How to Play in the In depth Southern Xinjiang Tour by Special Train Kashgar Pamirs Plus Full Cost Guide Recommended Itinerary Prices
Contact Manager Guo Jing at phone number 18139622229 or WeChat 18139622229 to send itinerary and quotation.
The Mysterious Land of Southern Xinjiang Intertwined with Snow-Capped Mountains:Comprehensive Guide to In-Depth Southern Xinjiang Tour by Special Train
Highlights of the Itinerary:A Symphony of Geography and Culture Spanning Millennia
The Southern Xinjiang region, centered around the Pamir Plateau, connects iconic landscapes such as the Kashgar Old City, Baisha Lake, Muztagh Ata Peak, and the Panlong Ancient Road, forming an in-depth travel route that combines natural wonders with the cultures of various ethnic groups. In 2026, Xinjiang’s railway authorities, in collaboration with local travel agencies, will launch the ‘In-Depth Southern Xinjiang Tour by Special Train.’ This tour adopts a combined ‘train + tourist bus’ transportation model to address long-distance travel challenges, allowing tourists to focus more on the scenic views and cultural experiences along the way.
Superior Contrast in Natural Landscapes
Departing from Kashgar, you can traverse elevations from 1,200 meters to 4,700 meters within 4 hours, witnessing:
Snow-Capped Mountains and Lakes:The glacial reflection of Muztagh Ata Peak (elevation 7,546 meters) in Karakul Lake creates a magnificent scene known as the ‘Father of Ice Mountains’; the white sand dunes of Baisha Lake contrast beautifully with its azure waters, earning it the nickname ‘Maldives of Southern Xinjiang’ among tourists.
Geological Wonders:The red mountains of the Oytag Red Valley resemble the surface of Mars, while the Danxia landform of the Temur Grand Canyon in Wensu County features distinct layering, making it ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Plateau Wetlands:The Golden Grassland along the Tashkurgan River presents a pastoral scene of ‘wetlands, snow-capped mountains, and cattle and sheep’ at sunset, while the ruins of the Stone City bear witness to the prosperity of the ancient Silk Road.
Rich Deposits of Human History and Culture
Kashgar Old City:As one of the world’s largest earthen architectural complexes, the old city preserves attractions such as the Craftsmen Bazaar (Handicraft Street), the Century-Old Tea House, and the Id Kah Mosque. Tourists can wander through the alleys with local residents, observing traditional crafts like naan baking and earthenware making.
Cultures of Various Ethnic Groups:In Tashkurgan County, tourists can participate in home visits to various ethnic groups, watch eagle dance performances, taste yak milk tea, and learn about the customs of the ‘Plateau Eagles’ ethnic group.
Relics of the Ancient Silk Road:The Wakhan Corridor is part of Xuanzang’s ancient westward journey, while the Khunjerab Pass (passport required) serves as a vital通道 (channel/passage), rich in historical significance.
The Mysterious Land of Southern Xinjiang Intertwined with Snow-Capped Mountains: Comprehensive Guide to In-Depth Southern Xinjiang Tour by Special TrainSimple Itinerary:8-Day, 7-Night In-Depth Loop Tour
Based on the actual 2026 schedule of Xinjiang’s special train and景区 (scenic area/attraction) opening policies, the following itinerary is recommended (subject to the contract):
Day 1:Arrival in Kashgar · Initial Exploration of the Old City
Morning:Arrive at Kashgar International Airport and take the special train shuttle to the downtown hotel for check-in.
Afternoon:Visit the opening ceremony of the East Gate of Kashgar Old City (10:00 AM/6:00 PM two sessions), stroll through the Craftsmen Bazaar, and visit the Id Kah Mosque (enter as prompted; photography of folk experience scenes is prohibited).
Evening:Sample pot meat, baked buns, and pomegranate juice at the old city night market, experiencing the vibrant local atmosphere.
Day 2:In-Depth Cultural Tour of Kashgar
Morning:Visit the Fragrant Concubine’s Tomb (including folk performances) to learn about the architecture and history of various ethnic groups; proceed to the ruins of the High Terrace Residential Area to photograph the earthenware alleys.
Afternoon:Listen to rubab performances and converse with local elders at the Century-Old Tea House; explore Kashgar Grand Bazaar to purchase dried fruits such as raisins and almonds.
Evening:Free activities; we recommend trying Kashgar pigeon soup with naan.
Day 3:Kashgar → Pamir Plateau (Special Train + Tourist Bus)
Morning:Take the special train to Tashkurgan County (approximately 5-hour journey), traveling along the China-Pakistan Friendship Highway and stopping at the Oytag Red Valley for photography.
Highlights of the Itinerary: A Symphony of Geography and Culture Spanning MillenniaAfternoon:Arrive at Baisha Lake to capture the classic scene of ‘white sand + azure waters’; proceed to Karakul Lake to observe the reflection of Muztagh Ata Peak up close.
Evening:Check into an oxygen-supplied hotel in Tashkurgan County (elevation 3,100 meters) to acclimate to the plateau climate.
Day 4:Core Day on the Pamir Plateau
Morning:Tour the ruins of the Stone City and the Golden Grassland, overlooking the Tashkurgan River and snow-capped mountains; visit a folk village of various ethnic groups to experience eagle dancing and goat snatching activities.
Afternoon:Traverse the Panlong Ancient Road (over 600 S-shaped bends) and take a photo with the road sign ‘Having traversed all the winding roads today, henceforth life will be nothing but smooth sailing’; pass by the Bandir Blue Lake to photograph its Tiffany-blue waters.
