17 Days China Silk Road Adventure Including Zhangjiajie

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Urumqi Arrival

   Welcome to our 17-day Silk Road tour of China! Upon your arrival at Urumqi airport, there will be a local driver who picks you up from the exit gate and transfers you to the downtown hotel for check-in.

   For the rest of the day, you should experience the nightlife activities which take place throughout Houhai. The experience includes walking along the river together with watching street lights which reflect on the lake surface and entering a bar to sample fine wine while listening to soothing music or rock music.

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   4-Stat Hotel in Urumqi
2. Day 2: Urumqi Highlights
   Heavenly Lake, Xinjiang Regional Museum, Erdaoqiao International Bazaar

   After breakfast, meet your tour guide and drive for 1.5 hours from your hotel to the breathtaking Heavenly Lake of Tianshan Mountain. This alpine lake lies at the base of the snowcapped Bodga Mountain in a lush valley surrounded by towering peaks. The summer season is rarely hot in this area due to its elevation.

   This truly is one of nature’s wonders; the reflection of the surrounding mountain peaks in the green water of the lake and the colourful wild flowers on the grasslands will mesmerize you as it truly is a peaceful and beautiful place to visit. The guide will share the story of how the Queen Mother of the West ‘painted’ this place with the mythology. It will be a trip you will not forget!

   

   Tip: The scenic area offers a boat-riding experience. You can pay on the spot to take a cruise boat and immerse yourself in the scene of water and sky merging together.

   After that, you will be transferred back to Urumqi city to visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum. The museum displays more than 40000 artifacts which include various relics and specimens across its five exhibition halls. It displays various treasures that have continuously shone throughout history on the famous Silk Road.

   In the late afternoon, take a walk at the Erdaoqiao International Bazaar. The market operates at a worldwide scale while its architectural design maintains a deep Islamic cultural heritage. The Urumqi market offers you a unique experience that transcends shopping because it showcases authentic ethnic traditions. Here you can find excessive range of products which creates visual confusion for you to experience the historical Silk Road area and witness the prosperous international trade activities.

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   4-Star Hotel in Urumqi
3. Day 3: Urumqi to Turpan
   Karez Well, Sugong Pagoda, Jiaohe Ruins

   In the morning, you will head for 3 hours to Turpan. Upon arrival, have lunch first and then begin your visit at the Karez Well which serves as an underground irrigation system developed by the ancient Xinjiang people. The project is the vital water source that sustains life throughout the dry northwestern region.

   Then the Sugong Pagoda will show you Islamic architectural design and it is the biggest pagoda in all of Xinjiang. The tower is cylindrical in shape, with a total height of 37 meters. It is entirely made of bricks, with various patterns on the outside. Next, come to Jiaohe Ruins, which represent the oldest, largest and best-preserved raw-soil building in the world dating back more than 2,000 years. The ancient city allows you to explore its streets which lead you through time to discover its historical civilizations. After all visits, have a good night in Turpan.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Turpan
4. Day 4: Turpan to Dunhuang by High-speed Train
   Crescent Spring and Echo Sand Mountain, Shazhou Night Market

   At around 8 am, the driver will pick you up from the hotel lobby and drop you off at the train station to catch the morning high-speed train to Dunhuang (D2708 / 09:16-12:43). Upon arrival at Dunhuang station, the local English-speaking guide and a skillful driver will be waiting for you and drive you to the downtown hotel.

   Take a rest on your comfortable bed until the temperature decreases which will allow you to visit Crescent Spring and Echo Sand Mountain. The natural beauty of Echo Sand Mountain and Crescent Spring exists as a miraculous pair that has shone like a pearl along the Silk Road for thousands of years. The incredible co-existence between spring water and sand mountains always amazes visitors at first sight here: the sand mountains meander like a huge dragon and roar when wings are blowing, while the Crescent Spring, like a gentle maiden, is embraced in the arms of mountains without being smudged.

   

   The optional activity at this location provides visitors with a lifetime experience through camel rides at Echo Sand Mountain. Your tour guide will help to purchase tickets.

   You will explore the Shazhou Night Market for culinary discoveries during the evening hours. The Dunhuang city center area becomes a Silk Road dining district after sunset. The authentic Silk Road experience allows you to taste apricot peel water and scallion beef patties...

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   4-Star Hotel in Dunhuang
5. Day 5: Dunhuang to Jiayuguan
   Mogao Grottoes

   After breakfast, it's time to admire the largest collection of Buddhist art at the breathtaking Mogao Grottoes. The Mogao Caves preserve the best artifacts in the world functions as "the pearls of oriental art" according to its worldwide recognition. The site contains 735 caves which cover approximately 45,000 square kilometers and display 2,415 painted sculptures and more than 4,000 flying Apsaras. The guide will take you to visit some important grottoes and explain how they were built and the stories depicted in the murals.

