15-Day China Silk Road and Northern Xinjiang Tour

Day-by-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Arrival in Lanzhou

   Lanzhou, the eastern starting point of the Hexi Corridor, has been an important military and commercial town along the Silk Road since the Han and Tang Dynasties.

   Welcome to this 15-day Silk Road tour. The local guide and private driver will meet you at the airport and escort you to the hotel in the downtown area for check-in.

   Start your tour in Lanzhou to explore the city at your own pace for the rest of the day.

   Free time ideas:

   If you arrive in Lanzhou before 12:00, it is recommended to visit the Gansu Museum (closed on Mondays), an excellent introduction to the Silk Road and the civilization of the Yellow River.

   The Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow, the most precious treasure of the museum exhibited on the 2^nd floor, is the official symbol of China’s tourism industry. As you explore the rich collections spanning thousands of years, the history of the Hexi Corridor comes to life.

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   4-Star Hotel in Lanzhou
2. Day 2: Lanzhou to Wuwei by Private Vehicle
   Wander along the Yellow River Tourist Line

   Take a leisurely stroll along the Yellow River Tourist Line. This 40-km-long waterfront stretch is reputed as “the Bund of Lanzhou”. Along the way, discover the city’s most iconic landmarks, Zhongshan Bridge and Yellow River Mother Sculpture.

   See the giant traditional waterwheel with a diameter of 16 meters and learn how it was used for irrigation in ancient China.

   Across the river is the Baita Mountain Park, the highest point of Lanzhou. Standing at the top, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city and the Yellow River.

   Drive about 3 hours to Wuwei after the visit and check into your comfortable hotel.

   Travel Tips:

   • The Baita Mountain Park is equipped with cable cars. If you do not want to hike uphill, the guide can help you purchase a ticket.
   • If interested, visit South Gate Square in Wuwei in the evening to see the iconic gate tower and music fountain show. Locals often gather at the square for singing and dancing. In the nearby market, fill your belly with the local snacks, like cold noodles and rice soup with fried dough twists.

   

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   4-star hotel in Wuwei
3. Day 3: Wuwei to Zhangye by Private Vehicle
   Explore Confucius Temple and Appreciate Wetland Scenery in Zhangye

   Today’s exploration starts from the largest and best-preserved Confucius Temple in Northwest China.

   Wander among the towering ancient cypress trees and explore the Lingxing Gate, Dacheng Hall, and Zunjing Pavilion in the central axis to gain an impression of traditional Confucian education.

   Cross the crescent-shaped Panchi Pond and Zhuangyuan Bridge, where ancient scholars take part in a matriculation ceremony to commence their studies in a state school. Be sure to admire dozens of Ming and Qing Dynasty plaques hanging in the Guiji Hall, which is an open-air gallery of Chinese calligraphy.

   Continue to Zhangye National Wetland Park in the afternoon. It will not let you down no matter which season you visit. In spring and summer, numerous migratory birds fly here, like wild ducks, egrets and swans. In autumn and winter, golden reeds and white snow blanket the park, offering a different charm.

   After the visit, head to the hotel in downtown Zhangye for check-in.

   Optional activities:

   If interested, you can also enjoy a boat ride, cycling and fishing in the wetland park.

   

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   4-star hotel in Zhangye
4. Day 4: Zhangye Highlights
   Admire the Large Reclining Buddha in Giant Buddha Temple and Colorful Danxia Landscapes

   Embark on an essence tour in Zhangye today. The first stop is the Giant Buddha Temple, housing China’s largest Buddhist Hall of the Western Xia Dynasty.

   The main highlight is the lifelike reclining Buddha resting peacefully on a lotus pedestal. It is 34.5 meters long and 7.5 meters wide at the shoulder. Besides, admire the exquisite sculptures, murals, stone carvings, and Buddhist scriptures.

   Set out to the Zhangye Danxia National Forest Park to appreciate the spectacular red sandstone landform. The colorful hills in Rainbow Danxia Scenic Area will leave a deep impression on you.

   Take a sightseeing bus to marvel at the natural wonders from different perspectives at the four viewing platforms:

   From Xianyuan Viewing Platform, you can capture the colorful hills closely.

   As the highest point of the scenic area, Yunhai Viewing Platform provides you with a bird’s-eye view of the scenic area and the famous S-shaped curve.

   Jinxiu Viewing Platform shows you the distinct layers of the rock formations.

