7 things you should know before going to Xinjiang 🏔️

1️⃣ China does not require a visa. Thai citizens can travel to China without a visa for a maximum stay of 30 days. Before departing, ensure your passport has at least six months of validity and prepare all necessary documents, including hotel reservations, round-trip airfare, and itinerary. You will also need to complete an immigration form to submit to officials for inspection. 2️⃣ Border areas require additional permits. Tourist areas like Kashgar and Urumqi do not require additional permits. However, if you wish to visit areas near the border, such as the Karakoram route (bordering Pakistan), you must apply for a permit and travel with a local guide or tour operator. You cannot travel independently. 3️⃣ You may encounter checkpoints at regular intervals. Xinjiang is highly secure, and tourists encounter frequent checkpoints. Therefore, it is recommended to carry your passport at all times to present to officials. 4️⃣ Choose a hotel that accepts international tourists. Not all hotels are able to accommodate international travelers. Book your stay in advance with a hotel that caters to foreigners. Upon arrival, foreign tourists must register with the police station within 24 hours. Hotels often handle this on their behalf. However, if you're staying with a homestay or a local, you'll need to make your own arrangements. 5️⃣ Respect the diversity of cultures and traditions Xinjiang is a land of diverse ethnicities, so we should respect local customs, especially regarding religion, food, and clothing. Many restaurants in the area are halal and do not serve pork or alcohol. Therefore, please read the signs before ordering. Also, be careful when taking photos. Avoid taking photos of officials or soldiers, and always ask permission before taking photos of people in markets or religious sites. 6️⃣ Understanding "Xinjiang Time" Although the Chinese government uses "Beijing Time" (GMT+8) as the standard time nationwide, locals often refer to "Xinjiang Time," which is two hours behind Beijing Time (GMT+6). As a result, shops, markets, and other places often open later than tourists expect. Always inquire and verify the time to avoid confusion between "Beijing Time" and "Xinjiang Time." 7️⃣ Northern Xinjiang vs. Southern Xinjiang Xinjiang has distinctly different landscapes and cultures from the north and south. Northern Xinjiang boasts beautiful mountains, grasslands, and lakes, with a Central Asian-like atmosphere, making it ideal for nature and outdoor enthusiasts. Southern Xinjiang, on the other hand, Encompassing the Taklamakan Desert, snow-capped mountains, and the ancient city of Kashgar, it's a melting pot of history, the Silk Road, and traditional Uyghur culture. 👉 Northern Xinjiang: Urumqi, Kanasu Park, Kalajun Grassland, Nalati Grassland, and Tianchi Lake. 👉 Southern Xinjiang: White Sand Lake, Karakul Lake, Kashgar, Apricot Blossom Village, Karakoram, and the Pamir Plateau. 📢 Currently, there are no direct flights from Thailand to Xinjiang. You'll need to stop over in major cities in China, such as Chengdu, Kunming, Shanghai, or Guangzhou. If you're planning a trip to Xinjiang, don't forget to let Trip.com make your trip easier! ✨💓 #TravelChina #TravelPlan #NatureAttractions #LocalGuides