Day 1 Arrive in Shanghai
Airport pick up and check in Shanghai hotel
- Shanghai
- /
Day 2 Shanghai -Dunhuang (by plane) Mingsha Mountain, Crescent Spring, Shazhou Night Market, Tang Dynasty’s Never-Night City.
After breakfast, take morning flight to Dunhuang. Upon arrival, visit the renowned Mingsha Mountain, a place where the sands whisper secrets of ancient times. Next, proceed to the enchanting Crescent Spring, a natural oasis that has miraculously survived amidst the vast desert. As evening approaches, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Shazhou Night Market, where the scents of local delicacies and the sounds of bustling crowds create an unforgettable experience. Conclude your day by stepping back in time at the Tang Dynasty’s Never-Night City, an open-air museum that brings to life the grandeur and culture of the Tang era, allowing you to wander through reconstructed streets and buildings that echo the past.
- Dunhuang
- B/L
Day 3 Dunhuang-Turpan (by high speed train) Ancient City of Gaochang
After breakfast, head to train station and take train to Turpan. Visit Ancient City of Gaochang. The ancient city, once a thriving center on the Silk Road, offers a glimpse into the past with its well-preserved ruins. Wander through the remnants of the city walls, temples, and residential areas, imagining the life that once bustled within these ancient structures.
- Turpan
- B/L
Day 4 Turpan (by bus) Jiaohe Ancient City, Tuyu Valley
After breakfast, start a day tour in Turpan. You will visit Jiaohe Ancient City and Tuyu Valley. The ruins of Jiaohe Ancient City, located on a plateau, offer a glimpse into the ancient Silk Road civilization. The city’s well-preserved architecture and streets provide a fascinating insight into the lives of its former inhabitants.Next, you’ll head to Tuyu Valley, known for its unique natural landscape and historical significance. The valley is home to the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, a series of Buddhist cave grottoes that date back to the 5th to 9th centuries. The vivid murals and statues within the caves reflect the artistic and religious practices of the time.
- Turpan
- B/L
Day 5 Turban-Urumqi (by bus-3hrs) Emin Minaret, Karez Irrigation System, Grand Bazaar
After breakfast, travel from Turpan to Urumqi via bus. During our bus ride, we made several stops to explore some of the most fascinating cultural and historical sites in Turpan. The first stop was at the renowned Emin Minaret, a stunning example of Islamic architecture that stands tall and proud, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.
Next, visit the Karez Irrigation System, an ancient underground water management system that has been used for centuries in this arid region. This ingenious system is a testament to the ingenuity of the local people and their ability to harness natural resources to create sustainable agricultural practices.
The final stop was at the Grand Bazaar, a bustling marketplace where we had the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. The bazaar was a vibrant and colorful place, filled with a variety of goods ranging from traditional handicrafts to delicious local delicacies.
- Urumqi
- B/L
Day 6 Urumqi (by bus) Tianshan Mountains
After breakfast, start a day tour to Tianshan Mountains. The journey to the mountains offers breathtaking views of the natural landscape, with snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Upon arrival, visitors can explore the scenic spots, such as the Heavenly Lake, which is a glacial lake nestled among the mountains, providing a serene and picturesque setting. The tour also includes a visit to the local Uyghur villages, where one can experience the rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality of the local people.
- Urumqi
- B/L
Day 7 Urumqi-Kashgar (by plane) Kashgar Old City
After breakfast, head to Kashgar by flight. A local guide will pick you up at Kashgar airport. The first stop is the historic Kashgar Old City, where the ancient Silk Road once flourished. Here, you can wander through the labyrinthine alleys, admiring the traditional Uyghur architecture and the bustling local markets. The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the city further or to relax at the hotel.
- Kashgar
- B/L
Day 8 Kashgar (by bus) Xiangfei Tomb, Mosque, Animal Bazaar
After breakfast, set out to explore the rich cultural tapestry of Kashgar. The first stop is the Xiangfei Tomb, a historical site that honors the memory of a beloved princess and her tragic love story. The tomb’s intricate architecture and serene atmosphere provide a glimpse into the region’s past. Next, a visit to the Mosque offers a chance to witness the devout Muslim practices and the architectural grandeur of the Islamic faith. The mosque’s towering minarets and ornate interiors are a testament to the spiritual significance of the site for the local community. The day’s excursion concludes at the bustling Animal Bazaar, where the vibrant energy of the market comes alive with the sounds of bleating goats, clucking chickens, and the chatter of traders. This unique market serves as a window into the daily life and traditions of the Uyghur people, highlighting the importance of livestock in their culture.
- Kashgar
- B/L
Day 9 Kashgar-Shanghai Departure on an international flight
After breakfast, take flight back to Shanghai
- /
- B
