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12 Days Silk Road Highlights Tour from Beijing (Xian/Dunhuang/Turpan/Kashgar)

Legendary Journey to The West

The Silk Road is a network of intercontinental trade routes transporting silk as well as many other goods between East and West. Though the present convenient transportation replaced caravans and horses, the glory of the Silk Road never fades. For all travelers who want to explore the footprints of the history and see how great civilizations were exchanged, traveling along the Silk Road absolutely delivers you an experience beyond your expectation.

This 12-day Silk Road tour is designed to show you all the highlights of China Silk Road. Your trip begins in Beijing - the ancient and present capital of China, and extends to Kashgar - the westernmost city of China via Xian - the most eye-catching old capital, Dunhuang - the essence of the whole Silk Road and Turpan - an oasis in the desert. There are a myriad of incredible opportunities to get yourself awe-inspired by visiting the different kinds of attractions, such as old palaces, fabulous manmade wonders, historic temples, Buddhist carvings, traditional living blocks, busy bazaars, barren deserts, informative museums, etc.

Can't wait? China Discovery specialized in offering all-includsive and customizable tour packages is ready to show you the best scenery and tell you the mysterious story of the Silk Road.

  • Type : Private Tour
  • Tour Code : CD-SRT-12
  • Price : from Request
    1. 1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one double-bed room in a 4-star hotel and traveling in low seasons;
    2. 2. This price is subject to change according to your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate.
  • Theme : History / Culture
  • Physical Demands :

HIGHLIGHTS OF THIS TOUR

  • Get lost wandering Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes - the brightest star on the silk road, and be marvel at the fabulous artifacts, exquisite murals, and beautiful sculptures;
  • Explore the fusion of eastern and western cultures as well as the soul of Xinjiang in Kashgar Old City, which is also the shooting location of the Oscar-awarded film The Kite Runner;
  • Unveil the mystery of Cheshi Kingdom (strategically located on the Silk Road) by visiting the ruins of its capital Jiaohe Ancient City - the world's largest, oldest and best preserved earth building city;
  • Admire the untold historic relics of ancient Silk Road in Xinjiang Regional Museum in Urumqi, and take a sidetrip to Heavenly Lake of Tianshan Mountain for the alluring lake view and Bogda Peak scenery;
  • Gain insights into Xian - the ancient heart of China and the old capital city of 13 dynasties by exploring its 8th World Wonder - over 2000-year-old Terracotta Warriors, formidable Ancient City Wall, backstreets of Muslim Quarters;
  • Not only savor the past brilliance of Beijing by visiting UNESCO-recognized Forbidden City, Summer Palace, Great Wall and the Temple Heaven, but also get a glimpse of Beijing by viewing the structures in Olympic Parks.
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Itinerary Day by Day (Can Be Customized)
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Day 1 Beijing Arrival

Airport or Railway Station Pick Up

Ni Hao, welcome to Beijing, the iconic city as well as the capital of China!

You will be met by your local tour guide at the arrival hall of your arrival airport or train station, then be escorted to check in to your hotel in downtown by a private comfortable vehicle. The rest of today is on your own to relax. If you want to explore nearby, feel free to get some practical suggestions from your tour guide.

Arrival Ideas: At present, there are many international and domestic flights to Beijing. Besides, you can take a high speed train to this capital city from Shanghai (4.5-6 hrs), Xian (4-6 hrs), Guangzhou (7.5-8 hrs), Chengdu (7.5-10 hrs), Chongqing (7-9 hrs), Hong Kong (8 hrs), etc.

  • Beijing Daxing International Airport Beijing Daxing International Airport

Day 2 Beijing (B, L)

Today's highlights: Tiananmen Square, Forbidden City, Summer Palace

After breakfast, you will start a journey through Beijing's storied past with a brief visit to Tiananmen Square, the world's largest public plaza. This iconic site is where Chairman Mao proclaimed the founding of the People's Republic of China from the imposing Tiananmen Gate.

