15-Day China Silk Road Tour: Tracing the Ancient Trade Route Through History and Culture

Summary

Day1 Xi’an Arrival
Day2 Xi’an: Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, Big Wild Goose Pagoda, Ancient City Wall
Day3 Xi’an-Tianshui by Bullet Train: Train to Tianshui, Maiji Mountain Grottoes, Fuxi Temple
Day4 Tianshui-Lanzhou-Xiahe by Bullet Train: Car to Lanzhou, Bingling Temple, Train to Xiahe
Day5 Xiahe-Lanzhou-Zhangye by Bullet Train: Labrang Monastery, Car to Lanzhou, Train to Zhangye
Day6 Zhangye-Jiayuguan by Car: Grand Buddha Temple, Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, Car to Jiayuguan
Day7 Jiayuguan-Dunhuang by Car: Weijin Tombs, Car to Dunhuang, Echoing Sand Mountain, Shazhou Night Market
Day8 Dunhuang-Turpan by Bullet Train: Mogao Grottoes, Train to Turpan
Day9 Turpan-Urumqi by Car: Karez Well irrigation system, Sugong Minaret, Car to Urumqi
Day10 Urumqi: Heavenly Lake, International Grand Bazaar
Day11 Urumqi-Kashgar by Flight: Xinjiang Regional Museum, Flight to Kashgar
Day12 Kashgar-Taxkorgan by Car: Car to Taxkorgan, Opal Village, Karakul Lake
Day13 Taxkorgan-Kashgar by Car: Car to Kashgar, Stone Fortress
Day14 Kashgar: Id Kah Mosque, Old Town, Handicraft Street, Sunday Bazaar
Day15 Kashgar Departure

Day1 Xi’an Arrival

Upon arrival at Xi’an train station or airport, please look for the “Your Way Holiday” sign to meet your guide. Your guide will assist with your luggage and accompany you to the hotel. This marks the beginning of your 15-day China Silk Road tour, an unforgettable journey tracing the footsteps of ancient traders along this legendary route. Over the coming days, you will explore historic cities, encounter rich cultural heritage, and marvel at breathtaking landscapes that tell the story of the Silk Road. After a smooth transfer, you’ll have the rest of the day free to relax and prepare for the adventure ahead.

Day2 Xi’an

Your guide will meet you in the hotel lobby after breakfast, assist with your luggage, and escort you to a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle for the day. The first stop is the Terracotta Warriors and Horses Museum, located approximately 60 minutes from the city center. This UNESCO World Heritage site is one of the most important archaeological discoveries of the 20th century and showcases three main pits filled with life-sized warriors, horses, and chariots. Pit 1 is the largest, displaying thousands of figures arranged in battle formations, each uniquely sculpted to reflect the military power and artistry of the Qin Dynasty. Pits 2 and 3 contain additional soldiers, archers, and cavalry units. During your visit, your guide will provide in-depth explanations about the history, discovery, and restoration of the terracotta army, offering fascinating insights into ancient Chinese military practices and the grandeur of Emperor Qin Shi Huang’s reign. You will also have time to explore the museum’s exhibitions of weapons and artifacts, which provide a broader understanding of the Qin Dynasty’s achievements.

Following the morning visit, your guide will take you to a carefully selected local restaurant for lunch. Enjoy authentic Xi’an cuisine, including popular dishes such as hand-pulled noodles, dumplings, and Shaanxi-style delicacies. Your guide will assist with ordering and ensure that dietary requirements, including vegetarian or special requests, are accommodated. This is an opportunity to relax, sample local flavors, and interact with the group in a comfortable setting before continuing the afternoon itinerary.

After lunch, you will be transported to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic Tang Dynasty structure originally built in 652 AD to house sacred Buddhist scriptures brought from India by the monk Xuanzang. Rising 64 meters above the surrounding complex, the pagoda exemplifies classical Chinese architectural design and spiritual significance. Your guide will provide historical context, explaining the pagoda’s importance in the development of Buddhism in China and its role as a cultural landmark in Xi’an. Guests can climb to the upper levels for panoramic views of the city, where modern urban life contrasts with the ancient architecture. Surrounding the pagoda is Da Ci’en Temple, a serene area with gardens, prayer halls, and smaller historic buildings, offering a peaceful retreat and an opportunity to observe local worship practices. Your guide will lead you through the temple grounds, highlighting architectural features and cultural stories that bring the site’s history to life.

