2026 Departing from Yining 17 Day North and South Xinjiang Long Route Group Tour Including Tangbula Grassland and Muji Volcano All Inclusive Price Inquiry Recommended Itinerary Price
Contact Manager Maizi at phone number 13201333409 or WeChat 13201333409 to send your itinerary and receive a quote.
17-Day In-Depth Tour of Northern and Southern Xinjiang: Unveiling the MysteriesAn Enchanting Journey from Yining: Embrace the Poetic Tangbula Grassland and Muji Volcano
[Itinerary Highlights:An In-Depth Experience Blending Nature and Culture]
Xinjiang, a land covering one-sixth of China’s territory, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes interwoven with snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, and deserts. In 2026, Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency launches a 17-day northern and southern Xinjiang itinerary starting from Yining. Embracing the concept of ‘slow travel,’ this journey weaves together the poetry of Tangbula Grassland, the mystery of Muji Volcano, and the vibrant life of ethnic communities along the way. Avoiding conventional routes, it delves into lesser-known hidden gems, ideal for travelers seeking profound experiences.
I. Detailed Introduction to Itinerary or Destinations
Tangbula Grassland:A Poetic Retreat Along the Hundred-Li Gallery
Located in the eastern part of Nilka County, Ili Kazak Autonomous Prefecture, Tangbula Grassland is dubbed the ‘Hundred-Li Gallery’ by locals due to its interwoven mountain valleys and gurgling streams. In summer, the grassland is carpeted with lush greenery and wildflowers, with towering spruce trees and distant snow-capped mountains reflecting in the Kashi River, forming a natural masterpiece. Visitors can ride horses across the grassland, visit the yurts of local Kazak herders, savor freshly brewed milk tea and hand-grabbed meat, and experience the simplicity and freedom of nomadic life.
Muji Volcano:The ‘Earth’s Scar’ on the Pamir Plateau
The Muji Volcano Group, located in Akto County, Kizilsu Kirgiz Autonomous Prefecture, deep within the Pamir Plateau, is Xinjiang’s highest-altitude volcanic crater cluster. Here, the volcanic landscape remains well-preserved, with black basalt contrasting sharply against surrounding snow-capped mountains and wetlands, resembling an ‘earth’s scar.’ Visitors can hike to the crater’s edge, overlook the profound depths, or observe the奇特 (unique) phenomena of surrounding geothermal springs. Due to the high altitude, it is essential to take precautions against cold and sun exposure.
Journey Highlights:From the Ili Valley to Southern Xinjiang’s Cultural Tapestry
The itinerary also covers classic attractions such as Sayram Lake, Nalati Grassland, the Duku Highway, Kashgar Old City, and the Pamir Plateau. At Sayram Lake, you can cycle around the lake or await the sunrise and sunset; at Nalati Grassland, experience the vastness of the aerial grassland; while traversing the Duku Highway, witness the changing seasons in a single day; in Kashgar Old City, stroll through centuries-old streets and explore handicraft workshops; on the Pamir Plateau, engage with residents of various ethnic groups and feel the warmth of the highland people.
17-Day In-Depth Tour of Northern and Southern Xinjiang: An Enchanting Journey from Yining, Embracing Tangbula Grassland and Muji VolcanoII. Simple Itinerary Arrangement
Days 1-3:Yining and Surroundings
Day 1:Gather in Yining, check into the hotel, and acclimate to the environment.
Day 2:Head to Sayram Lake, tour around the lake, and capture the scenic views of lakes and mountains.
Day 3:Cross the Guozigou Bridge and visit the Huocheng Jieyou Princess Lavender Farm (summer exclusive), returning to Yining in the evening.
Days 4-6:In-Depth Exploration of Tangbula Grassland
Day 4:Depart from Yining and head to Tangbula Grassland via the Yiqiao Highway, with a stop at the Qiaoerma Martyrs Cemetery along the way.
Day 5:Spend the whole day exploring Tangbula Grassland, including horse riding, visiting local yurts, and hiking to Fairy Lake.
Day 6:Continue deeper into the grassland, capturing morning mists and flower fields, and head to Nalati Town in the evening.
Days 7-9:Nalati to Kuqa (Duku Highway Section)
[Itinerary Highlights: An In-Depth Experience Blending Nature and Culture]Day 7:Tour Nalati Grassland, experiencing the aerial grassland and Panlong Ancient Road.
Day 8:Traverse the northern section of the Duku Highway, with stops at Hashilergen Daban and Qiaoerma Glacier.
Day 9:Arrive in Kuqa and visit the Kuqa Grand Canyon and Kizil Thousand-Buddha Caves.
Days 10-12:Kuqa to Kashgar
Day 10:Depart from Kuqa, head to Kashgar via Aksu, with a stop at the Wensu Grand Canyon along the way.
Day 11:Spend the whole day exploring Kashgar Old City, visiting the Id Kah Mosque, Gaotai Folk Residences, and experiencing the Century-Old Teahouse.
Day 12:Visit the Kashgar Grand Bazaar to purchase handicrafts with ethnic characteristics.