Step through Tiananmen Gate and into the heart of imperial China - Forbidden City. This vast palace complex of nearly 10,000 rooms, once home to 24 emperors from the Ming and Qing dynasties, stands as a marvel of architectural brilliance and historical grandeur. Admire the intricate details, from the dazzling yellow-glazed tile roofs to the refined white marble bases. As you explore the myriad rooms and courtyards, envision the lives of emperors, empresses, and their courtiers.

After leaving the Forbidden City, take a short walk to Jingshan Park, where you can ascend to its summit for a panoramic view. From here, marvel at the sweeping vistas of the Forbidden City to the south and the serene landscapes of Beihai Park, Shichahai Lake, and the iconic Drum Tower to the north. For unforgettable photos, make your way to one of the palace's corner towers, a favorite spot among photography enthusiasts.

Following lunch, drive to the outskirts of Beijing to experience the enchanting Summer Palace. Once the exclusive summer retreat of the imperial family, this site is renowned as China's largest and most well-preserved royal garden. Discover a stunning array of ancient pavilions, grand mansions, serene temples, and elegant bridges. The Long Corridor, stretching along the peaceful shores of Kunming Lake, is adorned with thousands of vibrant paintings that tell captivating stories of history and mythology.

Lastly, be escorted back to your hotel.

Optional Night Activities:
1) Watch a wonderful acrobatic performance at the Chaoyang Theater;
2) Or enjoy the classic Chinese art performance of Beijing Opera at Liyuan Theater.

  • Tiananmen Gate at Tiananmen Square Tiananmen Gate at Tiananmen Square
  • The Fudol Couple - Summer Palace The Fudol Couple visited Summer Palace with China Discovery
  • Beijing Fobidden City from Jingshan Park - Sara from Australia Sara's family from Australia viewed Foribdden City from Jingshan Park in December 2023

Day 3 Beijing (B, L)

Today's highlights: Mutianyu Great Wall, Sacred Way, Bird’s Nest and Water Cube

This morning, you'll drive approximately 70 km (about 1.5 hours) to the iconic Mutianyu Great Wall, a less-crowded yet beautiful section of this World Wonder. Begin your adventure by ascending the wall via an enclosed cable car, reaching No. 14 Watchtower, your starting point for an unforgettable experience. Hike westward along the wall, passing through towering watchtowers and capturing breathtaking panoramic views. The trail is moderate, suitable for most fitness levels, including families with children. For the more adventurous, challenge yourself by climbing the Great Man Slope to No. 20 Watchtower, the highest point, offering an even more spectacular vista. After exploring the wonderful sightseeing, hike back to No. 14 Watchtower and descend by the enclosed cable car.

Optional Toboggan Experience: For an extra thrill at Mutianyu, consider taking the toboggan ride or the chairlift cable car to descend the Great Wall, both available at No. 6 Watchtower. Note that there might be a queue, especially during peak seasons like Chinese holidays.

Continue your trip to Sacred Way, a 7-kilometer-long passage leading to the Imperial Tombs of the 13 Emperors of the Ming Dynasty. The Emperor, known as the Son of Heaven, would travel from Heaven to his country through the Sacred Way and return to Heaven through this road. Take a walk through the largest archway in China and the Great Palace Gate, and you'll see the magnificent stone guard statues of 12 sets of mythical animals and 12 officials. Then, drive back to Beijing and take a short stop at the Beijing Olympic Village to view its famous Bird’s Nest and Water Cube from the outside.

Lastly, be escorted back to your hotel.

Optional Night Activity: After the day's tour, treat yourself to a great dinner and taste the famous Peking Roasted Duck, a world-renowned dish with crisp skin and juicy meat.

  • Kim - Mutianyu Great Wall Mutianyu Great Wall Shot by Our Customer Kim
  • Our customers visited Bird's Nest in 2019 Our customers visited Bird's Nest in 2019
  • Our Guest at the Sacred Way Our Guest at the Sacred Way

Day 4 Beijing & High Speed Train to Xian (B, L)

Today's highlights: Temple of Heaven, Hutongs

After breakfast, drive to Temple of Heaven, a historic site once used by emperors for sacrificial ceremonies. As you explore this grand complex of buildings and gardens, you'll discover the rituals and beliefs of the Ming and Qing emperors, who sought divine blessings for good harvests through intricate ceremonies. Beyond its historical importance, you'll observe vibrant local life, with residents practicing Tai Chi, dancing, and engaging in various exercises among the lush pine woods.

