24 Days Laos-China-Kyrgyzstan Self-Driving Tour from Yunnan Mohan to Xinjiang Kashgar

This exhilarating 24-day self-driving tour takes you from the lush tropical forests of Laos through China’s diverse landscapes and cultures to the historical city of Kashgar in Xinjiang. The route covers significant cultural landmarks, breathtaking natural wonders, and vibrant cities, offering an immersive experience of the region’s beauty and heritage.

Highlights:

  • Kashgar Bazaar: Experience the bustling Sunday market, a key cultural and commercial hub.
  • Turpan Grape Valley: Explore the fertile oasis and its famous vineyards.
  • Gaocang Ancient Town: Discover the charm of this historic town.
  • Sugong Tower: Visit this iconic Islamic architecture in Turpan.
  • Maza Minority Village: Engage with the Uygur culture in this traditional village.
  • Hami King Tomb: Explore the ancient royal tombs of the Hami region.
  • Dunhuang Mogao Grottos: Marvel at the intricate Buddhist murals and sculptures.
  • Jiayuguan Great Wall: Visit the westernmost fort of the Great Wall of China.
  • Qinghai Lake: Enjoy the serene beauty of China’s largest saltwater lake.
  • Taer Monastery: A significant Tibetan Buddhist site.
  • Lanzhou: Experience the capital of Gansu Province with its unique cuisine and landscapes.
  • Xi’an: Explore the ancient city known for the Terracotta Warriors and historical significance.
  • Chengdu: Visit the Panda Research Base and experience the city’s relaxed atmosphere.
  • Southern Sichuan Bamboo Forest: Walk through one of the longest bamboo forests in China.
  • Yunnan Stone Forest: Admire the unique karst formations in this UNESCO World Heritage site.
  • Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Capture the beauty of the terraced fields in Yuanyang.

China Self-Driving Travel Tips:

  • Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including a valid Chinese driving license or International Driving Permit, vehicle registration, and travel insurance.
  • Vehicle Preparation: Make sure your vehicle is in good condition for long-distance driving and varying terrains. Consider a 4WD for some of the more rugged areas.
  • Navigation: Use reliable maps and GPS devices, and have offline navigation options as signal coverage may be limited in remote areas.
  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for diverse road conditions ranging from well-maintained highways to rough, rural roads.
  • Local Customs: Familiarize yourself with local driving customs and regulations. Be cautious with road signs and local traffic rules.
  • Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts and repair services handy.
  • Cultural Respect: Respect local cultures and traditions, especially in minority regions.

Day-by-Day Itinerary:

Day 01: Mohan/Mengna

  • Distance: ~100 km
  • Details: Enter China and complete necessary border procedures. Drive to Mengna.

Day 02: Mengna/Mengxing/Jinghong

  • Distance: ~200 km
  • Details: Finalize any remaining paperwork, then drive to Jinghong. Visit Ganlanba Dai village and Menglun Tropical Botanic Garden.

Day 03: Jinghong—Yuanjiang

  • Distance: ~350 km
  • Details: Drive to Yuanjiang and visit the Yuanjiang High Bridge, the world’s highest bridge.

Day 04: Yuanjiang—Honghe—Yuanyang

  • Distance: ~140 km
  • Details: Travel to Yuanyang to explore the famous Rice Terraces, ideal for photographers.

Day 05: Yuanyang—Jianshui

  • Distance: ~90 km
  • Details: Visit Jianshui Ancient City, known for its well-preserved historical architecture.

Day 06: Jianshui—Stone Forest—Kunming

  • Distance: ~240 km
  • Details: Explore the Stone Forest near Kunming, then drive to Kunming city.

Day 07: Kunming—Zhaotong—Bamboo Forest in Southern Sichuan

  • Distance: ~640 km
  • Details: Long drive to the Bamboo Forest National Park in Southern Sichuan.

Day 08: Bamboo Forest in Southern Sichuan—Yibin—Chengdu

  • Distance: ~410 km
  • Details: Morning visit to the Bamboo Forest, then drive to Chengdu. Optional visit to Leshan and Mt. Emei.

Day 09: Chengdu—Langzhong

  • Distance: ~440 km
  • Details: Optional visit to the Chengdu Panda Research Base. Drive to Langzhong Ancient Town.

Day 10: Langzhong—Jiange—Guangyuan

  • Distance: ~220 km
  • Details: Visit Langzhong and Jiange.

Day 11: Guangyuan–Ningqiang/Hanzhong/Xi’an

  • Distance: ~560 km
  • Details: Long drive to Xi’an, passing through Ningqiang and Hanzhong.

Day 12: Xi’an

  • Details: Explore Xi’an, including the Terracotta Warriors and the ancient city wall.

Day 13: Xi’an—Lanzhou

  • Distance: ~600 km
  • Details: Drive from Xi’an to Lanzhou.

Day 14: Lanzhou—Kumbum—Qinghai Lake

  • Distance: ~420 km
  • Details: Visit Taer Monastery and drive to Qinghai Lake.

Day 15: Qinghai Lake—Mingle

  • Distance: ~480 km
  • Details: Explore Qinghai Lake and the bird islands, then drive to Mingle.

Day 16: Mingle—Zhangye—Jiayuguan

  • Distance: ~310 km
  • Details: Travel to Zhangye and then to Jiayuguan.

Day 17: Jiayuguan—Dunhuang

  • Distance: ~385 km
  • Details: Visit Jiayuguan Pass and drive to Dunhuang.

Day 18: Dunhuang—Hami

  • Distance: ~400 km
  • Details: Visit the Mogao Grottos, Crescent Moon Spring, and Mingsha Sand Dunes.

Day 19: Hami—Shanshan—Turpan

  • Distance: ~390 km
  • Details: Explore the Hami King Tomb, Shanshan, and drive to Turpan. Visit Maza Village.

Day 20: Turpan

  • Details: Explore Turpan, including the Flaming Mountains, Jiaohe Ancient City, Sugong Tower, Grape Valley, and Kaner Well.

Day 21: Turpan—Kuerle—Kuche

  • Distance: ~640 km
  • Details: Long drive to Kuche, with potential stops along the way.

Day 22: Kuche—Aksu—Kashgar

  • Distance: ~690 km
  • Details: Drive to Kashgar, enjoying the scenic Xinjiang Gobi along the route.

Day 23: Kashgar (Sunday)

  • Details: Visit the famous Kashgar Sunday Market, Id Kah Mosque, and Abakh Hodja Tomb.

Day 24: Kashgar—Exit

  • Details: Exit China from Kashgar via one of the border ports (Tourgat, Irkshtan, or Kunjerab) as per your preference.