Silk Road Journey in China's Xinjiang Region from Turpan to Hotan - 15 Days

Highlights

• Explore Heavenly Lake, an ethereal body of water in the Tianshan Mountains
• Visit the ruins and bazaars of ancient Silk Road cities like Jiaohe and Gaochang 
• See the historic murals and frescoes decorating ancient Buddhist cave temples
• Tour historic mosques, spend time with locals, and visit authentic silk factories

Brief Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, Optional Activities

Welcome to China! Asia's largest country is comprised of five autonomous regions (as well as many more provinces), each with its own distinct history, culture, and natural wonders. This is especially true of Xinjiang, an arid mountainous region in the far northwest of China that borders several countries, including Mongolia, Russia, India, and Pakistan.

As for culture, Xinjiang has a rich heritage influenced by its position along the ancient Silk Road. This is reflected in its architecture, cuisine, music, and traditional crafts. It's also home to a diverse mix of ethnic groups, with the Uyghurs being the largest ethnic minority. Islam is the predominant religion among the Uyghurs and other Turkic peoples in Xinjiang, with numerous mosques and religious sites spread across the region.

You'll arrive in the capital of Urumqi. Located in the north of Xinjiang, this modern metropolis is a melting pot of various ethnicities, including Uyghurs, Han Chinese, Kazakhs, and Hui, reflecting a rich cultural diversity. A driver will be waiting at the airport terminal for the transfer into the city and your hotel. After checking in, you can spend the rest of the day relaxing or head out for a self-guided stroll around the city. 

Day 2: Highlights of Urumqi: Xinjiang Museum & Heavenly Lake

Rise and shine! Meet your driver this morning for the 1.5-hour ride east out of the city to Tianchi. Commonly known as "Heavenly Lake," this ethereal body of water is situated in the Tianshan Mountains at 6,500 feet (1,980 m) above sea level. It's a massive lake renowned for its azure waters surrounded by dense forests, alpine meadows, and snowcapped mountains. No surprise that this is a popular travel destination, and you'll take full advantage of the beautiful scenery. Embark on boat rides, hike along the waterfront, or venture into nearby forests to discover less-visited waterfalls and lagoons.

Afterward, return to Urumqi and visit some city highlights. First up is Xinjiang Regional Museum, which showcases 3,000 years of regional history in the form of Silk Road artifacts, ethnographic exhibits, and even mummies—the oldest of which dates back to 1800 BCE. Next is the Grand Bazaar, one of the largest and most famous markets in Xinjiang. Wander the narrow alleyways lined with stalls selling everything from ceramics and silverware to handmade garments and jewelry. It's also a great place to sample local delicacies, like Xingjiang's famous lamb kebabs and flatbreads.

Day 3: Transfer to Turpan, Visit the Jiaohe Ruins & Turpan Water System

Say goodbye to Urumqi this morning, as you'll meet your driver for the 2.5-hour ride southeast to Turpan. It lies in the Turpan Depression, one of the lowest and hottest places in China. The city itself is a hotbed of Uyghur culture, with traditional music, dance, and festivals playing an important role in daily life. It's also surrounded by the ruins of cities that were once prominent trading posts on the ancient Silk Road. After checking into your hotel, you'll meet a local guide and head out on a tour of the highlights in and around Turpan.

First up is 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 to the Turpan Depression. During a tour, you'll see its vast network of vertical wells, surface canals, and small reservoirs. These are connected to gently sloping underground channels that transport water using gravity, minimizing evaporation and keeping it cool.

Next, travel outside the city to the Jiaohe Ruins, which are 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 (206 BCE-220 CE). 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.

Day 4: Day Trip to the Gaochang Ruins & Bezeklik Caves

Continue on a deep dive through this region's living history with a morning visit to the Gaochang Ruins. Dating back over 2,000 years to the Han Dynasty, this archaeological site was once a thriving hub on the Silk Road. The city was an important center for trade and culture before its decline and abandonment around the 14th century. It's still possible to discern the layout of the city, and while here, you'll see the remnants of city walls and gates, temples and monasteries, residential and administrative buildings, and even mausoleums.

Next, travel to the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves. This remarkable network of over 70 Buddhist cave temples is located in the Flaming Mountains near Turpan. Dating back to the fifth to 14th centuries, they were carved into the cliffs and served as a significant center for Buddhist art and worship along the Silk Road. A highlight during the visit is marveling at the vibrant frescoes depicting scenes from Buddhist scriptures, including historical figures, deities, and narratives. After the tour, you'll return to Turpan and have the rest of the day free.