Then get back to the central city to hop on a rickshaw to experience the Beijing Hutongs - narrow alleys lined with historic quadrangle dwellings. This journey will immerse you in the traditional Beijing lifestyle, where you can explore charming antique shops, boutique stores, and witness the city's historical evolution. You'll also visit a local family's home in the Hutongs, offering a glimpse into everyday life.

Your Beijing tour is now about to end. Your tour guide will see you off at the Beijing West Railway Station for a high speed train trip to Xian (about 5 hours). You will be picked up by your tour guide at Xian North Railway Station and escorted to your hotel in Xian. The rest of the day is on your own to explore this ancient capital of China.

  • Cameron's Family from New Zealand - Temple of Heaven, Beijing Cameron's family from New Zealand visited Temple of Heaven in Beijing on June 30, 2021

Day 5 Xian (B, L)

Today's highlights: Terracotta Warriors and Horses, Bell Tower, Muslim Quarter

After breakfast, drive about 40 km to discover one of the greatest man-made wonders in the world - the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, built by the first emperor of China Qin Shihuang to protect him in his afterlife. Over 8,000 life-size warriors, horses and chariots, buried in 3 pits for more than 2,000 years until uncovered by a local farmer in 1974, form an ancient military army with complete battle units of infantry, cavalry, etc. Standing in front of these figures, one can't help being amazed not only by the ambition of Emperor Qin Shihuang but also by the fabulous artistic skills of ancient Chinese artisans. (Before the Terracotta Warriors Museum visit, you will have a rare opportunity to make a miniature Terracotta Warrior on your own under the instruction of a local potter.)

In the afternoon, you will go to enjoy some leisure time around Zhonggulou Square where the famous landmarks of Bell Tower and Drum Towers stand on. There is a Chinese saying, “morning bell and evening drum”, which describes the ancient Chinese stroke the bell in the bell tower and beat the drum at the drum tower to announce the time of the day. With grand side and superb decoration, the Bell Tower and Drum Towers in Xian are the most grandiose architectures of their kinds. You will climb up to one of the towers to enjoy the panoramic view of Xian. The rest time of this afternoon is to spend some leisure time at the bustling and lively Muslim Quarter, a place where you can try different local snacks and explore Muslim culture. Don't miss the Great Mosque of Xian which is a fusion of Chinese culture and Islamic culture, a sacred religious site with huge ancient architectural complex, also a surprisingly quiet land away from bust Muslim Street. After the Great Mosque visit, you will be escorted back to your hotel. (If you want to stay more time at the Muslim Quarter for dinner and relaxing, or want to explore the nearby Bell & Drum Towers on your own, please let your tour guide know.)

  • Visit beautiful Muslim Quarter Visit beautiful Muslim Quarter
  • Great Mosque Xian Great Mosque, a fusion of Chinese culture and Islamic culture
  • Terracotta Warriors Pit One - Nguyen from Canada Terracotta Warriors Pit One, Picture taken by Our Guest Nguyen from Canada in 2017

Day 6 Xian City Exploration (B, L)

Today's highlights: Ancient City Wall, Local Family Visit, Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, Shaanxi History Museum

After breakfast, go to take a wonderful stroll on the Ancient City Wall, the largest and best-preserved ancient city wall in China. Enjoy panoramic views of modern Xian while you leisurely examine this well-maintained city wall which is 12 meters high and 18 meters wide with a total circuit of nearly 14 kilometers. (Optional experience: rent a bike to enjoy a relaxing cycling on the Ancient City Wall) Then you will visit a local family to check out what is the daily living of a traditional Chinese Family. You will also be taught to make Chinese dumplings under the friendly instruction of the host. Enjoy lunch with the local family.