   Later, drive around 4-5 hours to Jiayuguan. You are suggested to wear comfortable shoes and take some snacks considering this will be a long-time journey. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and in the evening, enjoy your free time on Tang Dynasty Night Market where the architectural style of the Tang Dynasty is reproduced, with over 3000 lanterns lit up at night. Must try dishes include grilled lamb ribs and Rolled Fish Noodles.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Jiayuguan
6. Day 6: Jiayuguan to Zhangye
   Jiayuguan Pass, Jiayuguan Great Wall Museum, Weijin Tombs

   This morning is for Jiayuguan exploration, starting from one of the most important historical sites of Silk Road - Jiayuguan Fort. It is known by two names: the "First and Greatest Pass Under Heaven" and "the Throat of Hexi Corridor". Served as a western boundary of the Great Wall of Ming Dynasty, it was a vital military defense while it functions as an ancient Silk Road trade and cultural exchange hub which has operated for hundreds of years. The fort provides a complete view which you can access by climbing to its top.

   Next, learn more at the pass and the Great Wall at the Jiayuguan Great Wall Museum. It is the first Great Wall themed museum to operate which contains 7 exhibition halls that present advanced knowledge about this Chinese engineering achievement.

   

   Before leaving Jiayuguan, have an underground exploration of Weijin Tombs. The site presentation shows amazing brick wall paintings. The desert conceals 1400 ancient tombs which exist beneath its yellow sand yet only the No.6 tomb permits public access now. The colorful paintings tell Weijin Time scholars and officials about their life activities. Your guide will explain historical, cultural, political and economic knowledge about the site to you. Last, drive around 3 hours to Zhangye for an overnight stay.

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   4-Star Hotel in Zhangye
7. Day 7: Zhangye Geological Wonders
   The Rainbow Mountain, The Ice Valley Mountain

   Today you will fully enjoy the highlight of Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park. The Danxia landform earns the most spotlight for Zhangye City. National Geographic News declared the site a "10 Wonders of Nature in the World" in 2011 which shows that it deserves this reputation. The Zhangye Danxia park contains two main scenic areas which display different characteristics.

   Firstly, come to visit the Ice Valley Mountain Scenic Area, read Binggou Mountain in Chinese, which earns its fame mainly with its graceful shapes. Usually, people come here for sunrise scenery. Although the colors of the hills here are not as bright as Rainbow Mountain, the unique form here easily excites people’s imagination to enjoy the natural masterpiece in another way.

   In the afternoon, your main focus is on the Rainbow Mountain Scenic Area, which features its bright color and is better to enjoy the sunset. The high platforms provide a view of mountains displaying different levels of red and orange colors that shine under rosy sunlight. The best time for taking bright mountains is during sunset from 7 to 8 pm (June - August); from 6 to 7 pm (December - January).

   Travel Tips: Visitors during sunny weather need to carry sun protection equipment that consists of hats, sunglasses and sun umbrellas.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Zhangye
8. Day 8: Zhangye to Lanzhou by High-speed Train
   Giant Buddha Temple, Huanghe River Custom Tourist Line

   After breakfast, pay a visit to an important scenic spot on the Silk Road - the Giant Buddhist Temple. Here, you will see the largest indoor clay sculpture reclining Buddha in the country, 34.5 meters in length. You can see exquisite murals and other smaller sculptures next to the Buddha statue. The tour guide will tell you the content described in the murals and the stories of some important sculptures.

   Later, head to the train station to catch the noon high-speed train to Lanzhou. The train rides around 3 hours and you can take this chance to enjoy the Qilian Mountain range scenery along the way.

   When you arrive at Lanzhou train station, the local English-speaking tour guide and driver will greet you and then take you to have a glimpse of Lanzhou city by visiting the Huanghe River Custom Tourist Line, “the Bund of Lanzhou City”. Taking Zhongshan Bridge as the axis to stretch out along the Yellow River, it has a lot of things to see such as the Yellow River Mother Sculpture, Iron Bridge, Waterwheel Park and so on. After that, drive you to a city center hotel for check-in.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Lanzhou
9. Day 9: Lanzhou to Zhangjiajie by Flight
   Yellow Dragon Cave

   In the morning, the driver will pick you up from the hotel lobby and transfer you to Lanzhou airport for your flight to Zhangjiajie.

