{"id":38427,"date":"2025-07-30T02:36:55","date_gmt":"2025-07-30T02:36:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hellochinatrip.com\/?post_type=product&p=38427"},"modified":"2025-09-11T03:03:06","modified_gmt":"2025-09-11T03:03:06","slug":"8-days-china-silk-road-tour-from-dunhuang-to-turpan-urumqi-kashgar","status":"publish","type":"product","link":"https:\/\/hellochinatrip.com\/product\/8-days-china-silk-road-tour-from-dunhuang-to-turpan-urumqi-kashgar\/","title":{"rendered":"8 Days China Silk Road Tour from Dunhuang to Turpan, Urumqi & Kashgar"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t
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8 Days China Silk Road Tour from Dunhuang to Turpan, Urumqi & Kashgar<\/strong><\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t

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Must-see & Must-do\uff1a<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 1: Unlock Mogao Grottoes (World Heritage) that became famous due to the Dunhuang Manuscripts taken to the UK and France by A. Stein and Paul Pelliot. Uncover the Library Cave and delve into the tales of Monk Le Zun, Daoist Wang, Zhang Daqian\u2026<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 2: Stand in awe in front of Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake, one of the Top 5 Most Beautiful Deserts in China, to witness the unique spectacle of mountains, spring, and sand coexisting in the desert. Sit atop the peak of Singing Sand Dunes and await a stunning sunset in front of the Crescent Spring.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 3: In Turpan, explore Silk Road relics by wandering through the Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins (World Heritage), a “super” city on the ancient Silk Road. Visit the Karez System, a World Irrigation Project Heritage, to discover how it transforms deserts into oases.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 4: Visit Heavenly Lake of Tianchi in the northeast of Urumqui – Gaze upon the celestial mirror of Tianchi, nestled amidst towering snow-capped peaks, where the sky and earth intertwine in a breathtaking symphony of blue and jade.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 5: In China’s westernmost city, Kashgar, experience the unique charm of the Western Regions. Wander through the maze-like streets of Kashgar’s Old Town, admiring the colorful buildings that blend Central Asian and Islamic styles. The marketplace is filled with a dazzling array of products, drawing merchants from various regions, as if you’ve traveled through time to the ancient and prosperous era of the Silk Road.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 6: Stand in awe in front of Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake, one of the Top 5 Most Beautiful Deserts in China, to witness the unique spectacle of mountains, spring, and sand coexisting in the desert. Sit atop the peak of Singing Sand Dunes and await a stunning sunset in front of the Crescent Spring.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Highlight 7: Take a speedboat trip from Liujiaxia Dam to the Bingling Temple Grottoes (a World Heritage Site). It\u2019s a all-covering scenic ride to admire the 1,600-year-old grottoes, the famous convergence of the Yellow River and Tao River, the magnificent Liujiaxia Gorge and the Danxia landforms.<\/h6><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Itinerary Quick Look\uff1a<\/h2>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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Welcome to Dunhuang<\/strong>, a must-visit city located in the Gansu province of China!\u00a0Upon arrival in Dunhang, your guide will meet you at the airport and escort you to your hotel.\u00a0You can explore on your own based on your arrival time. Feel free to seek travel ideas\u00a0from your tour guide.<\/p>

Dunhuang,\u00a0a city in Jiuquan<\/strong>\u00a0(\u9152\u6cc9\u5e02), which was formerly known as Suzhou (\u8083\u5dde), is the birthplace of the “su” character in Gansu Province (\u7518\u8083\u7684\u201c\u8083\u201d).\u00a0Dunhuang<\/strong>\u00a0is a desert oasis of ancient wonders. Discover the hidden gems of China’s western frontier. Explore the breathtaking Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with vibrant murals and intricate sculptures. Trek through the Gobi Desert, marveling at the Crescent Lake’s turquoise waters and towering sand dunes. From stargazing under pristine skies to experiencing the thrill of sandboarding, and camel riding, Dunhuang offers a captivating journey through time and nature. Dunhuang is also famous for\u00a0Tunhuangology<\/strong>\u00a0(\u6566\u714c\u5b66), a specialized field of study dedicated to exploring and interpreting the vast cultural and historical treasures in the Mogao Caves.<\/p>

Free Time Ideas:
Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market\u00a0<\/strong>(\u6566\u714c\u6c99\u6d32\u591c\u5e02) for Dunhuang food. There are many distinctive snacks that you must try, such as Apricot Skin Water (\u674f\u76ae\u6c34), Donkey Meat Noodles (\u9a74\u8089\u9ec4\u9762), and Bubble Oil Cakes (\u6ce1\u513f\u6cb9\u7cd5). The locals in Dunhuang enjoy eating lamb, chicken, and beef, and they are good at noodle making.<\/p>

