuyugou Village and experience a glimpse of the local traditional lifestyle. Continue to the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, admire the Flaming Mountain, and explore Jiaohe Ancient City, one of the best-preserved ancient city sites in Xinjiang, famous for its ruins, city walls, and historic layout.
Day 3 – Turpan to Korla: Ancient Irrigation and Islamic Heritage
Start the day with a visit to Emin Minaret, an elegant example of Islamic architecture. Then explore the Karez Well System, also known as Turpan’s ancient irrigation system, a network of underground canals that once supported life in this dry region. After this fascinating city tour, continue to Korla for an overnight stay.
Day 4 – Korla to Kuqa: Traces of Lost Kingdoms
Drive toward Kuqa, once a key stop on the Silk Road and an important center of ancient civilization. Visit Subashi Ancient City and Subashi Ancient Temple, where ruined monasteries and scattered remains still stand in the gravel desert. Later, stop at Kizilgaha Beacon Tower, the earliest and best-preserved signal tower along the northern route of the ancient Silk Road.
Day 5 – Kuqa: Thousand Buddha Caves and Grand Canyon
Today combines culture and natural scenery. Visit the Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, one of the most important cave temple complexes in Xinjiang, known for its broken but beautiful murals, early Buddhist culture, and rare Buddhist art linked to Central Asia. Then continue to Tianshan Grand Canyon, where red sandstone mountains shaped by wind and water erosion create one of the most dramatic scenic areas in South Xinjiang.
Day 6 – Kuqa to Alear: Mosque, Palace, and River Views
Visit the impressive Grand Mosque in Kuqa, where elements of traditional Chinese culture and Islamic culture come together in a striking architectural style. Then explore the Kuqa Royal Palace and its historical displays before driving to Alear. Along the way, enjoy changing desert scenery and views near the Tarim River.
Day 7 – Alear to Khotan: Across the Taklimakan Desert
Set out on one of the most memorable parts of this 12 day South Xinjiang adventure tour: crossing the Taklimakan Desert on the legendary Taklamakan Desert Highway. Watch the landscape change from golden sand dunes to isolated vegetation and endless open desert. This iconic desert highway drive is one of the great overland experiences in Xinjiang China.
Day 8 – Khotan: History, Crafts, and a Charming Town
Explore Khotan, a historic oasis city on the southern Silk Road with a long and prosperous history. Visit the museum and the Khotan Historical Relics Exhibition to see wooden wares, textiles, pottery, manuscripts, and other cultural relics that reflect the area’s rich history. Later, visit Yuetegan Ancient City, a charming town where performances and illuminated streets bring the story of Khotan to life across the entire city.
Day 9 – Khotan to Kashgar: Yarkant’s Historic Legacy
Drive from Khotan to Kashgar via Yarkant. Stop to visit the mausoleum of Amanisahan, whose graceful design, musical heritage, and decorative details reveal another layer of South Xinjiang’s history and culture. Continue onward to Kashgar, one of the most iconic cities on the ancient Silk Road.
Day 10 – Kashgar: Old Town, Bazaar, and Local Life
Today you will fully explore Kashgar. Walk through Kashgar Old Town, from the old town lanes and old city houses to lively workshops on Handicraft Street. Visit the Atlas Silk Workshop, discover handmade goods in the Grand Bazaar, and step into the quiet atmosphere of Id Kah Mosque, the spiritual heart of the city and a masterpiece of local Islamic architecture. If your timing is right, you may also see the famous Sunday Bazaar and learn more about local trade and the daily rhythm of the city center.
Day 11 – Kashgar to Karakul Lake: Into the Pamirs
Drive along the spectacular China Pakistan Highway into the Pamir highlands. Visit Stone City in Tashkurgan if road and timing conditions allow, then continue to admire Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake, backed by snow capped mountains, glaciers, and vast open sky. This is one of the most awe-inspiring scenic days of the entire trip.
Day 12 – Kashgar Departure
After breakfast, your guide and driver will escort you to the airport or train station for your onward journey. High speed train tickets can also be arranged upon request for travelers continuing to another destination in China.
Hotel Options & Location
We select clean, quiet, and well-located hotels to keep transfers short and rest quality high. Exact hotel names are confirmed after booking and tailored to your style.
- 4-star comfort in the best locations (standard).
- 5-star / star hotel upgrades or boutique hotels on request.
- Family rooms or connecting rooms available (subject to availability).
Tip: Share your preferences (location, breakfast, gym/pool, quiet rooms) and we’ll recommend the best match.
Tour Price & Inclusions
From US$3,389
per person
Tour Code:SXJ-12D-ADV
- Indicative price for a private tour (2 adults) with well-located 4-star hotels.
