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Welcome to Beijing, China’s historic and cultural capital! After arriving, take the day to rest or explore at your own pace. You can unwind at a traditional tea house, experiencing the art of Chinese tea culture before your adventure begins.
Stay in Beijing
Start your day in Beijing at Tiananmen Square(天安门广场), one of the world’s largest and most culturally significant public squares. From there, take a bus to the Temple of Heaven(天坛) in southern Beijing. This sacred complex has been used by Ming and Qing emperors for centuries for annual prayer ceremonies. Its architecture features square buildings with round roofs, symbolizing earth and heaven.
In the afternoon, visit the Forbidden City(紫禁城), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most impressive palaces. Built between 1406 and 1420, it was home to 24 emperors and now houses over 1.8 million pieces of art.
In the evening, we will conclude our day with a captivating traditional Chinese Kung Fu show.
B, L, D, Stay in Beijing
This morning, visit the Mutianyu Great Wall(慕田峪长城), a well-preserved section known as the “Majestic Pass on Precipitous Mountains.” On the way, stop for photos at the 2008 Olympic Site, featuring the iconic Bird’s Nest Stadium and Water Cube. The Bird’s Nest hosted the Opening and Closing ceremonies, while the Water Cube hosted swimming events.
After exploring the Great Wall, head to the Ming Tombs, where 13 Ming emperors are buried. Visit Emperor Wanli’s tomb, an underground palace discovered in 1956, and stroll along the Sacred Way, lined with stone statues of animals and officials. Later, return to downtown for dinner and an overnight stay.
B, L, D, Stay in Beijing
Start your day with a buffet breakfast at the hotel, then visit the Summer Palace(颐和园), China’s largest and best-preserved royal garden. Located 15 kilometers from central Beijing, it showcases quintessential Chinese garden design and offers a glimpse into the country’s heritage. You can spend a few hours exploring the grounds and opt for a boat trip on Kunming Lake.
After lunch, explore Beijing’s Hutongs(北京胡同), narrow alleyways that reflect the city’s true culture. These historic lanes, dating back to the Yuan Dynasty, are formed by traditional courtyard residences and represent entire neighborhoods.
Next, head to the bustling Silk Street shopping market to buy silk products and souvenirs. Finally, transfer to the airport for your flight to Xi’an, marking the end of your Beijing stay.
B, L, D, Stay in Xi’an
This morning, drive about an hour to the Terracotta Warriors(兵马俑), one of the most significant archaeological discoveries of the 20th century. Located near Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s Mausoleum, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see. Spend three hours exploring its rich history and culture.
After lunch, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda(大雁塔), built in 652 AD to house Buddhist scriptures collected by the monk Xuanzang. This seven-story pagoda showcases traditional Chinese architecture and offers panoramic views of Xi’an from the top.
In the evening, enjoy a captivating Tang Dynasty Show, featuring traditional dances and songs that celebrate the cultural richness of the Tang Dynasty.
B, L, D, Stay in Xi’an
After breakfast, visit the Ancient City Wall(西安城墙), the most complete city wall in China. You can walk or cycle along its 13-kilometer length, enjoying unique views of the city from above.
Next, head to the Muslim Quarter(回民街), home to the Great Mosque of Xi’an. This mosque blends traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles, featuring intricately painted beams and engraved ridgepoles. The surrounding area is vibrant with local shops and eateries, offering a rich cultural experience.
B, L, D, Stay in Xi’an
After breakfast, take a scenic three-hour train ride to Lanzhou. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes along the way and relax during the journey. Upon arrival, drive to Liujiaxia Reservoir and take a speedboat to the Binglingsi Grottoes(炳灵寺石窟). As you navigate the waters, witness the stunning contrast of green and yellow waters against a blue sky and yellow earth.
After visiting the caves, transfer by bus to Xiahe, about a four-hour journey. Spend the afternoon at Sangke Grassland(桑科草原), a tranquil area with expansive meadows. Here, you can observe Tibetan nomads tending to their yak herds and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this unique landscape.
B, L, D, Stay in Xiahe
Start your day with a visit to Labrang Monastery(拉卜楞寺), renowned for its vibrant Tibetan culture, impressive Buddhist architecture, and unique cuisine. This sacred site is home to one of the best Tibetan Buddhist teaching systems and was once home to over 4,000 monks. If you visit in the morning, you might hear explanations from a local English-speaking lama.
After exploring the monastery, return to Lanzhou for a city tour. Visit the Yellow River Mother Sculpture(黄河母亲塑像), which depicts a mother and child, symbolizing the river’s nurturing role in Chinese history. The statue is 6 meters long, 2.2 meters wide, and 2.6 meters high, featuring a mother with a kind expression and a child with a naive smile.
