3 Days Urumqi Heavenly Lake and Turpan Tour

Traveling through China’s Xinjiang region offers a blend of breathtaking landscapes, fascinating history, and vibrant local cultures. This 3-day Urumqi Heavenly Lake and Turpan tour promises an in-depth look at some of the most iconic sights, combining natural beauty with cultural insights. While we haven’t personally taken this exact trip, reviews highlight its well-organized nature, knowledgeable guides, and extraordinary scenery, making it a compelling choice for adventurous travelers.

What we love about this experience is its focus on authentic sights like Heavenly Lake’s pristine waters and Turpan’s ancient irrigation systems. The tour’s inclusion of local cultural elements, such as visiting Uyghur families and exploring historic sites, makes the journey more meaningful. Plus, the private transportation and English-speaking guides ensure comfort and clarity throughout.

One thing to consider is that some activities, like boat rides or cable car trips, are optional and not included in the base price, so travelers should budget accordingly if they want to enhance their experience. The tour is best suited for those who enjoy scenic landscapes, cultural exploration, and a well-structured itinerary over a few days.

This tour attracts travelers seeking an immersive, hassle-free way to discover Xinjiang’s highlights, especially those who value expert guides and authentic local encounters.

Key Points

• Stunning natural scenery at Heavenly Lake and Flaming Mountain
• Expert guides who provide insightful commentary and friendly service
• Authentic cultural experiences with visits to Uyghur villages and local markets
• Comfortable private transport ensuring ease between destinations
• Inclusion of water, napkins, and online support for convenience
• Value for money given the itinerary and level of service, despite some extra costs for optional activities

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

This 3-day tour is designed to balance scenic sightseeing with cultural discovery, wrapped up in a comfortable, well-organized package. Let’s break down what each day offers and why these stops are worth your time.

Day 1: Heavenly Lake and Urumqi’s International Bazaar

The journey begins early with a 1.5-hour drive from Urumqi to Tianchi Forest Park, where the highlight is the Heavenly Lake (Tianchi). The access involves a scenic shuttle through the Tianshan mountains—something that elevates the anticipation for what’s ahead. Once at the lake’s edge, you can choose to explore on foot, rent a boat, or take a cable car to Maya Mountain for panoramic views.

The lake’s setting is stunning: thick forests surround its edges, and the reflection of snow-capped mountains makes it a photographer’s paradise. Though the tour doesn’t include the admission ticket, the optional activities offer a chance to personalize your experience. Reviewers appreciated this flexibility, with one noting: “We loved the way we could trek around or take a boat. The views are just incredible.”

In the afternoon, the trip returns to Urumqi’s International Bazaar, the city’s bustling hub for crafts, food, and local products. It’s a lively spot to soak in Xinjiang’s vibrancy and sample regional flavors. If you opt for the cultural show and banquet, it costs around $45 per person, adding an entertaining and flavorful end to the day.

Day 2: Turpan’s Oasis and Ancient Sites

Day 2 takes you on a 3-hour drive to Turpan, passing landmarks like the largest wind power station in Asia and the Salt Lake in Dabancheng. These sights hint at the region’s unique blend of modern ingenuity and natural features.

The first stop is Tuyugou Service Area, home to Tuyoq Village, a charming Uighur settlement amid the Flaming Mountain Canyon. This ancient village once served as a holy site for Buddhism and Islam, and today it offers a glimpse into traditional life and architecture. Visitors can walk through old buildings, enjoy canyon scenery, or explore nearby Thousand Buddha Caves and Maza tombs—all free of charge.

Post-lunch, the tour ventures to Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves. These caves, dating from the 5th to 14th centuries, showcase Buddhist art, murals, and sculptures that have survived centuries of history. One reviewer mentioned, “The murals show a Buddha surrounded by Turks, Indians, and Europeans—an incredible testament to the region’s historical crossroads.” The outlook of Flaming Mountain nearby adds a dramatic backdrop to this exploration.

Day 3: Historic Irrigation and Ancient Ruins

The final day begins with a visit to Karez Well, a remarkable underground irrigation system that exemplifies local ingenuity. The Karez keeps the land fertile in this arid landscape, and seeing it in action offers a tangible connection to how communities thrived here despite harsh conditions.

Next, you’ll visit Sugong Minaret (Emin Minaret), built in 1778, which is the largest Islamic minaret in China. Its architecture and history provide insight into the region’s Islamic heritage. A reviewer noted this site as “a beautiful example of traditional Islamic architecture and a symbol of Turpan’s cultural diversity.”