   Upon arrival in Zhangjiajie, the local English-speaking guide will pick you up at the exit gate and your exploration begins with the fantastic Yellow Dragon Cave. The cave is praised as "all-round champion" by domestic and foreign geological authorities because it boasts the most complete and beautiful cave landscape with the largest scale. You will appreciate the pointing stalagmites, take a boat (optional, at your own expense) to explore the deep underground river (the river is rich with second-class state-protected giant salamanders and translucent glass fish), and see the great stone fall and interesting stone monkeys of various shapes.

   After the visit, drive you to your hotel for a good rest.

   

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   4-Star Hotel in Zhangjiajie
10. Day 10: Zhangjiajie National Forest Park & Glass Bridge
    Zhangjijaie National Forest Park, Yellow Stone Village, Golden Whip Stream, Glass Bridge

    Today, you will begin your exploration of Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The park became China's first national forest park and received World Natural Heritage status in 1992 because its quartz sandstone peak forest has unique characteristics. The pillars reach more than 300 meters high while you walk through peaceful valleys and experience the refreshing outdoor atmosphere.

    Next, head to Huangshi (Yellow Stone) Village. With an altitude of more than 1200 meters, it’s the largest and best observation deck to overlook the quartz sandstone peak forest. You can hear the story of Zhang Liang being saved by Huang Shi from your guide while you are walking, and you may come across the active monkeys on the way.

    

    Then, take a light hike along the  Golden Whip Stream, one of the most beautiful sites in Zhangjiajie. The stream flows through the hills and valleys and it received its name from its passage near Golden Whip Rock. It produces soft sounds which you can hear while you walk through the valley to see fish swimming in the clear water.

    After the relaxing hiking, take the sightseeing bus to exit the forest park and drive for around 40 minutes to Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. The Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge, the world's tallest and longest bridge, challenges you to complete its 430-meter distance. You can experience a panoramic view of the canyon while walking on the glass floor, which provides transparent visibility. The bridge first appears frightening, but after you take your initial step, you will experience a breathtaking view of waterfalls, forests and streams that flow through the area.

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    4-Star Hotel in Zhangjiajie
11. Day 11: Tianzi Mountain & Yuanjiajie Scenic Area
    Tianzi Mountain, Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, Hallelujah Mountain, Bailong Elevator

    The first destination for today leads you to Tianzi Mountain. The saying exists that "after visiting Tianzi Mountain, no one will wish to see another mountain". One of the spectacular sights here provides you with a chance to see a sea of clouds which appears after rain during fortunate moments. The view mainly presents two elements - rough rocks and a stone peak forest that resembles a group of soldiers who stand by to hear commands.

    After that, continue to explore Yuanjiajie Scenic Area, the inspiration for Hallelujah Mountain in the super famous movie Avatar. You can also experience Bailong Elevator, the highest outdoor elevator in the world. You will be amazed by the speed of the elevator, only 66 seconds to the top. The moment you exit the elevator, a magical landscape painting will appear before your eyes. The massive quartz-sandstone pillars are just towering over you or next to you.

    Finish all the activities, and you will be taken to the Zhangjiajie downtown area for an overnight.

    

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    4-Star Hotel in Zhangjiajie
12. Day 12: Zhangjiajie to Xian by Flight
    Tianmen Mountain, Tianmen Temple, Skywalk, Tianmen Cave

    After breakfast, you will go with your guide to visit one more highlight of Zhangjiajie - Tianmen Mountain National Park.

    Firstly, drive to the cableway base for you to take the cable car up to the top of Tianmen Mountain. With a length of 7445 meters, Tianmen Mountain cableway is regarded as the longest cableway in the world. The one-way cable car ride take about 28 minutes. And the half-hour ride is an excellent chance to see the picturesque scenery of the mountain

    When you reach the mountain summit, you will first visit Tianmen Mountain Temple. The temple as the Buddhist center for western Hunan Province was constructed during the Ming Dynasty period.

    

    Next, you will take a walk on the vertiginous Skywalk built of transparent glass. For some people, it is really a test of courage! Then move to the Tianmen Cave (Heaven's Gate Cave). This natural stone archway is 131.5 meters high and 57 meters wide. It will take about half an hour to walk the 999 steps through the famous cave. Later, take the cable car down to the foot.

    At the end of the visit, you'll be dropped off at Zhangjiajie airport to catch the flight to Xian. Upon arrival at Xian airport, there will be a local driver picking you up from the exit gate and transfer to the local hotel.

