Along the Great Silk Road: Xi'an to Kashgar - 12 Days

Highlights

• Visit marvels of ancient China, like the Terracotta Army of Xi'an
• Follow ancient trading routes and the Great Wall along the Tibetan Plateau
• Ride camels across the desert just as the ancient traders did on the Silk Road
• Immerse yourself in Uyghur culture and visit western China's mountains and lakes

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Xi'an, Optional Activities

Welcome to China! You're about to embark on a great journey, one that follows the legendary Silk Road. Established over 2,000 years ago, this was the main trading route connecting Asia with the Middle East and Europe. As the name suggests, silk was one of the key items that moved along this commercial artery, as were spices, precious metals, artworks, and other valuable commodities. More than that, the Silk Road facilitated the exchange of goods, ideas, and entire cultures.

You'll see this right off when you arrive in Xi'an. One of China's Four Great Ancient Capitals, this city was also the starting point of the Silk Road. Upon arrival at the airport, a driver will pick you up for the ride to your hotel. Then, you can venture out on a self-guided tour.

If you like, dive right into Xi'an's rich history on a visit to the Drum Tower. Located near the Bell Tower in the city center, this structure was built in the 14th century during the Ming Dynasty and served as both a timekeeping device and a performance venue. There's a fascinating collection of drums here, including replicas you can try playing. If you time your visit right, you might also be treated to a performance featuring a collection of ancient chime bells (called bianzhong) and percussion instruments.

Day 2: Day Trip to the Terracotta Army & Muslim Quarter

Rise and shine! This morning you're off to visit one of the most famous archaeological sites not just in China but the entire world. Meet your driver at your hotel for a half-day excursion east of Xi'an to Mount Li, home to the Terracotta Army Museum and the famous life-size warrior sculptures. When you arrive after the one-hour drive, explore the massive collection of incredibly detailed, life-size clay sculptures depicting the armies of Qin Shi Huang, founder of the Qin Dynasty and the first emperor of China (221 to 210 BCE). 

Hike around the outer edge of the excavation pits, marveling at the various warriors, chariots, and cavalry horses, each with distinct hairstyles and facial expressions. This enormous site covers approximately 38 square miles (98 sq km), and its discovery in 1974 represents one of the most important archaeological finds of the 20th century. Spend hours discovering the secrets of the army, who were created as symbolic guardians of Qin's burial tomb and thus protect his spirit in the afterlife. Afterward, head back to Xi'an, stopping for lunch on the way. 

Before dinner, visit the historic Muslim Quarter in downtown Xi'an. The old buildings lining the narrow streets are home to Xi'an's Muslim, or Hui, community. Islam was first introduced by Arab merchants during the Tang Dynasty (618–907 CE). Today, the quarter is a popular area with many shops, restaurants, and street food vendors. Make sure to sample the typical halal food of the district, like yangrou paomo (lamb stew) and roujiamo (lamb burgers). 

Day 3: City Walls Tour & Bike Ride, Fly to Zhangye

After breakfast, meet a local guide for a half-day tour of historic Xi'an. It begins at the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, set within the Da Ci'en Temple complex. This seven-story pagoda was built in the seventh century to house Buddhist scriptures brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. Climb to the top for panoramic views of Xi'an's urban landscape and surrounding countryside.

Then, head over to the famous Fortifications of Xi'an. These gray stone walls were commissioned in the late 14th century by Zhu Yuanzhang, the first emperor of the Ming Dynasty, to protect the city. They run 8.7 miles (14 km) around the historic old city in a rectangular pattern and are the most well-preserved ancient walls in all of China. You won't merely walk along these walls—you'll hop on a bicycle for a scenic ride on the ramparts. As you go, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the Old Town and the city beyond.

Afterward, you'll transfer to the airport and board a two-hour flight to Zhangye. Located in the Gansu province of northwestern China, it's situated within the famous Hexi Corridor, which stretches for about 620 miles (1,000 km) along the northern edge of the Tibetan Plateau. Because of its strategic location, Zhangye was a major trading post on the Silk Road 2,000 years ago during the Han Dynasty (206 BCE-220 CE). Upon arrival, a driver will meet you for the ride to your hotel.