In the afternoon, head to Da Cien Temple, a famous Buddhist sutra translation site during the Tang Dynasty. Giant Wild Goose Pagoda is the most famous building in the temple. The pagoda, rising to a height of 64.5 meters, was built by the famous Buddhist master Xuanzang to preserve classic scriptures he bought back from India during the early Tang Dynasty. Xuanzang was the prototype character for Tang Seng in the famous Chinese novel “Journey to the West”. (Note: It costs an extra 30 RMB if you want to climb up the Big Wild Goose Pagoda) After (or before) visiting the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda, you will be provided an interesting experience of trying on the Hanfu which is the solemn costume of the emperors and their families, the ministers and the noble in the ancient dynasties of China. Seize this rare opportunity to take some photos to record this unique memory!

Following is an educational visiting to Shaanxi History Museum. Ramble in the modern exhibition halls to appreciate relics, such as porcelains, paintings, currencies from Zhou to the Tang periods (1100 BC to 907 AD). (Note: Shaanxi History Museum may be replaced with other activity or attraction because of crowding tourists during July ~ early September and China’s National Day during Oct.1-Oct.7. You may check details with your travel consultant.)

  • Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall
  • Xian Big Wild Goose Pagoda Big Wild Goose Pagoda: One of the Famous Landmarks of Xian
  • Shanxi Provincial Museum Shanxi Provincial Museum

Day 7 Xian & Flight to Dunhuang ( B,L )

Today's highlights: Mingsha Mountain and Crescent Lake

This early morning, your tour guide will see you off at the airport for your flight to Dunhuang (about 2.5 hrs). Upon your arrival at Dunhuang Airport, our local guide and driver will pick you up and then transfer you to check in your hotel. Have a short rest before going to visit Mingshashan, which is only about 10 km from downtown. You will start sightseeing in the afternoon when it is not very hot and the sunburn is low.

The magic Mingshashan (Echoing Sand Mountains) and Crescent Lake are located in the same scenic area. On the sunny days, the sand mountains echo like Orchestra music even if there is no wind. If you slide from the sand mountains, you can hear the echoing sound clearly. There are many exciting activities for you to try (at your own expense), such as sand skiing, viewing from glider or helicopter, motorcycling, etc. Riding a camel through the desert is very popular. Surrounded by the Echoing Sand Mountains, Crescent Lake is a beautiful oasis with some well decorated traditional Chinese architecture, some trees and flowers and a lake that has never dried up and shapes like a crescent moon. After sightseeing, get back to Dunhuang city.

Optional Mingshashan desert camping experience:

If you like, you can camp for a night in the desert of Mingshashan, which will be a one-of-a-kind experience to get closer touch with the desert. During the camping, there are a lot of activities and programs for you to have fun, such as sand skiing, desert motorcycles, bonfire parties, etc.

Day 8 Dunhuang & High Speed Train to Turpan (B, L)

Today's highlight: Mogao Grottoes

After breakfast, drive about 10 km from Dunhuang city to visit the newly opened Mogao Grottoes Digital Exhibition Center before going to Mogao Grottoes. You will watch two short but well-produced educational documentary movies that introduce history, arts, and other facts about Mogao Grottoes, which will be very helpful when you visit the grottoes. After the movies, take an internal bus to Mogao Grottoes.

Mogao Grottoes is famed as the "Louvre of the East", which is outstanding for its exquisite mural paintings and statues. There are now 492 grottoes in which about 45000 square meters long mural paintings and 2100 colorfully painted statues from which you can trace the development of Chinese art over 1600 years from one dynasty to the next because each dynasty built their own caves to record its own features. There are about 40 common caves opened to the public. In the tourist area, you will be divided into groups by different tour guides who will accompany you to visit the caves (usually 7~8 caves during April ~ November and 12 caves during December ~ March) with a great introduction. After that, if you want to visit more other caves, you can do it by yourselves or follow other tour guides. Besides, there are 10 special caves (with extra fees) available for your extensive visit.

In the afternoon, you will be escorted to catch your train to Turpan. Currently, there are several high speed bullet trains running to Turpan from Liuyuan South Railway Station in the afternoon. It takes only about 3.5 hours to get to Turpan. Upon arriving at Turpan North Railway Station, you will be picked up by your local tour guide, and transferred to check into your hotel in the city. The rest of today is free at your own leisure.

