Silk Road Adventure 10-Days Tour
Embark on a 10-day Silk Road adventure from Xi’an to Kashgar! Explore Terracotta Warriors, Dunhuang’s Mogao Caves, Turpan’s Flaming Mountains and Grape Valley. Experience Urumqi’s Grand Bazaar and Kashgar’s vibrant ethnic culture. This journey blends history, art, and natural beauty, offering a spiritual awakening through cultural diversity.
Book this Tour
Xi'an-Dunhuang-Turpan-Urumqi-Kashgar
Included with every escorted tour
Day 1: Xi'an Arrival
Arrive in Xi’an and transfer to the hotel
4+ stars Hotel
None
Welcome to Xi’an, the ancient capital of 13 dynasties and the starting point of the famous Silk Road, as noted by the Italian explorer Marco Polo.
Upon your arrival, our professional tour guide will meet you at the airport and assist you with your transfer to the hotel for some rest.
The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. If you’d like to venture out, feel free to ask your guide for some great recommendations on places to visit nearby.
Recommend for Free Time
Enjoy a wonderful Tang Dynasty Palace Dance Performance. This performance is usually held from 8:00pm to 9:00pm.
You can also visit the Bell Tower and Drum Tower in Xi’an, which are beautifully illuminated at night.
Day 2: Xi'an
The Terracotta Warriors and Horses–Da Ci’en Temple–Big Wild Goose Pagoda–Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City
4+ star hotels
Breakfast&Lunch
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Terracotta Warriors and Horses, an incredible archaeological site that showcases the life-sized statues created to accompany China’s first emperor in the afterlife.
Next, head to Da Ci’en Temple, where you can appreciate the serene atmosphere and learn about its historical significance. Afterward, visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an impressive ancient structure that offers insight into Buddhist culture and provides stunning views of the surrounding area.
In the evening, enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, where you can explore shops, savor local delicacies, and immerse yourself in the lively ambiance reminiscent of the Tang Dynasty.
Day 3: Xi'an
Shaanxi History Museum–Small Wild Goose Pagoda–Ancient City Wall–High speed train to Chengdu
4+ star hotels
Breakfast
Start your day with a visit to the Shaanxi History Museum, where you can explore the rich cultural heritage and artifacts from ancient China. Next, head to the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, an important historical site that showcases exquisite architecture and Buddhist culture. After that, stroll along the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China, offering fantastic views of the city and a glimpse into its history.
In the afternoon, you will take a high-speed train to Chengdu, where your next adventure awaits.
Day 4: Xi'an-Dunhuang
Xi’an–Flight to Dunhuang–Mingsha Mountain–Crescent Lake
4+ stars Hotel
Breakfast&Lunch
After breakfast, your guide will transfer you to the airport in Xi’an for your flight to Dunhuang. Upon your arrival at Dunhuang Airport, a local guide and driver will meet you and take you to your hotel for check-in.
In the afternoon, you’ll visit Mingsha Mountain, famous for the singing sands produced by the shifting dunes, a sound that resonates with the wind. Here, you can engage in exciting activities such as sandboarding, camel riding, and exploring the breathtaking desert landscape. Camel rides across the desert are particularly popular.
Next, you’ll see Crescent Lake, named for its crescent moon shape. For thousands of years, this oasis has maintained its unique form, providing a lush and vibrant refuge amidst the surrounding dunes, untouched by the encroaching sands. A dish of the lake’s ancient fish is said to hold the secret to eternal youth.
Optional Activities
If you wish, you can choose to do desert camping for one night at the Mingsha Mountain. During the camping, there are abundant activities and programs for you to have fun, such as sandboarding, desert motorcycle, campfire and so on.
Day 5: Dunhuang-Turpan
Mogao Caves–High-speed train to Turpan
4+ stars Hotel
Breakfast&Lunch
After breakfast, you’ll visit the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its exquisite Buddhist art and ancient murals. This vast complex features numerous caves filled with stunning sculptures and frescoes that date back over a thousand years, offering a glimpse into China’s rich spiritual and artistic heritage.
