Silk Road Wonders: Cultural and Natural Treasures of Xinjiang

After breakfast at the hotel, take a trip to the Kashgar Old City, known for its unique architecture, culture, and customs. This area is a must-visit for photography enthusiasts. Opposite the Old City is the Grand Bazaar, also known as the "Handicraft Bazaar," where you can sample local food, shop, and explore at your leisure. Spend the night in Kashgar. Tips: The Old City houses the Id Kah Mosque; if you wish to visit, the entry fee is 30 yuan. While taking photos, please ask for permission before photographing people. Many ethnic restaurants have no-smoking and no-alcohol rules, so inquire beforehand. As you will need to travel to Tashkurgan County tomorrow, remember to carry your ID for the border pass.

After breakfast at the hotel, travel along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway to Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County. Midday, stop to photograph the stunning Bulunkou White Sand Lake. Continue to Karakul Lake and Muztagh Ata. Muztagh Ata, standing at 7,635 meters, is reflected beautifully in Karakul Lake. Stay overnight in Tashkurgan. Tips: To make the most of your time, adhere to the photography schedule. While taking road photos, ensure safety and avoid standing in the middle of the road. The highest altitude along the way is about 4,000 meters; avoid running to prevent breathlessness.

After breakfast, visit Stone City and Golden Grasslands in Tashkurgan. Golden Grasslands is a wetland area on the Pamir Plateau, offering spectacular views at sunrise. Stone City is an ancient city ruin with a significant history dating back to the Han Dynasty. Later, visit Panlong Ancient Road, a scenic road resembling a coiled dragon on the Pamir Plateau. Return to Kashgar for the night. Tips: The return journey follows the same route; photograph accordingly.

After breakfast, drive to Hotan. Upon arrival, visit the Yotkan Ruins to enjoy a large-scale historical dance drama, experiencing the rich cultural history of the region. Afterward, you can explore the Hotan Night Market, famous for its diverse and delicious food options such as roasted pigeon, roasted pumpkin, and more. Spend the night in Hotan. Tips: The dance drama at Yotkan Ruins is a must-see. Follow the guide's instructions and make the most of your time. The night market offers a variety of foods; try small portions first to find what you like.

After breakfast, drive along the desert highway to Aral. Enjoy the stunning views of the Taklamakan Desert and Populus euphratica forests. Xinjiang has two desert highways: one from Luntai to Minfeng, opened in 1965, and another from Hotan to Aral, opened in 2007. Spend the night in Aral. Tips: While taking photos along the highway, ensure safety and follow traffic rules. Communicate with the driver for safe stops. Carry packed lunch, as there might be no restaurants along the way; self-heating rice or local bread are good options.

After breakfast, visit the Wensu Grand Canyon, the largest Yadan and Danxia landform group in southern Xinjiang, known for its unique rock formations and vibrant colors. Later, travel to Kuqa for the night. Tips: The canyon has uneven terrain; wear comfortable shoes and avoid venturing too deep to prevent getting lost.

After breakfast, visit the Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon. Enjoy the stunning Yadan landforms of the Tianshan Mountains. The canyon features narrow pathways and towering peaks, offering a thrilling exploration. Continue to Hoxud for the night. Tips: Wear hiking shoes, as the canyon is sandy with water seepage. The deep parts of the canyon may lack signal; plan your time accordingly. The canyon restaurant offers local dishes like pilaf and stir-fried noodles, with an average cost of 50 yuan per person.

After breakfast, visit the Bosten Lake Golden Beach, the largest inland freshwater lake in China, known as "Xinjiang's Hawaii." After enjoying the scenery, travel back to Urumqi, marking the end of your journey. Tips: You can see water lilies and water birds at Bosten Lake. Boat rides are available at your own expense.

According to your flight or train schedule, a private transfer will take you to the airport or train station for your journey home. Tips: Double-check your ID, household registration book, and other valid documents before departure. Ensure all luggage containing lithium batteries, knives, or lighters is checked in. Keep valuables like laptops and cameras in your carry-on. Do not leave any items in the hotel or the tour vehicle.