• Karakul Lake
  • Jiaohe Ruins
  • Heavenly Lake
HomeChina Tour Packages

8 Days Xinjiang Tour : Kashgar, Tashkurgan, Urumqi, Turpan

  • Xinjiang
  • Duration: 8 Days/7 Nights
  • Transport: Land Drive
  • Accommodation: Hotel
  • Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 100% Customizable
Embark on a 8-day Xinjiang Tour, discovering cultural gems and natural beauty. From Kashgar's bustling markets to Turpan's fiery landscapes and Urumqi's serene Heavenly Lake. Visit the Id Kah Mosque and explore the Stone City.

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Tour Highlights

White Sand Lake

White Sand Lake

Sugong Pagoda

Kumutag Desert

Kumutag Desert

Id Kah Mosque

Id Kah Mosque

Sunday Livestock Market

Golden Grass Beach

Stone City

Stone City

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Kashgar | Private Transfer & Explore Local Night Market

Fly to Kashgar, the largest city in southern Xinjiang and a key junction of the ancient Silk Road, connecting China’s northern, central, and southern routes. It’s a vibrant hub for trade and cultural exchanges between China and the West.

Upon arrival, our local Uighur guide and driver will meet you, you’ll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, your guide will take you to the lively night market across from the Id Kah Mosque, where you can sample a variety of Xinjiang delicacies. Try refreshing pomegranates, Hami melons, grilled lamb skewers, pigeon, spicy lamb hooves, yogurt shaved ice, and more (at your own expense).

D
Stay in Kashgar

Kashgar Night Market          Kashgar Night Market

Day 2: Drive From Kashgar to Tashkurgan | Oytagh Red Mountain, White Sand Lake & Karakul Lake

After breakfast, we begin our journey along the Karakoram Highway towards Opal Village, a quaint stop known for its sweet local fruits and freshly baked Uygur bread. The drive takes you past dramatic mountain ranges, with awe-inspiring views at every turn.

Next, we arrive at Oytagh Red Mountain, famous for its striking red-colored peaks that stand out against the landscape. Then, head to White Sand Lake, a hidden gem where snow-covered mountains mirror perfectly in its crystal-clear waters, offering an unforgettable sight.

Lunch will be served in a local restaurant, allowing you to sample some traditional Xinjiang dishes.

In the afternoon, we continue our drive to Karakul Lake, a serene moraine lake nestled among towering mountains. The turquoise waters, framed by rolling grasslands and roaming flocks, create a tranquil scene that feels like a step back in time.

We pass through Subash Pass, where the views are panoramic and breathtaking. Optionally, we can make a stop at Tagharma Village to visit a local Tajik family (subject to availability), where you can learn about their culture and way of life.

By evening, we arrive in Tashkurgan, where we’ll enjoy a traditional dinner before settling in for the night.

B, L, D
Stay in Tashkurgan

White Sand Lake           Karakul Lake

Day 3: Visit Stone City, Golden Grass Beach, Muztagh Glacier Park | Drive Back to Kashgar

After breakfast, we’ll head to the ancient Stone City, a remarkable site over 2,000 years old. Perched on a hill on the west bank of the Tashkurgan River, this iconic landmark is a testament to the once-thriving Silk Road and the region’s rich history. Your guide will lead you through the ruins, offering insights into historical artefacts, local folklore, and the area’s fascinating past.

For lunch, enjoy a traditional local meal in the area, where you’ll experience the unique flavours of the region.

Next, we’ll visit Golden Grass Beach, also known as Alar National Wetland Park. This stunning area is abundant with water and lush greenery, with cattle and sheep roaming freely. The distant snow-capped mountains, along with the white clouds and blue sky, create an unforgettable scene. You’ll have the option to try activities such as horseback riding and yak riding at your own expense.

Afterward, we’ll head to Muztagh Glacier Park, where you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of glaciers and snow-covered peaks. The sunlight makes the mountain tops sparkle, offering a crystal-clear spectacle. As we travel along the winding mountain roads, the magnificence of the glaciers will leave you in awe.

