10-Day Southern Xinjiang Tour: Kashgar, Pamir, and Hotan

A 10-day tour of Southern Xinjiang, focusing on Kashgar and the Pamirs, with Hotan as an extension. Take trains between cities and hire private cars for scenic areas to save energy and reduce costs compared to full-route private car rentals. Here's a well-organized itinerary.

Route Overview

Enter from Kashgar, exit from Hotan—or vice versa. Spend 3 days in Kashgar, 2 days on the Pamirs, 1 day in Shache, and 2 days in Hotan, with 2 days for travel. Total distance: approximately 1,500 kilometers.

If time is tight, skip Hetian and spend more time exploring Kashgar and the Pamirs. For differences in itinerary duration on the Southern Xinjiang loop, refer to:How many days are recommended for the Southern Xinjiang Loop?。

How do I schedule it daily?

Day 1: Arrive in Kashgar, explore the Old City, stay near the Ancient City. Day 2: Livestock Bazaar (on market days) and Artisan Street; afternoon tea at the Century Tea House. Day 3: Travel from Kashgar to Taxkorgan, stopping at Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake along the way; stay overnight in Taxkorgan.

Day 4: Stone City & Golden Grassland; return to Kashgar in the afternoon. Day 5: Kashgar to Shache; explore the Old City and Mausoleum; stay in Shache or Hotan. Day 6: Hotan Old City & Night Market; stay in Hotan.

Day 7: Yurungkash River and surroundings; afternoon rest. Day 8: Hotan to Kashgar by train or flight. Day 9: One-day tour around Kashgar; Atush Heavenly Gate or Aytak. Day 10: Return journey.

How do I combine transportation options?

There is a train from Kashgar to Hotan; the overnight service saves one night's accommodation. The Pamir section requires private charter as there is no public transport to the viewing platforms. Shache lies between Kashgar and Hotan, making it convenient to visit by train.

Private car rental is charged by the day, including fuel and driver service. Fees and inclusions are confirmed in advance. For a combination of train travel and private car tours in Southern Xinjiang, please refer to our sample itineraries.How to combine train travel with private car rentals in Southern Xinjiang。

Accommodation

Stay near Kashgar Old Town for easy walking; book early in Tashkurgan during peak season as conditions are basic; stay in the city centers of Shache and Hotan for convenient dining and transport.

Pamir is at high altitude; avoid staying too high on the first night. The Hotan Night Market area can be noisy at night—guests sensitive to noise should stay further away. For accommodation options, please refer to...How to choose accommodation in Xinjiang。

Documents and Seasons

A border pass is required to visit the Pamirs. You can typically obtain one in Kashgar with your ID card. Note that additional regulations apply to border areas such as Khunjerab; please verify before departure.

Spring and autumn are the most comfortable seasons. Summer is hot, while winter is dry and cold but less crowded. The poplar forest viewing season peaks in October, when accommodation and vehicle rentals are in high demand. For document processing, please refer to the following guidelines.How to apply for a Pamir Border Pass。

Note

Distances between cities in Southern Xinjiang are vast; keep daily driving under five hours. The Pamirs rise rapidly in elevation—pace yourself, carry water, and bring common medications.

Respect local religious beliefs and customs; always ask for permission before taking photos. Halal restaurants do not serve pork or alcohol. For general etiquette, refer to the guidelines below.Dining Etiquette in Xinjiang's Halal Cuisine。

Allow one flexible day in the 10-day itinerary for train delays or weather. Parking at Kashgar Old Town homestays is limited; confirm parking availability if driving yourself. For Pamir tours, hire a driver familiar with the route. It gets cold in Tashkurgan at night—even in summer, bring a jacket. Book train tickets in advance; sleeper berths are more comfortable. Flights from Hotan to Kashgar are limited; confirm schedules early. If traveling with elderly or young children, do a round trip to the Pamirs in one day and avoid staying overnight in Tashkurgan.

Ten days in Southern Xinjiang: focus on Kashgar and the Pamirs; Hotan is a bonus.

Book your train tickets first to establish the framework of your itinerary.

For trains with sleeper berths, choose a lower berth for easier access and to store luggage underneath. For overnight trips arriving early, arrange early check-in or luggage storage with your accommodation in advance.

Flights from Kashgar to Hotan are limited. If you're in a hurry, flying is an option, but baggage allowance is small. Taking the train lets you see the oases and Gobi Desert along the route; if time permits, it's worth considering.

Sunlight is intense in Southern Xinjiang. Bring a long-sleeve shirt to shield yourself if you're seated by the window on the train. After disembarking, rehydrate first before consuming anything cold.

If time in Hotan is tight, spend just one day to see the night market and old town before heading to Kashgar and Pamir.

Stay near the Old City for easy evening walks. If you have lots of luggage, choose a hotel in the New City for convenient parking.

Power outlets on trains are limited, so bring a power bank. For long journeys, pack some fruit and naan.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 10 days enough to visit Khunjerab Pass?Yes, but it requires half a day and access is subject to management approval. Please confirm in advance.

Is Southern Xinjiang safe?Travel is generally safe; just respect local customs and avoid remote areas at night.

A 10-day Southern Xinjiang itinerary is ideal for first-timers. We can organize it by entry and exit cities—please confirm if you'd like to proceed.Southern Xinjiang Tour ItinerariesRefer to or viaOnline SupportExplain time.

Editor's Note: Travel itineraries in Kashgar and southern Xinjiang are highly seasonal. This article has been verified by China International Travel Service (Xinjiang) based on current conditions. For confirmation of itinerary pacing and vehicle arrangements, please contact our local travel consultant or explore more Xinjiang travel guides on this site.