Tips Before Travel to Xinjiang

As the best local travel agency based in Xinjiang, this article introduces the restrictions and travel permits, and recommends itineraries based on your schedule. Unveil the mysterious beauty in this wonderful land with confidence after reading these tips before traveling, and start your ultimate journey with Xinjiang Travel's professional local tour guide, sophisticated drivers, and great atmosphere.

Quick Xinjiang Travel Policy Overview

Before planning your journey, here are a few key travel facts for you. 

Tip: You can travel independently in most of Xinjiang—only remote border zones need a simple extra permit.

Entry&Visa Requirements for Visiting Xinjiang

Basic Entry Rules:

As of 2026, here's what you need to know: a valid passport and a Chinese visa (or other permitted entry documents). It's recommended to apply 1–2 months in advance, especially before peak travel season.

• Passport Validity: At least 6 months

• Visa-free Transit: Some Chinese cities allow 24–144 hour visa-free transit, but entry to Xinjiang still requires a valid visa.

• Entry process: Arrival → health declaration → border control interview → luggage inspection.

• Entry Airports: Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, and others

• Domestic Travel: After entering China, travelers can fly or take trains to Urumqi or other major cities in Xinjiang.

Tip: Prepare passport, visa copies, flight tickets, and hotel booking confirmations.

Travel Within Xinjiang: Do You Need a Permit?

The Simple Answer: Most places in Xinjiang are open to foreign visitors. However, some border regions require a special travel permit.

Areas Open to Foreign Travelers

You can travel freely in the most popular destinations, including: Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar (city area), Ili region (most scenic areas), and Altay (selected accessible zones). No special permit is required for these areas.

Areas That Require a Permit

If your itinerary includes border regions, you will need a Border Management Area Travel Permit

Common restricted areas include:

• Taxkorgan Tajik Autonomous County (Karakoram Highway, Karakul Lake, Pamir Plateau)

• Baihaba Village (certain parts)

• Bayinbuluk Grassland

• Specific sections of the Duku Highway (Yili–Kuqa)

• Other border zones near Pakistan, Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, etc.

These areas have military checkpoints. Travelers without the required permit may not be allowed to enter these areas. Some sensitive areas are not open to visitors for safety reasons. 

How to Apply — Step-by-Step

The easiest way is to let a licensed local travel agency handle it for you (they know the exact requirements and can do it in advance). Or you can apply in person after arriving in Xinjiang.

• Documents needed: Original passport, Chinese visa page, entry stamp/proof, detailed itinerary with dates/hotels, 1-2 passport photos, and (if on a tour) the agency's reception plan.

• Where: Public Security Bureau (PSB) Exit-Entry Office in Kashgar, Urumqi, or the county where you plan to go (e.g., special counter near Kashgar airport or Silk Road Hotel reception).

• Processing Time:

• Simple cases: same day or within a few hours

• Standard cases: 1–3 working days

• Complex/restricted zones: apply 1–2 months in advance

• Validity: Normally 1 month. You may need a separate permit for each different border zone. Always carry the original permit and passport at checkpoints.

Notes: Carry your original passport, visa, and any permit at all times. Hotels register you automatically. Respect local customs and cooperate with security checks. Rules can change slightly, so confirm with a trusted travel agency or PSB before your trip. Using a professional operator for border areas saves time and avoids issues.

Note: Must-Have for Border Region

Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County (including Karakul Lake, Karakoram Highway, Pamir Plateau)

For this border region, you can apply for your travel permit 1–7 days in advance, or even opt for quick on-site processing if you're short on time!

Tips:

• Always carry your original permit with you at every checkpoint.

• Never take photos of military sites to avoid any unnecessary issues during your trip.

• For a totally stress-free application process, we recommend working with a local travel agency.

• Your permit will be valid for 1 full month, so you can take your time exploring the stunning Pamir landscapes!

Baihaba Village

We strongly suggest applying for your permit 1–2 weeks ahead of your visit for the most hassle-free experience. While on-site applications are possible, they often come with delays, so planning is your best bet!

Tips:

• Confirm access for foreign visitors well in advance – the village may be off-limits during certain periods, so double-check before you go.

• Solo hiking is strictly prohibited in the area, so stick to group tours or designated, safe paths.

• Drones are not allowed here, so leave them at your hotel to avoid problems at checkpoints.

• You must apply for the permit in person – third-party applications will not be accepted.

 Bayinbuluk Grassland

This vast, beautiful grassland requires a longer application window: you'll need to submit your request 60–90 days before your trip, and most applications can only be processed through a licensed travel agency. 