Conclude your day with a visit to the Xi’an Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China. Constructed during the Ming Dynasty, the wall extends over 13 kilometers and encloses the historic city center, providing a striking contrast between ancient defense structures and modern urban development. Walking along the wall, you will see watchtowers, gates, and ramparts, each with its own historical significance. Your guide will share stories of the city’s military strategy and historical events associated with the wall. For those seeking a more active experience, bicycles are available for rent to ride along the wall’s perimeter, offering a unique perspective of Xi’an’s skyline and ancient architecture. Whether walking or cycling, this visit combines history, exercise, and scenic photography opportunities, making it an ideal way to conclude a day of cultural exploration.

After a full day of sightseeing, your guide will accompany you back to the hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transfer. Upon arrival, you will have the evening free to rest, explore the nearby shopping areas, or enjoy a leisurely stroll in Xi’an’s vibrant streets. Your guide will also be available to provide recommendations for dinner or optional evening activities, ensuring a relaxed end to an enriching day of discovery.

Day3 Xi’an-Tianshui by Bullet Train

Start your day with a hotel lobby pickup, where your guide will assist you with boarding a comfortable vehicle to Xi’an train station. Once at the station, your guide will help with check-in procedures and bid you farewell as you embark on the high-speed bullet train to Tianshui, a historic city along the Wei River that played a significant role in the Silk Road trade route. The approximately 1.5-hour journey passes through scenic countryside, allowing you to relax and enjoy the views. Upon arrival in Tianshui, a new local guide holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign will greet you at the station and escort you to your private vehicle, marking the seamless beginning of your exploration in this culturally rich city.

Your first stop in Tianshui is the Maiji Mountain Grottoes, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its cliffside Buddhist caves. Carved into the cliffs starting from the 5th century, the grottoes feature colorful murals and intricate clay sculptures, many life-sized and remarkably detailed. Your guide will provide insights into the historical, religious, and artistic significance of the site, explaining how the grottoes reflect the spiritual and cultural development of the region. As you walk along the cliffside pathways, you can admire both the artistry of the statues and the panoramic vistas of the Wei River valley below. The serene atmosphere of the grottoes allows for a reflective experience while immersing yourself in centuries of Buddhist heritage and craftsmanship.

Following the grottoes visit, your guide will lead the group to a carefully selected local restaurant for lunch. Enjoy authentic Tianshui dishes, highlighting Northwest Chinese flavors such as hand-pulled noodles, dumplings, and specialty stir-fries. Your guide will assist in ordering a variety of dishes to accommodate any dietary requirements, including vegetarian options. This lunch break offers a chance to rest, enjoy traditional cuisine, and discuss the morning’s experiences with your group in a relaxed and comfortable setting.

After lunch, continue your exploration at the Fuxi Temple, also known as Taihao Palace, a significant historical and cultural landmark dedicated to Fuxi, a legendary figure in Chinese mythology. The temple complex consists of ten historic buildings, including the Main Gate, Theatrical Stage, Archways, Congenital Temple, Taiji Temple, Bell Tower, Drum Tower, Laihe Hall, and Instrumental Gate. Your guide will share the mythology surrounding Fuxi and the temple’s role in preserving ancient Chinese traditions. As you explore the halls and courtyards, you will gain insights into traditional architecture, ritual practices, and the spiritual significance embedded in this revered site. This visit provides a unique opportunity to connect with China’s ancient cultural heritage in a hands-on and immersive way.

Conclude your day with a smooth transfer to your hotel in Tianshui, where your guide will assist with check-in and ensure all guests are comfortably settled. Take the evening to relax after a full day of travel and sightseeing, or explore the local area at your leisure. Your guide will be available to provide recommendations for dinner or optional evening activities, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience as you rest and prepare for the next day’s adventures along the Silk Road.