   Hongxia Viewing Platform is the best photography spot for sunset, when the colors of the hills are at their most vibrant moment.

   Return to the hotel for a rest.

   Good to Know：

   • The best time for sunset view at Hongxia Viewing Platform is 19:00 - 20:00 in summer and 18:00 - 19:00 in winter.
   • In Rainbow Danxia Scenic Area, an interesting experience is to take a hot-air balloon for a panoramic view of the colorful mountains (Available from May to August).

   

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   4-star hotel in Zhangye
5. Day 5: Zhangye to Jiayuguan by Private Vehicle
   Visit Jiayuguan Pass and Watch Exquisite Murals in Wei and Jin Tombs.

   Jiayuguan is about 2.5 hours’ drive from Zhangye. Upon arrival, the guide will lead you to Jiayuguan Pass, where the city walls stretch through the deserts and the Gobi.

   As the westernmost pass of the Ming Great Wall, Jiayuguan occupied a strategic position at the entrance to the Hexi Corridor in ancient China. Explore the Arrow Tower, Corner Towers, and Gate Towers and learn about their history and military significance.

   Later, head to Wei and Jin Tombs, the world’s largest underground art gallery. Follow the sloping passageway into the brick-chamber tomb dating back 1,600 years.

   Look around, you will find the walls are covered with painted brick murals, depicting the daily life of people at that time: farmers are plowing fields, women are picking mulberry leaves, cooks are roasting meat, and soldiers are riding horses to deliver letters, etc.

   Travel tips:

   • Outside Jiayuguan Pass, there are frequent strong winds, so take care when visiting.
   • In the Wei and Jin Tombs, the No.6 Tomb is usually the only tomb open to the public and is dimly lit. It is better to follow the guide’s flashlight to observe the details of the murals.
   • To protect the fragile murals, taking photos and videos, and touching are strictly prohibited inside the tombs.

   

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   4-star hotel in Jiayuguan
6. Day 6: Jiayuguan to Dunhuang by Private Vehicle
   Experience Desert Adventures and Appreciate Charming Sunset Views in Dunhuang

   Bid farewell to Jiayuguan and drive about 4 hours to the hotel in Dunhuang. After check-in, have a short break.

   In the late afternoon, enjoy a desert adventure in Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Spring. The sand dunes here are quite unique, presenting five different colors of red, yellow, green, white and black. Crescent Spring is also a natural wonder. Despite being surrounded by the desert for centuries, it has never dried up.

   Ride a camel to follow routes once used by Silk Road caravans and listen to the jingle of the camel bells, or rent a plastic board to slide down from the top of a sand dune and hear the humming sound produced by the sand.

   Sunset offers a perfect moment for photography when the sand dunes bathe in orange-red light and Crescent Spring reflects the glow.

   When night falls, head to Shazhou Night Market and savor characteristic local snacks, like fermented rice drink with milk and egg and yellow noodles with donkey meat. Some shops also sell creative souvenirs, like the replicas of Dunhuang murals and camel-shaped ornaments.

   Head back to the hotel at the end of the tour.

   Travel tips:

   • The camel riding and desert off-road driving at Singing Sand Dunes are optional. If interested, the guide can help you buy a ticket. Please note that the desert off-road driving is relatively thrilling and suitable for adventure seekers.
   • Considering the high desert temperatures in summer, start your visit after 16:00 to avoid the hottest period. Besides, we recommend wearing a hat and sun-protective clothing.

   

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   4-star hotel in Dunhuang
7. Day 7: Dunhuang to Turpan by High-speed Train
   Marvel at the Buddhist Arts in Mogao Caves

   Immerse yourself in the Mogao Caves in the morning. As one of China’s Three Great Grottoes, the excavation of the caves spanned about 1,000 years, which is truly unique among Chinese grottoes.

   Today, the murals inside the caves cover an area of over 45,000 square meters. The most famous are the Flying Apsaras, featuring flowing dresses and fluttering ribbons.

   There are also over 2,400 painted sculptures. Cave 45 and Cave 96 are among the most representative caves. The 7 colored statues in Cave 45 are regarded as the masterpieces of the Tang Dynasty.

   Inside Cave 96 stands a 35.5-meter-tall seated Maitreya Buddha, the tallest sculpture in the Mogao Caves. It is built against cliffs and surrounded by a nine-story building. Do not forget to take some memorable photos here.