Tips:

• The area is frequently off-limits for foreign travelers, so always confirm access before booking your trip to avoid disappointment.

• You'll also need an extra Foreigner Travel Permit to check into local hotels, so make sure to factor this into your application timeline.

Duku Highway (Yili–Kuqa Section)

For the sensitive stretches of this iconic mountain highway, you'll need to apply for your permit 60–90 days in advance.

Tips:

• Many sections of the highway are off-limits to foreign visitors, so double-check which routes are open before you plan your drive.

• Seasonal road closures are very common, so schedule your trip during the open summer/fall season for the best experience.

• Military checkpoints are frequent along the way, so keep your permit easily accessible at all times.

• If you want to self-drive, you'll also need to obtain a temporary Chinese driver's license for your journey.

Registration for Foreign Visitors

Foreign visitors in Xinjiang only need to register at the hotel upon check-in. No additional procedures are generally required.

• Hotel Registration: Automatic at all official hotels

• Required Documents: Passport

• Purpose: Helps local authorities maintain visitor records for safety

Pre-Travel Checklist for Foreign Visitors

Essential Documents

• Passport (valid ≥ 6 months)

• Chinese Visa (L Visa)

• Travel Permit (if visiting restricted areas)

• Hotel Booking Confirmation

Useful Apps & Tools

• Gaode / Baidu Maps: Real-time navigation in Chinese and English.

• Ctrip: Book flights, trains, and attraction tickets.

• DiDi: Convenient city rides.

• Xinjiang Travel Smart Services: Official app providing attraction info, health code, and traffic guidance.

Tips: Please download and register in advance, and bind an international credit card or Alipay/WeChat payment to facilitate the payment for transportation tickets and scenic area entrance fees.

Clothing, Luggage & Medications:

• Xinjiang has a large climate variation, with daytime temperature differences.

• Xinjiang has large temperature differences between day and night (may reach 10–20°C); wear layers: T-shirt + light jacket + windbreaker

• Sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen are essential

• Bring common medications: motion sickness, cold medicine, and digestive remedies

• Snacks, water bottles, and wet wipes are convenient

Local Customs & Cuisine

• Xinjiang is predominantly Muslim; respect halal dietary customs.

• Ask before taking photos in religious or private areas.

• Try grilled lamb skewers and pilaf.

Best Time

• Peak-season: June–September; beautiful scenery but crowded

• Off-season: October–May; quieter and more affordable

Planning to visit border areas? 

Our local team can help you arrange permits in advance and design a smooth itinerary.

Best Ways to Travel Around Xinjiang

Because Xinjiang is one of the largest regions in China, transportation planning is important.

Domestic Flights

Flights are the fastest way to travel between major cities such as Urumqi, Kashgar, and Altay.

Train Travel

Railways connect many cities across Xinjiang and offer a comfortable travel option.

Private Tours

For first-time visitors, guided tours are often the easiest and most convenient way to explore Xinjiang.

Self-Drive Adventures

Some experienced travelers choose road trips to explore Xinjiang's vast landscapes.

Smart Travel Services

Online ticket booking, navigation apps, and electronic permit submission

How to get to Xinjiang View Details

Why Xinjiang Is Worth Visiting?

Why do travelers call Xinjiang 'Asia's best-kept secret'? Let's show you. Here, visitors can experience a remarkable blend of nature, culture, and history.

From the golden deserts of the Silk Road to the lush grasslands of Ili and the snow-covered peaks of the Altay Mountains, the region offers unforgettable scenery at every turn.

Xinjiang is also famous for its vibrant local culture, colorful bazaars, and delicious cuisine such as lamb kebabs, hand-pulled noodles, and traditional Uyghur dishes.

For travelers seeking adventure, culture, and breathtaking landscapes, Xinjiang is truly a destination unlike any other.

FAQ

Can foreigners travel independently in Xinjiang?

Yes. Foreign visitors can freely travel in most cities and scenic areas. Only restricted border regions require permits.

Do hotels in Xinjiang accept foreign guests?

Many hotels in major cities can register foreign guests and provide international traveler services.

When is the best time to visit Xinjiang?

The best travel seasons are May to October, when the weather is pleasant, and the landscapes are most beautiful.

Is Xinjiang suitable for first-time visitors to China?

Yes. Xinjiang offers a unique mix of Silk Road history, natural beauty, and cultural diversity, making it an unforgettable destination.

Suggested Xinjiang Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Our local travel experts can help you:

• Design a realistic itinerary based on your travel time 

• Handle permit applications for restricted areas 

• Arrange experienced drivers and guides

Explore our most popular Xinjiang tours here:

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