Travel Guide
12-Day Yunnan and Xinjiang Scenic Tour
Jul
Experience the Enchanting Landscapes and Cultural Kaleidoscope
Although Yunnan and Xinjiang are two distinct travel destinations in China, both of them similarly provide a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural riches, and ethnic minorities. For travelers who have visited major cities in China, this itinerary from Kunming to Kashgar would offer you a totally different experience with a cultural feast and spectacular scenery.
This Yunnan and Xinjiang tour is particularly recommended for a family traveling with seniors. All of the places are easy to get to and around, the tour is slow-paced without too much hiking, and you would stick to the well-developed major highlights in each city. It ensures that you and your family would enjoy a fun and smooth trip together.
Suggested Yunnan and Xinjiang Tour
| Day | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 1-2 Kunming |
The Stone Forest, Jiuxiang Scenic Region |
| 3-4 Dali |
Erhai, Shaxi Ancient Town |
| 4-5 Lijiang |
Black Dragon Pool, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain |
| 6-7 Urumqi |
Heavenly Lake, International Grand Bazaar |
| 8-9 Turpan |
The Jiaohe Ruins, Kumutage Desert |
| 10-12 Kashgar |
Kashgar Old Town, Karakul Lake |
Tour \’Wow\’ Points
Travel the same road as the drama Meet Yourself alongside turquoise Erhai Lake
You would follow in the steps of the drama Meet Yourself to visit Haishe Park, Longkan Wharf, and Panxi Village. The combination of mountains and lake in Erhai creates a truly awe-inspiring vista.
Take a cable car to the peak of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain to be amazed by its stunning scenery
The snowcapped peaks against the backdrop of clear skies create a majestic view. On the mountainside, you would find meadows, glaciers, canyons, waterfalls, and diverse plant and animal life.
Be impressed by the unique and otherworldly landscape of Kunming Stone Forest
The towering stone formations are unlike anything else you would see anywhere else in the world. It\’s hard to imagine how vast it is until you see it in person.
Climb the sandy mountains of the Kumutage Desert to see the play of colors across the sand dunes.
Known as the Desert of Shifting Sands, the Kumutage Desert boasts mobile sand dunes, sandy mountains, and unique rock formations. You could choose to ride on a camel to have a swaying, calming, and even therapeutic experience.
Enjoy a boat ride on Heavenly Lake with a picturesque landscape surrounding you
As you glide across the calm water of Tianchi Lake, you would likely feel a sense of peace and tranquility. The sound of the lapping water and the cool mountain air would be quite refreshing.
Explore Kashgar, an oasis city on the ancient Silk Road known for its off-the-beaten-path charm
As the heart of Uyghur culture, Kashgar allows you to experience this unique culture firsthand, from bustling Kashgar Old City to traditional Uyghur music.
