• Classic Xinjiang Tour: Urumqi, Kashgar & Turpan

    ★★★★★

    4.9/5 524 Latest reviews

    Tour Code: ODY-CN-2447

    Destination:Kashgar, Urumqi, Turpan

Duration

7 Days

Tour Type

Private & Bespoke

Tour Style

Classic

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About This Trip

Over seven enriching days, immerse yourself fully in the cultural heritage and splendid natural landscapes of Southern Xinjiang. Your journey begins in Tianshan Grand Canyon, where towering red cliffs and winding valleys create a breathtaking Danxia landform. Next, journey to Turpan to literally walk ancient Silk Road trader routes, among echoes of the past amid ruins of bygone oases. Travels then take you to Kashgar, where the historic old town’s discovery awaits, along with storied mosques and high alpine lakes of unspoiled natural beauty.

Itinerary Summary

DAYPLACEHIGHLIGHTS
1-2UrumqiXinjiang Museum, Tianshan Grand Canyon, International Grand Bazaar
3TurpanJiaohe Ruins, Karez Irrigation Site, Uyghur Family Visit, Emin Minaret
4-7KashgarId Kah Mosque, Abakh Khoja Tomb, Karakuri Lake, Local Bazaar, Kirgiz Family Visit
Quick Question

Itinerary

Upon arrival at Urumqi, a local guide will meet and transfer you to your hotel.

As the capital of Xinjiang, Urumqi presents both modern amenities and deep cultural roots, with its historic Uyghur quarter vibrant with song and celebratory tradition.

🍽 Local dining

◷ Flexible timing

▱ Beijing

Kick off the day at the Xinjiang Museum, where exhibits bring to life Xinjiang’s ancient past and stories of cultural blending on this land. Next, explore stunning Danxia landforms in Tianshan Grand Canyon. Walk through the canyon, where the cliffs change color under the sun, revealing nature’s masterpiece. End the day at the bustling International Grand Bazaar, full of dried fruits, ethnic handicrafts, and lively folk performances, offering a real taste of Urumqi’s daily life.

🍽 Local dining

◷ Flexible timing

▱ Beijing

The journey today takes you to Turpan, one of the lowest points on Earth. Your exploration of this historically significant area begins at the impressive Jiaohe Ruins, where you will delve into the well-preserved remnants of a Silk Road settlement, marveling at ancient homes and stupas that once graced its bustling streets.

Next, wander the cool tunnels of the Karez Irrigation Site, and gain insight into how ancient residents cultivated life in the desert heat. Explore the Emin Minaret, the tallest Islamic tower in China and a symbol of the prosperity and religious heritage of ancient Western China.

In the afternoon, head to nearby villages for a Uyghur home visit, passing by the majestic red cliffs of Flaming Mountain. During the visit, have some sweet dried fruits and experience the simple, warm hospitality of the locals.

🍽 Local dining

◷ Flexible timing

▱ Beijing

After a leisurely morning, a scenic 2.5-hour drive takes you past lush oases and desert vistas of the Turpan Depression to return to Urumqi, where a two-hour flight will take you to Kashgar. Situated at the crossroads of Central Asia, Kashgar was a thriving hub along the ancient Silk Road. On arrival, be welcomed by your local guide and driver.

🍽 Local dining

◷ Flexible timing

▱ Beijing

Start your morning by exploring the tomb of Abakh Khoja, reading its beautifully preserved Islamic mausoleum architecture and intricate interior wall paintings. Then, head to the Grand Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, to witness local prayers and admire the impressive architecture.

Next, immerse yourself in the historic alleys of Kashgar Old City, taking your time to visit the colorful teahouses and stalls on Artisans Street. Every day, Kashgar’s bazaars present a unique charm. Your guide will take you to a bazaar open that day to experience a lively atmosphere and authentic local life.

🍽 Local dining

◷ Flexible timing

▱ Beijing

Drive across the vast alpine plains dotted with tiny villages this morning. Along the path of Xuanzang’s Journey to the West, pause to admire Baisha Lake in its changing hues, where languid white sands lap at dazzling turquoise waters. Continuing your journey, Karakuri Lake soon emerges in the distance, a placid sapphire gem nestled in the high-altitude wilderness. Take a moment to soak in the Lake’s serene beauty, framed by jagged silhouettes like discarded shards of the sky with Muztagh Ata presiding over all.

Next, meet a Kyrgyz family, a rare opportunity to encounter this small ethnic group. Taste the homemade dried yak meat and see the shepherds drive their livestock across the lush pastures, taking a moment to relax in the tranquil setting.

🍽 Local dining

◷ Flexible timing

▱ Beijing

Your time in Kashgar draws to a close today. A driver will escort you to the airport on schedule for your flight to the inland of China or your destination in central Asia.

🍽 Local dining

◷ Flexible timing

▱ Beijing

Why Choose Inner Mongolia Jiuhong Travel Service Co., Ltd.

12-Year TripAdvisor Award

Travellers’ Choice winner every year since 2013

No Commission Shopping

Zero shopping stops, zero pressure, zero hidden agendas

100% Private

Every tour is exclusively yours — no strangers, no shared buses

Expert Local Guides

Licensed, English-speaking guides with deep local knowledge

Real reviews from real travellers

  • u003cemu003eu003cemu003eI highly recommend Inner Mongolia Jiuhong Travel Service Co., Ltd. The team is very easy to work with, has excellent ideas and the guides are knowledgeable and easy to be with. Very solid itineraries and execution — flexible, high quality, and great value for money.u003c/emu003eu003c/emu003e
    James T.
    Verified · TripAdvisor
  • u003cemu003eu003cemu003eWe visited both Xi’an and Shanghai under Jiuhong’s arrangement and received the same first-class service in both cities. The guides were knowledgeable, flexible, and happy to discuss all aspects of modern China — giving insights difficult to obtain elsewhere. Strongly recommended.u003c/emu003eu003c/emu003e
    Greenfly
    Couples · Verified · TripAdvisor
  • u003cemu003eu003cemu003eWe had a wonderful action-packed day. Fei Fei was amazing — her knowledge was very impressive and she was a real pleasure to be with. This was certainly the highlight of our stay in this beautiful city. Thanks so much.u003c/emu003eu003c/emu003e
    Ludovic V.
    Couples · London, UK · Verified · TripAdvisor

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