Day4 Tianshui-Lanzhou-Xiahe by Bullet Train

After a hearty breakfast at your hotel, your guide will assist you with boarding a comfortable vehicle for a scenic drive to Lanzhou, an important Silk Road city along the Yellow River. Upon arrival, embark on a fascinating journey to the Bingling Temple, a historic site perched on cliffs overlooking the river. Dating back to the Tang Dynasty, this temple complex features a series of grottoes, Buddhist statues, and intricate rock carvings that have survived over a millennium. Your guide will provide insights into the temple’s historical and religious significance, explaining the artistry of the murals, the symbolism of the statues, and the spiritual traditions preserved here. Walking along the air trestle road, an ancient pathway built along the cliff face, you will experience both the thrill of the site’s engineering marvels and the serene beauty of the surrounding hills. The breathtaking views of the Yellow River valley combined with the temple’s sacred ambiance create a memorable introduction to Lanzhou’s cultural heritage.

Following your morning exploration, enjoy a carefully selected local lunch in Lanzhou. Savor Northwest Chinese specialties, including hand-pulled noodles, regional stir-fried dishes, and seasonal delicacies. Your guide will assist with ordering and ensure any dietary requirements are accommodated, including vegetarian options. This relaxing lunch provides a welcome break, allowing you to reflect on the morning’s discoveries while experiencing authentic local flavors.

After lunch, your guide will escort you to Lanzhou train station to board the high-speed bullet train to Xiahe, a journey that passes through scenic landscapes showcasing the transition from river valleys to Tibetan plateau scenery. During the train ride, you can enjoy the changing vistas and prepare for the cultural immersion awaiting you in Xiahe. Upon arrival, a local guide holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign will greet you at the station and assist with boarding a private vehicle for transfer to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start to your Xiahe exploration.

Conclude your day with check-in at your hotel in Xiahe. Your guide will assist with luggage and ensure all guests are comfortably settled. The evening is yours to relax or explore the area at leisure. The next day, you will have the opportunity to visit the famed Labrang Monastery, one of the largest Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside the Tibet Autonomous Region, for an immersive cultural and spiritual experience along the Silk Road.

Day5 Xiahe-Lanzhou-Zhangye by Bullet Train

Begin your day with a visit to the Labrang Monastery, one of the largest and most important Tibetan Buddhist monasteries outside the Tibet Autonomous Region. Your guide will assist with entry and provide insights into the history and cultural significance of this sacred site. Start at the Thangka Sunning Terrace, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the monastery complex and surrounding mountains. Inside the monastery, admire the impressive Buddha stupas, intricately painted murals, and vibrant thangkas that depict Tibetan Buddhist teachings. A highlight is the prayer wheels, traditionally turned by walking pilgrims to bring blessings and positive energy. You can participate by rotating the wheels as you walk through the covered corridors, engaging in this reflective spiritual practice while gaining a deeper understanding of Tibetan Buddhist traditions.

After exploring the monastery, enjoy a carefully arranged lunch at a local restaurant. Your guide will help with ordering, ensuring a variety of traditional Tibetan dishes, such as momos (dumplings), barley-based specialties, and vegetarian options if required. This break allows you to rest, enjoy regional flavors, and reflect on the morning’s spiritual and cultural experiences in a comfortable setting.

Following lunch, board a private vehicle for a scenic drive back to Lanzhou, enjoying views of the plateau and rivers along the way. Upon arrival, your guide will assist with bullet train check-in for the journey to Zhangye, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transfer. During the train ride, you can relax and take in the changing landscapes as you move further along the Silk Road corridor. Upon arrival in Zhangye, a local guide holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign will greet you and escort you to your hotel, marking the start of the next stage of your Silk Road adventure.

At your Zhangye hotel, the guide will assist with check-in procedures. The evening is free to relax after a day of sightseeing and travel. You may explore nearby areas or simply rest in preparation for the following day’s exciting itinerary along the Silk Road.