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    4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
13. Day 13: Best of Xian
    Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Muslim Quarter, Bell Tower & Drum Tower Square

    In the morning, you will head to the must-see Terracotta Warriors and Horses. Due to its surprisingly high level in sculpture, it got a title: “one of the Eighth Wonders of the World”. And it is listed as one of the most significant discoveries of the 20th century. The splendid scene and format will leave you with an impressive memory. During the 2.5 to 3 hours of your stay, the guide will tell you how these life-sized warriors were created and why they were made.

    After lunch, continue your visit to Big Wild Goose Pagoda. Also known as Da Ci’en Pagoda, the Big Wild Goose Pagoda was built in 652 for keeping the Buddhist scriptures which were taken back from India by Master Xuanzang (602-664). Till today the pagoda has been standing here for over 1,350 years.

    After that, move to Bell Tower & Drum Tower Square to admire an important building that marks the geographical center of the ancient capital of Xian. Last, walk for 5 minutes to the Muslim Quarter to have relaxing sightseeing and enjoy the local food/snacks. Muslin Quarter is the most famous food street in Xian. It consists of an Islamic food area, an ethnic group shopping center and a living area of Hui people, with a history of more than 1,000 years. The guide will give recommendations for you to have the best local food experience.

    

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    4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
14. Day 14: Xian Local Village
    Ancient City Wall, Yuanjiacun Village

    Come to the Ancient City Wall to enjoy the peaceful morning! It is the most completely preserved and the largest city wall in China, built for military defense in ancient times. Walk along the wall, touching the bricks and listen to your guide explaining the story behind it. You can ride a bike atop the city wall at an extra fee (optional).

    Later, drive around 1 hour to Yuanjiacun Village - one of the ten most beautiful villages in Shaanxi Province.  It is the best place to feel the history of the Guanzhong area and the idyllic life of local people that is akin to the 1950s and 1960s. Here, you would have a chance to watch Qin Opera Show, taste authentic local food, and try milling flour, waving cloth, making vinegar, and grinding soybeans to make Tofu (Bean Curd). That surely will be an interesting and much more impressive experience.

    

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    4-Star Hotel in Xi'an
15. Day 15: Xian to Chengdu by High-speed Train
    Renmin Park, Jinli Pedestrian Street, Kuanzhai Alley

    Free and easy on your own arrangement in the morning. You can either have some rest at the hotel or explore the city on your own.

    At around 12:00, the driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to the train station for your afternoon high-speed train to Chengdu. The train rides around 3-4 hours and you can enjoy the scenery on the way.

    When you arrive at Chengdu station, a local tour guide and driver will pick you up from the exit gate. Your exploration will start with a leisurely late afternoon tour.

    First, come to the vibrant Renmin Park which is a perfect place to do people watching. Here you can enjoy a cup of tea in a nice tea house and watch local people while away the time with various activities such as playing cards, playing mahjong, dancing...

    Later, explore the bustling Jinli Pedestrian Street, a must-see place in Chengdu. You can see that the buildings here are built in Qing Dynasty style, and meandering through the street gives people the feeling of traveling back in time. Enjoy shopping and taste some yummy food that you have never seen before. After the tour, drive you back to your hotel.

    

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    4-Star Hotel in Chengdu
16. Day 16: Chengdu Panda Visit
    Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, Wenshu Temple, Sichuan Cuisine Museum

    The first scenic site today will be the exciting Chengdu Giant Panda Breeding Research Base, which is well known for the protection and breeding of the endangered giant pandas which are unique to China. The base is definitely a highlight for most visitors to Chengdu. The area contains many pandas and red pandas. You can observe the pandas as they eat bamboo and engage in play and their favorite activity which is sleeping. The tour guide will show you the large space while she/he provides details about pandas and assists you in taking great pictures.

    

    Later, go to check out a unique museum themed with cuisine culture, the Sichuan Cuisine Museum, and have a fantastic experience there. You will have a chance to see plenty of cooking utensils from the past dynasties and sample some local delicacies. The highlight of this interesting museum tour will be learning to cook three Sichuan dishes, including Mapo Tofu and Kung Pao Chicken under the instructions of local chefs. After finishing cooking, you will sit down and enjoy your own cooking.

    After that, continue your visit to Wenshu Temple which was built in the Sui Dynasty with a long history. The temple is still operating and frequented by local people who come to pray and relax. It is a good place to learn about Buddhism. You can have a nice stroll around the pleasant garden and take photos of the wonderful ancient architecture.

    

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    4-Star Hotel in Chengdu
17. Day 17: Chengdu Departure

    Free and easy on your own until the pick-up time for departure. Our driver will meet you at the hotel lobby and transfer you to Chengdu airport / railway station to see you off. Your 17-day Silk Road and Zhangjiajie tour ends here. Thank you very much for choosing China Xian Tour.

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