Arrival Ideas:<\/strong>
1.\u00a0How to get to Dunhuang By Air:<\/strong>\u00a0Dunhuang Mogao International Airport\u00a0(\u6566\u714c\u83ab\u9ad8\u56fd\u9645\u673a\u573a; or Dunhuang Airport)\u00a0is located about\u00a013 km from city center and\u00a022 km from the Mogao Caves.\u00a0Direct flights\u00a0connect Dunhuang\u00a0with major cities in China, such as\u00a0Beijing (3h\u00a045min), Shanghai\u00a0(4h\u00a025min), Chengdu (2h 40min), Xian (2h 40min), Lanzhou\u00a0(1h\u00a035min)…\u00a0It’s essential to check flight schedules in advance, as not all routes operate year-round.
2.\u00a0How to get to Dunhuang By High-speed Train:<\/strong>\u00a0Dunhuang can be reached by train through Dunhuang Railway Station and Liuyuan Railway Station. Dunhuang Railway Station is situated 10 km from the city center and offers bullet trains from Lanzhou (8-9 hrs) and Jiayuguan (3 hrs). Liuyuan Railway Station, around 130 km from downtown Dunhuang, provides high-speed trains to Urumqi (4.5 hrs), Jiayuguan (2 hrs), Zhangye (3-4 hrs), Turpan (3.5 hrs), among others. Normal trains from major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Chengdu also make stops at Liuyuan station.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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Today, you will enjoy a wonderful\u00a0Dunhuang Culture Tour<\/strong>\u00a0by visiting Mogao Grottoes (4-4.5hrs), a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can enjoy the relaxing time in Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake, don\u2019t miss the delicious food at the local market.<\/p>

Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes<\/strong>\u00a0is the must-visit place for a trip to Gansu. You may have read many stories about\u00a0A. Stein<\/strong>\u00a0(\u65af\u5766\u56e0a British archaeologist and explorer) and the vast trove of artifacts (Paintings, Sculptures, Manuscripts) he brought from the Mogao Grottoes in the early 20th century. You may\u00a0have\u00a0already seen\u00a0the artifacts Stein collected in the British Museum<\/strong>\u00a0in London. Or you may\u00a0have\u00a0heard\u00a0of\u00a0Paul Pelliot<\/strong>\u00a0(French archaeologist & Sinologist) who like A. Stein, conducted several expeditions to Dunhuang and collected a large number of artifacts which is primarily housed in the\u00a0Guimet Museum in Paris<\/strong>, France. Welcome to visit Mogao Grottoes the source of the\u00a0world famous Dunhuang Manuscripts<\/strong>\u00a0(Dunhuang Yi shu\u6566\u714c\u9057\u4e66; Cave 16-17) and explore valuable insights into the history and culture of the Silk Road.<\/p>

The\u00a0Mogao Caves<\/strong>\u00a0(Mogao Grottoes\u83ab\u9ad8\u7a9f), also known as the\u00a0Thousand Buddha Grottoes<\/strong>\u00a0(\u5343\u4f5b\u6d1e), are acclaimed as the “Treasure House of Eastern Art<\/strong>\u4e1c\u65b9\u827a\u672f\u5b9d\u5e93.” The remaining 735 caves are dotted along cliffs rising about 15-30 m high and over 1,700 m, forming a magnificent spectacle of this\u00a0world cultural heritage site<\/strong>. Despite the significant loss of artifacts\u00a0to\u00a0oversea\u00a0museums, the Mogao Caves remain one of the world’s largest and most richly endowed repositories of Buddhist art. Spanning sixteen kingdoms, Northern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, Song, and Western Xia dynasties, the construction of the Mogao Grottoes\u00a0lasted for over a thousand years<\/strong>\u00a0until the Yuan Dynasty, resulting in about 45,000 \u33a1 murals and 2,415 clay sculptures. In the year 366 AD, the first cave of the Mogao Caves was carved into the cliff by the\u00a0Monk Le Zun<\/strong>\u00a0(\u4e50\u50d4; over 1,650 years ago). In the 7th century,\u00a0Xuanzang<\/strong>\u00a0(\u5510\u50e7) translated numerous Buddhist scriptures at the Mogao Caves. In 1900,\u00a0Daoist Wang<\/strong>\u00a0(\u738b\u5706\u7b93) discovered the Library Cave (\u85cf\u7ecf\u6d1e; Sutra Cave; Cave 16). From 1941 to 1943,\u00a0Zhang Daqian<\/strong>\u00a0(\u5f20\u5927\u5343), a prodigious Chinese artist of the twentieth century, copied 276 murals here.<\/p>

At the Mogao Caves, you can explore\u00a0various types of grottoes<\/strong>\u00a0(large statue caves, Nirvana caves, central pillar caves, vaulted ceiling caves, hall caves) and learn about the pigments used by ancient artists in\u00a0painting murals<\/strong>\u00a0(cinnabar, orpiment, azurite, mica, gamboge, gold leaf, shell powder). You can admire narrative\u00a0paintings of Buddhist themes<\/strong>\u00a0(the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, the Nine-Colored Deer Sacrificing Itself to Save Others), diverse\u00a0clay sculptures<\/strong>\u00a0(Buddha statues, Bodhisattva figures, guardians, deities), Flying\u00a0Apsaras (\u98de\u5929) and\u00a0Swirling\u00a0Dances<\/strong>\u00a0(Sema; \u80e1\u65cb\u821e)\u00a0in\u00a0the\u00a0prosperous\u00a0Tang\u00a0Dynasty, as well as the attire and customs of\u00a0patrons from various dynasties<\/strong>. At the Mogao Caves, you can witness the brilliance and charm of the ancient Silk Road and the efforts and achievements of generations of cultural heritage\u00a0preservation workers and researchers<\/strong>\u00a0(such as\u00a0Chang Shuhong<\/strong>\u5e38\u4e66\u9e3f, a Chinese painter known as the “guardian\u00a0of\u00a0Dunhuang”\u6566\u714c\u5b88\u62a4\u795e).<\/p>