Day6 Zhangye-Jiayuguan by Car

At the Grand Buddha Temple, visitors will encounter a remarkable cultural and spiritual landmark that has stood for over 900 years. This temple combines exquisite architecture with profound Buddhist traditions, and your guide will explain the historical significance, intricate wooden carvings, and the cultural rituals preserved here for centuries. The centerpiece, a magnificent Buddha statue, serves as a striking symbol of the region’s religious heritage. Walking through the temple halls and courtyards, you will gain insight into ancient Chinese Buddhist practices and the craftsmanship of past generations, making this a meaningful start to the day’s journey along the Silk Road.

Travel westward on a scenic 3-hour drive to the Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park, renowned for its layered, multi-colored rock formations that create a painterly landscape of reds, oranges, yellows, and greens. Located in the northern Qilian Mountains, the park offers observation platforms and walking trails, each providing unique angles of the dramatic scenery. Your guide will highlight the geological processes behind the Danxia landforms and explain how the colorful layers were formed over millions of years. Spend approximately four hours exploring, photographing, and marveling at the natural artistry that makes this park one of China’s most extraordinary landscapes. A local lunch can be arranged near the park, featuring regional specialties and vegetarian options if required.

After the exploration of Zhangye Danxia, continue with a scenic 3-hour drive to Jiayuguan, a historic city at the western end of the Great Wall. Along the route, your guide will provide context on the city’s strategic role along the ancient Silk Road and the development of this desert gateway. Upon arrival in Jiayuguan, enjoy a relaxing dinner with local flavors, ranging from traditional Chinese dishes to regional specialties, replenishing energy after a day of sightseeing and travel.

Day7 Jiayuguan-Dunhuang by Car

Beneath the arid plains of Jiayuguan lies the Weijin Tombs, an underground gallery from the 4th century AD. The tombs are adorned with intricate wall paintings depicting daily life, religious ceremonies, and military practices of the Wei and Jin dynasties. Guests will be captivated by the vivid scenes that reveal ancient China’s social structure, technological advancements, and cultural richness. Your guide will provide detailed explanations of the artistic techniques and historical context, bringing the stories of these ancient peoples to life. This site offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and gain a deep understanding of early Silk Road civilizations.

Following the morning exploration, a carefully arranged lunch at a local restaurant allows guests to savor regional flavors. The menu includes traditional dishes and vegetarian options, ensuring everyone enjoys a comfortable and authentic dining experience. Your guide will assist in coordinating the meal and introduce local specialties, providing a seamless transition into the afternoon’s adventure.

The journey continues with a scenic 4-hour drive to Dunhuang, culminating at the famous Echoing Sand Mountain. Visitors can experience the desert’s unique acoustic phenomenon, where the shifting sands produce natural “echoing” sounds. A 40-minute camel ride along the rolling dunes offers a traditional perspective of the desert landscape, enhanced by panoramic views of golden sands stretching to the horizon. Your guide will share insights into the local environment, the Silk Road’s historical connections, and desert culture. The late afternoon light casts dramatic shadows over the dunes, creating a spectacular scene for photography and reflection.

As dusk settles, explore the lively Shazhou Night Market, a vibrant hub of local handicrafts, souvenirs, and street food. Guests can browse silk scarves, pottery, and jewelry, while sampling regional delicacies in an energetic, culturally rich atmosphere. After the market visit, your guide will assist with hotel check-in. The evening is free for rest and relaxation, preparing for the next leg of the Silk Road journey.

Day8 Dunhuang-Turpan by Bullet Train

Exploring the Mogao Grottoes reveals one of China’s most treasured cultural and spiritual sites. This UNESCO World Heritage site holds over 1,600 years of Buddhist art across 492 cave temples, featuring thousands of square meters of intricate frescoes, statues, and manuscripts. The murals portray religious stories, historical events, and scenes of daily life from the 4th century onward. Your guide will provide insights into the artistic techniques, symbolism, and historical context, helping you appreciate the cultural richness of this Silk Road landmark. Walking through the serene caves, you’ll witness the skill of ancient artisans and feel a deep connection to the spiritual heritage preserved here.

