From Urumqi: 12-Day Silk Road Adventure to Kashgar

Set out on a captivating 12-day journey along the historic Silk Road, venturing from the vibrant city of Urumqi to the iconic Kashgar. This small-group adventure promises an immersive exploration of ancient ruins, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural treasures that defined this storied trade route. From the striking Tianshan Grand Canyon to the bustling markets of Kashgar’s Old Town, each step of the way unveils the rich tapestry of Western China’s heritage. With personalized attention and a flexible booking policy, this Silk Road odyssey beckons travelers to uncover the timeless allure that lies beyond the horizon.

Contents show

Key Points

A 12-day Silk Road adventure from Urumqi to Kashgar, priced from $3,870 per person with a small-group experience limited to 15 participants.
Explore ancient ruins, the Karez Well System, Tianshan Grand Canyon, and the Taklimakan Desert during the journey.
Visit iconic Silk Road sites, including Jiaohe, Emin Minaret, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, and the vibrant city of Kashgar.
Enjoy a reserve now, pay later option and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Experience a comprehensive itinerary showcasing the ancient cities, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural highlights of Western China along the historic Silk Road.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Silk Road adventure from Urumqi to Kashgar is a 12-day tour that offers travelers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of China’s Xinjiang region.

Priced from $3,870 per person, the tour features a small-group experience limited to 15 participants.

Featuring a small-group experience limited to 15 participants, the tour is priced from $3,870 per person.

Travelers can take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour includes comprehensive transportation, knowledgeable English-speaking guides, and a diverse itinerary showcasing ancient cities, breathtaking landscapes, and iconic Silk Road sites.

Looking for more options in Urumqi? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

Spanning 12 captivating days, the Silk Road adventure from Urumqi to Kashgar takes travelers on a journey through Xinjiang’s rich cultural tapestry.

Highlights include:

Exploring the ancient ruins of Jiaohe and marveling at the Emin Minaret in Turpan, followed by a visit to the Karez Well System, an ingenious irrigation network.
Trekking through the awe-inspiring Tianshan Grand Canyon and discovering the Kezil Thousand-Buddha Caves, a testament to the region’s Buddhist heritage.
Driving across the vast Taklimakan Desert and visiting the Yuetegan Ancient City in Khotan, a hub of Silk Road trade.

Day 1: Arrival at Urumqi Airport

Travelers arrive at the Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, where they’ll be greeted by their personal tour guide.

They’ll transfer to their hotel, where they can rest and recover from their flight. The guide will provide an overview of the upcoming 12-day Silk Road adventure, answering any initial questions.

With the formalities taken care of, guests can settle in and prepare for their remarkable journey through the historic lands of Western China.

Tomorrow, the real adventure begins as they explore the ancient cities and stunning landscapes of the Silk Road.

Exploring Turpan and Korla

Day 2 kicks off the Silk Road adventure as the group departs Urumqi for Turpan.

First, they visit Tuyugou Village, a charming oasis town nestled between towering cliffs.

Tuyugou Village, a charming oasis town nestled between towering cliffs, offers a glimpse into traditional Uyghur life.

Next, they marvel at the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, an ancient Buddhist site with well-preserved murals.

Finally, they stand in awe of the Flaming Mountain, whose red sandstone cliffs and scorching temperatures are the stuff of legend.

As the sun sets, the travelers make their way to Korla, a vibrant city at the crossroads of Silk Road trade routes.

Tuyugou Village: A picturesque oasis offering a glimpse into traditional Uyghur life.
Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves: Stunning ancient Buddhist cave murals and artwork.
Flaming Mountain: Dramatic red sandstone cliffs that radiate intense heat, just as the name suggests.

More Great Tours Nearby

Discovering Kuqa and Alear City

As the group departs Korla, they journey westward to the ancient city of Kuqa, where the ruins of Subashi Ancient Temple and the towering Kizilgaha Beacon Tower await their discovery.

