13-Day Xi'an-Lanzhou-Dunhuang-Turpan-Urumqi-Kashgar-Urumqi Tour
Experience the legendary Silk Road like never before with this 15-day China Epik Silk Road Tour, an immersive journey through the heart of ancient trade routes that connected ancient China and the West. Starting in Xi'an, the ancient capital of China, this tour takes you to the historic cities of Lanzhou, Dunhuang, Turpan, Urumqi, Kashgar, and Hotan, each with its unique blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Explore the incredible Mogao Caves, wander through desert oases, discover ancient Buddhist and Islamic sites, and marvel at the picturesque landscapes that once served as meeting points for merchants and travelers. Enjoy exquisite local cuisine, stay in comfortable accommodations, and travel in style with private transportation and expert guides.
Itinerary
Our thoughtfully planned 15-day China tour ensures you make the most of your time in China's most historic trade routes, offering rich cultural experiences that will leave a lasting impression:
Day 1: Arrival in Xi'an – The Starting Point of the Silk Road
Arrive in Xi'an, the ancient capital and starting point of the Silk Road. After settling in, depending on your arrival time, you may spend the day relaxing and acclimatizing. In the evening, take a leisurely walk through Muslim Street to explore the vibrant markets and try local snacks such as biangbiang noodles and lamb skewers.
- Meals: Dinner
- Transportation: Private transfer from airport/railway station to hotel
Day 2: Terracotta Warriors and Ancient Xi'an
Start your day with a visit to the world-famous Terracotta Army, an archaeological marvel that features thousands of life-sized statues of soldiers, horses, and chariots, buried with Emperor Qin Shi Huang. In the afternoon, explore Xi'an's Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China, and enjoy panoramic views of the old and new city. Wrap up your day at the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a Buddhist site housing ancient scriptures.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 3: Xi'an to Lanzhou – Silk Road Legacy
Travel by high-speed train to Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province and an important stop on the ancient Silk Road. Upon arrival, visit the Yellow River and the Iron Bridge, the first bridge built across the river, symbolizing Lanzhou's strategic importance. In the afternoon, explore the Gansu Provincial Museum, which showcases regional artifacts from the Silk Road.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: High-speed train to Lanzhou, private vehicle with professional driver
Day 4: Lanzhou to Dunhuang – The Mogao Caves
Flight to Dunhuang, a key Silk Road city known for its spectacular cave art. Visit the UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves, where you can explore ancient Buddhist art and murals dating back to the 4th century. In the afternoon, head to the Dunhuang Museum to learn more about the city’s historical significance. End the day with a visit to Mingsha Mountain and the Crescent Moon Lake for a stunning sunset view.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Flight from Lanzhou to Dunhuang, private vehicle with professional driver
Day 5: Dunhuang to Turpan – Oasis of the Desert
In the morning, take a private vehicle to the Dunhuang Liuyuan Station for a high-speed train to Turpan, a desert oasis nestled in the heart of the Taklamakan Desert. Upon arrival, visit the Jiaohe Ruins, an ancient city carved into a cliff that once housed thousands of people. Then, explore the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, home to beautiful murals and sculptures. Freshen up and enjoy a good dinner after an extraordinary day.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver, high-speed train to Turpan
Day 6: Turpan – The Karez System and Grape Valley
Start your day with a visit to the Karez Irrigation System, an ancient water system that allowed Turpan to thrive in the harsh desert environment. In the afternoon, visit the Flaming Mountains, renowned for their striking red cliffs. Explore Grape Valley, where you can sample fresh, delicious grapes and explore the fertile farming areas that have supported the local Uighur community for centuries. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Uighur dance performance.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 7: Turpan to Urumqi – Gateway to Xinjiang
Take high-speed train to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. Upon arrival, visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum, which showcases the cultural diversity of the region. Explore the International Grand Bazaar, a vibrant market selling spices, silk, and local crafts. In the evening, enjoy a local Uighur meal with pilaf and lamb skewers.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: High-speed train from Turpan to Uumqi, private vehicle with professional driver