After the morning sightseeing, guests will head to a nearby restaurant to enjoy lunch, featuring regional specialties and vegetarian options. Your guide will assist with ordering and introduce local flavors, offering a relaxed and authentic culinary experience before the afternoon journey to Turpan. Guests can take their time to savor each dish and enjoy a leisurely lunch experience.

The journey continues aboard the high-speed train to Turpan, a city renowned for its Silk Road history and unique desert landscapes. While traveling, guests can admire the scenery of the Gobi desert and surrounding countryside, reflecting on the morning’s cultural discoveries. Upon arrival, a new guide will meet you at the station with a Your Way Holiday sign and escort you to your hotel, ensuring a smooth and comfortable transfer.

Guests will check in at their Turpan hotel, with the guide assisting with luggage and ensuring everyone is settled. The evening is free for rest or to explore the local surroundings at leisure, preparing for the next day’s visits to Turpan’s historical sites, including the Karez Irrigation System and Jiaohe Ancient City.

Day9 Turpan-Urumqi by Car

Discover the ingenious Karez Well irrigation system, an ancient underground water network that has sustained Turpan’s oasis for over 2,000 years. This remarkable engineering feat channels water from the surrounding mountains to the fertile plains, supporting the cultivation of the region’s famed melons and grapes. Walking through the cool subterranean canals, guests will learn about the construction techniques and the vital role the system has played in ensuring the survival and prosperity of the local communities. Your guide will explain the historical significance and the economic impact of the Karez system, offering a deeper appreciation of how human ingenuity transformed this desert landscape into a thriving agricultural hub.

After the morning exploration, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring Turpan’s local cuisine. Guests can sample fresh fruits, including the renowned Turpan grapes and melons, along with regional dishes. Your guide will assist with ordering and provide cultural context, creating a seamless and enjoyable dining experience.

Continue the day with a visit to the Sugong Minaret, a 44-meter tall historic structure that stands as a testament to Turpan’s cultural diversity. Built during the 18th century Qing Dynasty, the minaret showcases a blend of Islamic architecture and local Chinese influences. At its base, your guide will explain the minaret’s historical role in religious practice, cultural convergence, and communication along the Silk Road. The intricacy of its design and the surrounding mosque complex illustrate the region’s rich ethnic and religious heritage, making it a compelling stop for understanding Turpan’s position as a hub of cross-cultural exchange.

The day concludes with a scenic drive to Urumqi, the vibrant capital of Xinjiang. Guests can relax and enjoy the ever-changing landscapes along the way, from desert plains to rolling hills, reflecting on the day’s cultural and historical insights. Upon arrival, your guide will assist with hotel check-in, ensuring all guests are comfortably settled for the evening and ready for the next stage of the Silk Road journey.

Day10 Urumqi

Venture into the breathtaking Heavenly Lake, nestled within the Tianshan Mountains at an elevation of 1,980 meters. The lake’s crystal-clear waters mirror the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a picture-perfect panorama. Guests will enjoy a serene boat tour, gliding across the lake while observing the shifting hues of turquoise and deep blue under varying sunlight. Your guide will enrich the experience with captivating local myths and legends, recounting tales of ancient gods and spirits said to inhabit the area. This combination of natural splendor and cultural storytelling ensures a deeply memorable encounter with one of Xinjiang’s most scenic destinations.

Following the morning excursion, enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in Xinjiang cuisine. Guests can savor signature dishes such as hand-pulled noodles, lamb skewers, and fresh fruits. Your guide will assist with ordering and provide context on local flavors and culinary traditions, ensuring a seamless and authentic dining experience.

Next, explore the International Grand Bazaar, a vibrant hub that reflects Urumqi’s rich ethnic and cultural diversity. The market offers a lively maze of stalls selling handcrafted carpets, traditional Uygur attire, jewelry, spices, and dried fruits. As you stroll through the bustling corridors, the aromas of sizzling street food and the energetic sounds of bargaining create a truly immersive atmosphere. Your guide will highlight key cultural insights and recommend must-see items or local specialties to sample. Whether shopping for souvenirs or simply enjoying the sensory experience, the bazaar provides a vivid glimpse into the dynamic life and heritage of Xinjiang.

