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Because of its immense size and numerous destinations, pre-planning your Xinjiang travel is almost necessary.  It’s hard, though, to figure out which sites are a “must-see” and which sites are a “can-skip”.  That’s why I’m beginning a new series highlighting “Top 5″ destinations as picked by people who have been to Xinjiang.  You may agree or disagree, but at least this will give you a sense of what you might like to see based on other people’s recommendations.

My first “Top 5″ guest is Graham Woodring, an American who spent a year as an English teacher in Xi’an.  He studied Chinese, did some couchsurfing and spent a little vacation time in Xinjiang.  He’s already written a few articles on his site about his time in Kashgar and Turpan and he has graciously agreed to share with us his Top 5 spots in Xinjiang…and a few of his great photos to prove it.

#1 Heavenly Lake

“Arguably the most popular tourist attraction in Xinjiang, Heavenly Lake is 110 km east of Urumqi and nestled among the Tianshan Mountains at 2 km above sea level.  If your Chinese is good enough there are a series of buses you can take to the lake, though you can probably arrange for a guide at your hostel or hotel.  Regardless of how you get there, be sure to set aside the entire day for a trip to this fantastic lake.”

#2 Aba Khoja Mausoleum

“Not far from the center of Kashgar you’ll find this mausoleum made famous by the story of the Fragrant Concubine.  The colorful tiles on the building stand in contrast to the mud cemetery that surrounds it.  The whole mausoleum complex is a great place for you to soak in Uyghur architecture and explore the history of past leaders of the Kashgar region.”

#3 Kashgar’s Old City

“A seemingly endless maze of winding roads, back alleys, and colorful culture; Kashgar’s Old City is quickly disappearing in the face of China’s inexorable march towards modernization.  Once this part of town is gone, Xinjiang will lose one of its most valuable centers of traditional Uyghur culture.  This is a perfect window into the Uyghur way of life before the introduction of Han culture.”

#4 Karakul Lake

“Not only are this lake and mountain backdrop beautiful, but package that with the experience of sleeping in a traditional Uyghur yurt by the side of the lake and you have a winning combination.  I strongly suggest gathering a group of people, hire a driver and get the necessary travel documents.  Trying to get to the lake on your own, without the proper permits, will most likely end in disaster (as it did for me on my first attempt).”

#5 Jiaohe Ruins

“Found about 10 km outside of Turpan, this ancient archaeological site is a real treasure.  Try to visit during sunset and you will be in for a real treat as what remains of the city shines like gold.  A capital of a long-lost kingdom, Jiaohe stands on top of a plateau and is definitely not to be missed on a trip to Turpan.”

To read more about Graham’s experience in China visit his website: An American in the Far East

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Have you traveled to Xinjiang? These are just a handful of great places to see in Xinjiang.  If you would like to share your Top 5 favorite destinations from your trip, please contact me.  Don’t worry, photos are welcome but not necessary!

Traveling to Xinjiang? Find out which China Travel Guide is best for YOU!