You can start at the\u00a0Mogao Caves Digital Center<\/strong>\u00a0(\u83ab\u9ad8\u7a9f\u6570\u5b57\u4e2d\u5fc3), watch a 40-minute digital film, and then take a shuttle bus to the caves. Guided by the site interpreters, you will\u00a0visit 8 caves<\/strong>\u00a0sequentially (Ticket A; no photography allowed inside the caves). You may have the chance to see significant caves like the Library Cave (Caves 16-17; the largest cave), the Nine-Storey Tower (Cave 96; one of Mogao’s iconic structures; the largest Buddha statue), the Nirvana Sutra Cave (Cave 148; reclining Buddha), the Early Tang Treasures Cave (Cave 332), and the Northern Wei Masterpieces Cave (Cave 257). The actual eight caves visited may vary based on the site’s conditions. If interested, you can visit the\u00a0Cultural Relics Protection and Display Center<\/strong>\u00a0(\u6587\u7269\u4fdd\u62a4\u9648\u5217\u4e2d\u5fc3) to see 1:1 replicas of eight special caves, including Caves 275, 249, 285, 419, 220, 217, 25, and 3 (photography allowed). After the tour, you can return to your hotel to rest, and\u00a0if time permits<\/strong>, you can visit the\u00a0Dunhuang City Museum<\/strong>\u00a0(optional) after lunch.<\/p>

Optional Visiting Place:
Coffee Time in Dunhuang Book Center<\/strong>\u00a0(\u6566\u714c\u4e66\u5c40Reservation required): A popular spot in Dunhuang, a modern lifestyle aesthetic space that combines reading, cultural creativity, coffee, and events.<\/p>

In the afternoon, time to visit\u00a0Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake<\/strong>\u00a0(\u9e23\u6c99\u5c71\u6708\u7259\u6cc9) and even sit on the peak of Singing Sand Dunes (1,715 m) to wait for a\u00a0stunning sunset in front of the Crescent Spring<\/strong>. The\u00a0Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Lake<\/strong>\u00a0is praised as \u201cone of the Top 5 Most Beautiful Deserts in China,” “China’s Best Natural Landscape Tourist Destination,” and “China’s Most Beautiful Moon-watching Spot.” It is a\u00a0geological park<\/strong>\u00a0known for the unique spectacle of mountains, spring, and sand coexisting in the desert. You can enjoy various\u00a0activities<\/strong>\u00a0(self-pay) such as\u00a0camel riding<\/strong>,\u00a0sand sliding<\/strong>, desert motorcycles, off-road vehicles, helicopters, gliders… You will meet people in costumes of traditional Han clothing or Flying\u00a0Apsaras.<\/p>

The\u00a0Mingsha Mountain<\/strong>\u00a0is named for the sound produced by the moving sands, with recorded volumes of the singing reaching up to 83 decibels. This phenomenon of sand-producing sound is\u00a0one of the Dunhuang Eight Views<\/strong>, known as “ShalingQingming\u6c99\u5cad\u6674\u9e23” in the Dunhuang County Chronicles\u300a\u6566\u714c\u53bf\u5fd7\u300b, where Dunhuang’s ancient name of\u00a0Shazhou<\/strong>\u00a0(\u6c99\u6d32) also originates. The\u00a0Singing Sand Dunes<\/strong>\u00a0stretches from the Mogao Caves in the east to the Dang River in the west, spanning about 40 km east to west and 20 km north to south. The mountain is formed from deposits of fine sand in five colors (red, yellow, green, black, white). The sand of Mingsha Mountain is carried by the wind from the Gobi Desert and the Kumtag Desert to settle here, gradually accumulating over time. The\u00a0Crescent Lake<\/strong>\u00a0is nestled amidst the Mingsha Mountain, named for its crescent moon-like shape. The spring water spans 242 meters from east to west and can reach up to 50 meters wide from north to south, with an average depth of around 1.5 meters. The spring is home to the Ironback Fish (\u94c1\u80cc\u9c7clocal fish) and Seven Star Grass (\u4e03\u661f\u8349; medicinal herb) which is included in the “Three Treasures of Crescent Spring<\/strong>\u6708\u7259\u6cc9\u4e09\u5b9d” by locals (the third one is Five-colored Sand\u4e94\u8272\u6c99), believed to bring good luck to people. So try your luck to find them. Remarkably, the sand has not encroached upon the spring, and the water remains clear and abundant, traversing through time, creating the world wonder of the “First Spring in the Desert<\/strong>\u6c99\u6f20\u7b2c\u4e00\u6cc9.”<\/p>