B, L, D, Stay in Lanzhou
This morning, take a train from Lanzhou West Station to Jiayuguan. Upon arrival, visit Jiayuguan Pass(嘉峪关), a Ming Dynasty fort that marked the western end of the Great Wall. This strategic pass protected the narrowest point of the Hexi Corridor.
Next, explore the Great Wall Museum(长城博物馆), which opened in 1989. It’s the first museum to comprehensively showcase Great Wall culture, highlighting its history, construction techniques, and strategic importance.
Finally, head to the Wei-Jin Tombs(魏晋墓), ancient tombs featuring lifelike brick paintings from 265-420 AD. These murals depict various aspects of life during the Wei and Jin periods, including politics, culture, and folk customs.
B, L, D, Stay in Jiayuguan
After a 4.5-hour drive to Dunhuang, visit the Yulin Grottoes(榆林窟), a historical site carved into the cliffs along the Yulin River. The name “Yulin” comes from the elm trees lining the valley, which was once a route for poets and soldiers.
Next, head to Echoing Sand Mountain(鸣沙山) and Crescent Lake(月牙泉). The mountain is famous for the sounds its sands make when the wind blows—loud roars with strong winds and gentle musical notes with a breeze. Crescent Lake has miraculously remained untouched by the sand for centuries. Enjoy a 40-minute camel ride through the desert, reminiscent of a Silk Road caravan. Don’t forget to bring sunglasses and a mask to protect against the dust.
In the evening, we’ll take a walking tour of Shazhou Night Market(沙洲夜市), Dunhuang’s most vibrant night spot. Lose track of time as you explore the market and sample local cuisine.
B, L, D, Stay in Dunhuang
This morning, arrive at the Mogao Grottoes(莫高窟), a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning murals and sculptures. These caves showcase Buddhist art spanning over a thousand years. Before exploring, watch a 40-minute film at the visitor center to learn about the Silk Road and the grottoes’ significance.
A professional guide will accompany you to eight selected caves, using special torches to highlight the intricate murals. Your visit will last about four hours, including the film.
After our time at Mogao, we’ll enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading to Liuyuannan Railway Station to catch a bullet train to Turpan(about 3.5 hours).
B, L, D, Stay in Turpan
Today, we will explore Turpan, a vital town on the ancient Silk Road, known for its rich folk customs. Start at Tuyoq Village(吐峪沟), the oldest Uyghur village, nestled in the Flaming Mountain Canyon. This historic site features stunning canyon scenery, the Thousand Buddha Caves, the Mazar tomb, and ancient village buildings.
After lunch with a traditional Uyghur family in their grape yard, drive to the Emin Minaret(苏公塔), built in 1778. It’s the largest Islamic minaret in China.
In the afternoon, visit the Karez Well(坎儿井), a unique irrigation system that uses Turpan’s topography to draw underground water from the Tianshan Mountains. This system channels water through underground canals to reduce evaporation.
Finally, enjoy the sunset at the Jiaohe Ruins(交河故城), a 2,300-year-old city situated on a cliff between two rivers. The city’s unique construction resembles a giant sculpture.
B, L, D, Stay in Turpan
After breakfast, we will head to Korla, a significant city on the ancient Silk Road known as the “City of Pears” and the “City of Petroleum.” On the way, stop at Bosten Lake(博斯腾湖), China’s largest inland freshwater lake, located in Bohu County. The lake is famous for its lush reeds and abundant fish, making it a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. Take a stroll along the shore and capture stunning photos of this beautiful landscape.
B, L, D, Stay in Korla
Today, we journey onward to Kuqa, an ancient city with a rich cultural heritage. On the way, we will visit the Diversifolius Poplars Park(胡杨林公园), located north of the Taklamakan Desert and in the central part of the Tarim River area. This unique park offers a blend of natural and industrial scenery, where you can see the Tarim River, poplar trees, the desert landscape, and oil industry complexes.
After exploring the Diversifolius Poplars Park, we will continue to Kuqa and check into our hotel.
B, L, D, Stay in Kuqa
This morning, visit the Kezil Thousand-Buddha Grottoes(克孜尔千佛洞), renowned for its ancient Buddhist murals depicting Jataka tales and legends of the Buddha. The murals reflect influences from Gandharan, Sasanian, and Tang Chinese styles.
Next, explore the Tianshan Grand Canyon(天山大峡谷), a geological park showcasing 400 million years of crustal movement in Xinjiang.
Afterward, head to the Kizilgaha Beacon Tower(克孜尔尕哈烽火台), the best-preserved and largest beacon tower along the Silk Road. It played a crucial role in protecting caravans and guarding against invasions.
Finally, visit the Kuqa Mosque, the second-largest in Xinjiang, blending Islamic and Chinese architectural styles. In the evening, transfer to the train station for an overnight journey to Kashgar.
B, L, D, On the Soft Sleeper Train
Today, we will explore Kashgar with a full-day excursion. Start at the Id Kah Mosque(艾提尕尔清真寺), the largest in China and a sacred site for local Muslims. This stunning mosque is an architectural marvel and a hub for Islamic activities.
