2026 5 Day Group Tour to Kuqa Aksu Southern Xinjiang Visiting Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon Royal Palace Old Street Affordable Price Welcome to Sign Up Recommended Route Price

Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quotation

【Exploring Southern Xinjiang:5-Day In-Depth Cultural Tour of Kuqa and Aksu, Unlocking the Secret Realms of the Tianshan Mountains and Millennia of Humanities】
✨ 【Itinerary Highlights:A Southern Xinjiang Tapestry Woven with Geological Wonders and Cultural Heritage】
Kuqa and Aksu, nourished by the southern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains, harbor countless hidden surprises. From the breathtaking Danxia landforms to the ancient Silk Road echoes of millennia-old cities, from the vibrant colors of traditional dwellings of various ethnic groups to the creative districts blending modern cultural tourism, this route will take you on a journey through time and space to experience the diverse charm of Southern Xinjiang.
I. Detailed Introduction to the Route or Destinations
【Tianshan Secret Grand Canyon:Earth’s Red Scar】
This geological wonder, known as the “Kuqa Grand Canyon,” is located approximately 70 kilometers north of Kuqa City on the southern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains. The canyon stretches about 5 kilometers in length, with its widest point reaching 50 meters and its narrowest point allowing only one person to pass sideways. Over hundreds of millions of years, wind and water erosion have sculpted the red sandstone into sheer cliffs resembling those carved by axes and knives. When sunlight slants in, the textures on the rock walls dance like flames, earning it the title of a “natural geological museum.”
【Kuqa Royal Palace:Reliving the Noble Life of the Silk Road】
The Kuqa Royal Palace was built during the Qianlong period of the Qing Dynasty to honor E’dui, the leader of various ethnic groups, for assisting in quelling rebellions. It was reconstructed in 2004 to its original appearance. Here, not only are the living quarters of the last prince preserved, but holographic projection technology also recreates scenes of banquets and discussions held in the palace in the past. Strolling along the carved corridors, one can almost hear the Silk Road stories carried by the camel bells.
【Restan Old Street:A Living Folk Museum】
This century-old street, dating back to the Qing Dynasty, is the bustling heart of Kuqa’s urban life. Traditional dwellings of various ethnic groups with yellow walls and red windows line the street, with blooming geraniums placed at each doorway. Step into a copperware shop at the street corner to watch artisans craft exquisite teapots using traditional techniques; in front of a century-old nang pit, savor freshly baked Kuqa giant nang—this bread, with a diameter exceeding 50 centimeters, is the “portable home” of Southern Xinjiang people.
【Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves:Treasure Trove of Buddhist Art in the Western Regions】
(If included in the itinerary) As China’s earliest large-scale grotto complex, the Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves predate the magnificent Mogao Caves in Dunhuang by 300 years. The caves preserve a wealth of exquisite diamond-shaped Jataka story paintings, with murals such as “Subduing Demons” and “Flying Apsaras” showcasing the unique artistic style of the ancient Kucha Kingdom. Currently, six caves are open to the public and must be visited with a professional guide.

【Exploring Southern Xinjiang: 5-Day In-Depth Cultural Tour of Kuqa and Aksu, Unlocking the Secret Realms of the Tianshan Mountains and Millennia of Humanities】II. Simple Itinerary
【Day 1:Urumqi → Kuqa (by plane/train)】
Morning:Arrive at Kuqa Qiuci Airport by plane (approximately 1.5-hour flight) or take the D8802 bullet train from Urumqi Station (departing at 08:30, arriving at 14:08) to reach Kuqa.
Afternoon:Visit the Kuqa Grand Mosque (the second-largest in Xinjiang), enjoy free time on Restan Old Street, and savor local specialties such as baked stuffed buns and pigeon soup.
Evening:Check into a four-star hotel in downtown Kuqa and attend the itinerary briefing.
【Day 2:In-Depth Tour of Kuqa】
Morning:Explore the Tianshan Secret Grand Canyon (including shuttle bus), hike for about 2 hours within the canyon, and photograph iconic spots such as “One Skyline” and “Hero Valley.”
Afternoon:Tour the Kuqa Royal Palace, watch ethnic song and dance performances, and experience traditional tea ceremonies of various ethnic groups.
Evening:Head to the Kuqa Night Market to sample roast whole lamb, pilaf, and other delicacies on your own.
【Day 3:Kuqa → Aksu (2.5-hour drive by car)】
Morning:Drive to Aksu, visiting the Wensu Grand Canyon en route (alternative attraction subject to road conditions).
Afternoon:Tour the Aksu Museum to learn about the history of the 36 kingdoms in the Western Regions and visit the “Kucha Culture Exhibition.”
Evening:Check into a hotel in downtown Aksu and enjoy free time.