Optional Evening Show:<\/strong>\u00a0(Reservation Required)
1. “Ancient Sound of Dunhang<\/strong>\u300a\u4e50\u52a8\u6566\u714c\u300b” (available yearround) is the world’s first cave-style immersive theatrical experience, telling the story of a young man from the Western Regions named Bai Xin in the early years of the Tang Dynasty who discovers the essence of music in the dancing murals of Dunhuang. Using modern technology and combining live performances, the performance reproduces cultural elements such as music, dance, poetry, costumes, and paintings from the Dunhuang murals.
2. “Dunhuang Celebration<\/strong>\u300a\u6566\u714c\u76db\u5178\u300b” (peak season only) is the world’s first large-scale desert live performance, set against the backdrop of the Crescent Lake in the Mingsha Mountain. The unique feature of a 360-degree rotating and movable audience seat enhances the tragic love story of the young painter and the princess, reimagining the former prosperity of the ancient Silk Road and showcasing the unique cultural and folk customs of Dunhuang (including “Iron Flower”).
3. “Encore Dunhuang<\/strong>\u300a\u53c8\u89c1\u6566\u714c\u300b” (peak season only) is a large-scale indoor experiential drama directed by Wang Chaoge\u738b\u6f6e\u6b4c, one of the chief directors of the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Audience members “journey” through the scripture caves, Mogao Caves, and Silk Road, experiencing Dunhuang culture and the Silk Road firsthand.
4. “Thousand-Handed, Thousand-Eyed<\/strong>\u300a\u5343\u624b\u5343\u773c\u300b” (peak season only) is a large-scale theatrical production performed by the China Disabled People’s Performing Art Troupe, showcasing the folk story of “Wonderful Kindness Saves Father.” The dance movements are graceful, with deep cultural significance and extremely high artistic standards.<\/p>

Notes\uff1a<\/strong>
1. To protect the caves, the Mogao Caves implemented a real-name reservation system for timed visits, implementing a daily limit on the number of visitors. The ticketing system includes A\/Regular tickets (6,000 tickets\/day) and B\/Emergency tickets (12,000 tickets\/day; for domestic visitors only). A Ticket includes access to 8 caves and 2 digital movies. B ticket includes access to 4 caves and the Cave Artifacts Conservation and Research Exhibition Center.
2. Visitors must follow the visitingarrangement set by\u00a0the management of\u00a0the Mogao Caves on the day of the visit. The visiting order of the Mingsha Mountain and the Mogao Caves is subject to change.
3. If you are particularly interested in the caves, you can also purchase tickets for special caves at the site (may require queuing) to explore more exquisite caves. The special caves (self-pay) are divided into Line 1 (Caves 45, 320, 321, 420, 9) and Line 2 (Caves 275, 45, 156, 158, 159).
4. During the Dunhuang Cultural Expo or in case of inclement weather or other factors affecting the visit, if the Mogao Caves cannot be visited as planned, our company will refund the Mogao Caves tickets according to the actual cost, or arrange a visit to the Western Thousand Buddha Caves as an alternative.
5. Optional activities in the Mingsha Mountain Scenic Area: Shoe covers; Sightseeing vehicle; Camel riding; Motorcycle; Off-road vehicle (seats 3 people); Paragliding; Helicopter (seats 3 people).
6. When participating in desert recreational activities, take care of your photographic equipment and prevent sand from entering the camera. When riding a camel, follow the staff’s instructions when mounting and dismounting.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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In the morning, you can pay a visit to\u00a0Dunhuang Museum\u00a0<\/strong>(Closed on Mondays). In the afternoon, travel from the Mogao Grottoes to Liuyuan South Station (140 km, 2.5 hours) to catch the high-speed train to Turpan (3.5 hours).<\/p>

Dunhuang Museum\u00a0<\/strong>(\u6566\u714c\u535a\u7269\u9986; Closed on Mondays; Reservation Required): It has distinctive architecture, blending cultural symbols such as the Great Wall, beacon towers, and ancient castle-style buildings in its exterior and color scheme. It houses over 13,355 cultural relics from the Neolithic period to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. The most treasured items include ink writings on hemp paper from the Western Han Dynasty (8 BC), a torch made of reeds from the Han Dynasty, and the Beiliang Stone Pagoda. Additionally, there is a 1:1 replica cave of Cave 45 (Tang Dynasty; 8th century) from the Mogao Caves, allowing you more time to admire and photograph the replicas up close.<\/p>

After the tour, you will head to Liuyuan South Station for the bullet train to Turpan.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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Today, you will delight in a splendid\u00a0Turpan Culture Tour<\/strong>, exploring the Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins (a World Heritage site), the Karez System (one of China\u2019s three Great Ancient Engineering Projects, alongside the Great Wall & the Grand Canal), and the Emin Minaret (Islamic and Uyghur Buildings<\/strong>) before traveling to Urumqi, a journey of about 210 km (4 hours).<\/p>

After breakfast, begin your visit to\u00a0Jiaohe Ancient City (\u4ea4\u6cb3\u6545\u57ce)<\/strong>,\u00a0one of the best-preserved ruins of ancient cities along the Silk Road and inscribed\u00a0on the UNESCO World Heritage List<\/strong>\u00a0as part of the joint application “Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor.”\u00a0Jiaohe\u00a0Ruins<\/strong>\u00a0offers a profound glimpse into ancient city planning and the historical complexity of the civilizations on the Silk Road.<\/p>

Nestled between two deep river valleys, Jiaohe, meaning “the confluence of two rivers,” is strategically positioned on a large, steep plateau that provides formidable natural defenses. As a key city connecting the Central Plains (\u4e2d\u539f) and the vast regions of the Western Regions (\u897f\u57df), Jiaohe Ancient City played\u00a0a vital role in the transportation network of the Silk Road<\/strong>. It witnessed the bustling trade along the Silk Road and the exchange and integration of Eastern and Western cultures.<\/p>

Unlike many ancient cities, its structures were not built up from the ground but carved down into the existing plateau of loess soil. Walking through the ruins, you can see the remains of government offices, residential houses, Buddhist stupas, and temples. These remnants not only provide important physical evidence for studying the history and culture of the Silk Road but also offer valuable insights into the social, economic, and religious life that shaped this region.\u00a0Tips:<\/strong>\u00a0There is no shelter inside the ruin, so be mindful of sun protection.<\/p>