   Your Dunhuang tour ends here. After lunch, take a high-speed train to Turpan, Xinjiang.

   Notes:

   To avoid irreversible damage to the murals, it is strictly prohibited to use flashlights and take photos inside the caves. You do not need to worry about not seeing clearly, as the guide will use a specially designed cold-light flashlight during the visit.

   

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   4-star hotel in Turpan
8. Day 8: Turpan's Essence
   Embark on an Essence Tour to Tuyugou Valley, Flaming Mountains, Karez Wells & Jiaohe Ruins

   Your exploration in Turpan begins at the Tuyugou Valley, about 1 hour from the city center. With a history of over 1,700 years, it is the oldest Uyghur village in Xinjiang.

   Standing on the viewing platform at the entrance, you can overlook the thousand-year-old village set against the dramatic red canyons of the Flaming Mountains. There are also remains of the Buddhist grottoes carved into the cliffs, which reflect the integration of Buddhist and Islamic cultures.

   On the way back to the downtown area, admire the dramatic red mountains of the Flaming Mountains. It looks like a giant red dragon.

   Karez Wells Irrigation System shows you how the local people transform the desert into an oasis through this underground water conservancy project.

   Conclude today’s tour at Jiaohe Ruins, the world’s largest, oldest (2,000 years) and best-preserved earthen city. It was built without using any brick and stone. At sunset, the entire city glows golden under the sunlight, creating a spectacular scene.

   Stroll in this ancient city to explore the history of the ancient Silk Road. On both sides of the central avenue stand the remaining earthen walls and courtyards. Try to identify the bases of temples and courtyards of the former government offices under the lead of your guide.

   Notes:

   • There is very little shade within Jiaohe Ancient City, so make sure you wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sun-protective clothing.
   • Bring sufficient drinking water as no shops are available inside the scenic area.

   

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   4-star hotel in Turpan
9. Day 9: Turpan to Urumqi by Private Vehicle
   Take in the Charming Heavenly Lake

   The driver will escort you to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. From the city center, it takes another hour to get to the Heavenly Lake. Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant near the scenic area.

   This UNESCO World Natural Heritage Site is situated halfway up Bogda Peak with an altitude of 1,910 meters. Surrounding the lake are snow-capped mountains covered with dense pine forests.

   Just wander around the lake to soak up the breathtaking natural scenery and take memorable photos. Or, enjoy a boat ride for a closer look at the clear waters.

   Besides, your private guide will lead you to visit some temples there to learn about the legends of the Queen Mother of the West.

   At night, stay overnight at a hotel near the lake.

   Travel Tips:

   • The boat ride on Heavenly Lake is optional and requires an additional cost. If interested, the guide can assist with ticket purchasing.
   • If you want a panoramic view of the Heavenly Lake and Bogda Peak, take a cable car to the Maya Mountain (optional).

   

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   4-star hotel in Fukang
10. Day 10: Fukang to Fuyun by Private Vehicle
    Indulge in the Diverse Natural Landscapes in Keketuohai

    Drive to Fuyun County and start your exploration in Northern Xinjiang.

    Keketuohai Scenic Area is famous for its diverse natural landscapes, including valleys, alpine forests, lakes, rivers, mineral resources and a major earthquake fault zone.

    Summer and autumn are the best times to visit. Especially in autumn, the mountains are dressed in golden and red leaves, making it a paradise for photographers.

    Mine No.3 is well worth visiting. Among the over 140 known minerals on Earth, 86 kinds have been discovered here, so it is reputed as “a Geological and Mineral Museum” and is an ideal destination for geologists from all over the world.

    Good to know:

    • The mosquitoes are common in the valley area in summer, so be sure to bring mosquito repellent.
    • Because the scenic area is closer to the border region, the use of drones is strictly prohibited.

     

    

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    4-star hotel in Fuyun
11. Day 11: Fuyun to Kanas by Private Vehicle
    Lost in the Picturesque Kanas Nature Reserve

    Kanas Nature Reserve is the highlight of any journey in Northern Xinjiang.

    In the Mongolian language, Kanas means “beautiful and mysterious”. Doesn't it sound enchanting? Today, you will spend a whole day exploring this scenic area.

    Kanas Lake is absolutely the most unmissable attraction. The waters of the lake  present different colors with the changes of seasons and weather, like deep blue, aquamarine and emerald green. Ascending the Fish Watching Platform, you will have a panoramic view of the lake.