Day 4: Day Trip to Danxia Geological Park, Pagodas & Temples

In the morning, you'll meet your guide/driver and leave the city on a ride to Danxia National Geological Park. This 124-square-mile (320 sq km) nature park is famous for its colorful rock formations, known as Danxia landforms. They're characterized by their vibrant, layered hues of red, orange, yellow, and green, creating a surreal, otherworldly landscape.

After admiring the "rainbow mountains," you'll return to the city for lunch, followed by a trip to some historic landmarks. First up is the Wooden Pagoda Temple, which dates to the 11th century and is the oldest tower in Zhangye. Next, you'll visit the Giant Buddha Temple, home to the largest reclining Buddha in China.

Day 5: Transfer to Dunhuang, Stop at Jiayu Pass

Rise early and meet your driver for the road trip northwest from Zhangye to the desert oasis city of Dunhuang. The drive takes all day, but that's because you'll make periodic stops at some of the most famous and historic Silk Road landmarks in the Hexi Corridor. You'll first arrive at Jiayu Pass, located at the western end of the famous Great Wall, a crucial defensive stronghold during the Ming Dynasty, and the entrance to the corridor.

During a stop, you'll stroll through this ancient fortification's towering walls, sturdy watchtowers, and grand main gate. Then, climb to the top of the outer fort for panoramic views of the arid landscape and nearby mountains. Continue to the Great Wall Museum to learn more about its history, construction, and cultural significance. 

Day 6: Day Trip to Mogao Caves & Camel Ride

After breakfast, you'll take a 30-minute transfer outside the city to the Mogao Caves, a system of Buddhist cave temples carved into the cliffs of Mingsha Shan (Echoing Sand Mountain). The caves were first excavated in 366 CE by a monk, and over the next thousand years, the site developed into a major center of Buddhist worship and a key stop on the Silk Road.

When you arrive, you'll watch a film introducing their history, then follow your guide through the UNESCO-listed complex. There are over 700 caves here, adorned with Buddhist frescoes, statues, and religious artifacts. Don't miss Cave 96, where a 108-foot-tall (33 m) Buddha statue sits, and Cave 257, featuring a mural depicting the legend of the Nine-Colored Deer.

Later in the afternoon, you'll visit other famous desert landmarks, including the Singing Sand Mountains and Crescent Moon Spring. Here, you'll hop on a camel for a memorable ride through the desert. Fun fact: ancient caravans made their way across these deserts over a thousand years ago in this same way.

Day 7: Day Trip to Han Great Wall, Train to Turpan

This morning, leave the city with your guide and visit another section of the Great Wall of the Han Dynasty. Know that this is different from the more well-known Great Wall of China, which was built during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644). While both were constructed as defensive structures to protect against invasions and raids, they were built in different periods and had different purposes. That said, this Great Wall is equally impressive, as its architecture stretches across vast deserts and hills, leading up to the borders of Mongolia and Central Asia.

After exploring the Wall, transfer to the station and catch a high-speed train for the 3.5-hour ride to Turpan. This ancient oasis city lies in the autonomous region of Xinjiang, which is mostly populated by Indigenous ethnic groups like the Uyghurs. Throughout the journey, you can see more of the Hexi Corridor as you pass through deserts and rugged mountain scenery. As you get closer to Turpan, watch the landscapes change from golden dunes and historic ruins to fertile oases and dramatic colored mountains. Upon arrival, meet your driver outside the station and transfer to your hotel. 

Day 8: Visit Jiaohe Ruins, Turpan Water System & Uyghur Village

After breakfast, meet a local guide and head out on a tour of the highlights around Turpan, starting at Emin Tower. Built in 1778 and standing 144 feet (44 m), this is the tallest minaret in China. Then, continue to the Turpan Water System, which is a true marvel of ancient civil engineering. Known simply as Karez (or Kariz), this system dates back over 2,000 years and was designed to transport water from the Tianshan Mountains. During a tour, you'll see its vast network of vertical wells, surface canals, and small reservoirs.