The History of Jiaohe Ancient City<\/strong><\/em>
The Ancient City of Jiaohe witnessed the development of civilization in the Western Region and the Silk Road. Approximately 2,000 years ago, it was established as the capital of the\u00a0Jushi Kingdom<\/strong>\u00a0(\u8f66\u5e08\u56fd), one of the 36 kingdoms in the Western Regions (\u897f\u57df\u4e09\u5341\u516d\u56fd). Following\u00a0Zhang Qian<\/strong>‘s pioneering efforts during the Western Han Dynasty to carve a path through the Western Regions, Jiaohe City emerged as a crucial hub on the Silk Road. In 60 BC, the Han Dynasty central government established the Protectorate of the Western Regions (\u897f\u57df\u90fd\u62a4\u5e9c) to administer the various states in the region, officially incorporating the Western Regions into the Chinese domain. During the Northern and Southern Dynasties, Jiaohe became a county under the jurisdiction of Gaochang (\u9ad8\u660c). The city reached its zenith during the Tang Dynasty with the establishment of the Anxi Protectorate (\u5b89\u897f\u90fd\u62a4\u5e9c), marking a new era in the governance of the Western Regions. During this period, Jiaohe was a bustling center of international trade and vibrant cultural exchanges among diverse ethnic groups. From the 19th to the 14th century, due to the impact of wars, Jiaohe gradually declined and eventually became a ruin.<\/p>

Next, head to the\u00a0Karez System\u00a0(\u574e\u513f\u4e95<\/strong>) to learn about the ancient\u00a0underground irrigation\u00a0system<\/strong>\u00a0a few thousand years ago and how this system has benefited the people along the desert’s edge, transforming barren land into a lush oasis. This traditional engineering marvel is considered\u00a0one of China\u2019s three great ancient engineering projects<\/strong>, alongside the Great Wall and the Grand Canal. It has been recognized in\u00a0the 2024 World Irrigation Project Heritage list (\u4e16\u754c\u704c\u6e89\u5de5\u7a0b\u9057\u4ea7\u540d\u5f55).<\/strong><\/p>

The origin of the Karez Irrigation System<\/strong><\/em>
Turpan, in Xinjiang, is one of China’s most arid regions, with annual rainfall of only 16 millimeters and evaporation exceeding 3,000 millimeters. These extreme conditions have led to severe surface water scarcity. To improve their survival prospects, people ingeniously utilized the natural slope of mountains to channel underground rainwater, glacial melt, and snow-melt from spring and summer to the surface for irrigation. This method greatly reduced water loss through surface evaporation, meeting the water needs of this arid region. It\u2019s often said, “Without the Karez, there would be no Turpan; without the Karez, there would be no civilization in Turpan.” The Karez has turned extremely arid basins into green havens, making Turpan a crucial corridor for East-West exchanges along the Silk Road and a place where diverse cultures converge and coexist.<\/p>

The\u00a0Karez system<\/strong>\u00a0is often referred to as the “Underground Great Wall<\/strong>“. In Xinjiang, there are over 1,700\u00a0Karez Wells<\/strong>\u00a0which, if connected, would stretch over 5,000 kilometers, forming a vast underground river network. It is estimated that the Karez system has a history of over 2,000 years. Imagine centuries ago, without modern measuring tools or mechanical assistance, how ancient people located underground water sources, determined the gradient and direction in complete darkness, and connected such lengthy channels. Today, you have the opportunity to step into the Karez and personally unravel the secrets of this most mysterious hydraulic engineering project, experiencing first-hand how ancient innovation works.<\/p>

Next, continue your exploration at the\u00a0Emin Minaret<\/strong>\u00a0(\u989d\u654f\u5854), the tallest Islamic minaret in Xinjiang. Also known as\u00a0Sugong Ta<\/strong>\u00a0(\u82cf\u516c\u5854), this remarkable structure was erected in 1778 by the local ruler Suleiman, in tribute to his father, Emin Khoja, whose considerable efforts helped maintain national unity.<\/p>

It stands 44 meters (144 feet) tall and is made from sun-dried bricks, which give it a distinct, earthy color. The tower’s cylindrical body tapers elegantly as it rises, topped by an ornate, pointed dome. Uyghur artisans crafted up to 15 different types of brick patterns, including waves, diamonds, floral clusters, and crosses, which create endlessly looping designs around the tower. Gazing up from beneath the tower, you can fully appreciate the simplicity and grandeur of these designs. The accompanying mosque is an integral part of the complex, which you can visit as well. Emin Minaret serves not only as a religious structure but also as a cultural icon for the\u00a0Uyghur people<\/strong>, embodying a unique blend of\u00a0Islamic and Uyghur architectural traditions<\/strong>.<\/p>

Then, head to Urumqi for Overnight. Welcome to\u00a0Urumqi (\u4e4c\u9c81\u6728\u9f50)<\/strong>, the capital of the\u00a0Xinjiang<\/strong>\u00a0Uygur Autonomous Region in China. It is notable for being the largest city in the world that is furthest from the ocean, with a distance of over 2,500 km from the nearest coastline. Urumqi is located in northwestern China, adjacent to Central Asian countries, and is often referred to as the “Urban Heart of Asia<\/strong>.” Historically, Urumqi played a significant role as a major stop on the ancient Silk Road, facilitating trade between China and the West.<\/p>