Next, visit Old Town, rich in history and offering a glimpse into the Uyghur lifestyle. Explore narrow alleys, traditional homes, and experience local culture by visiting a Uyghur family.
Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Uyghur cuisine. The highlight of the day is the Sunday Bazaar, which comes alive with vibrant trading. The bazaar has two sections: a covered market for goods like clothing and nuts, and an outdoor Animal Bazaar where farmers trade livestock.
Finally, stroll along Handicraft Street to admire local crafts and relax in a teahouse, immersing yourself in Kashgar’s rich culture.
B, L, D, Stay in Kashgar
After a buffet breakfast, meet your guide and driver in the hotel lobby to begin your adventure. Drive for about four hours on the China-Pakistan Highway to experience the breathtaking Pamir Mountains. Stop at Upal Village after 40 minutes to explore its traditional bazaar.
Then, we will visit Karakul Lake(喀拉库勒湖), where you can see livestock reflected in the tranquil waters. Take leisurely walks and admire the majestic Muztagh Ata peak. Afterward, drive about six hours to Taxkorgan County, an ancient Silk Road outpost that once connected China to West Asia.
B, L, D, Stay in Taxkorgan
After breakfast, your guide will take you to the Stone Fortress(石头城), a strategically significant castle on the ancient Silk Road. Explore the well-preserved ruins, including a temple, city walls, and an official office from the Tang and Qing Dynasties. Climb the fort and enjoy breathtaking views from one of the four watchtowers.
Next, walk around the local pastures to experience the lifestyle of the Tajik people. You might see colorful yurts, smell freshly baked naan, and enjoy the hospitality of the locals.
In the afternoon, we will drive back to Kashgar along a scenic route and transfer to the airport for an evening flight to Urumqi.
B, L, D, Stay in Urumqi
Today, we will tour the picturesque Heavenly Lake (天池), a stunning alpine lake located 2,000 meters up in the Tian Shan mountain range. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, vibrant wildflowers, and evergreen pine trees. We’ll take a 40-minute scenic shuttle bus ride that winds through the dramatic mountain landscape.
At Heavenly Lake, you have several options to explore the area further:
After lunch, we will travel back to Urumqi. There, we will continue our tour at the Xinjiang Regional Museum, home to over 50,000 items, including archaeological treasures from the Silk Road and exhibits showcasing Xinjiang’s diverse minority cultures.
Finally, we will visit the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar(新疆国际大巴扎), known as the largest bazaar in the world. This bustling marketplace offers a wide array of goods, including fruits, clothing, crafts, knives, carpets, and much more.
B, L, D, Stay in Urumqi
Your incredible Silk Road holiday comes to a close. Enjoy a delightful buffet breakfast at the hotel. We will ensure a smooth transfer to the airport for your departure.
B, L
Bring layers for varying weather conditions, especially in high-altitude areas like Karakul Lake and the Pamir Mountains. Don't forget essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and a camera. A light jacket is also useful for cooler evenings. For mosque and monastery visits, wear modest attire.
Weather conditions vary throughout the tour. Beijing's weather is generally mild, but it can get hot in summer. In Dunhuang and Turpan, temperatures are hot during the day but cool down at night. The Pamir Mountains are much colder, especially at higher altitudes. Check the weather forecast before your trip and dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Enjoy a variety of local dishes on your tour, including Peking Duck in Beijing, noodles in Xi'an, and Uyghur specialties like lamb skewers and pilaf in Kashgar. Meals are served at local restaurants, offering authentic regional flavors. If you have dietary restrictions or preferences, please let us know in advance so we can accommodate your needs.
This tour includes some long drives and train rides, so it’s a good idea to bring entertainment such as books, podcasts, or music for the journey. During the train rides, you can enjoy the changing landscapes and relax while traveling between cities. For longer drives, we’ll make stops along the way for photo opportunities and rest.
Lanzhou - Hezuo - Diebu County - Tangke County - Aba County - Hezuo - Lanzhou
Lanzhou - Zhangye - Dunhuang - Golmud - Chaka - Xining - Lanzhou
Lanzhou - Xining - Dunhuang - Jiayuguan - Jiuquan - Zhangye - Wuwei - Lanzhou
Urumqi - Korla - Kuqa - Aral - Hotan - Shache - Kashgar - Taxkorgan - Kashgar
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A good experience!
Isabelle –
A true gem of a tour! We explored ancient cities, stunning landscapes, and learned about the fascinating cultures along the Silk Road. The Great Wall and Mogao Grottoes were my favorite parts, but I also enjoyed the traditional Uyghur food in Turpan.
Amazing journey
Maria –
Every detail was carefully planned, and the comfort of the accommodations was outstanding. A truly unforgettable experience