Southern Xinjiang Populus Euphratica Secret Realm Guide

November is an off-peak ideal season in Southern Xinjiang, featuring the lingering charm of poplar trees, golden deserts, and snow-capped mountains dusted with early snow. With fewer tourists and lower costs, here is a classic 5-day circular itinerary that balances culture and natural scenery, tailored for travel at this time: Itinerary 1. Day 1: Initial Cultural Experience in Kashgar Old Town After arriving in Kashgar, check into a Uyghur-style guesthouse near the old town. In the afternoon, explore China’s only fully preserved Islamic-style old city, visit the Areya Road viewing platform to overlook the maze-like rooftops, and browse copperware and musical instrument workshops at the craftsmen’s bazaar. At dusk, head to the Id Kah Mosque square to capture silhouettes of worshippers returning home, then go straight to the Han Bazaar night market to enjoy roasted buns, red willow kebabs, and handmade rose ice cream. 2. Day 2: Kashgar → Taxkorgan, Heading to the Pamir Plateau Charter a car to Taxkorgan County, passing through Gaizi Gorge and the Western Kunlun mountain range, and check in at the zero-kilometer marker in Yecheng. Upon arrival in Taxkorgan in the evening, prioritize staying at an oxygen-supplied hotel to alleviate possible altitude sickness. For dinner, enjoy Tajik pilaf and butter tea to replenish energy, and after the meal, photograph the dusk silhouette of the Stone City ruins for a full atmospheric experience. 3. Day 3: Highlights of Taxkorgan, Encountering Snowy Mountains and Lakes In the morning, visit the Stone City ruins and Alar Golden Grassland. In November, the golden grassland is covered with a thin frost, creating a charming contrast with the snow-capped mountain reflections. At noon, drive to White Sand Lake, where you can ride a camel and take photos featuring the white sand dunes and the lake’s azure waters. In the afternoon, check in at Karakul Lake to watch the water change color with the light and gaze at the heavily snow-covered Muztagh Ata Peak, known as the “Father of Ice Mountains.” Remember to wear thick clothing to withstand the cold wind. 4. Day 4: Taxkorgan → Kashgar, Return and Scenic Catch-up Return to Kashgar in the morning, with opportunities to take additional photos at White Sand Lake or the Muztagh Ata viewing platform along the way. After arriving in Kashgar in the afternoon, rest and if you have the energy, visit the Kashgar Museum to learn about local history or stroll through the old town again to enjoy its tranquil atmosphere. In the evening, have a yak meat hotpot to dispel the cold. 5. Day 5: Kashgar Shopping and Return In the morning, visit local markets to buy specialties such as Hetian red dates, paper-skinned walnuts, and almonds. You can also pick up small dutar instruments or Idilisu silk as souvenirs. Depending on your flight or train schedule, depart accordingly, and before leaving, enjoy a bowl of pigeon soup noodles to savor the flavors of Southern Xinjiang once more. Travel Tips 1. Transportation: Southern Xinjiang attractions are far apart; it is recommended to charter a car or join a small group tour of up to 6 people, choosing vehicles equipped with snow tires. Kashgar is a transportation hub, with most travelers flying into Kashgar Airport first. Within the city, taxis and walking are sufficient for exploring the old town. 2. Documents and Clothing: A border pass is required for Taxkorgan and should be arranged in advance, either through your guesthouse or a travel agency. Wear a windbreaker and sweater during the day, and a down jacket with a scarf at night and in high-altitude areas. The plateau has strong UV rays, so sunglasses and masks for sun and sand protection are essential. 3. Food and Accommodation: Stay in guesthouses near Kashgar Old Town and oxygen-supplied hotels in Taxkorgan; prices are affordable in the off-season. Besides night market snacks, try local dishes like rice sausage, lung noodles, and nang pit meat. High-calorie foods dominate the plateau diet to help resist cold and altitude sickness.