In the evening, a delicious dinner will be served, giving you a taste of the local cuisine before we return to Kashgar for an overnight stay.

B, L, D
Stay in Kashgar

Golden Grass Beach          Stone City

Day 4: Explore Livestock Market, Kashgar Old Town & Id Kah Mosque | Fly to Urumqi

Your South Xinjiang Silk Road tour begins today with a visit to the famous Sunday Livestock Market, where a range of goods, including handicrafts, livestock, local specialties, and fresh vegetables, can be found. The market also offers second-hand items, needles, and thread. Please note that if your visit does not coincide with Sunday, the market may be closed or unavailable due to local policies. In this case, your guide will take you to the Local Handicraft Market as an alternative.
Next, explore Kashgar Old Town, known for its Islamic-style architecture, featuring centuries-old mud-brick buildings and winding alleys with workshops. Afterward, visit a local bazaar where snacks can be sampled and unique souvenirs purchased.

For lunch, enjoy a local meal, providing an opportunity to taste the flavors of Kashgar.

Later, visit the Id Kah Mosque, a large complex with a chapel, pagoda, garden, and scripture hall in traditional Islamic style. After the visit, transfer to Kashgar airport for the flight to Urumqi, our guide and driver in Urumqi will meet you at the airport upon landing. Dinner will be served at a local restaurant.

B, L, D
Stay in Urumqi

Kashgar Old Town          Id Kah Mosque

Day 5: Drive to Turpan | Tuyugou Valley & Jiaohe Ruins

After breakfast, we’ll drive to Turpan and visit the Tuyugou Valley, a 1,700-year-old Uyghur village that still preserves traditional Uyghur customs and culture. The village, nestled in a scenic canyon, offers a peaceful atmosphere where you can observe local life and ancient mud-brick houses. It’s a living snapshot of Uyghur heritage, with locals continuing to follow time-honoured traditions.

Next, we’ll drive to the Jiaohe Ruins, once a bustling city during the Southern and Northern Dynasties (420-589) and the Tang Dynasty (618-907). After years of war, the city was abandoned and left in ruins.

The ancient city’s buildings, constructed from rammed yellow earth, offer a distinctive glimpse into the past. Here, you’ll witness the remains of a well-preserved city that has stood for more than 2,000 years.

B, L, D
Stay in Turpan

Tuyugou Valley          Jiaohe Ruins

Day 6: Visit the Sugong Pagoda and Karez Well - Drive to Urumqi: International Grand Bazaar

After breakfast, we’ll visit the Sugong Pagoda, also known as the Emin Pagoda, a unique Islamic structure with an elegant and distinctive design.

The pagoda’s exterior is built from grey and yellow bricks, with minimal use of wood, aside from the top window panes. Completed in 1778, this remarkable structure has stood for over 230 years and remains the largest surviving ancient pagoda in Xinjiang.

For lunch, we’ll enjoy a delicious local meal, giving you a taste of the flavors that have shaped the region’s culinary heritage.

Next, we’ll explore the Karez Well system, one of Turpan’s most ingenious ancient irrigation systems. This underground water network, stretching over 5,000 kilometers in total length, has sustained agriculture in this arid region for centuries. As you walk through the informative museum and view parts of the original tunnels, you’ll gain insight into how the locals mastered desert survival using natural gravity and mountain runoff.

After our visit, we’ll set off on a comfortable drive to Urumqi. Upon arrival, we’ll head to the International Grand Bazaar, a vibrant showcase of Uyghur culture, architecture, and commerce. With its iconic minarets and intricate tilework, the bazaar offers a rich selection of local handicrafts, dried fruits, musical instruments, carpets, and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to experience the energy of Xinjiang and pick up memorable gifts.

Tonight, we’ll check in to your hotel in Urumqi for a well-deserved rest.

B, L, D
Stay in Urumqi

Sugong Pagoda          International Grand Bazaar

Day 7: Discover Heavenly Lake, Xinjiang Regional Museum

After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will take you to the stunning Tianchi, also known as Heavenly Lake. In ancient Chinese mythology, this was the sacred bathing spot of the Queen Mother of the West.