✨【Itinerary Highlights: A Southern Xinjiang Tapestry Woven with Geological Wonders and Cultural Heritage】【Day 4:Cultural Experience in Aksu】
Morning:Visit the Duolang River National Wetland Park for birdwatching and cycling, experiencing the ecological beauty of the “Jiangnan beyond the Great Wall.”
Afternoon:Proceed to the Dao Lang Tribe Scenic Area in Awati County (about a 1-hour drive) to watch Dao Lang Mukam performances and participate in folk activities such as nang-making and grape juice pressing.
Evening:Return to downtown Aksu and savor the local specialty “Qiamagu Stewed Lamb.”
【Day 5:Aksu → Return Journey】
Morning:Enjoy free time (optional shopping for dried figs, walnuts, and other specialties).
Afternoon:Transfer to the airport/train station based on your flight/train schedule, concluding your delightful journey.
III. Pricing Information
【Reference Quotation for 2026】
Adult:Starting from 3,280 RMB per person
Child (under 1.2 meters, not occupying a bed):1,880 RMB per person
：800 RMB per person

Kuqa and Aksu, nourished by the southern slopes of the Tianshan Mountains, harbor countless hidden surprises. From the breathtaking Danxia landforms to the ancient Silk Road echoes of millennia-old cities, from the vibrant colors of traditional dwellings of various ethnic groups to the creative districts blending modern cultural tourism, this route will take you on a journey through time and space to experience the diverse charm of Southern Xinjiang.Inclusions:
Transportation:Round-trip transportation between Urumqi and Kuqa (choose between plane or train), local tourist buses
Accommodation:4 nights in four-star hotels (including breakfast)
Admission Tickets:First entrance tickets to attractions such as the Tianshan Secret Grand Canyon, Kuqa Royal Palace, and Aksu Museum
Meals:4 breakfasts + 3 lunches (standard lunch at 40 RMB per person)
Tour Guide:Licensed tour guide service throughout the journey
Insurance:Travel agency liability insurance + travel accident insurance
Exclusions:
Personal expenses, secondary consumption items within attractions, round-trip transportation (if choosing a hard sleeper on the train, a price difference must be paid)
Special Notes:
Prices may fluctuate based on peak and off-peak seasons; specifics are subject to the contract or confirmation on the day. In case of policy adjustments or force majeure factors, both parties may reasonably modify the itinerary through mutual agreement.
IV. Registration Method
You can register through Xinjiang Explorer International Travel Agency and consult Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing for details.

I. Detailed Introduction to the Route or DestinationsV. Pricing Information and Service Descriptions
【Inclusion Details】
Transportation:Arranged according to the transportation method chosen at registration: economy class on plane or hard/soft sleeper on train
Accommodation:Stay in hotels throughout the journey; in case of full occupancy, hotels of the same standard will be arranged
Meals:Team meals are the main focus, taking into account the dietary habits of various ethnic groups
Admission Tickets:Include first entrance tickets to all marked attractions in the itinerary
【Service Standards】
Vehicles:Driven by drivers with over 15 years of driving experience, with daily disinfection and ventilation
Tour Guides:Each tour group is equipped with 1 Chinese-speaking tour guide + 1 staff member
Insurance:Complimentary travel accident insurance with coverage up to 500,000 RMB
【Special Reminders】
For solo travelers, we will do our best to arrange room-sharing; special circumstances require separate negotiation

【Tianshan Secret Grand Canyon: Earth’s Red Scar】 Seniors aged 65 and above must provide a health certificate; those aged 70 and above must be accompanied by family members
Specifics are subject to actual consultation and contract signing
VI. Practical Information
【Optimal Travel Seasons】
April-May:Apricot blossoms in full bloom, pleasant temperatures
September-October:Fragrant fruits, splendid autumn colors
Winter (December-February):Fewer tourists, opportunity to experience ice and snow activities (confirm景区 [should be ‘scenic area’] opening status in advance)
【Clothing Guide】
Southern Xinjiang has large temperature variations between day and night; even in summer, bring a light jacket. Wear long pants/skirts and avoid exposing shoulders when visiting attractions.
【Photography Tips】
Tianshan Secret Grand Canyon:Optimal light before 10 AM or after 4 PM for capturing the “Flaming Canyon” effect
Kuqa Royal Palace:Utilize architectural light and shadow for stunning cultural photographs
Restan Old Street:Interact with local residents to capture authentic life scenes
This route seamlessly blends geological wonders, historical relics, and folk experiences, offering something for everyone—photography enthusiasts, culture explorers, and foodies alike. In 2026, let’s meet in Southern Xinjiang for a spontaneous in-depth travel adventure!

Contact Manager Zhang Jing at phone number 18139622233 or WeChat 18139622233 to send itinerary and quotation