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Embark on a fourteen-day journey along the legendary Silk Road, traversing deserts, oases, and ancient cities that once connected East and West. From the alpine beauty of Heavenly Lake and the vibrant markets of Urumqi, to the desert wonders of Dunhuang and the historic fortresses of Jiayuguan, this itinerary captures the essence of China’s western frontier. Experience the vivid landscapes of Zhangye Danxia, the Buddhist heritage of grottoes and temples, and the rich cultural legacy of Xi’an, home to the Terracotta Army and the imperial City Wall. The journey combines natural spectacles with UNESCO treasures, providing a comprehensive encounter with China’s history, culture, and landscapes.
Upon arrival at Urumqi International Airport, meet your driver and transfer to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to rest or explore the city at your own pace.
Accommodation: Overnight in Urumqi
Meals: None
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion to the Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, where alpine waters mirror snow-capped peaks and dense spruce forests. Enjoy a scenic boat ride and shuttle transfers for a comfortable visit. Return to Urumqi in the afternoon to explore the colorful Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, filled with handicrafts, dried fruits, and local delicacies.
Accommodation: Overnight in Urumqi
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel to Turpan, an oasis city along the Silk Road. Visit the ruins of Gaochang Ancient City, the ingenious Karez Irrigation System, and the red sandstone cliffs of the Flaming Mountains. In the afternoon, stroll through the fertile Grape Valley and enjoy a cultural exchange with a local Uyghur family.
Accommodation: Overnight in Turpan
Meals: Breakfast
Board the high-speed train to Liuyuan and continue by private transfer to Dunhuang. In the afternoon, ascend the Mingsha Mountain dunes, ride a camel across the sands, and visit the serene Crescent Lake, an oasis surrounded by golden desert.
Accommodation: Overnight in Dunhuang
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore the UNESCO-listed Mogao Caves, renowned for their Buddhist murals and sculptures. Continue to Jiayuguan to visit the imposing Jiayuguan Fortress, the westernmost gate of the Great Wall, and enjoy distant views of the Qilian Mountains.
Accommodation: Overnight in Jiayuguan
Meals: Breakfast
Drive to Zhangye to marvel at the rainbow-colored rock formations of the Zhangye Danxia Landform Geological Park. Later, visit the Giant Buddha Temple, home to the largest reclining clay Buddha in Asia.
Accommodation: Overnight in Zhangye
Meals: Breakfast
Travel to Wuwei to visit Mati Temple, with its grottoes carved into the cliffs, and the Leitai Han Tombs, where the iconic Bronze Galloping Horse was unearthed.
Accommodation: Overnight in Wuwei
Meals: Breakfast
Continue to Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province. Discover the Tiantishan Grottoes, cross the Zhongshan Bridge over the Yellow River, and explore the Waterwheel Expo Garden. Admire the Statue of the Mother of the Yellow River, then enjoy free time at Zhangye Road Pedestrian Street.
Accommodation: Overnight in Lanzhou
Meals: Breakfast
Take the high-speed train to Xi’an. Upon arrival, stroll along the Ancient City Wall, visit Yongxing Fang, and admire the Bell Tower, Drum Tower, and the bustling Muslim Quarter, alive with food stalls and cultural traditions.
Accommodation: Overnight in Xi’an
Meals: Breakfast
Spend the day exploring the Terracotta Army, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before heading to the Han Chang’an City Site, where a scenic boat ride recalls the grandeur of the Han dynasty. Visit the Dafeng Pavilion for views of traditional architecture.
Accommodation: Overnight in Xi’an
Meals: Breakfast
Begin at the Small Wild Goose Pagoda and Xi’an Museum, then continue to Daming Palace National Heritage Park, the former imperial seat of the Tang dynasty. Visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, and end the evening at Great Tang All Day Mall, illuminated by lights and performances.
Accommodation: Overnight in Xi’an
Meals: Breakfast
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before your transfer to the airport for your onward flight, marking the conclusion of your Silk Road and Xi’an adventure.
Accommodation: None
Meals: Breakfast