Return to the hotel in Urumqi, where your guide will assist with luggage and ensure all guests are comfortably settled. The evening is free to relax or explore nearby areas at leisure, preparing for the next day’s Silk Road adventure.

Day11 Urumqi-Kashgar by Flight

Begin with an in-depth visit to the Xinjiang Regional Museum, a cultural treasure trove that captures the essence of the Silk Road. Inside, you’ll encounter well-preserved mummies from the Taklamakan Desert, intricately woven ancient textiles, and artifacts that reveal the daily life of civilizations that once thrived here. Beyond archaeology, the museum highlights the traditions of Xinjiang’s many ethnic minorities, including the Uygurs, Kazakhs, and Tajiks. With your guide’s explanations, the exhibits come alive, offering a vivid picture of how trade, geography, and culture intertwined to shape this unique region.

After the museum visit, your guide will accompany you to Urumqi Airport and assist with the check-in for your flight to Kashgar. Upon arrival, a local representative holding a “Your Way Holiday” sign will meet you and arrange the transfer to your hotel. Once checked in, the rest of the evening is free at leisure—whether you wish to relax after the journey or take a casual stroll to soak in Kashgar’s timeless Silk Road atmosphere.

Day12 Kashgar-Taxkorgan by Car

We begin our journey along the legendary China-Pakistan Highway, a route that winds through the majestic Pamirs Plateau. About 40 minutes into the drive, we stop at Opal Village, where a lively local bazaar awaits. The market is filled with colorful displays of spices, handmade crafts, and traditional textiles, offering a genuine glimpse into the daily life of Uygur and Kirghiz communities. Strolling through the stalls, you’ll encounter warm hospitality and timeless traditions that have been passed down for generations.

Midway through the drive, we will pause for a simple yet authentic meal. Depending on availability, you may try freshly baked naan, lamb kebabs, or hand-pulled noodles, staples that reflect the hearty flavors of Xinjiang’s highland cuisine. Sharing a meal here not only provides refreshment but also deepens the sense of connection with the region’s rugged yet welcoming character.

Continuing along the highway, we arrive at Karakul Lake, a breathtaking gem set at 3,600 meters above sea level. The lake’s tranquil, mirror-like waters reflect the towering snow-capped peaks of the Pamirs, creating postcard-perfect scenery. Herds of sheep and yaks graze along the shore, while nomadic Kirghiz families still pitch their yurts nearby during summer, preserving a centuries-old way of life. After soaking in the serene atmosphere and capturing photos of this stunning landscape, we resume our drive to Taxkorgan. Nestled in the foothills of the Pamirs, this remote border town will be our resting place for the night.

Day13 Taxkorgan-Kashgar by Car

We set off from Taxkorgan toward Kashgar, enjoying the stunning Pamirs landscapes along the way. Midway, we stop at the historic Stone Fortress, an oval-shaped stronghold built with sun-dried bricks atop a solid stone foundation. Stretching 1,285 meters in circumference, the fortress once served as a strategic defensive post along the Silk Road. As you explore the walls, your guide will provide insights into the fortress’s historical significance, while you take in panoramic views of the surrounding plains and distant mountains, capturing the essence of this ancient Silk Road landmark.

Afterward, we visit nearby pasturelands to observe the daily life of the local Tajik people. Here, you’ll witness pastoral practices such as herding sheep, goats, and yaks, as well as traditional crafts like wool spinning and weaving. Your guide will help explain the cultural significance of these practices, giving you a deeper understanding of the Tajik way of life. Following this immersive visit, we continue our drive back to Kashgar, where you can relax at your hotel or explore the city at leisure for the evening.

Day14 Kashgar

Your morning in Kashgar starts with a hotel lobby pickup, where your guide will assist you in boarding a comfortable vehicle. The day is dedicated to exploring the rich cultural heritage of the city, with visits to its most iconic landmarks.