Day 5: Transfer to Korla, Visit the Iron Gate Pass

It's another travel day as you leave after breakfast on the 4.5-hour drive southwest to Korla. Located near the edge of the Taklamakan Desert and the Turpan Basin, it serves as the administrative center of the Bayingolin Mongol. Like the other places you've visited so far, Korla was a major stopover on the Silk Road 2,000 years ago.

Speaking of which, just outside of Korla, you'll visit the famous Iron Gate Pass. This landmark is a vital piece of history, as it was once an important military checkpoint on the Silk Road during the Han Dynasty. It was a key military and trade route through the Tianshan Mountains, facilitating the movement of goods and people between China and Central Asia. The military also heavily fortified it to protect against invasions. 

The Iron Gate Pass that you see today was reconstructed in 1986 and enjoys a scenic location on the Peacock River. A tour here offers not only rich history but magnificent riverine views and the surrounding mountains. At the end of the visit, you'll transfer to your hotel in Korla.

Day 6: Transfer to Kuqa, Visit the Subashi Ruins & Grand Mosque

Leave this morning on a three-hour drive west to Kuqa. This city lies near the northern edge of the Taklamakan Desert against a backdrop of towering mountains as far as the eye can see. Kuqa boasts a rich cultural tapestry influenced by various ethnic groups, including the Uighurs, Han Chinese, and Hui Muslims.

After checking into your hotel, you'll experience this culture with a visit to Kuqa Grand Mosque. Dating back over 1,000 years to the Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE), this ornate brick landmark reflects traditional Uyghur Islamic design and serves as a principal center for the local Muslim community. You'll also travel just north of Kuqa to Subash, the ruins of an ancient city that was a significant stop on the Silk Road. Here, you can tour remnants like city walls, gates, residential areas, and Buddhist temples. At the end of the day, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 7: Day Trip to Tianshan Grand Canyon & Kizil Caves

More natural and humanmade wonders are in store this morning. Along with a guide, you'll leave Kuqa on a day trip, traveling about 1.5 hours to Tianshan Grand Canyon (Keziliya Grand Canyon). Situated at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains, this natural geological formation was shaped over millions of years by erosion and tectonic activity. It's renowned for its soaring red cliffs and otherworldly rock formations, which you can explore during a walk around.

Afterward, proceed to the Kizil Caves, the largest and most well-preserved network of ancient Buddhist cave temples in Xinjiang. Construction began around the third century and includes a total of 236 caves, many of which are adorned with ancient murals depicting historical figures, religious narratives, and more. Later, you'll return to your hotel and will have the rest of the day free. 

Day 8: Transfer to Hotan, Free Time

Buckle up because a long (but scenic) drive lies ahead. It's a 10-hour ride to the far south of Xinjiang and the desert outpost city of Hotan. The drive will take you across the vast Taklamakan Desert and alongside the snowcapped Karakoram Mountains. Alternatively, you can eschew the road trip in favor of a 1.5-hour flight from Kuqa. Whichever way you arrive, you'll find Hotan to be full of culture and history, as it was a major hub on the southern branch of the Silk Road. Once in the city, a driver will take you to your hotel, and you can spend the rest of the day unwinding after the journey.

Day 9: Day Trip to the Malikewat Ruins, Hotan Museum & Silk Factory

Discover the best of the Hotan region on a full-day tour that begins just outside the city at the Malikewat Ruins. This ancient city dates back over 2,000 years and was part of Hotan when it was a largely Buddhist kingdom on the south branch of the Silk Road. What's left of this once-grand metropolis are impressive relics of temples, residences, workshops, and other structures.

After Malikewat, transfer back to the city with your driver and visit the Hotan Museum. Here, you'll glean insight into the area's history and culture through thousands of exhibits. These include ancient artifacts of bronze, wood, porcelain, and jade, as well as coins, murals, and more. Among these treasures is a wooden sculpture of twin birds from over 1,500 years ago, reflecting the cultural exchanges between China and Central Asia.

Later in the day, you'll visit an authentic silk factory to learn about Hotan's millennium-old tradition of silk production. The theme of this journey has centered on the ancient Silk Road, and Hotan was once an important hub for this vital trade. On a tour of the factory, you'll learn about the entire production process, including the cultivation of silkworms, the boiling of the cocoons, and finally, printing the silk.