Days 13-15:Kashgar to Tashkurgan (Pamir Plateau Section)
Day 13:Obtain a travel permit and head to Tashkurgan, with stops at Baisha Lake and Muztagh Ata along the way.
Day 14:Tour the Stone City and Golden Grassland, and visit villages of various ethnic groups.
Xinjiang, a land covering one-sixth of China’s territory, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes interwoven with snow-capped mountains, grasslands, lakes, and deserts. In 2026, Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency launches a 17-day northern and southern Xinjiang itinerary starting from Yining. Embracing the concept of ‘slow travel,’ this journey weaves together the poetry of Tangbula Grassland, the mystery of Muji Volcano, and the vibrant life of ethnic communities along the way. Avoiding conventional routes, it delves into lesser-known hidden gems, ideal for travelers seeking profound experiences.Day 15:Head to the Muji Volcano Group, hike to explore the volcanic landscape, and return to Tashkurgan in the evening.
Days 16-17:Return Journey and Disbandment
Day 16:Return from Tashkurgan to Kashgar for free activities or to purchase additional specialties.
Day 17:See off at the airport according to the flight schedule, concluding the itinerary.
III. Price Explanation (Reference for 2026)
Tour Fare Includes:Round-trip transportation (including the Duku Highway and off-road vehicles for the Pamir Plateau section), 16 nights of comfortable hotel accommodation (including breakfast), first entrance tickets to attractions, professional guide services, and travel insurance.
Reference Range for Tour Fare:12,800-15,800 yuan per person (specifics based on actual consultation and signing; prices may fluctuate according to tour dates, room types, and transportation costs).
Expenses Not Included:Round-trip transportation to Yining, personal expenses, travel permit processing fees (approximately 50 yuan per person), and secondary consumption at some attractions (such as horse riding and photography services).
IV. Registration Method
You can register through Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency and consult Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing for details. Registration requires providing valid identification information, contact details, and a health statement. An electronic contract can be signed after mutual agreement.
I. Detailed Introduction to Itinerary or DestinationsV. Fee Explanation and Service Description
Fees Include:Transportation, accommodation, tickets, guide services, and insurance as listed in the itinerary.
Fees Exclude:Unspecified personal expenses and additional costs due to force majeure (such as weather or road condition changes).
Service Standards:Official tourist vehicles are used throughout the journey, with accommodation in locally comfortable hotels or characteristic homestays. Guides are certified, and the itinerary is arranged to balance experience and comfort.
Special Notes:For single registrants, efforts will be made to coordinate room sharing; special circumstances require separate negotiation. The itinerary can be reasonably adjusted by mutual agreement (such as changes in attraction opening hours or traffic control).
Specifics are based on actual consultation and signing; prices and availability are subject to contract confirmation or same-day verification.
VI. Precautions
Document Preparation:Valid identification is required; a travel permit must be obtained in advance for visits to the Pamir Plateau (can be entrusted to the travel agency for processing).
Clothing and Equipment:Xinjiang has significant temperature variations between day and night; bring warm outerwear, sun protection items, and comfortable hiking shoes. For visits to Muji Volcano at high altitudes, it is advisable to carry an oxygen cylinder.
Cultural Respect:When visiting residences, follow local customs and refrain from taking photos of people, especially women, without permission.
Tangbula Grassland: A Poetic Retreat Along the Hundred-Li GalleryEco-Friendly Travel:The grassland and plateau ecosystems are fragile; please refrain from littering and avoid damaging vegetation.
VII. Frequently Asked Questions
Q:When is the best time to visit Tangbula Grassland in 2026?
A:The peak season for Tangbula Grassland is from June to August when the grassland is in full bloom with flowers and the climate is pleasant. To avoid crowds, consider visiting in late May or early September.
Q:What should I be aware of when visiting the Muji Volcano Group?
A:The Muji Volcano Group is located at high altitude; be mindful of altitude sickness and consider taking Rhodiola in advance. The crater’s edge has no guardrails; follow the guide’s instructions and avoid approaching non-open areas.
Q:Has the opening time for the Duku Highway in 2026 been confirmed?
A:The Duku Highway typically opens in early June and closes in early October each year, with the specific opening time depending on the weather and road conditions of the year. If closed due to force majeure, the itinerary will be adjusted to alternative routes, with fees refunded or supplemented accordingly.
Q:Does the tour fare include all meals?
A:The tour fare includes 16 breakfasts; main meals are at your own expense. Local specialty restaurants will be recommended during the itinerary, with an average meal cost of approximately 50-80 yuan per person.
The vastness and diversity of Xinjiang can only be truly appreciated by experiencing it firsthand. This 17-day northern and southern Xinjiang itinerary, starting from Yining, weaves together grasslands, volcanoes, ancient cities, and plateaus, allowing travelers to feel the natural power and cultural warmth of Xinjiang in a single journey. For more details, contact Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing of Xinjiang Pathfinder International Travel Agency to embark on your in-depth Xinjiang adventure!
Contact Manager Maizi at 13201333409 or WeChat 13201333409 to send your itinerary and receive a quote.