The tour wraps up at the Jiaohe Ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood for over 2,300 years. Carved into a loess plateau between two rivers, Jiaohe offers well-preserved walls and remnants of an ancient city that once thrived as a trading hub. The views from atop are impressive, and the site’s history makes it a fitting finale.

In the late afternoon, the group returns to Urumqi, where drop-off is provided at your hotel, ending this rundown of Xinjiang’s highlights.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Knowledgeable guides are a recurring praise point in reviews. Hassan, from one review, was singled out for his friendly, informative approach, making complex history and local customs accessible and engaging. This kind of expertise is invaluable when exploring a region with as many layers as Xinjiang.

The scenic diversity is another highlight. From the snow-capped peaks of Heavenly Lake to the ancient ruins of Jiaohe, travelers get a visual feast. The combination of natural beauty and historical sites ensures a well-rounded experience.

The tour’s local cultural element—including visits to Uyghur villages and local markets—adds depth that pure sightseeing trips often lack. Travelers appreciate the chance to see real daily life, speak with locals, and witness traditional architecture.

Comfort and convenience are also notable. Private transportation with air conditioning keeps the journey smooth, especially given the long drives involved. The inclusion of bottled water and paper napkins ensures travelers stay refreshed, and the 24/7 online English support offers peace of mind.

Analyzing the Cost and Overall Value

At $533.34 per person, this tour offers a lot for your money. It covers transportation, guides, water, and some cultural experiences, which are significant in a region as vast and diverse as Xinjiang. Optional activities like boat rides or cultural shows can be added, but even without them, the core attractions are rich and fulfilling.

Travelers should note that entrance fees to certain sites, like Heavenly Lake and Jiaohe Ruins, are not included in the price. Planning for these extras helps avoid surprises. The reviews suggest that the guides are helpful in navigating these additional costs and logistics.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for those who want a rundown of Xinjiang’s natural beauty, history, and culture without the hassle of planning every detail. It’s suitable for travelers who value expert guides and comfort during long drives, as well as anyone eager to see iconic sites like Heavenly Lake and Jiaohe Ruins in a manageable timeframe.

Those interested in local culture will enjoy the visits to Uyghur villages and markets, while nature lovers will appreciate the stunning landscapes. However, travelers should be prepared for some walking, optional activity costs, and the need to book in advance since the tour is popular and often booked 118 days ahead.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Urumqi Heavenly Lake and Turpan tour offers a balanced mix of natural splendor, culture, and historical discovery. It’s designed for travelers who want a guided, hassle-free way to experience the highlights of Xinjiang in a short period, with plenty of authentic moments along the way.

The inclusion of expert guides, comfortable transport, and carefully selected sites makes it a strong choice for first-time visitors or those seeking a structured, enriching experience. The ability to customize part of the day with optional activities adds flexibility and value.

For adventurous travelers with a curiosity for history and landscapes, this tour delivers on many fronts—offering memorable scenery, local insights, and a taste of Xinjiang’s diverse heritage.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, private transportation with air conditioning is included throughout the trip, making travel between sites comfortable and efficient.

Are meals included?
No, the tour does not include lunch or dinner. You’ll need to plan for meals separately, but there’s usually time to enjoy local cuisine during the day.

What is the best way to prepare for the trip?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera. Since some sites involve walking or mild trekking, being prepared will help you enjoy everything fully.

Can I join this tour if I don’t speak Chinese?
Absolutely. The guides are English-speaking and are known for their friendly, informative approach, ensuring you won’t miss out on any details.

Are optional activities worth paying extra for?
Many travelers find activities like boat rides and cable car trips enhance their experience, but they are not included in the base price. Consider your interests and budget before adding these extras.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, travelers book about 118 days in advance, so planning early helps secure your spot and ensures availability, especially during peak seasons.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, but given the long drives and walking involved, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with moderate activity levels.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
The scenic Heavenly Lake, the ancient Jiaohe Ruins, and the unique irrigation system of Karez are some of the tour’s standout features, complemented by cultural visits.

Are entrance fees included?
No, the tour price covers transportation and guides, but entrance fees to attractions like Heavenly Lake or Jiaohe Ruins are paid separately.

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at 8:30 am each day and concludes in the late afternoon when you are dropped off at your hotel in Urumqi.

This tour offers an engaging way to discover Xinjiang’s diverse landscapes and rich history while enjoying the comfort and expertise of a well-organized package. Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or cultural explorer, it’s tailored to provide memorable moments in this fascinating part of China.