Xinjiang Travel Guide for Malaysians: Permits, Flights & Itineraries

Embarking on a journey to Xinjiang is like stepping into a living tapestry of soaring mountains, boundless deserts, vibrant markets and ancient Silk Road heritage. For Malaysian travellers, Xinjiang offers a kaleidoscope of stunning scenery and rich ethnic diversity – perfect for creating unforgettable memories. This comprehensive guide covers everything Malaysians need to know before setting foot in China’s western frontier, from entry requirements and special travel permits to flight options, must-see highlights and insider tips to make your Xinjiang odyssey smooth and spectacular.

Why Xinjiang Should Be on Every Malaysian Traveller’s Bucket List

1. Cultural Charm

Xinjiang is home to Uyghur, Kazakh, Kyrgyz and Han communities, each preserving unique traditions, music, dance and cuisine. From the rhythmic echoes of the dap drum in Kashgar to the eagle hunts in the Tianshan foothills, you’ll encounter living cultures that feel worlds apart from Malaysia’s urban bustle.

2. Breathtaking Landscapes

– Karakul Lake & Pamir Plateau: Jewel‑blue waters framed by snow‑capped peaks.
– Bayinbuluk Grasslands: Endless green plains dotted with grazing horses under a vast sky.
– Duku Highway: One of the world’s most scenic—and secret—mountain roads snaking through the heart of the Tianshan Range.
– Taklamakan Desert: Majestic dunes that shift color with the sun, offering both desert jeep safaris and camel treks.

3. Silk Road Heritage

Wander through Kashgar’s Old Town to absorb centuries‑old bazaars and adobe alleys. Walk in the footsteps of Marco Polo along caravan trails and explore ancient ruins that once echoed to the footsteps of camel caravans.

4. Culinary Delights

Savour Uyghur kebabs marinated with fragrant spices, hand‑pulled laghman noodles, buttery polo rice and hearty samsa pastries. Xinjiang’s fusion of Chinese, Central Asian and Middle Eastern flavours will thrill any foodie’s palate.

Malaysia–China Entry Requirements (2025 Update)

Visa Waiver for Malaysians

From November 30, 2024 to December 31, 2025, Malaysian ordinary passport holders may enter China visa‑free for stays up to 30 days for business, tourism, family visits or transit. This generous arrangement means no pre‑departure visa application is needed for most short‑term travellers.

Tip: Always verify the latest policy on the Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Malaysia website before booking, as the programme may be renewed or amended.

COVID‑19 Entry Regulations

As of January 14, 2025, all COVID‑related entry restrictions—vaccination proof, PCR tests, quarantine and health declarations—have been lifted. You can now travel with the same ease as pre‑pandemic days.

Special Xinjiang Travel Permits: What You Need to Know

Xinjiang is generally open to all tourists, but entry to certain border and remote regions requires additional permits. China Dragon Travel will handle every permit application on your behalf—here’s how it works:

1. Karakul Lake & Taxkurgan County

When to Apply: Submit your permit application at least 7 days before arrival.

Required Documents:

• Clear copy of your passport (photo page).
• China entry visa page OR proof of visa‑free entry.
• Flight or train itinerary showing your arrival date into China or Xinjiang border.

Once approved, you’ll receive an electronic permit allowing unrestricted visits to the Pamir Plateau region, including Karakul Lake’s breathtaking alpine vistas.

2. Bayinbuluk Grassland & Duku Highway (Kuqa Section)

When to Apply: At least 90 days prior to arrival—this is a complex, high‑security area with limited quotas.

Required Documents:

• Passport copy.
• China visa page (Malaysians on visa‑free entry need only passport copy).
• Arrival flight/train details or border entry date.
• One‑inch white‑background photo.
• Your current occupation or position.

Bayinbuluk’s emerald meadows and the legendary Duku Highway’s serpentine switchbacks through remote canyons are well worth the extra paperwork. Only a handful of licensed agencies (like China Dragon Travel) can secure these permits reliably.

