6-Day Eastern Xinjiang Loop: Snow Mountain, Grassland, Gobi Desert & Uyghur Heritage

Day 1 Arrive Urumqi

Destination: Urumqi
Meals Included: Dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Holiday Inn Express Urumqi Station or similar

Welcome to Urumqi, the capital of the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in northwestern China. Historically, Urumqi was a crucial hub on the ancient Silk Road, where diverse cultures intersected. Today, it boasts significant populations of Uyghurs, Han Chinese, and various other ethnic groups. Upon arrival at the airport or train station, your friendly expert local guide will greet you and whisk you away in a private vehicle to your hotel. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

Day 2 Transfer to Turpan, Emin Minaret, Karez Wells

Destination: Urumqi, Turpan
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: 4-star Turpan Hengze Hotel or similar

Transfer to Turpan in the morning. Turpan has long been the center of a fertile oasis famous for its grapes and melons, and an important trade center on the main northern branch of the Silk Road from Hami to Kashgar, with an alternative northern route, via Uruqmi running into Central Asia. At 154m below sea level, Turpan is the second-lowest depression in the world and the hottest spot in China. Upon arrival, visit the legendary Flaming Mountain, known for its surreal reddish hues that resemble flames under the sun. Then, head to the serene Tuyoq Valley, a charming village that offers a glimpse into Uyghur daily life.

Day 3 Flaming Mountain, Tuyoq Valley, Transfer to Shanshan, Kumtag Desert

Destination: Turpan, Shanshan
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: Local 4-star hotel

Head to the UNESCO-listed Ancient City of Jiaohe. Wander through the ruins of this ancient city, marveling at the remnants of temples, residential buildings, and the impressive city walls. Next, visit the remarkable Karez Wells, an ingenious ancient irrigation system that has sustained the agricultural life of Turpan for centuries. Afterward, visit the iconic Emin Minaret, the tallest minaret in China, standing at 44 meters high. Transfer to Shanshan County (approx. 100, 1.5 hours). A rare marvel where towering dunes meet urban life, Shanshan is a literal ‘fruit oasis.’ Fed by the ancient Karez irrigation system, the region produces world-famous Hami melons and Thompson seedless grapes.

Day 4 Transfer to Jimusaer, Jiangbulake Scenic Area

Destination: Shanshan, Jimusaer
Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel, lunch & dinner at halal restaurants
Accommodations: Local 4-star hotel

Day 5 Jinusaer – Urumqi

Day 6 Depart Urumqi