Useful Tips: 1. If you want to see the Special Caves (excluded from the regular visit, and only open for limited individual visitors or small groups with reservations), you can contact our travel consultants or your tour guide to arrange for you, but you have to pay the extra admission fee for each cave. 2. To protect the mural paintings, it is not allowed to take photos or use any flashlight inside grottoes.

  • title Robert's family from USA - Mogao Cave longtitle Our customers Robert's family from USA visited Mogao Cave in Dunhuang, Gansu on September 9, 2019.
  • Irene’s group from Malaysia Mogao Grottoes Our customers Irene’s group from Malaysia visited Mogao Grottoes in Dunhuang, Gansu on December 8, 2019.

Day 9 Turpan - Urumqi (B, L)

Today's highlights: Tuyuk Vaillage, Karez System, Jiaohe Ancient City

After breakfast in the hotel, you will drive to Tuyu Valley along Flaming Mountain Grand Canyon, which condenses the essence of the landscape of Flaming Mountain - the hottest spot in Turpan. Flaming Mountain is immortalized in the Chinese classic Journey to the West as a blazing mountain that the monk Xuan Zang has to pass through. Finally, they use a magic fan to extinguish the blaze and go on with their trip. Flaming Mountain Grand Canyon splits the whole mountain in half and you will clearly admire the unique landform - red sandstones looking like flaming fire, distinctive rocks showing the uncanny workmanship of nature and deep gorge with crisscross valleys. The magnificence, strangeness, danger, and elegance of Flaming Mountain are fully shown here.

The winding road hanging on the cliff of Flaming Mountain will soon lead you to Tuyuk Valley (Tuyugou in Chinese) which is an Uighur valley with lots of historical sites. Mazar Village, the oldest existing Uighur village with a history of over 2,600 years, is a big highlight of the valley. Mazar Village holds a significant status in Buddhism and Islam. It is said that 6 Muslims came to China and started preaching there, so Mazar Village is called Eastern Mekka. Before Islam, it once was a Buddhist center as well. Many Buddhist caves can be found in the village, but the statues and murals failed to survive. The villagers still live peacefully in the village, and you can clearly see how they run their daily lives in the old mud adobe houses.

Next to drive back to Turpan City to discover the brilliant project of Karez System. Together with the Great Wall and Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, the Karez System is regarded as one of China’s Three Greatest Ancient Projects. It is a special kind of irrigation system consisting of vertical wells, underground canals, ground canals and waterlogging pond. The vertically dug wells are linked together to channel the water which occurs during summer rain season, or is melted from snow mountains of Tianshan range to desired farmlands in the desert area. Visiting the Turpan Karez Museum, you will not only see the pictures and models detailing the history of the Karez System, but also visit the real underground tunnels.

Your last stop is the famous relic - Jiaohe Ancient City - an ancient city that was strategically located along the ancient Silk Road. Perching on a plateau, it acted as a natural barrier from the attacking enemies in the old times. Now, it is renowned as the best-preserved earthen architecture in the world. The interesting sculptures, videos and some other displays in Jiaohe Cultural Village Museum will give you an appreciation of the history of Jiaohe City before you start exploring. Then, take a shuttle bus to the core scenic area. Walking up along the pathway uphill, you can see many historical structural remains, including the residential area, official area and Buddhist temples. It is also available to walk to the central platform for a more awesome view of the whole park. When the night drops, you will feast on a breathtaking sunset over the ruins.

After Turpan exploration, drive about 3.5 hours to Urumqi for accommodation.

  • Jiaohe Anicent City Sunset Jiaohe Anicent City Sunset
  • Flaming Mountain Grand Canyon Flaming Mountain Grand Canyon
  • Peaceful Mazar Village in Tuyugou Valley Peaceful Mazar Village in Tuyugou Valley

Day 10 Urumqi - Heavenly Lake - Urumqi (B, L)

Today's highlight: Heavenly Lake full day exploration

This morning after breakfast, you will be taken to have an educational visit to the Xinjiang Regional Museum. It is the most important ancient Silk Road themed museum in China, which exhibits about 50,000 historical relics including more than 400 National First-class relics (60% of the total in Xinjiang). Among all the exhibitions, the most unique exhibition is the Mummy Hall. It collects 10 more than 4000 years old mummies which were mostly found in Loulan Ancient Kingdom Ruin and preserved almost intact. Loulan Princess, the most famous mummy in the museum, will definitely strike you with its typical European face. All these important exhibitions help you learn deep into the history and culture of Xinjiang as well as the ancient Silk Road.