Evening:Return to Tashkurgan County for rest; optional eagle dance performance by various ethnic groups.
Day 5:Plateau Exploration and Return Journey
Morning:Visit the Muztagh Ata Glacier Park to get up close to glaciers (wear non-slip shoes); stop by Karakul Lake for additional photos.
Afternoon:Travel through the Oytag Red Valley and return to Kashgar (approximately 5-hour journey).
Evening:Upon arrival in Kashgar, sample Shache roasted squab.
Day 6:Kashgar → Desert Oasis (Optional Extended Itinerary)
Morning:Take the special train to Dawa Kun Desert in Yopurgha County to experience camel riding and desert off-road vehicles.
The Southern Xinjiang region, centered around the Pamir Plateau, connects iconic landscapes such as the Kashgar Old City, Baisha Lake, Muztagh Ata Peak, and the Panlong Ancient Road, forming an in-depth travel route that combines natural wonders with the cultures of various ethnic groups. In 2026, Xinjiang’s railway authorities, in collaboration with local travel agencies, will launch the ‘In-Depth Southern Xinjiang Tour by Special Train.’ This tour adopts a combined ‘train + tourist bus’ transportation model to address long-distance travel challenges, allowing tourists to focus more on the scenic views and cultural experiences along the way.Afternoon:Watch the sunset at the edge of the desert and photograph the scene of ‘lonely smoke rising from the vast desert’.
Evening:Return to downtown Kashgar for accommodation.
Day 7:Cultural Tour Around Kashgar
Morning:Visit the Aman Nishahan Memorial Mausoleum (birthplace of the Twelve Mukam) to learn about the musical history of various ethnic groups.
Afternoon:Proceed to the old city of Shache to photograph blue-domed buildings; explore the Shache night market to sample roasted pigeon eggs and mar仁糖 (nougat).
Evening:Free activities; we recommend purchasing souvenirs such as handmade carpets and Aidelai silk.
Day 8:Departure
Morning:Based on your flight/train schedule, engage in free activities or take additional photos of the old city.
Afternoon:Proceed to the airport/station to conclude the itinerary.
Pricing Information:Transparent Consumption with No Hidden Traps
Reference price range for the 2026 In-Depth Southern Xinjiang Tour by Special Train (subject to the contract):
Economy Class:Per person: 4,200-5,500 RMB (includes special train hard sleeper, downtown economy hotel, first admission tickets to scenic spots, guide service)
Superior Contrast in Natural LandscapesComfort Class:Per person: 6,200-7,800 RMB (includes special train soft sleeper, four-star hotel/characteristic homestay, full transportation fees, some special meals, passport application assistance)
Premium Class:Per person: 9,000-12,000 RMB (includes special train business class, five-star hotel/boutique homestay, exclusive travel photography, home visits to various ethnic groups, plateau oxygen cylinders)
Fees Include:
Transportation:Special train hard sleeper/soft sleeper/business class, local tourist buses, and scenic area shuttles.
Accommodation:Hotels listed in the itinerary (including breakfast).
Admission Tickets:First admission tickets to Kashgar Old City, Fragrant Concubine’s Tomb, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake, Stone City Golden Grassland, Panlong Ancient Road, etc.
Meals:Includes breakfast and some special meals (such as pilaf and yak meat hot pot).
Services:Guide service, passport application assistance, and plateau emergency supplies (oxygen cylinders, anti-altitude sickness medication).
Fees Do Not Include:
Round-trip major transportation (e.g., airfare).
Personal expenses (such as shopping and self-funded items).
(Single travelers will be matched for shared rooms whenever possible; special cases require negotiation).
Departing from Kashgar, you can traverse elevations from 1,200 meters to 4,700 meters within 4 hours, witnessing:Registration Methods and Service Information
You can register through Xinjiang Explorer International Travel Agency and consult Customer Service Manager Zhang Jing for details.
Service Information:
Contract Guarantee:Sign a formal travel contract specifying fee details, itinerary arrangements, and cancellation/change rules.
Flexible Changes:In case of extreme weather or road closures, both parties may agree to reasonably modify the itinerary through consultation.
Preparation of Supplies:The travel agency provides plateau emergency supplies; tourists should bring their own sunscreen, sunglasses, and warm clothing.
Photography Support:Guides can assist with drone and DSLR photography and recommend excellent shooting locations.
Notes:Balancing Comfort and Safety
Altitude Sickness:The Pamir Plateau has a high elevation; it is advisable to take Rhodiola in advance and avoid strenuous exercise upon arrival.
Border Control Policies:A border pass is required to visit Tashkurgan County and the Khunjerab Pass; it is recommended to apply in Kashgar in advance.
Weather and Road Conditions:July-August is the rainy season, and some road sections may be at risk of landslides; stay updated on weather forecasts.
Respect for Customs:In homes of various ethnic groups and other venues, follow local etiquette (such as removing shoes and refraining from photographing folk experience scenes).
The charm of Southern Xinjiang lies in its preservation of the ancient Silk Road’s vicissitudes while exuding the vitality of modern travel. Whether it’s the vibrant atmosphere of Kashgar Old City or the grandeur of the Pamir Plateau, it’s worth savoring over 8 days. Choose the In-Depth Southern Xinjiang Tour by Special Train and let a professional team plan your itinerary; all you need is a camera and curiosity to embark on this millennium-spanning journey of geography and culture.
Contact Manager Guo Jing at 18139622229 or WeChat 18139622229 to send itinerary and quotation.