This history has left a lasting impact, making Urumqi\u00a0a melting pot of ethnic groups<\/strong>, including Uyghurs, Han, Kazakhs, and others, which has shaped the unique cultural ambiance of western China. In addition to its rich history, the city is surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Tian Shan Mountains, providing stunning backdrops and opportunities for outdoor activities.<\/p>

Note:<\/strong>\u00a0Xinjiang follows the unified Beijing Time, which is UTC+08:00. However, due to its geographical location within the UTC+6 time zone, the actual local sunrise and sunset in Xinjiang occur about two hours later than they would according to Beijing Time.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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Today, you’ll embark on a full-day tour around Urumqi to explore the breathtaking natural beauty of Tianshan Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake of Tianshan) and the enlightening exhibits at the Xinjiang Regional Museum.<\/p>

In the morning, you’ll be driven about 70 km (about 1-1.5 hours) to\u00a0Heavenly Lake of Tianshan\u00a0<\/strong>(\u5929\u5c71\u5929\u6c60), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled at an elevation of around 1,980 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, this serene alpine lake is surrounded by lush forests, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking landscapes. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, panoramic\u00a0Bogda mountain<\/strong>\u00a0views, and connections to ancient myths and legends, Heavenly Lake is a must-see. One such legend involves the\u00a0Queen Mother of the West<\/strong>\u00a0(\u897f\u738b\u6bcd), who is said to have hosted a banquet for the Eight Immortals here.<\/p>

Upon arrival, you’ll first take 40-minute sightseeing bus ride through the dramatic mountains. Then, enjoy 10-minute walk to the picturesque lake. Enjoy a\u00a0leisurely stroll around Heavenly Lake<\/strong>, taking in the fresh mountain air and diverse flora and fauna.<\/p>

Optional Activities (Additional Fee Required):<\/strong>
1.\u00a0Boat Ride:<\/strong>\u00a0Cruise across the peaceful waters of the lake, immersing yourself in its beauty and the reflections of the snow-capped mountains.
2.\u00a0Cableway Ride:<\/strong>\u00a0Take a cableway up to Mayashan for even more stunning views of Bogda Mountain.<\/p>

After lunch, return to Urumqi and visit the\u00a0Xinjiang Regional Museum\u00a0<\/strong>(\u65b0\u7586\u7ef4\u543e\u5c14\u81ea\u6cbb\u533a\u535a\u7269\u9986).<\/strong>\u00a0This renowned museum\u00a0showcases the region’s rich history, ethnic cultures, and the ancient Silk Road.\u00a0Explore extensive collections that include\u00a0exotic artifacts from the Silk Road, and fascinating displays of traditional ethnic costumes and household items from various cultures such as Uyghur, Kazakh, and Han.\u00a0The most unique is\u00a0the exhibit of ancient mummies, which houses some of\u00a0the world\u2019s best-preserved mummies<\/strong>, including the famous \u201cLoulan Beaut<\/strong>y\u697c\u5170\u7f8e\u5973\u201d,\u00a0one of the 3,800-year-old desert-mummified bodies of Indo-European ancestry. Remember to take a look at the ‘Five Stars Rise in the East, Benefit China<\/strong>‘\u00a0Han Dynasty Brocade Armband<\/strong>\u00a0(\u201d\u4e94\u661f\u51fa\u4e1c\u65b9\u5229\u4e2d\u56fd\u201d\u6c49\u4ee3\u9526\u62a4\u81c2), which is one of the first batches of cultural relics in China that were prohibited from being exhibited abroad. It is acclaimed as one of the greatest archaeological discoveries of 20th-century China. Also, the “Fu Xi and Nu Wa Silk Painting<\/strong>\u00a0(\u4f0f\u7fb2\u5973\u5a32\u56fe)” illustrates the image of human ancestors from ancient Chinese myths and legends, dating back to the\u00a0Tang Dynasty<\/strong>. The museum\u2019s immersive exhibits will transport you back in time, allowing you to learn about the fascinating history of the Silk Road and the cultural interactions that have shaped Xinjiang.<\/p>

Note:<\/strong>\u00a0When the Xinjiang Regional Museum is closed on Monday, we will visit the Urumqi Grand Bazaar (\u65b0\u7586\u56fd\u9645\u5927\u5df4\u624e) instead.<\/p>

After the tour, return to your hotel in Urumqi.<\/p>

Free Time Ideas:<\/strong>
The\u00a0Urumqi Grand Bazaar<\/strong>, also known as the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, is a vibrant marketplace and a perfect way to spend your free time. Explore the many shops and stalls offering various local products, including traditional Uyghur clothing, carpets, handmade crafts, silk scarves, jewelry, spices, and dried fruits. Be sure to try local favorites such as lamb kebabs, polu (pilaf), naan bread, and laghman (hand-pulled noodles). Additionally, the architecture of the Grand Bazaar itself is worth admiring with its grand minarets, domes, and intricate Islamic-inspired designs.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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This early morning, you will take a flight to\u00a0Kashgar\u00a0(about 2 hrs)<\/strong>. Upon arrival at Kashgar Airport, your local tour guide will greet you and escort you to downtown Kashgar.<\/p>