Day 10: Transfer to Kashgar, Free Time

Meet your driver early this morning and leave Hotan on a seven-hour drive up to Kashgar (or opt for a one-hour flight). It's a long ride, but there will be plenty of stops on the way in towns and villages where you can stretch your legs and see how locals live in this arid region of China. The route also passes along the snowcapped peaks of the Karakoram and Kunlun mountains, so keep your camera handy.

Eventually, you'll arrive in Kashgar, a historic city near the western edge of the country, bordering Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Pakistan. Over its 2,000-year history, the city has been influenced by various civilizations, 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.

Day 11: Kashgar City Tour: Mosques, Mausoleums & the Sunday Bazaar

Spend the day with a local guide as you tour the highlights of Kashgar. First up is a visit to Id Kah, the largest mosque in Xinjiang. 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.

Next, visit the Afaq Khoja Mausoleum. This fine example of Islamic architecture was built in 1640 as the tomb of Muhammad Yusuf Khoja, a 17th-century religious leader. Legend has it that there are 72 people from five generations of his family buried in the tomb. The mausoleum features a large dome decorated with blue glazed tiles, with four minarets standing tall at each corner of the building.

Last on the agenda is a real treat where you'll get to enjoy the spectacle of Kashgar's famous Sunday Bazaar. It's been a center of trade in the region since the days of the Silk Road, and today, it's just as energetic. Here, you can wander the stalls and browse everything from souvenirs and household items to camels and silk. And don't let the name fool you—the bazaar is open every day (with Sunday being the busiest).

Day 12: Transfer to Pamir Mountains, Visit Karakul Lake

Venture deep into western China as you leave Kashgar on a seven-hour drive south to the soaring Pamir Mountains. 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 the mountain town of Tashkurgan, and after settling into your hotel, you'll meet a guide and venture out by private car to discover the highlights of this mountainous Lost World.

After a bit of driving around the mountains, you'll arrive at Karakul Lake. Located 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, which are traditional homes of the nomads who inhabit the area. At the end of the day, return to your hotel in Tashkurgan.

Day 13: Visit the Stone Fortress, Return to Kashgar

This morning, walk in the footsteps of more fascinating history when you visit the Tashkurgan Stone Fortress. This ancient fortification has a history spanning over 2,000 years. It was constructed during the Han Dynasty and served as a crucial military and trading post on the ancient Silk Road. The fortress's strategic position in the Pamir Mountains made it an essential site for controlling trade routes and protecting caravans traveling between China, Central Asia, and South Asia.

During your visit, you'll walk amid the remnants of stone walls and watchtowers, which offer a glimpse into the building techniques and defensive strategies of ancient engineers. The fortress's elevated position offers incredible views of the surrounding Pamir Mountains and the Tashkurgan River valley. Afterward, you'll hop back in the car and make the return drive to Kashgar, where you'll check into your hotel.

Day 14: Self-Guided Kashgar Tour, Visit a Uyghur Family

Take the first part of the day to explore Kashgar at your own pace on a self-guided tour. If it happens to be a Sunday, you can head to the Kashgar Livestock Market located just outside of the city. There, you'll witness the fun spectacle of local farmers, many of them Uyghurs, gathering to buy and sell sheep, camels, and horses. There's also the Sunday Bazaar (also known as the Kashgar Grand Bazaar), which offers an incredible array of goods, including textiles, spices, handicrafts, livestock, and more.

Definitely don't miss Kashgar's historic Old Town, which is a great place to spend a leisurely afternoon. It's a labyrinth of narrow alleyways, traditional mud-brick houses, and vibrant local life, and retains much of its historical charm, with areas that have been carefully preserved to maintain their traditional Uyghur character. Speaking of which, you can pop in at a local teahouse to enjoy a hot drink and some sweets—and there's a good chance you'll be accompanied by local Uyghurs singing and dancing. 

Later, enjoy a cultural experience you won't soon forget as a local Uyghur family welcomes you into their home for a cultural exchange. Over the course of two hours, you'll learn about their lifestyle, culture, and history. The Uyghurs have been in Xinjiang for over a millennium, with some records of their ancestors appearing as early as the 3rd century BCE. They mostly inhabit the oases to the south of the Tianshan Mountains and around the Tarim Basin, with the Kashgar region being one of the most populated areas. After enjoying some Uyghur hospitality and conversation, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 15: Depart Kashgar

You've experienced the highlights of Xinjiang; now you can explore the rest of China, Asia, and beyond. But that's for another day. This morning, enjoy breakfast at your hotel, then transfer to the airport in Kashgar, where you'll catch your flight home or to your next destination. Safe travels!

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