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Arrive at Kashgar Airport. We will transfer you to your hotel for check-in. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax and prepare for your Silk Road adventure.
Stay in Kashgar
Start your journey with a guided tour of Kashgar Ancient City(喀什古城). The Silk Road’s essence comes to life here. Visit the Id Kah Mosque(艾提尕尔清真寺). It is one of the largest mosques in China. Feel the ancient atmosphere.
Next, explore Kashgar Craftsmen Street(职人街). The market is filled with vibrant colors and scents. You will see spices, textiles, and handcrafted goods. Your guide will share stories of ancient trade and cultural exchange.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Uygur-style dinner. Taste authentic local dishes, prepared with care.
B, L, D, Stay in Kashgar
This morning, embark on a journey to Karakul Lake(喀拉库勒湖). The lake is nestled in the shadows of the Pamir Mountains(帕米尔高原). Along the way, you’ll pass through scenic landscapes. You will see traditional Kyrgyz yurts(圆顶帐篷、毡房). These yurts offer a glimpse into the lifestyle of local herders. We will make photo stops on the way. Once at Karakul Lake, take a leisurely walk along the peaceful shores. The mountain reflections in the water create a breathtaking sight.
Afterward, return to Kashgar. Stop to explore the Mausoleum of Apakh Khoja(香妃墓). It is a historic cemetery. The site offers insight into the region’s deep history.
B, L, D, Stay in Kashgar
In the early morning, visit the Sunday Bazaar(周末集市) and Livestock Market(牛羊交易市场). At the Sunday Bazaar, you can buy vibrant local crafts, spices, and food. The livestock market has a lively trade that shows the region’s agricultural culture.
If your itinerary falls on a Sunday, we will arrange the activities of that day flexibly.
Fly to Urumqi. The flight takes about 2 hours. Urumqi is the bustling capital of Xinjiang. Once you arrive, move to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at your own pace.
B, L, D, Stay in Urumqi
Today, you will visit Heavenly Lake(天池). You can admire the clear lake and the snow-capped mountains reflecting in the water. You will see waterfalls, forests, and diverse flora and fauna. Experience the tranquility and grandeur of nature.
In the afternoon, visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum(新疆维吾尔自治区博物馆). You can see various exhibits. These include historical relics, ethnic and folk cultural relics, ancient mummies, and revolutionary cultural relics.
B, L, D, Stay in Urumqi
Take a scenic drive to Turpan. The ride takes about 2.5 hours. Turpan is an ancient desert city.
First, stop at the Jiaohe Ruins(交河故城). It is an ancient city carved into the cliffs. Your guide will walk you through the fascinating remains. This city was once a thriving trading hub.
Next, visit the Karez Wells(坎儿井). It is an ancient irrigation system. The system helped civilizations survive in this arid region. You will see how innovative engineering made life possible in one of the hottest places on Earth.
In the late afternoon, visit the Flaming Mountains(火焰山) and Tuyugou Valley(吐峪沟). The red sandstone cliffs glow in the evening light. Your guide will share local legends tied to this dramatic landscape.
B, L, D, Stay in Turpan
Travel by high-speed train from Turpan to Liuyuan Station. The ride takes almost 3.5 hours. Then, we will drive you to Dunhuang. The drive takes about 2 hours. Dunhuang is an oasis city that once sat at the crossroads of the Silk Road.
Upon arrival in Dunhuang, visit Dunhuang Ancient City(敦煌古城). The city is built in an antique style. It aims to recreate the bustling scene of ancient Dunhuang. Inside, there are criss-cross streets, many shops, and solemn temples. These features fully display the urban landscape along the Silk Road. The city is also a popular filming location for movies and TV dramas. Here, you can experience life along the ancient Silk Road. Visit various antique-style buildings such as yamen, inns, and escort agencies. You can also watch folk performances and ancient cultural exhibitions. Feel the strong historical atmosphere.
B, L, D, Stay in Dunhuang
In the morning, drive for 20 minutes to the Mogao Caves(莫高窟). The caves are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient Buddhist murals and statues are a testament to the artistic and spiritual exchanges along the Silk Road.
In the afternoon, explore the Dunhuang Museum(敦煌博物馆). You will learn about the ancient trade routes and the flow of goods, cultures, and ideas that defined the Silk Road.