- Price includes basic travel insurance and a complimentary translation device for easy local interaction.
- Final pricing depends on travel dates, group size, room type, and hotel level (boutique / star hotel upgrades on request).
- Domestic flights and/or high-speed train tickets are arranged based on the confirmed itinerary.
Comfort-first private touring
Private guide & driver in each city — flexible pace.
Designed around you
We tailor sights, timing, and hotel level to you.
Clear pricing, no surprises
Inclusions confirmed before you book.
What’s Included
Private air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver for all scheduled transfers
English-speaking local guide for all included sightseeing
All entrance tickets and activities listed in the confirmed itinerary
Domestic flights and/or high speed train tickets between itinerary cities (as per plan)
Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast (4-star standard; boutique hotels / star hotel upgrades optional)
Government taxes and service charges
24/7 support while you are traveling
What’s Not Included
International flights to and from China
China visa fees (if applicable)
Meals not specified in the itinerary (many lunches are included; dinners often flexible)
Personal expenses and optional experiences
Booking & Payment Details
- Deposit: 20% to confirm your booking. The deposit is refundable within 48 hours after confirmation if plans change.
- Balance: Due 15–20 days before arrival, or upon confirmation for late bookings.
- Payment methods: Visa, MasterCard, Apple Pay, PayPal, or bank transfer.
- Changes: Free minor itinerary adjustments up to 14 days before the trip starts.
- Cancellation: Flexible cancellation policy. Specific terms will be confirmed based on travel dates and hotel selection.
Customize Your Journey (Optional)
This is a fully flexible private tour. Let us know how you’d like to adjust the itinerary — our travel specialists will take care of every detail.
Popular customization options include:
Adjusting the travel pace or adding rest time
Extending the journey or adding nearby destinations
Upgrading hotel standards or choosing scenic stays
Accommodating dietary preferences and special requests
Simply share your ideas, and we’ll tailor the journey to match your travel style.
Visa-Free & Travel Tips
- Visa-Free Entry to China — check if your passport is eligible.
- How to Visit China Without a Visa — 144-hour transit options.
- eSIM & Mobile Payments in China — WeChat Pay, Alipay and bank cards.
- China Weather by Month — plan around seasons and festivals.
Plan Your 12-Day South Xinjiang Adventure Tour
Tell us your travel plans — we’ll design a personalized South Xinjiang private tour covering ancient Silk Road cities, Kashgar Old Town, the Taklamakan Desert Highway, and Karakul Lake, all tailored to your pace, interests, and travel style.
- Reply within 24 hours
- Private tour only
- No forced shopping
Frequently Asked Questions About South Xinjiang Tours
Is this 12-day South Xinjiang adventure tour a private tour or one of the group tours?
This is a private tour, not one of the standard group tours. You will travel with your own guide, driver, and private vehicle, which gives you more comfort, a more flexible pace, and a better overall experience when visiting places like Kashgar Old Town, the Taklamakan Desert Highway, and Karakul Lake.
What are the main highlights of this South Xinjiang tour?
The highlights include the ancient Silk Road cities of Turpan, Kuqa, Khotan, and Kashgar; major cultural sites such as Jiaohe Ancient City, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, Subashi Ancient City, and Id Kah Mosque; as well as dramatic natural scenery including the Grand Canyon, the Taklimakan Desert, and the Pamir landscapes around Karakul Lake.
Is this itinerary suitable for first-time visitors to Xinjiang China?
Yes. This itinerary is very suitable for first-time visitors who want a deeper introduction to South Xinjiang. It combines rich history, local culture, old towns, desert travel, and mountain scenery in a clear and well-paced route from Urumqi to Kashgar.
How much walking or physical activity is involved on this trip?
This tour is suitable for most travelers. It mainly includes scenic drives, light to moderate walking in old town areas, museums, cave sites, and historical ruins. At places such as Kashgar Old Town, Jiaohe Ancient City, and the Thousand Buddha Caves, there will be some walking, but no extreme physical demands for most visitors.
Can the itinerary be customized if I want to spend more time in Kashgar or add more cultural visits?
Yes. Because this is a private South Xinjiang tour, the itinerary can be adjusted to match your interests. You may spend more time in Kashgar Old Town, add stops such as the Atlas Silk Workshop, extend your city tour in Kashgar, or include more cultural sites depending on your schedule and travel style.
What is included in the airport or train station service?
Your tour includes pickup and drop-off at the airport or train station at the beginning and end of the trip. If needed, we can also help arrange high speed train tickets or advise on the best transport connections before or after your South Xinjiang journey.
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