    Moon Bay is also an iconic attraction of Kanas. The river draws a beautiful S-shaped curve here, resembling a crescent moon nestled in the forests.

    Hike along the riverside wooden plank road and indulge in the splendid surrounding scenery of snow mountains, forests and meadows.

    Optional activities:

    • If interested, try horseback riding for an in-depth exploration into the heart of the grasslands. In summer, it is blanketed with wild flowers and dotted with herds of cattle and sheep. The Friendship Peak in the distance also comes into sight.
    • Another optional experience is the boat cruise on Kanas Lake. In summer, the swans on the water and the surrounding majestic peaks together create a natural ink painting.

    

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    4-star hotel in Jiadengyu
12. Day 12: Hemu Village Exploration
    Explore the Rare Tuva Village and Appreciate the Colorful Beach

    Hemu Village is one of the only three existing Tuva villages. It is well-known as a paradise of photography, especially in summer and autumn.

    Crossing the Hemu Bridge, you will see dense birch forest surrounding the entire village.

    In summer, the village is filled with lush greenery and features fresh air. In autumn, the leaves turn golden, creating a breathtaking landscape. In winter, it transforms into a snow-covered fairyland with mushroom-shaped snow everywhere.

    Step into a local wooden house, savor a cup of salty milk tea and listen to the stories told through the songs performed with traditional musical instruments.

    Later, drive to the Colorful Beach, which is divided into two distinctive areas by a river.

    On the southern bank, oasis, desert and blue sky complement each other, while on the northern bank, unique rocks composed of red, yellow and light green sandstone are dotted everywhere. The landscape is even more charming at sunset.

    Travel Tips:

    • In Hemu Village, you may ride a horse to look around the birch forests, open grasslands and mountain slopes and pass traditional yurts and freely grazing cattle, horses and sheep.
    • The colorful Beach presents the most vibrant colors about 1.5 - 2 hours before sunset (18:30 - 20:30). During the visit, please walk along the wooden plank road, do not climb on or step on the Yardang Landform.

    

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    4-star hotel in Burqin
13. Day 13: Burqin to Karamay by Private Vehicle
    Unveil the Mysterious Ghost City

    Begin today’s tour at the Ghost City, a classic Yardang Landform known as “the City of Wind Erosion.”

    For thousands of years, strong winds have constantly carried gravel and hit the huge rocks, creating a sound like the roar of ghosts. Thus, it got the name.

    The rocks here are in various shapes. Some resemble fortresses and palaces, and some look like humans, lions and peacocks.

    Take a sightseeing bus to explore this maze of earth mounds and discover these unusual rock formations.

    Head to the hotel in Karamay for the night.

    Notes:

    Considering the loose gravel on the uneven ground, please wear anti-slippery hiking shoes or sports shoes instead of sandals and slippers to avoid getting injured.

    

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    4-star hotel in Karamay
14. Day 14: Karamay to Urumqi by Private Vehicle
    Trace back History and Explore Lively Local Bazaar

    Drive about 4 hours back to Urumqi.

    Learn about local history and culture at the Xinjiang Museum. Here, feast your eyes on numerous cultural relics unique to Xinjiang, such as bronze ware, wood carvings, ancient books, paintings, and traditional costumes from various ethnic groups.

    The most remarkable collections are the ancient mummies. Among them, the beauty of Loulan is the oldest and most famous, which is believed to date back about 3,800 years.

    After nightfall, experience the Central Asian culture and feel the glory of the ancient Silk Road in Erdaoqiao International Grand Bazaar.

    It is the liveliest Islamic market in Urumqi, especially in the evening. Admire the illuminated tour tower and domed architecture, browse characteristic carpets, dried fruits and handicrafts, taste the roasted beef skewers and naan, or have a rest at a terrace and watch the locals dancing joyfully to the music.

    

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    4-star hotel in Urumqi
15. Day 15: Urumqi Departure

    Your private driver will transfer you to the airport based on your flight time. Your 15-day Silk Road and Xinjiang journey draws to an end.

    More travel ideas:

    If you plan an in-depth tour to southern or western Xinjiang, including destinations like Kalajun Grassland, the Duku Highway, or Kashgar Old City, please feel free to contact us at any time. We are glad to customize a trip for you.

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