Leaving the museum, you are going to explore the Heavenly Lake (or Tianchi in Chinese) which is only about 70 km (about 1.5 hrs' drive) away from Urumqi downtown. To protect the authenticity of the natural environment, our private car can only bring you to the entrance of the park. You will then shift onto a park bus to the parking lot around the lake area. Walking for about 15 minutes, you will get to the lakeside of Heavenly Lake. The rest time is free for you to stroll along the periphery of the lake, breathe the remarkably fresh air, and soak in the wonderful scenery. With an altitude of 1980 meters, Heavenly Lake and its alluring surroundings truly offer you a visual feast like heaven, featuring in serene alpine lake, rugged slopes with snow-capped mountains, pure glaciers, wild forest, vast grassland as well as unique ethnic culture.

Generally speaking, there are three ways to explore Heavenly Lake. You can walk around the lake, take a boat cruise, or ride a cable car to the mountain top. If time allows, you can even enjoy all the experiences. The Boat cruise and cable car need extra fees. Tell your preference to your guide, who will then arrange accordingly for you.

- Walking around the lake. Plank roads were constructed to encircle the lake. But since the lake is very large, it takes about 5 hours to finish the circle. You can decide the hiking length on your own according to your physical condition and time. Fee: free.

- Boat Cruise on the lake. It is very popular among travelers to take a boat cruising to the deeper area of the lake and back, which is leisure and scenic. There are modern ships, Chinese-style ships and high-speed boats available at different prices. Fee: about CNY 100.

- Panoramic view from Maya Mountain. If you want more landscape, you can take a cable car up to Maya Mountain, where you can enjoy the panoramic view of Heavenly Lake and a closer view of Tianshan Mountain Range. Fee: about CNY 220.

After the landscape trip, take a park bus to exit the park, and drive back to Urumqi.

  • Modern Urumqi city with Tianshan Mountains as background Modern Urumqi city with Tianshan Mountains as background
  • Stunning scenery of Heavenly Lake of Tianshan Stunning scenery of Heavenly Lake of Tianshan

Day 11 Urumqi - Kashgar (B, L)

Today's highlights: Kashgar Old Town, Ancient Tea House, Id Kah Mosque, Abakh Hoja Tomb

This early morning, you will take a flight to Kashgar (about 2 hrs), the southwestern border city of Xinjiang which used to be the epicenter of the regional trade and cultural exchange of ancient Silk Road for more than two millennia. Upon arriving at the airport of Kashgar, you will be welcomed by your local tour guide and driver, and escorted to Kashgar downtown. The rest of today is a guided tour of this legendary Silk Road city.

You will visit the Abakh Hoja Tomb first, which is not a simple tomb but an exquisite architectural complex including chapels, gardens, archways, etc., as the best place in the region to admire Uygur people’s extraordinary aesthetics and skills of Islamic architecture. It also offers a rare opportunity to see and learn about the funeral customs of Uygur families because there is a large Islamic family of five generations whose name is Abakh Hoja buried here. The Abakh Hoja was a local Islamic master who had strengthened the spread of Islam in the Kashgar area, which later earned a great reputation for him and his family.

Next, you will visit the landmark of Kashgar - Id Kah Mosque, which is regarded as the holy shrine for Muslims. Every day, there are thousands of Muslims worshiping here. In history, Id Kah Mosque used to be a school where Islamic culture and history were taught. Many scholars and honored clergies graduated from here.