Explore Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China and the spiritual heart of the Uighur community. With its spacious central courtyard and towering minarets, the mosque serves as a focal point for worship and cultural gatherings. Your guide will explain the rich religious traditions and historical significance of the mosque, offering insights into the Uighur way of life. The serene atmosphere and intricate architecture make it an ideal introduction to Kashgar’s cultural heritage.

Wander through Kashgar’s Old Town, where narrow streets and ancient buildings create a living historical tapestry. At 10:30, enjoy the Maxilap show, presenting traditional Uighur music, dance, and cultural performances. Stop at a centuries-old tea house to savor fragrant rose tea and fresh nang bread, immersing yourself in the daily life and culinary traditions of the region. The combination of historical architecture, cultural performances, and local flavors brings Kashgar’s rich history vividly to life.

Step into Handicraft Street, a vibrant hub of local artisans and workshops. You’ll witness carpets, textiles, wooden carvings, and jewelry being crafted using traditional techniques. The street provides a hands-on way to learn about Uighur craftsmanship, interact with artisans, and purchase unique handmade souvenirs that reflect the city’s artistic heritage. The lively streets and colorful displays create an engaging and immersive experience of Kashgar’s creative culture.

Conclude your sightseeing at the famous Sunday Bazaar, one of Kashgar’s most iconic attractions. Start with the outdoor animal market, where local farmers and traders sell livestock, creating a bustling and colorful atmosphere. Then explore the covered bazaar, filled with spices, textiles, clothing, and handcrafted goods. The lively interactions, vivid colors, and fragrant aromas make the bazaar an unforgettable cultural experience. Your guide will provide context and insights, helping you understand the significance of this vibrant marketplace.

After a full day of exploration, your guide will assist you with the transfer back to your hotel in Kashgar, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s cultural discoveries.

Day15 Kashgar Departure

Today concludes your unforgettable journey through Xinjiang. After breakfast and a relaxed morning at your hotel, your guide will assist with your transfer to the airport or train station, ensuring a smooth and stress-free departure. As you bid farewell to Kashgar, take a moment to reflect on the rich cultural experiences, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality you’ve encountered along the Silk Road. Safe travels, and we look forward to welcoming you on your next adventure with Your Way Holiday!

Price Per Person in US Dollars

Price Includes 1. Cozy Ride: Enjoy the comfort and spaciousness of our air-conditioned car, offering scenic views. 2. Bilingual Expert Guide: Benefit from a personalized experience with a guide fluent in your language, catering to your needs. 3. Entrance Fees: Access all attractions and activities mentioned in the itinerary without worrying about additional entrance fees. 4. Seamless Transfer: Enhance your experience with convenient hotel or train station pickup and drop-off service. 5. Connect Seamlessly: Stay connected with complimentary onboard WiFi, allowing you to share your experiences in real-time. 6. City-to-City Train Tickets: For itineraries involving high-speed rail travel, assistance with booking ensures a smooth and efficient experience. 7. Selected Hotels and Daily Breakfast: Experience a comfortable stay in handpicked hotels, each chosen for its quality and amenities. Enjoy a daily breakfast at the hotel, starting your day on a delicious note. 8. Complimentary Water: Receive a complimentary bottle of water for each person, keeping you refreshed throughout your journey. 9. Travel Agency Liability Insurance: Benefit from coverage under our travel agency liability insurance, providing added protection and peace of mind during your trip.

Price Excludes 1. Personal Expenses: This includes phone bills, laundry, additional tours, postage, and any entertainment fees not covered in the itinerary. 2. Meals: While meals are not included, our guide will recommend the best local food spots, giving you the chance to explore and choose based on your preferences. (Average cost per person for a regular meal at local eateries: 40RMB/6USD-80RMB/12USD) 3. Tips: Tips are not mandatory but are recommended for excellent service. If you feel satisfied with the service, you may consider leaving a tip. The tipping standards are as follows: Driver: 50-100 RMB per day/group; Guide: 100-200 RMB per day/group. 4. Insurance: Insurance coverage for personal loss, illness, or damages incurred during your trip is not included. 5. Optional Activities: Any optional activities listed in the itinerary are not included in the tour fees, allowing you to choose and participate based on your preferences.