Following your exploration of the caves, you will be transferred to the Liuyuan rail Station for your highs-speed train to Turpan, where you can continue your adventure in this fascinating oasis city
Day 6: Turpan-Urumqi
the Flaming Mountain–Tuyu Valley–the Village of Mazar–the Karez Well–The Ruins of Jiaohe
4+ stars Hotel
Breakfast
Your day begins with a visit to the Flaming Mountain, famous for its striking red sandstone and the myths surrounding it. Afterward, head to Tuyu Valley, where you can take in the stunning landscapes and enjoy the fresh air.
Next, you’ll explore the Village of Mazar, known for its traditional Uyghur architecture and cultural heritage. Then, visit the Karez Well, an ancient irrigation system that showcases the ingenuity of local engineering in arid regions.
Finally, conclude your day at the Ruins of Jiaohe, an ancient city built on a cliff, offering remarkable insights into the history and culture of the area.
Experience Xinjiang Food:
Xinjiang’s cuisine is rich and varied, and every kind of food is delicious. Rich and creamy, aromatic roasted meat, sweet and delicious fruits will satisfy your taste buds and make you unforgettable, so ask your guide to take you to try different cuisines.
Day 7: Urumqi
Xinjiang Museum–Tianchi lake
4+ stars Hotel
Breakfast
Start your day at the Xinjiang Museum, where you can explore exhibits showcasing the rich history and diverse cultures of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The museum features artifacts, ancient relics, and displays that provide valuable insights into the region’s heritage.
In the afternoon, head to Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake), a stunning alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Enjoy the breathtaking views, take a leisurely walk around the lake, or engage in activities such as boating.
Recommended Activities
There are generally three ways to explore Tianchi. You can take a walk around the lake, take a boat tour, or ride the cable car to the top of the mountain. (Boat trips and cable cars will be charged extra.
If time permits, you can even enjoy all of these experiences.
Day 8: Urumqi-Kashgar
Urumqi–Flight to Kashgar–Apakhoga Tomb–The Etigar Mosque–Old Town of Kashgar
4+ stars Hotel
Breakfast
After breakfast, you will take a flight to Kashgar. Upon arrival, your local guide will meet you and begin your exploration of this vibrant city.
First, visit the Apakhoga Tomb, a significant historical site known for its intricate architecture and serene atmosphere. Here, you can learn about the cultural significance of this resting place for notable figures in the region.
Next, head to the Etigar Mosque, one of the largest and most important mosques in China. Its stunning design and vibrant tile work are a testament to the region’s Islamic heritage. Take time to appreciate the beauty and tranquility of this sacred space.
Finally, wander through the Old Town of Kashgar, where narrow alleys and traditional mud-brick houses create a unique atmosphere. Explore local shops, enjoy street food, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and history that this ancient city has to offer.
Day 9: Kashgar
Baisha Lake (White Sand Lake)- Karakul Lake
4+ stars Hotel
Breakfast
After breakfast, you will begin your day with a visit to Baisha Lake (White Sand Lake), known for its stunning blue waters and picturesque surroundings. This tranquil spot offers a perfect opportunity to relax and take in the natural beauty of the area.
Next, you will head to Karakul Lake, situated at the foot of the stunning Muztagh Ata mountain. The lake, known for its deep blue color, is surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. You can enjoy various activities, such as photography or a leisurely walk along the shore, soaking in the serene atmosphere of this remarkable landscape
Day 10: Kashgar Departure
Kashgar Bazaar–livestock Bazaar–Kashgar Departure
None
Breakfast
In the morning, you will visit Kashgar Bazaar, a vibrant and bustling marketplace known for its lively atmosphere. In Uyghur, “bazaar” means a grand marketplace, and Kashgar Bazaar has been the largest trading hub in West and Central Asia since the Silk Road flourished. Here, you’ll find an array of goods, from Muslim mills and authentic Iranian saffron to Pashmina wool, fine carpets, fresh fruits, spices, cradles, and even camels.
If you’re fortunate enough to be in Kashgar on a Sunday, don’t miss the lively livestock market. At midday, Uyghur farmers and herders bring herds of sheep, camels, horses, cows, and donkeys to trade. The scene is bustling and full of energy, providing a unique and immersive experience.
After your time at the bazaar, we will transfer you to the airport for your flight to your next destination. If you’re leaving China via the land border, we can arrange a vehicle to take you directly to the border.