How China Dragon Travel Simplifies Your Permit Experience

Applying for Xinjiang travel permits on your own can be confusing and time‑consuming. China Dragon Travel’s dedicated Xinjiang specialists will:

• Gather and prepare all necessary documents.
• Track application progress with local authorities.
• Deliver your approved permits electronically before departure.
• Advise on travel insurance, emergency contacts and permit usage guidelines.

This end‑to‑end service ensures you can focus on planning your dream itinerary without bureaucratic headaches.

Flying from Malaysia to Urumqi (URC)

Xinjiang’s capital, Urumqi, is the main air hub for exploring the region. Here are some popular flight connections from Kuala Lumpur (KUL) to Urumqi (URC):

Booking Tip: The above flights are for reference only, please refer to the actual travel time. Early‑bird fares can be 20–30% cheaper. Consider mid‑week departures for the best deals, and always compare multi‑city itineraries if you plan to visit other Chinese destinations before or after Xinjiang.

Crafting Your Ultimate Xinjiang Itinerary

With roughly two weeks, you can craft a balanced Xinjiang adventure that blends landscapes, culture and Silk Road heritage. Here’s a sample 8‑day itinerary:

8-Day Xinjiang Pamir Plateau Tour: Urumqi, Pamir Plateau, Kashgar, Tashkurgan & More

Brief itinerary：

1. Urumqi Arrival
2. Urumqi — Bosten Lake — Korla
3. Korla — Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon — Kuche
4. Kuche — Kuche Royal Palace — Riestan Street — Men Bazaar — Qiuci Alley — Flaming Spring — Aksu
5. Aksu — Kashgar Ancient City — Rainbow Alley — Cloth Bag Alley
6. Kashgar — White Sand Lake — Karakul Lake — Tahman Wetland — Tashkurgan
7. Panlong Valley Road — Bandier Lake — Muztagh Glacier Park — Kashgar
8. Kashgar Departure

Click here to view the detailed itinerary of Xinjiang for 8 days ⇒ 8-Day Xinjiang Tour

Click here to view the itinerary of Xinjiang for more⇒ More Xinjiang Tours

Insider Tips for a Smooth Xinjiang Adventure

• Best Time to Visit: May to October offers mild weather. July and August can be hot in Turpan but perfect for grasslands and high‑altitude lakes.
• Currency & Payments: ATMs and major cards work in Urumqi and Kashgar; carry cash for remote areas.
• Language: Mandarin is widely used; Uyghur and Kazakh are common in local communities. A few basic Mandarin or translation apps go a long way.
• Dress Code: Respect local customs—dress modestly, especially in mosques and rural villages.
• Health & Altitude: Some routes reach over 3,600 m (Karakul). Acclimatize gradually and stay hydrated.
• Connectivity: Wi‑Fi is available in major hotels; install a reliable VPN before departure if you wish to access global apps.
• Local SIM Cards: China Telecom or Unicom prepaid SIMs provide the best coverage—purchase at Urumqi airport or major city outlets.

Why Book with China Dragon Travel?

Navigating Xinjiang’s vast distances, permit requirements and cultural nuances can be daunting. With over a decade of expertise in China’s remote regions, China Dragon Travel offers:

• Tailored Itineraries: Custom‑designed tours to suit your interests, pace and budget.
• Permit Handling: End‑to‑end Xinjiang permit applications submitted on your behalf.
• Local Insights: Access to hand‑picked guides, authentic homestays and off‑the‑map experiences.
• 24/7 Support: In‑country assistance for any unexpected changes or emergencies.

Let us transform your dream of exploring Xinjiang’s hidden treasures into a seamless reality. Whether you’re chasing golden deserts, snow‑draped peaks or centuries of Silk Road heritage, China Dragon Travel is your trusted partner for an unforgettable Malaysian‑style Xinjiang adventure.

Ready to embark? Contact China Dragon Travel today to start planning your bespoke Xinjiang journey – where every turn reveals a new wonder.