End the day with a visit to Crescent Moon Spring(月牙泉) and the Echo Sand Mountains(鸣沙山). Enjoy a quiet sunset walk over the sand dunes.
B, L, D, Stay in Dunhuang
In the morning, we drive you to Jiayuguan. The drive takes 4 hours. Jiayuguan is home to the westernmost point of the Great Wall.
Visit the Jiayuguan Fort(嘉峪关城楼). Explore the military history and significance of this fort. It protected the Silk Road trade from the dangers of the Gobi Desert.
Walk along the Overhanging Great Wall(悬壁长城). This section of the Wall extends over the cliffside. It offers stunning views of the surrounding desert.
At night, enjoy a local dinner. The meal features specialties such as hand-pulled noodles and roasted lamb.
B, L, D, Stay in Jiayuguan
Take a morning flight to Xi’an. The flight takes around 2 to 3 hours. Xi’an is the starting point of the ancient Silk Road.
Visit the Ancient City Wall(古城墙). It is one of the oldest and best-preserved city walls in China. You can walk or rent a bike to circle the old city.
In the afternoon, walk in the Muslim Quarter(回民街). Experience local food stalls and markets. Try local Xi’an food like Biangbiang Noodles and Kebabs.
B, L, D, Stay in Xi’an
Explore the world-renowned Terracotta Warriors(兵马俑). Witness thousands of life-sized soldiers and horses. They were crafted to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife.
In the afternoon, visit the Lishan Garden(丽山园). It is not far from the Terracotta Army. At Lishan Garden, explore the exhibition hall and the Bronze Chariots & Horses Pit. Get a glimpse into the grandeur of China’s imperial history.
B, L, D, Stay in Xi’an
In the morning, start your day at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda(小雁塔). It is a tranquil site where you can admire its ancient structure and serene surroundings. The pagoda reflects Xi’an’s deep Buddhist roots.
In the afternoon, visit the Xi’an Museum(西安博物馆). Uncover the city’s rich history through fascinating exhibits. See the Tang Dynasty, ancient ceramics, and more. The museum offers a deeper insight into Xi’an’s cultural legacy and its significance along the Silk Road.
B, L, D, Stay in Xi’an
Before you leave, take one last stroll through the city. Enjoy the ambiance of this historic city. It has been central to the Silk Road for centuries. You can shop for souvenirs or simply relax. Then, you will be transferred to Xi’an Xianyang International Airport for your departure flight.
B, L, Xi’an Departure
The tour includes a mix of walking, sightseeing, and some light hiking. Activities like walking the Ancient City Wall in Xi’an or visiting Mogao Caves are manageable for most people, but you should be prepared for some walking in historical sites. If you have specific mobility concerns, please inform us in advance, and we can make accommodations to ensure a comfortable experience.
For the 12-day journey through Xinjiang and Xi’an, pack comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing (layers for varying temperatures), sun protection (hat, sunscreen), and a camera. If visiting remote areas like Karakul Lake or Turpan, be prepared for cold mornings and evenings, and warm daytime temperatures.
The best time to visit is in the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to November). These months offer mild temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities, especially in desert areas like Turpan and Dunhuang. Summer can be hot, especially in Turpan, while winter is cold in northern Xinjiang.
Absolutely! During the tour, try local dishes like: Kashgar: Hand-pulled noodles and lamb kebabs. Turpan: Local melons and grapes. Dunhuang: Traditional Chinese dumplings and wheat-based dishes. Xi’an: Biangbiang noodles, kebabs, and the famous Xi’an-style roujiamo (Chinese hamburger). Your guide will recommend the best spots to try these delicious local flavors.
Yes, you will have free time in several cities to shop for souvenirs. You can visit vibrant local markets like the Kashgar Sunday Bazaar for spices, textiles, and local handicrafts, or explore souvenir shops in Xi’an’s Muslim Quarter. Be sure to ask your guide for suggestions on where to find authentic souvenirs.
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fantastic silk road tour
James –
The trip was fantastic!
Unforgettable journey
Luca –
I enjoyed this tour very much! It’s a great way to see the Silk Road’s highlights in one trip. The landscapes, especially around Dunhuang and Jiayuguan, were spectacular. I learned so much about the history and culture of the region.
The stops were well-paced, and I felt I had enough time to enjoy each destination. The guides were knowledgeable and friendly, making each day even more enjoyable. I would do this again in a heartbeat!