Day 8: Urumqi to Kashgar – The Silk Road Hub
Fly to Kashgar, a bustling Silk Road city rich in history and culture. Upon arrival, explore the Id Kah Mosque, one of the largest mosques in China, and the surrounding Old City with its narrow alleys and lively bazaars. Enjoy a traditional Uighur meal at a local restaurant.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Flight from Urumqi to Kashgar, private vehicle with professional driver
Day 9: Livestock Market and Mausoleum of Abakh Hoja
Start your day early by visiting the Kashgar Livestock Market, where traders come from all over Xinjiang to buy and sell livestock. Next, head to the Mausoleum of Abakh Hoja, an architectural gem housing the tomb of a prominent Uighur ruler. Finish the day by exploring the Kashgar Sunday Market, one of the largest bazaars in Central Asia.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 10: Kashgar to Hotan – Silk Road Culture
Drive to Hotan, an ancient city on the southern Silk Road. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to the diverse landscapes and unique sites, including the majestic Kunlun Mountains and vast desert scenery. Upon arrival, visit the Hotan Museum to learn about the region’s history and its role in the Silk Road trade. Explore the Hotan Silk Factory, where you can see traditional silk-making techniques, and visit the White Jade River, known for its fine-quality jade.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 11: Hotan – Exploration of the Keriya River and Jade Markets
Visit the Keriya River, an important water source for Hotan, and take a boat ride or stroll along the riverbanks. Explore the Jade Markets of Hotan, famous for their high-quality jade, and learn about the region’s centuries-old tradition of jade carving. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful dinner with views of the desert.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Private vehicle with professional driver
Day 12: Return to Urumqi – Scenic Journey through Xinjiang
Fly to Urumqi for a final exploration of the city. Visit Tian Shan for scenic views of the snow-capped peaks and enjoy a relaxing boat ride on the Heavenly Lake. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner featuring Xinjiang specialties.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
- Transportation: Flight to Urumqi, private vehicle with professional driver
Day 13: Departure from Urumqi
Spend the final day at leisure, exploring the markets or relaxing at your hotel before your transfer to the airport or train station for your departure.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Transportation: Private transfer to Urumqi airport
Accommodations
You may choose 5-star or 4-star accommodations for your journey. The following list is a sample of hotels you may stay in. An alternative hotel of similar grade may be chosen if the following hotels are not available. All of our accommodations are carefully selected for comfort and convenience.
5-Star Hotels List:
- Xi'an
- Sofitel Xi'an On Renmin Square
- Hilton Xi'an
- Lanzhou
- Hyatt Regency Lanzhou
- Dunhuang
- The Silk Road Dunhuang Hotel
- Turpan
- Huoshanhong Hotel
- Hotels in Turpan West
- Urumqi
- Conrad Urumqi
- U Hotel Urumqi
- Wanda Vista Hotel Urumqi
- Kashgar
- Raddison Blu Kashgar
- Hotan
- Xinjiang Jiaotou Hotan Guesthouse
4-Star Hotels List:
- Xi'an
- Holiday Inn Xi'an Big Goose Pagoda
- Lanzhou
- Lanzhou Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Lanzhou City Center
- Lanzhou Hualian Hotel
- Dunhuang
- Dunhuang Zhongzhou International Hotel
- Turpan
- Hampton by Hilton Turpan
- Urumqi
- Urumqi Belle Hotel Atour Hotel
- Kashgar
- Hampton by Hilton Kashgar
- Hotan
- Hampton by Hilton Hotan
Inclusion/Exclusion
- What's Included:
- Panda Tourism's expert travel director and skilled professional driver
- Luxury 5-stars hotels with proven quality or comfortable high-end 4-stars hotels
- Inclusive of porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel service charges, tips, and local taxes covered
- Daily breakfasts and up to half of your evening meals included
- Iconic sightseeing highlights plus unexpected extras
- Audio headsets for special destination tours
- Private premium transportation coach/vehicle
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- Optional experiences and plenty of leisure time
- Flights and train rides within China included
- What's Not Included:
- International flights to and from China
- China visa fees
