Xinjiang covers one-sixth of China and brims with scenery and culture. Days 1-2, Urumqi: the Grand Bazaar for Xinjiang flavours, Tianshan Tianchi for snow peaks and lakes.
Days 3-4, Ili: Sayram Lake, the "last tear of the Atlantic", plus Nalati and Kalajun grasslands with horses, cattle and wildflowers - best from June to September.
Days 5-6, Kashgar: the maze-like old town, Id Kah Mosque, high-platform homes for Uyghur life; the Sunday livestock bazaar is unforgettable.
Days 7-8, Pamir Plateau: Muztagh Ata peak, White Sand Lake, towards the Khunjerab Pass (some areas need border permits), or return to Urumqi to rest.
Transport: Xinjiang is huge - fly or take trains between cities, charter a car (800-1,500 yuan/day) or join a small group for sightseeing.
Notes: strong summer sun, big temperature swings; respect local customs, stay quiet inside mosques; some border areas need border permits (apply at home or locally).
