Xinjiang North South Tour Group Detailed Itinerary Full Panoramic Grand Loop How Many Days to Complete

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Icon at start ✨ [In-depth tour of the full grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang:12-day itinerary full analysis] ✨
Xinjiang, a land occupying one-sixth of China’s land area, has become a popular destination for domestic long-distance travel due to its diverse landscapes of snow mountains, grasslands, deserts, lakes, and gobi, as well as its unique culture of intermingled ethnic groups. In 2026, the full grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang centers on “covering both sides of the Tianshan Mountains in one trip,” connecting iconic attractions such as Kanas, Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, Kashgar Old City, and the Pamir Plateau, suitable for travelers with ample time seeking in-depth experiences. Below is a practical guide for travelers planning to visit Xinjiang, covering route design, itinerary arrangement, cost details, and more, combined with real-time 2026 information.
I. Detailed introduction to the route or destination: A dual feast of nature and culture
The full grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang starts from Urumqi and circles the Tianshan Mountains clockwise, covering approximately 4,500 kilometers, encompassing the natural wonders of northern Xinjiang and the cultural mysteries of southern Xinjiang. The route design balances scenic density and experiential comfort, with daily driving time controlled within 4-5 hours to avoid long-distance fatigue.
Northern Xinjiang section:A visual feast of natural scenery
Kanas Lake: Known as “a picturesque wonderland on earth,” in 2026 the scenic area implements a time-slot reservation system with opening hours from 8:00-20:00. Visitors can take shuttle buses to tour the three bays (Xian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay), or climb to the Fish Viewing Pavilion for a panoramic view of the lake. In summer, wildflowers bloom along the lakeshore; in autumn, the forests are painted in layers of color, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.
Hemu Village:A primitive Tuva ethnic village. Climbing to Haden Platform in the early morning allows you to photograph wooden houses with cooking smoke in the morning mist. In 2026, a new stargazing point was added where visitors can view the Milky Way at night, suitable for those who enjoy a tranquil atmosphere.
Sayram Lake:The lakeside road is fully open, with access from the East Gate, South Gate, and North Gate. In summer, golden lotus flowers bloom along the lakeshore; in winter, visitors can view the spectacular blue ice. The scenic area has abolished mandatory shuttle buses, allowing visitors to drive themselves or use customized vehicles to enter the core viewing areas.
Nalati Grassland:The aerial grassland area has a daily visitor limit and requires advance real-name reservation. Visitors can ride horses through flower seas or experience home visits with local ethnic families to learn about their traditional culture.
Duku Highway:The northern section (Nalati-Bayinbuluk) opens in early June 2026 and is expected to remain open until early October, making it a seasonally accessible road. Along the way, visitors can experience the wonder of “four seasons in one day,” making it a must-drive route for self-driving enthusiasts.
Southern Xinjiang section:Immersive experience of culture and history
Kashgar Old City:In 2026, a nighttime light show and performances at the century-old teahouse were added. Visitors can freely wander through the maze-like alleys to experience the daily life of local ethnic groups. The Id Kah Square in the old city is a cultural landmark of southern Xinjiang, where blessing ceremonies can be observed daily.