They explore the intricate carvings and archways of the temple, marveling at the skilled craftsmanship of bygone eras.

Nearby, the Kizilgaha Beacon Tower stands tall, a testament to the region’s strategic significance along the historic Silk Road.

Continuing their adventure, the group travels to Alear City, ready to uncover more of the Silk Road’s rich history and cultural treasures.

There's plenty more to explore in Urumqi

Crossing the Taklimakan Desert

The group now sets their sights on crossing the vast Taklimakan Desert, a daunting yet captivating expedition that will test their mettle.

As they venture into the sea of sand, they encounter:

Towering dunes that stretch endlessly, casting long shadows that dance across the landscape.
Fierce winds that whip up clouds of dust, testing their resolve and forcing them to seek shelter.
Oases that shimmer in the distance, offering a glimpse of respite and the promise of hidden wonders.

The journey across this formidable desert promises to be a true adventure, one that will leave them with a newfound appreciation for the resilience of the human spirit.

Visiting Khotan and Yarkant

After traversing the vast expanse of the Taklimakan Desert, the group now turns its attention to the ancient city of Khotan and the nearby Yarkant.

In Khotan, they visit the local museum, showcasing the region’s rich cultural heritage and history as a major stop on the Silk Road.

Next, they explore the well-preserved ruins of Yuetegan Ancient City, where they imagine the bustling trade activities of bygone eras.

Continuing on, the journey takes them to Yarkant, where they pay their respects at the mausoleum of Amani Shah Khan, a significant historical figure.

This leg of the adventure offers a glimpse into the remarkable past of the Silk Road.

Discovering Kashgar and the Pamirs

Having traversed the vast expanse of the Taklimakan Desert, the group now turns its attention to the vibrant city of Kashgar, the last stop on their Silk Road adventure.

In Kashgar, they’ll explore the bustling Old Town, lined with traditional mud-brick houses, bustling markets, and the iconic Id Kah Mosque – the largest in Xinjiang.

They’ll also visit the thriving Handicrafts Street, where skilled artisans showcase their wares, from intricate wood carvings to vibrant textiles.

Finally, the journey takes them along the China-Pakistan Highway, offering stunning vistas of the Pamirs, including the serene Baisha Lake and majestic Karakul.

Explore the historic Kashgar Old Town, home to traditional mud-brick architecture and lively markets.
Discover the vibrant Handicrafts Street, showcasing the region’s skilled artisans and their handcrafted wares.
Journey along the China-Pakistan Highway to witness the breathtaking landscapes of the Pamirs, including Baisha Lake and Karakul.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size Limit for This Tour?

The tour group is limited to 15 participants, allowing for a small and intimate exploration of the Silk Road.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Included in the Price?

According to the overview, the tour price of $3,870 per person covers all necessary transportation, hotel transfers, guided activities, and site entry fees. No additional costs are mentioned, though travelers will need to cover their own meals and incidentals.

Is There an Option to Upgrade the Accommodation or Transportation?

Yes, clients can upgrade their accommodation to higher-end hotels or request private transportation for an additional fee. The tour operator offers flexible options to personalize the experience and cater to individual preferences.

Can Participants With Dietary Restrictions or Allergies Be Accommodated?

Travelers with dietary restrictions or allergies can be accommodated with advance notice. The tour operator will work to provide suitable meal options during the journey to ensure everyone’s needs are met.

What Is the Policy for Tipping the Tour Guide and Driver?

The tour’s policy is to allow participants to tip the guide and driver at their discretion, based on the quality of service provided. Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated by the staff for delivering a memorable experience.

The Sum Up

This 12-day Silk Road adventure from Urumqi to Kashgar offers a captivating glimpse into China’s ancient past. Travelers will explore well-preserved ruins, awe-inspiring landscapes, and vibrant cultural hubs, all while immersed in the rich history of the legendary trade route. With personalized attention and flexible booking options, this small-group experience promises an unforgettable journey through the stunning scenery and enduring legacy of Western China.