Golden Autumn Southern Xinjiang 13-Day Overland Expedition
Cross Tianshan, traverse Taklamakan, and immerse in Silk Road history.
Product Code:MVSP000577
Departure:Urumqi
Duration:13 days
Duration
13 days
Departure
Daily Departure
Group size
Small Group (<15)
Transport
Bus/Coach
Guided Language
English, Chinese
Why choose this itinerary?
- Cross the Tianshan Mountains and pass through the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel
- Cruise on Bosten Lake and savor a wild fish feast
- Drive across the vast Taklamakan Desert Highway
- Admire golden poplar forests along the Tarim River
- Experience Pamir Plateau icons including Panlong Ancient Road and Karakul Lake
- In-depth Silk Road heritage with Subash Ruins, Kizil Caves, and Kashgar Old Town
Visual Itinerary
Click on the days below to explore the route on the map.
- Route Overview
- Day 1: Arrival in Ürümqi & Gateway to the Western Regions
- Day 2: Crossing Tianshan Mountains to Bosten Lake Cruise
- Day 3: Ancient Qiuci Culture: Subash Ruins & Kuqa Prince Mansion
- Day 4: Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon & Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves
- Day 5: Golden Poplars of Shayanzhou & Tarim River Journey
- Day 6: Taklamakan Desert Highway & Hotan Night Market
- Day 7: Zepu Golden Poplars, Kazanchi Old Street & Yarkand Night Market
- Day 8: Artisanal Crafts, Kashgar Ancient City & Khan Bazaar
- Day 9: China-Pakistan Highway, White-Sand Lake & Karakul Lake
- Day 10: Panlong Ancient Road, Bandir Blue Lake & Tajik Family Visit
- Day 11: Stone City, Golden Grass Beach & Return to Kashgar
- Day 12: Full Day In-Depth Kashgar Ancient City Exploration
- Day 13: Departure from Kashgar & Journey Home
Daily Discovery Log
Our itinerary is moderately paced, ensuring you can deeply experience the charm of each location.
Insights From Our Expert
Journey through Southern Xinjiang during its golden autumn, where ancient grottoes, vibrant night markets, and desert poplar forests evoke the timeless spirit of the Silk Road. From the towering peaks of the Pamir Plateau to the bustling alleys of Kashgar Old Town, experience breath-taking landscapes and deep cultural traditions.
Why Choose This Trip?
- Cross the Tianshan Mountains and pass through the Tianshan Shengli Tunnel
- Cruise on Bosten Lake and savor a wild fish feast
- Drive across the vast Taklamakan Desert Highway
- Admire golden poplar forests along the Tarim River
- Experience Pamir Plateau icons including Panlong Ancient Road and Karakul Lake
- In-depth Silk Road heritage with Subash Ruins, Kizil Caves, and Kashgar Old Town
Who is This Trip For?
- Culture & Silk Road Heritage Enthusiasts
- Photography Lovers seeking golden autumn landscapes
- Adventure Travelers wanting desert & plateau journeys
Real Traveler Reviews
See what other travelers have to say!
Eleanor Vance
An absolute bucket-list journey! Crossing the Taklamakan Desert and seeing the golden poplars at sunset was unforgettable.
Marcus Thorne
The Pamir Plateau scenery and Kashgar Old Town's atmosphere were rich and captivating. Excellent food and guide service throughout.
What's Included
- 11 nights hotel accommodation (double-occupancy basis)
- All daily breakfasts, lunches, and specialty feature dinners listed in the itinerary
- Tour transportation specified in itinerary (Car / MPV / 7-seat transfer for Panlong Road)
- First-entrance tickets and scenic shuttle buses listed
- Professional English-speaking tour guide service
What's Not Included
- International air tickets and associated taxes
- Passport, visa, and travel permit processing fees
- Personal travel and medical insurance
- Personal expenses or expenses caused by force majeure
- Mandatory Tour Service Gratuities: USD 10 per person per day
Mandatory Fees
- Tour Guide & Driver Service Charge: USD 10 / person / day (Total USD 130 per person)
Optional Fees
- Single Room Supplement: USD 1000 per person