Icon at start ✨ [In-depth tour of the full grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang: 12-day itinerary full analysis] ✨Pamir Plateau: Traveling along National Highway G314, visitors can check in at Baisha Lake (free but requires reservation), Karakul Lake (ticket 50 yuan/person), and Muztagh Glacier Park (elevation 4,400 meters, reservation required). Entering Tashkurgan County requires obtaining a border pass in advance, which the travel agency can assist with.
Taklamakan Desert:Recommended experiences include desert off-roading or desert stargazing camping to feel the grandeur and silence of the “Sea of Death.” Some tour groups arrange desert highway crossings to photograph gobi yardang landforms.
Kuqa Grand Canyon:The red rock layers create stunning visual effects under sunlight, suitable for visitors interested in geological landscapes. The hiking trails in the canyon are gentle, making it accessible for the elderly and children.
II. Simplified itinerary: 12-day classic loop arrangement
The following itinerary references the actual operational plan of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service in 2026, designed in combination with seasonal characteristics and scenic area policies. Actual execution is subject to the signed contract:
Day 1:Urumqi assembly
Arrive at Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, transfer to hotel after pickup. Acclimatize to the climate, with free time recommended for visiting the International Grand Bazaar to taste baked buns, hand-pilaf, and other specialty foods, and purchase handicrafts from various ethnic groups.
Day 2:Urumqi – S21 Desert Highway – Burqin
Cross China’s first desert expressway, enjoying views of the Gurbantünggüt Desert along the way. Arrive at Burqin Riverbank Night Market in the evening to taste cold-water fish from the Irtysh River.
Day 3:Burqin – Kanas Lake – Jadengyu
Spend the full day touring the Kanas scenic area, taking shuttle buses to explore the three bays, and climbing to the Fish Viewing Pavilion for panoramic lake and mountain views. Stay overnight in wooden cabin guesthouses within the scenic area to experience traditional Tuva lifestyle.
Day 4:Jadengyu – Hemu Village

Xinjiang, a land occupying one-sixth of China’s land area, has become a popular destination for domestic long-distance travel due to its diverse landscapes of snow mountains, grasslands, deserts, lakes, and gobi, as well as its unique culture of intermingled ethnic groups. In 2026, the full grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang centers on “covering both sides of the Tianshan Mountains in one trip,” connecting iconic attractions such as Kanas, Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, Kashgar Old City, and the Pamir Plateau, suitable for travelers with ample time seeking in-depth experiences. Below is a practical guide for travelers planning to visit Xinjiang, covering route design, itinerary arrangement, cost details, and more, combined with real-time 2026 information.Photograph the morning mist of Hemu Village at dawn, and experience horseback riding through birch forests. In the afternoon, hike to Meili Peak for a panoramic view of the village below. Stay overnight in Tuva wooden houses and taste local clay pot hotpot.
Day 5:Hemu – Urho Demon City – Karamay
Cross the Junggar Basin and watch the sunset over the yardang landforms at Demon City. Stay overnight in Karamay city center, with the local night market recommended.
Day 6:Karamay – Sayram Lake – Yining
Drive around Sayram Lake, passing through the Guozigou Bridge, and photograph the azure waters of the “last tear of the Atlantic.” Arrive in Yining city in the evening and enjoy a white salmon feast.
Day 7:Yining – Nalati Grassland – Bayinbuluk
Explore the Nalati aerial grassland in depth, experiencing horseback riding or home visits with local ethnic families. In the afternoon, cross the northern section of the Duku Highway, arriving at Bayinbuluk in the evening to photograph the sunset over the Nine Bends and Eighteen Turns.
Day 8:Bayinbuluk – Kuqa Grand Canyon – Kuqa
Visit Kuqa Grand Canyon and feel the震撼 of the red rock layers. In the afternoon, stroll through Kuqa Old City, appreciate Qiuci music and dance, and touch the culture of this important Silk Road town.
Day 9:Kuqa – Aksu – Kashgar
View the danxia landforms of Wensu Grand Canyon along the way, arriving at Kashgar Old City in the evening. Visit Id Kah Square, explore the century-old teahouse at night, and listen to musical performances.
Day 10:Kashgar – Baisha Lake – Tashkurgan County

I. Detailed introduction to the route or destination: A dual feast of nature and cultureTravel along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway, checking in at Baisha Lake and Muztagh Peak. Experience home visits in local ethnic villages and taste yak meat hotpot.
Day 11:Tashkurgan County – Panlong Ancient Road – Kashgar
Cross the Panlong Ancient Road, famous for the saying “After walking all the detours today, may the rest of life be smooth sailing,” and photograph the iconic roadside sign. Return to Kashgar in the afternoon, with free time recommended for purchasing dried fruits and other local specialties.
Day 12:Kashgar departure
Transfer to the airport according to flight schedule, ending the trip. If you wish to stay longer, consult customer service to arrange a one-day trip to Heavenly Lake (Tianchi).
III. Price explanation: Transparent consumption system
In 2026, the cost of the full grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang varies depending on route, accommodation, and vehicle standards. The following are reference ranges:

Explore northern and southern Xinjiang without worries – professional customized vehicles and customized free travel. Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service landline hotline: 0991-8866234, dedicated customer service manager Zhang Jing phone: 181-3962-2233 (WeChat same number, addable)
Economy group:Approximately 7,500-8,500 yuan per person
Includes:Full-journey regular tourist bus, comfortable hotel accommodation (Ctrip 2-3 diamond), first admission tickets and shuttle buses at scenic areas, 8 breakfasts and 6 main meals, tour guide service.
Comfort group:Approximately 8,500-9,800 yuan per person
Upgraded to 4-diamond hotels or特色 guesthouses (such as Hemu view wooden cabins), 7-15 seat business vans, including major shuttle buses (such as Sayram Lake lakeside bus, Nalati aerial grassland bus, etc.), more specialty main meals.
High-end customized group:Approximately 9,800-12,000 yuan per person

The full grand loop of northern and southern Xinjiang starts from Urumqi and circles the Tianshan Mountains clockwise, covering approximately 4,500 kilometers, encompassing the natural wonders of northern Xinjiang and the cultural mysteries of southern Xinjiang. The route design balances scenic density and experiential comfort, with daily driving time controlled within 4-5 hours to avoid long-distance fatigue.Optional 20-35 seat small groups, dedicated tour guide, higher accommodation standards, and personalized experience projects (such as desert off-roading, Sayram Lake sailing, etc.).
Cost includes:
Transportation:Full-journey regular tourist operating vehicles (including fuel, tolls, driver accommodation and meal allowances)
Accommodation:Standard rooms at hotels or guesthouses listed in the itinerary (for solo travelers, our company will make every effort to arrange room sharing; special circumstances require separate negotiation)
Meals:Group meals (excluding alcoholic beverages; specialty meals such as big plate chicken, whole roasted lamb, etc. require advance reservation)
Tickets:First admission tickets and necessary shuttle buses at scenic areas
Services:Certified Chinese-speaking tour guide throughout the trip, travel agency liability insurance, and travel accident insurance
Cost excludes:
Round-trip transportation to Urumqi (airfare/train tickets)
Personal expenses (such as alcoholic beverages, souvenirs, optional activities)
Additional costs due to force majeure (such as temporary traffic control, weather delays, etc.)
Important notes:The above prices do not include transportation from the departure point to Urumqi, nor do they include optional activities within some scenic areas (such as horseback riding, boat rides, etc.). All cost details are subject to the final signed tourism contract, and prices may fluctuate based on travel dates and availability.

Northern Xinjiang section: A visual feast of natural sceneryIV. Registration method: Professional service guarantee
Registration can be made through the customer service manager of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service, with the following process:
Online consultation:Provide number of travelers, dates, and preferences (such as photography, family, etc.)
Itinerary customization:Modify the itinerary based on needs, confirm accommodation standards (comfort/high-end), and vehicle type (bus/van)
Contract signing:After paying the deposit, sign an electronic contract supervised by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, clarifying rights and obligations
Pre-trip preparation:Receive the departure notice 3 days before departure, including meeting point, tour guide contact information, packing list, etc.
V. Cost and service explanation: Subject to actual consultation and contract signing
Vehicle configuration:7-55 seat regular tourist operating vehicles, regularly maintained, equipped with fire extinguishers, first aid kits, and other equipment. Drivers are familiar with road conditions in northern and southern Xinjiang and have years of experience in plateau and long-distance driving.
Recommended vehicle types:
7-seat business van (such as Buick GL8):Approximately 1,800-2,200 yuan/day, suitable for family or small group travel. These quotes are reference vehicle prices only; actual prices are subject to customer service quotes!
9-17 seat minibus:Approximately 2,000-2,600 yuan/day, highly flexible, suitable for friends traveling together. These quotes are reference vehicle prices only; actual prices are subject to customer service quotes!
19-35 seat bus:Approximately 2,800-3,500 yuan/day, cost-effective, suitable for regular tour groups. These quotes are reference vehicle prices only; actual prices are subject to customer service quotes!

