Urumqi to Kashgar to Lhasa in 3 weeks?

Question

It's last minute, but I'm thinking of solo traveling the Urumqi-Kashgar route and then getting a tour to Lhasa, in April (this year, but if not the month still seems ideal for each location in terms of similar weather). I hope that's 3 weeks worth so I can spend a week in Guangdong.

How much time makes sense for the Urumqi-Kashgar route and then the Tibet portion? I figure Urumqi to Kashgar could be 10-14 days and then 7-10 days to Lhasa. Some tours I've seen have 16 days from Kashgar to Lhasa but that seems like overkill?

Also, as I might enter from Kazakhstan by rail near Sayram Lake, will I need to go to Urumqi first or will I be able to find my way to the lake/Bortala from the border?

Answer

Traveling from Urumqi to Kashgar and then on to Lhasa within 3 weeks is feasible but requires careful planning, especially as a solo traveler in April. Here is a detailed breakdown:

Urumqi to Kashgar:

The Xinjiang region is vast, and distances are long. The route from Urumqi to Kashgar can be done by train, flight, or a combination of road and local transport. For a solo traveler who wants to explore cities and scenic areas along the way, 10–12 days is reasonable.

Urumqi: 2–3 days to see the city and nearby Tianchi Lake.
Turpan: 2–3 days to explore the desert landscapes, ancient ruins, and grape valleys (reachable from Urumqi by train or bus).
Kashgar: 3–4 days to experience the old town, Sunday market, Id Kah Mosque, and surrounding natural scenery.

This schedule allows some flexibility for travel delays and rest days.

Kashgar to Lhasa:

The Tibet portion is more regulated and usually requires joining an organized tour because independent travel is restricted for foreigners. Most tours start in Lhasa and explore central and western Tibet.

A typical 7–10 day tour can cover Lhasa, Gyantse, Shigatse, and possibly a few day trips to nearby monasteries and scenic sites.
Longer tours (16 days or more) often include extensive sightseeing along the Qinghai-Tibet plateau or border areas; these are only recommended if you are comfortable with long hours of travel and higher altitudes.
Altitude acclimatization is important; try to spend at least 2 days in Lhasa before heading to higher areas.

Entering from Kazakhstan:

Entering Xinjiang from Kazakhstan near Sayram Lake is possible, but the area is remote. Most travelers enter via the official border at Khorgos or Alashankou. From there:

Public transport options are limited, so you may need a combination of shared taxis or local buses to reach Urumqi or Bortala.
Heading straight to Sayram Lake/Bortala is possible but requires advance planning and local guidance.
Ensure you have all necessary visas and permits; Xinjiang travel requires registration with local authorities for foreigners.

Overall, for a 3-week itinerary:

10–12 days for Xinjiang (Urumqi–Turpan–Kashgar)
7–10 days for Tibet (Lhasa and surroundings, via organized tour)
Remaining 2–3 days can be used for travel, acclimatization, or buffer days in case of delays

This plan provides a balanced pace, allows for sightseeing and acclimatization, and accommodates travel logistics in remote areas.