Situated at an altitude of 1,910 meters and with a depth of 105 meters, Heavenly Lake reflects the majestic Mount Bogda and is surrounded by lush spruce forests, creating a fairy-tale setting. As you stroll through this scenic area, you’ll be captivated by the natural beauty of the alpine lake, wetland meadows, and forested canyons.

Optional Activity: For an additional fee, you can take a boat tour on the lake for a unique view of this breathtaking spot.

After enjoying the serene beauty of Heavenly Lake, we’ll visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum, one of the most important cultural institutions in the region. This museum offers a fascinating look into the rich history, diverse ethnic cultures, and ancient civilizations of Xinjiang.

Inside, you’ll find well-curated exhibits on the Silk Road, showcasing ancient artifacts, traditional costumes, and relics from different ethnic groups such as the Uyghurs, Kazakhs, and Tajiks. One of the museum’s most captivating highlights is the display of naturally preserved mummies from the Tarim Basin, some dating back over 3,000 years—remarkable for their lifelike appearance and the mysteries they reveal about early desert cultures.

B, L, D

Stay in Urumqi

Xinjiang Regional Museum          Heavenly Lake

Day 8: Departure from Urumqi

After breakfast, you’ll have some free time to relax at the hotel. We will transfer you to the airport. We hope you leave with unforgettable memories of Xinjiang’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

B

 

What’s Included

  • Round way private transfer in each destination
  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide
  • Entrance tickets for all historical & cultural attractions as listed in the itinerary
  • Hotel accommodations in each destination based on twin-sharing basis
  • Meals as specified in the itinerary (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
  • Bottled drinking water and wet tissue

 

What’s Excluded

  • China visas and international flights entry & exit of China
  • Hotel single room supplement in Kashgar, Tashkurgan, Urumqi, Turpan
  • Tipping for the guide and driver
  • Other expenses if not listed in the itinerary

 

 

Price on Request

 

 

Additional Information

  • Health Preparations | Bring Medications & Documents
  • Visa and Passport | Check Validity & Apply Early
  • Travel Insurance | Strongly Recommended
  • Currency Exchange | Prepare RMB or an International Card
  • Elderly and Children | Avoid Overexertion
  • Clothing | Pack for the Season
  • Food Allergies | Notify in Advance
  • Wheelchair Assistance | Request Ahead of Time

 

 

How to Book

  • Contact Our Travel Expert – Get in touch with our travel specialist by submitting our enquiry form or send us an email, whatsapp, or phone to discuss your trip preferences.
  • Acquire Requested Travel Proposal – Receive a customised travel proposal based on your interests, budget, and schedule.
  • Optimise Your Travel Plan Until You’re Satisfied – Adjust the itinerary and activities strictly according to your needs perfectly.
  • Pay Your Tour Deposit to Secure Your Booking – When you are happy with our proposed travel plan, please confirm your booking by making a deposit payment.
  • Receive Your Tour Confirmation – After receiving your deposit, you’ll get a confirmation email with your final itinerary and essential travel details.
  • Prepare for Your Trip – Pack accordingly, check visa requirements, and get ready for an unforgettable journey to come!

 

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are some essential tips for traveling in Southern Xinjiang?

    Key tips include: Always carry your passport and visa. Be prepared for frequent security checks. Respect local customs and traditions. Use sunscreen and stay hydrated due to the high UV rays and dry climate

  • What is the best time to visit Southern Xinjiang?

    The ideal time is spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) for pleasant weather.

  • What is the local cuisine like in Southern Xinjiang?

    The region's cuisine is a blend of Central Asian, Middle Eastern, and Chinese flavors. Popular dishes include: Polo (Pilaf): Rice cooked with meat and vegetables. Laghman (Hand-Pulled Noodles): Served with a flavorful meat and vegetable sauce. Samsa (Meat Pies): Baked pastries filled with meat and onions. Kebabs: Grilled meat skewers, often lamb.

  • What currency is used in Southern Xinjiang?

    The Chinese Yuan (CNY) is the local currency. While some places accept credit cards, cash is more widely accepted.

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