Kashgar (\u5580\u4ec0)<\/strong>, located in the southwestern part of Xinjiang, was historically known as Shule\u00a0(\u00a0(\u758f\u52d2\u56fd), and was one of the thirty-six kingdoms of the Western Regions (\u897f\u57df\u4e09\u5341\u516d\u56fd). For centuries, Kashgar has been a significant city in southern Xinjiang. It served as the western terminus for the northern, central, and southern routes of the ancient Silk Road, connecting Asia and Europe. It has long been a transportation hub and distribution center for goods between East and West. Trade is highly developed here, earning it the title of “Kingdom of Bazaars (markets).” Diverse cultures from Asia and Europe converge on Kashgar, clashing and blending intensely with the local culture, injecting new vitality into Kashgar. This cultural fusion is specifically reflected in Kashgar’s architecture, cuisine, and vibrant markets.The city has been a melting pot of various ethnicities, including Uyghurs, Han, Tajiks, and others. Kashgar’s geographical location is near the Taklamakan Desert and surrounded by the Kunlun Mountains and the Pamir Plateau provides spectacular natural scenery.<\/p>

Your exploration can begin in\u00a0Kashgar Old City (\u5580\u4ec0\u8001\u57ce\u5e02)<\/strong>. The Old City is the soul of Kashgar, encapsulating over two millennia of cultural and commercial exchanges along the Silk Road. Situated at the heart of the city and spread across 3.6 square kilometers, the Old City is a living museum, telling tales of ancient trade and cultural fusion. As a crucial hub for East-West traffic and a distribution center for goods, it offers a vivid glimpse into past prosperity.<\/p>

Within Kashgar Old City, the streets and alleys intersect intricately,\u00a0narrow and winding paths with buildings of varying heights, creating a layout that resembles a maze. As you wander through, you’ll see traditional Uyghur mud-brick houses and numerous structures with Islamic features, such as pointed arches, domes, intricate woodcarvings, and colorful ceramic tiles. These architectural and street designs perfectly Central Asian and Islamic architectural elements with Uyghur characteristics, creating a sense of time travel for visitors.<\/p>

The Kashgar Old City thrives with commercial activity, with numerous bazaars and street markets scattered throughout, such as the Pottery Bazaar, Flower Pot (Doppa) Bazaar, Blacksmith Bazaar, Woodwork Bazaar, Medicine Tea Bazaar, Han Bazaar (Food Street)… This area is not only an excellent place to purchase and appreciate various handicrafts but also an ideal spot to savor Uyghur cuisine. Indulge in succulent lamb kebabs (\u7f8a\u8089\u4e32), rich and spicy lagman noodles (\u62c9\u6761\u5b50), savory samsas (\u70e4\u5305\u5b50), and freshly baked Naan (\u56ca). As you wander through, the scenes, sounds, and scents on the streets seem to transport you back to the heyday of the Silk Road. You can almost visualize the bustling caravans, with merchants from China, Persia, Arabia, and many local regions converging here. The air is filled with the melodious ringing of bells on camels’ necks.<\/p>

Furthermore,\u00a0Kashgar Old City\u00a0is a hub for numerous cultural and religious activities as well as a place for residents’ daily lives and social interactions. One of the most notable landmarks is\u00a0Id Kah Mosque\uff08\u827e\u63d0\u5c15\u5c14\u6e05\u771f\u5bfa)<\/strong>, one of the largest mosques in China, attracting thousands of worshippers daily. To experience local life firsthand, you can visit a\u00a0century-old teahouse (\u767e\u5e74\u8001\u8336\u9986)<\/strong>.\u00a0As you sit, sip tea, and observe, you’ll appreciate the traditions and hospitality of Uyghur\u00a0people. With\u00a0luck,\u00a0you\u00a0might\u00a0have\u00a0to\u00a0a\u00a0chance\u00a0to\u00a0witness\u00a0locals\u00a0playing\u00a0and\u00a0singing\u00a0traditional\u00a0Rawap\u00a0music.They may even invite you to join in, twirling your hands as you dance.<\/p>

If you happen to visit Kashgar on a Sunday, you can’t miss the famous\u00a0Kashgar Livestock Market (\u725b\u7f8a\u5df4\u624e)<\/strong>.<\/p>

On the northern edge of Kashgar city, there is a massive livestock trading market. Every Sunday, this market becomes as lively as a carnival. People from surrounding villages flock here with their sheep, cows, and even camels.<\/p>

At the market, you can witness Uyghur herders proudly showcasing their livestock. The traders typically grasp each other\u2019s hands inside the spacious sleeves of their robes, silently signaling their price offers with their fingers – an intriguing and silent process full of wit. Once the price is agreed upon, neither party can back out. This traditional method of trade has been continuing for thousands of years. It\u2019s an excellent opportunity for photography and to witness the ancient commercial traditions that are fast becoming rare in the modern world.<\/p>

Tips:<\/strong>\u00a0Due to the large number of livestock in the market, prepare yourself for a strong odor.<\/p>

After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Kashgar.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Kashgar to embark on an exhilarating\u00a0road trip along the China-Pakistan Highway<\/strong>. Along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful\u00a0landscape of Pamirs Plateau<\/strong>, visit\u00a0Baisha Lake<\/strong>\u00a0and\u00a0Karakul Lake<\/strong>, admire the distant and mysterious Muztagh Ata Peak, Kongur Tagh, Kongur Tiube. Finally, you will drive back to Kashgar. (Total distance: 400 kilometers, approximately 8 hours of travel).<\/p>

