11 DAYS SILK ROAD EXPRESS: XINJIANG TO XINING (14 – 24 Sep 2025) *FULL*

Arrival in Urumqi

Touch down in Urumqi, capital of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region. Transfer to your accommodation and unwind, preparing for the discoveries ahead.

Heavenly Lake of Tianshan

Embark on an excursion to the picturesque Tianchi, an alpine lake in the central valley of Bogda Peak of Tianshan Mountains. Immerse yourself in the beautiful scenery of the lake and mountains on a private boat.

In the afternoon, drive about 2 hours back to Urumqi to visit its Grand Bazaar to soak in the rich local atmosphere of the bustling market, lined with local crafts, fruits, fabrics, and more.

Xinjiang Discovery

Visit the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum which houses over 40,000 items including cultural relics from Xinjiang's ethnic and minority groups, archaeological treasures from the Silk Road and ancient mummies aged more than 4,000 years.

Later, take a train to Turpan, a historic oasis city that was a crucial stop along the ancient Silk Road, serving as a major trading hub between China and the West.

Highlights of Turpan

Set out to Tuyuk Valley, cutting through the Flaming Mountains to the quaint Mazar Village, an ancient Uyghur oasis-village filled with mudbrick houses.

We will then discover about the Karez Irrigation System, a type of water conservancy system set up in the arid areas of Xinjiang with water wells connected by underground channels. Proceed to Jiaohe Ancient City, a natural fortress located atop a steep cliff that is renowned as the best-preserved ancient city ruins of China, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Transfer from Turpan to Kashgar

After breakfast, we drive approximately 3 hours to Urumqi, for your domestic flight to Kashgar. As a pivotal point along the Silk Road, Kashgar has long been a meeting place for diverse cultures, religions, and ethnicities, creating a unique fusion of traditions and customs.

Vibrant Old City of Kashgar

Experience Kashgar’s traditional intangible cultural heritage handicrafts through the Uyghur prints and pottery, which are not only ornamental but also practical.

Next, discover the soul of Kashgar in its Old City, wandering through a labyrinth of historic neighborhoods brimming with local crafts, music, and culinary delights. Enjoy a Muqam dinner before boarding the "Silk Road Express" and begin your wonderful 3-night rail journey.

Cultural Heritage of Hotan

Enjoy a leisurely morning onboard the Silk Road Express.

In the afternoon, join an expert guide for an insightful tour of the Hotan Cultural Museum, where the chapters of history unfold and each exhibit is a testimony of time. Proceed to Hotan Traditional Handicraft Workshop to learn about the local silk and handmade carpets.

Travel back in time in Yotkan, an ancient oasis city that once thrived as a vital hub along the Silk Road. Delight in an elegant dining experience aboard the Silk Road Express.

The Ancient City of Miran

Join an expert-led tour of the ancient city ruins of Miran, which once served as the capital of the Loulan Kingdom, known as Yuni City, was thus part of the broader Tocharian cultures. This is one of the better-preserved Han and Tang Dynasty sites in Xinjiang.

Visit the Loulan Museum, the exclusive museum in China devoted to the ancient Loulan Kingdom, a civilization known since the 2nd century BCE.

Return to your train and savour a memorable fine dining experience.

Arrival in Xining

This morning, soak in the scenic views of the journey as we arrive in Xining for disembarkation from Silk Road Express.

Located by the Tibetan Plateau, Xining is the capital city of Qinghai province in central China. Join a professional guide at Kumbum Monastery to admire the "Three Arts": vivid Yak butter sculptures, exquisite murals, and imaginative barbola.

Charms of Xining

Discover the Tibetan Medicine Culture Museum, featuring a remarkable 618-meter-long Thangka masterpiece. The museum also holds an extensive collection of cultural relics, traditional Tibetan clothing, artwork, and historical books on Tibetan medicine.

Head to the heart of Xining, where the renowned Dongguan Mosque stands as a cultural icon with over 600 years of history. It is the main Islamic cultural center and largest mosque in Qinghai. Take a stroll through the nearby marketplace to uncover the charm and authenticity of the local lifestyle.

Transfer to Xining Airport

A transfer will be arranged to Xining Airport for your departure flight.