Chenzhao
Being Han Chinese and residing in United States, I was seeking an adventure by traveling into the heartland of Uyghur culture. But if I wanted to understand the people and geography of this unique region of western of China, this would be my best opportunity. This turned out to be one of the best tours I have taken anywhere in China. Our tour guide, Tudajim, was excellent. He was very professional, knowledgeable and funny. He went out of his way to accommodate us on our travels in the Kashgar area.
Karakul Lake, Mt. Muztagata and Mt. Gonger are breath taking. If you are going to spend the night in Kyrgyz Yurt by the lake, make sure to bring warm clothes, a water jar and maybe a bar of soap. Believe me, you will need them.
Shipton’s Arch and the Camel Trek in the Taklimakan Desert were the highlights of the trip. The beautiful night sky in the desert is an experience I will never forget.
The tour in Turpan included mostly heritage and cultural relics. I visited in July when the temperature is extremely hot. The daytime temperature is 45-47˚C. A visit in spring or fall may be preferable.
Chenzhao from USA!