Xinjiang Tours 2025

Is Xinjiang worth visiting?

Located in the northwest of China, Xinjiang is the largest of all provinces and regions with a long borderline. With an area of 1.66 million square kilometers, Xinjiang is almost the same size as Iran. Because of the large land area and variety of climates, Xinjiang has totally different landscapes from north to south. You can find the Southern Mountain Pastureland, Kanas Lake, and Heavenly Lake in the north, and Taklamakan Desert in the south. You can immerse yourself in the Grand Bazaar to experience the local people’s life and exotic cultures of the different minority groups. Last but not least, the tasty local food is another good reason for people travel to Xinjiang.

Xinjiang is the essential part of the ancient Silk Road. People choose to travel the Silk Road, not only to see the famed ruins on the ground, but also the things and stories which are buried deep in the desert. The classic drive route, which includes the desert highway, is from Turpan to Kashgar via Urumqi, Kuqa and Hotan. Driving on the desert highway will mean a lot to your Xinjiang tour.

What is the best time to visit Xinjiang?

Xinjiang offers a variety of landscapes and experiences, with the Tianshan Mountains dividing the region into Northern Xinjiang (Beijiang) and Southern Xinjiang (Nanjiang). The best time to visit depends on the areas and attractions you're interested in:

Natural Scenery

Southern Xinjiang
March to April for the apricot blossoms, and October to November, when the golden poplar forests are in full splendor, perfect for photography.

Northern Xinjiang
June, with highlights like the serene Shat Ancient Trail, the vast Karajun Grassland, and the romantic lavender fields of Ili.
September to October is especially beautiful, when Northern Xinjiang becomes a painter's palette of autumn colors, as recognized by National Geographic.
Winter is also great for skiing enthusiasts.

Cultural Tourism
Southern Xinjiang is ideal year-round, offering rich ethnic traditions in Kashgar, the simplicity and warmth of Hotan, the majestic landscapes around the Kunlun Mountains, and the desert vistas of Kuqa and Korla, including the mysterious Kuqa Grand Canyon.

How many days are recommended for a Xinjiang trip?

Xinjiang is vast, and distances between destinations can be significant. A typical trip should last at least 7 days to cover the basics. However, for a more in-depth experience, a 30-day itinerary is recommended to fully explore the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.

What are the must-see attractions in Xinjiang?

For first-time visitors, some of the top recommendations include: Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (Tianchi), Kanas Lake, Sailimu Lake, Nalati Grassland, Grape Valley and the Flaming Mountains in Turpan, The ancient city of Kashgar, Bayanbulak Grassland. Each destination offers its own unique natural scenery and cultural significance.

What are the local culinary specialties in Xinjiang?

Recommended dishes include: Lamb kebabs, Hand-pulled rice, Big plate chicken (Da Pan ji), Hand-pulled noodles, and Various types of naan bread.

Where are the best photography spots in Xinjiang?

Xinjiang is a paradise for photographers, with many breathtaking spots such as: the morning mist at Kanas Lake, the stunning sunset at Sailimu Lake, and the winding river views of Bayanbulak Grassland's Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns. These locations provide stunning backdrops and are ideal for capturing extraordinary natural beaut

Is transportation in Xinjiang convenient for tourists?

Yes, transportation in Xinjiang is generally convenient. However, because the distances between scenic spots can be long, often requiring drives of over an hour, most tours rely on private or business vehicles. The long drives are rewarding, though, as the landscapes along the way are often as impressive as the destinations themselves. Custom tours are available, allowing for flexibility to suit your preferences.