Tour Overview
This 8-day Xinjiang Discovery Tour takes you through the heart of the Silk Road, from the bustling city of Urumqi to the remote western outpost of Kashgar. Explore natural wonders like Heavenly Lake and the Flaming Mountains, ancient cities such as Jiaohe, and the vibrant cultures of the Uyghur people. Drive along the legendary Karakoram Highway to the Pamir Plateau, experiencing breathtaking landscapes and rich history.
- ✓Visit the Xinjiang Provincial Museum and Heavenly Lake
- ✓Explore the ancient cities of Turpan: Jiaohe, Karez, and Emin Minaret
- ✓Drive the Karakoram Highway to Karakul Lake and Tashkorgan
- ✓Immerse in Kashgar's culture: Livestock Market, Id Kah Mosque, and Old City
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Urumqi
Upon arrival at Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel. If time permits, explore the Grand Bazaar, Xinjiang’s largest market, bustling with handicrafts, spices, and Uyghur snacks. For dinner, try local specialties such as dapanji or laghman. Overnight in Urumqi.
Day Trip to Heavenly Lake, Visit Xinjiang Museum and Dongkuruk Grand Bazaar
After breakfast, visit the Xinjiang Museum with its impressive collection of artifacts from minority groups. Then drive 115 km to Heavenly Lake, a crystal-clear lake surrounded by Tianshan mountains. Enjoy free time for hiking, boating, or cable car (own expense). Return to Urumqi and spend time at Dongkuruk Erdaoqiao Grand Bazaar, the minority center of Urumqi.
Urumqi To Turpan
After breakfast, drive to Turpan for a full day of sightseeing. Visit Tuyoq ancient village, the oldest in the area, and explore Buddhist caves dating back to the 4th century. Enjoy lunch, then visit Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves on the Flaming Mountains and Grape Valley. Dinner at a local restaurant and overnight in Turpan.
Turpan to Kashgar
After breakfast, visit Jiaohe Ancient City, one of China's best-preserved ancient cities. Then see the Karez irrigation system, one of China's three great ancient projects. Finally, visit Emin Minaret, the tallest ancient tower in Xinjiang. Transfer to Turpan airport for an afternoon flight to Kashgar.
Kashgar to Tashkorgan
Set out along the Karakoram Highway, stopping at Opal Village to see local bakers prepare nan bread. Continue to Oytagh Colorful Mountains and ascend the Pamir Plateau. Visit Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake (3,600m), nestled at the foot of Muztagh Ata and Kongur mountains. Enjoy hiking before driving to Tashkorgan, China's westernmost county.
Tashkorgan to Kashgar
After breakfast, visit the ancient Stone Fort, still standing after 2200 years. Hike on the grassland next to the fort. After lunch, drive back to Kashgar, with stops along the way if desired.
Explore Kashgar City
Start with the famous Sunday Livestock Market, a real Silk Road experience. Explore the bustling bazaar with local restaurants. After lunch, visit Id Kah Mosque, China's largest mosque, and Apak Hoja Tomb, known as the Tomb of the Fragrant Concubine. Wander the 2,000-year-old Old City, stop at a century-old tea house, and stroll along Ostangboyi Handicraft Street.
Kashgar To Your Next Destination
Today is the last day of your tour. After breakfast, you will be transferred to Kashgar airport for your departure. We hope you enjoyed your time with us and look forward to welcoming you on another tour.
Included & Excluded
Included
✓Airport transfers
✓Accommodation with breakfast
✓Private transportation
✓English-speaking guide
✓Entrance fees as per itinerary
Excluded
✕Domestic flights (Turpan to Kashgar)
✕Lunches and dinners unless specified
✕Personal expenses
✕Optional activities (e.g., boating, cable car)