Next, travel outside the city to the Jiaohe Ruins, the remnants of an ancient city that flourished over 2,300 years ago. Built on a plateau surrounded by natural cliffs, Jiaohe was an important Silk Road city and served as the capital of the Jushi Kingdom during the Han Dynasty. The city's streets, residential areas, and administrative buildings are well-preserved, providing a clear picture of ancient urban planning. There are also some impressive Buddhist stupas and temples, reflecting the region's religious heritage.

The city is also known for its indigenous Uyghur culture, with traditional music, dance, and festivals playing an important role in daily life. You'll witness this culture first-hand at  Tuyugou, a traditional Uyghur village, and your final stop of the day. While here, you'll meet residents, sample local cuisine, explore the narrow streets, visit artisan shops, and spend time in the verdant vineyards surrounding the village. Afterward, you'll transfer back to Turpan.

Day 9: Visit Turpan Museum, Transfer to Urumqi, Visit Erdaoqiao Market

Before saying goodbye to Turpan, head to the local museum, a must-visit destination for anyone interested in regional and Silk Road history. It houses an extensive collection of artifacts, including ancient pottery, coins, textiles, and murals. The museum also features exhibits detailing the history and culture of the diverse ethnic groups that inhabit the area. These include not only the Uyghurs but the Han Chinese, Kazakhs, Hui, and other groups.

Later, you'll meet your driver for the ride northwest to Urumqi. This modern metropolis is also a melting pot of cultures, which you'll see when you visit Erdaoqiao Market. This commerce center dates back over 130 years and has long been one of the main marketplaces in the city. It's a major hub for Uyghur crafts, street food, music, and traditional clothing, reflecting the rich heritage of the locals.

Day 10: Fly to Kashgar: City Tour, Mosques & Markets

This morning, transfer to Urumqi's airport, where you'll board a two-hour flight to eastern Jinjiang province and Kashgar. Over its 2,000-year history, various civilizations have influenced this city, including Chinese, Persian, and Central Asian cultures. Historically, it served as a melting pot of diverse ethnicities and religions, contributing to its rich cultural heritage. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel in the city.

Not long after settling in, you'll meet a local guide for a city tour. It begins with a visit to Id Kah, the largest mosque in Xinjiang (the Uyghurs are traditionally Muslim). Originally constructed in 1442, the building underwent several renovations in the 18th and 19th centuries, eventually becoming the massive, brightly painted structure you see today. Due to its large capacity, Id Kah Mosque has become a prime gathering place for Muslims during the annual Feast of the Sacrifice.

Day 11: Day Trip to Karakul Lake & Muztag Ata

You're in for a treat today, as you'll venture into the soaring Palmir Mountains of western China this morning. Situated between Central Asia and Pakistan, the Pamir region is famous for its snowcapped peaks, awe-inspiring glaciers, and high-altitude lakes, comprising some of the most remote and mysterious landscapes on the planet.

Your destination is Karakul Lake. At 12,992 feet (3,960 m) above sea level, this is the highest lake of the Pamirs. Head up to a lookout point where you'll be treated to gorgeous vistas of the lake and snow mountains behind it. Also dotting the lakeside are horses, camels, and yurts—traditional homes of the nomads who inhabit the area.

Next, your driver will take you to Muztag Ata, one of the most iconic mountains in Xinjiang. Towering over 24,606 feet (7,500 m), the mountain's epic beauty and challenging terrain make it a favorite destination for adventure-hikers. While here, you can set off on a trail and enjoy the scenery that includes massive glaciers, expansive valleys, and unspoiled alpine landscapes. At the end of the day, you'll transfer back to Kashgar and your hotel.

Day 12: Depart China

Like the ancients before you, you've traveled the Silk Road on an epic journey that ultimately leads back to where it all began. In the morning, a driver will pick you up for the ride to the airport, where you'll catch your flight home. Safe travels!

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