The\u00a0China-Pakistan Highway (\u4e2d\u5df4\u516c\u8def)<\/strong>, also known as theKarakoram Highway (KKH), is one of the world’s highest paved international roads.\u00a0 It connects China and Pakistan across the Pamir Plateau (\u5e15\u7c73\u5c14\u9ad8\u539f) and is locally referred to as the Pamir Highway. Historically, routes across the Pamir Plateau – known as Congling (\u8471\u5cad) in ancient times – were vital parts of the Silk Road. This section posed one of the most daunting challenges for merchants and travelers due to its harsh, rugged terrain.\u00a0 \u00a0Here, several of the world’s renowned mountain ranges – the Himalayas, the Karakoram, the Kunlun Mountains, the Tianshan Mountains, and the Hindu Kush – converge and radiate outward, forming a massive mountainous junction. Today, the China-Pakistan Highway has transformed these perilous trade routes of the past into magnificent thoroughfares, attracting numerous tourists to the\u00a0Pamir Plateau<\/strong>\u00a0to experience its stunning natural scenery.<\/p>

Along the way, you will visit the following attractions:<\/p>

Baisha Mountain-Baisha Lake Scenic Area (\u767d\u6c99\u5c71-\u767d\u6c99\u6e56\u666f\u533a):<\/strong><\/p>

As you drive along National Highway G314, you’ll encounter\u00a0Baisha Lake (\u767d\u6c99\u6e56)<\/strong>, also known as Bulunkou Lake – a striking plateau lake nestled in the Pamir Plateau \u00a0(elevation:about 3,660 meters). From its shore,\u00a0you’re treated to a stunning vista: half pristine blue water, and half white sand mountain, both harmonizing with distant snow-capped peaks to create a magnificent spectacle.<\/p>

On the lake’s northern shore stands the renowned\u00a0Baisha Mountain (\u767d\u6c99\u5c71)<\/strong>, winding for over 1,200 meters. The dark mountain body, covered with white sand, presents a soft silvery-white color under the clean sunlight of the Pamir Plateau, resembling white silk. Legend has it that as the lake water gradually dries up in autumn and winter, the white sand at the bottom of the lake emerges.\u00a0In spring, the wind blows this sand onto the mountain, creating the extraordinary spectacle of sand accumulating into a mountain. Whenever strong winds blow, Baisha Mountain emits a sound, earning it the name “Singing Sand Mountain.” The southern shore of the lake is embraced by a chain of snow-capped mountains, with the highest peak being Mount Kongur Tagh at an elevation of 7,530 meters, adding further grandeur and mystery to this captivating landscape.<\/p>

Karakul Lake (\u5580\u62c9\u5e93\u52d2\u6e56)\uff1a<\/strong><\/p>

Karakul Lake<\/strong>\u00a0is a high-altitude moraine lake (elevation:about 3,600 meters).Its name in the Kyrgyz language means “Black Lake,” attributed to its deep, dark waters. However, if you spend enough time by the lake, you will notice that it changes colors under different lighting conditions, appearing deep blue, emerald green, or ink black, earning it the nickname “the ever-changing lake.”<\/p>

Yet, the true highlights of\u00a0Karakul Lake<\/strong>\u00a0are the imposing peaks known as the “Kunlun Trio” that tower behind it: Kongur Tagh, Kongur Tiube, and Muztagh Ata, with altitudes of 7,719 meters, 7,595 meters, and 7,546 meters, respectively. On clear days, their majestic reflections are perfectly cast upon the glistening surface of the lake, creating the most iconic views of Karakul Lake. Among these, Muztagh Ata is particularly striking, covered with many glaciers, and is known as the “Father of Ice Mountains.”<\/p>

After tour, you will you will drive back to Kashgar along the scenic China-Pakistan Highway. You’ll have another opportunity to admire the spectacular snow-capped peaks from various angles on both sides.<\/p>

Stay overnight in Kashgar city.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t

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After breakfast, it is time to end your\u00a08 Days China Silk Road Tour<\/strong>. You will have some free time in Kashgar and explore more at your own pace till your guide escorts you to the airport for your flight to your next destination.<\/p>

Thank you for choosing <\/span>HelloChinaTrip<\/strong>\u00a0for your\u00a0<\/span>China\u00a0Tour<\/strong>, and we are always here working for you and hope to see you again for your next\u00a0<\/span>trip to Asia<\/strong>. Safe journey!<\/span><\/p>

Extension Ideas:<\/strong>
1. If you prefer to spend more time in\u00a0Dunhuang, you can add a 1-2-days to include the Yulin Grottoes,Yangguan Pass, Yumenguan Pass, Yardan Landform Park, Great Wall of the Han Dynasty, Thousand Buddha Caves…
2. If you wish to extend your trip and explore other highlighted parts of\u00a0Gansu, such as\u00a0Zhangye,\u00a0Lanzhou,\u00a0Jiayuguan, Wuwei, Jiuquan, Guazhou, and more, we can help you with the arrangements.
3. If you plan to continue your exploration to other cities in\u00a0China, such as Xining, Turpan, Chengdu, Lhasa,\u00a0Xian,\u00a0Beijing, and\u00a0Shanghai, please feel free to let us know. We can customize your itinerary and assist you with travel arrangements.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t

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