Kanas Lake: Known as “a picturesque wonderland on earth,” in 2026 the scenic area implements a time-slot reservation system with opening hours from 8:00-20:00. Visitors can take shuttle buses to tour the three bays (Xian Bay, Moon Bay, Wolong Bay), or climb to the Fish Viewing Pavilion for a panoramic view of the lake. In summer, wildflowers bloom along the lakeshore; in autumn, the forests are painted in layers of color, making it a paradise for photography enthusiasts.39-55 seat luxury bus:Approximately 3,800-4,500 yuan/day, equipped with seats, USB charging, and restroom, suitable for high-end customized groups. These quotes are reference vehicle prices only; actual prices are subject to customer service quotes!
Accommodation arrangements:All hotels listed in the itinerary are regular tourist hotels with clean and hygienic twin standard rooms. If you wish to upgrade accommodation standards (such as wooden cabins within the Kanas scenic area, Sayram Lake RV campsites), please confirm with customer service in advance and pay the price difference.
Meal explanation:Group meals focus on local specialties, including breakfast and some main meals. Main meal standard is 30-50 yuan/person/meal. Specialty meals such as whole roasted lamb and white salmon feasts require advance reservation and are self-paid.
Ticket policy:First admission tickets and necessary shuttle buses at scenic areas are included in the cost. Some optional activities within scenic areas (such as horseback riding, boat rides, desert off-roading, etc.) require visitors to choose and pay for themselves.
Itinerary changes:In case of uncontrollable factors such as extreme weather, road closures, or temporary visitor limits at scenic areas, both parties may agree to make reasonable itinerary changes to ensure the best possible experience.
Note:For solo travelers, our company will make every effort to arrange room sharing; special circumstances require separate negotiation.
VI. Practical tips: Making your trip more worry-free
Document preparation:Valid identification documents, border pass (required in advance for visiting the Pamir Plateau)
Dressing suggestions:Light jackets for northern Xinjiang grasslands, sun protection gear for southern Xinjiang deserts, and bring a fleece jacket throughout the trip to cope with mountain temperature differences.
Cultural respect:Ask permission before photographing local residents and avoid touching folk taboos.
Health tips:Xinjiang has large temperature differences between day and night and strong UV rays, so be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, etc. Some mountainous areas have higher elevations (such as Kanas at approximately 1,300 meters, and parts of the Pamir Plateau exceeding 3,000 meters), so avoid strenuous activity upon arrival.
Reservation policy:Kanas scenic area and the aerial grassland area of Nalati Grassland require advance real-name reservation, recommended 3-5 days in advance through the scenic area’s official website or the travel agency.
Vehicle selection:Choose the appropriate vehicle type based on group size and needs. 7-seat business vans are suitable for family travel, buses with 19 or more seats are suitable for regular tour groups, and high-end customized groups can choose small groups of 35 seats or fewer.
The beauty of Xinjiang lies in its vastness and diversity. A well-planned itinerary, a professional local guide, and a comfortable customized vehicle can make this journey across the Tianshan Mountains a true experience of relaxation and connection with nature. For further information on 2026 departure dates and availability, feel free to consult Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Service for one-on-one planning.
For Xinjiang tourism, choose Pathfinder International Travel Service. Customized vehicle travel is worry-free and reliable. Landline: 0991-8866234 Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing phone: 181-3962-2233