Only several minutes' walk from the mosque is the exotic Kashgar Old Town where you can experience the authentic Uyghur living style. Explore the traditional earth buildings where local people live, walk through the famous Handicrafts Street where you can see how the local craftsman makes handicrafts. It is a good place to buy some interesting souvenirs for your family and friends. You will also take a break and enjoy a cup of local tea at the Ancient Tea House, which is more than 100 years old. The locals also like to spend some leisure time in the tea house with friends and families - drinking, chatting and playing music sometimes.

Today’s activities end. Have a good rest in your hotel in Kashgar.

  • Id Kah Mosque is the most influential Islamic mosque in Xinjiang Id Kah Mosque is the most influential Islamic mosque in Xinjiang
  • Kashgar Old Town Kashgar Old Town
  • Kai's Group from New Zealand  - Abakh Hoja Tomb, Xinjiang Kai's Group from New Zealand visited Abakh Hoja Tomb, Kashgar on September 8, 2017

Day 12 Kashgar Departure (B)

Today's highlights: Kashgar Bazaar, Livestock Market

After breakfast, go to experience Kashgar's Bazaars which are uqnique, busy, crowded, amazing, chaotic, interesting and colorful. Bazaar, in Uygur, means a large market. The history of Kashgar's Bazaars can be traced to the origin and flourish of the Silk Road. Nowadays there are still numerous bazaars, both large and small, spreading throughout the city and its surrounding areas. Each bazaar has its own unique atmosphere and specializes in different products, such as handicrafts, local tea, woodenwares, iron products, flower pots, hats, etc. You can choose one or more bazaars to visit based your own interest and time. Feel free to discuss with your tour guide.

If you happen to visit Kashgar on a Sunday, don't miss the opportunity to experience the Livestock Market, which takes place once a week on Sunday. By lunchtime, numerous sheep, camels, horses, cows and donkeys will be driven by the Uyghur farmers and herders to squeeze through the gates of the bazaars for trade. It’s dusty, smelly and crowded, but most people find it very exotic.

After the tour, you will be escorted to catch your flight or train to the next destination, or be sent to the border if you want to exit China by land port.

  • Kashgar's bazaar Kashgar's bazaar

The quotation for this trip is from Request Per Person

1. This price is for one person, based on a group of 2 adults sharing one standard double-bed room in 4-star hotel and traveling with our private tour in low seasons.
2. This price is subject to change according your traveling season, group size, hotel class, change of activities in your itinerary and possible fluctuation of currency exchange rate. If you want a lower price, you can get more people to join you, or use economy class hotels.
3. This price is only valid to March 31, 2025.
4. Reference exchange rate of USD 1=RMB 7.00. The final quote is based on current exchange rate. It may change according to the currency fluctuation, while the RMB quotation will be remained the same.

What's included?

  • Professional licensed English-speaking guide;
  • Admission tickets for all attractions listed in the itinerary;
  • Accommodation as listed in the itinerary (4-star standard);
  • Necessary vehicle transfers as listed in the itinerary;
  • Domestic flights (economy class) from Xian to Dunhuang / Urumqi to Kashgar, and high-speed trains from Beijing to Xian / Dunhuang to Turpan (second class);
  • Airport (and train station) pick up and drop off;
  • Luggage Transfers: between airports (railway station) and hotels;
  • All meals as listed (“B” for Chinese and Western breakfast buffet in your hotel; “L” for Chinese Lunch in local restaurant; “D” for Chinese dinner in local restaurant.);
  • Accident insurance;
  • Our service charge, including tour planning, handling, operational and communication charges.

What's excluded?

  • China visa;
  • Personal expenses;
  • Accommodation not listed in the itinerary;
  • Single Room Supplement;
  • Tourist sites which are not listed in the itinerary;
  • Beijing arrival flight or train on the first day;
  • Kashgar departure flight or train on the last day;
  • Recommended optional activities;
  • Excess Baggage Charges;
  • Optional tips to guides, drivers, etc.

Check What our delighted customers are saying about our services

Hi Wonder,

Yes, you responded swiftly and clear. Both drivers pick up and drop off were good. Our guide, Gavin was a very good guide, and driver, he's attentive, knows history well, kind and well organized. We're very happy with him. Hotels Holiday Inn Express were OK, they served good breakfast. Location might be a bit stranded but perhaps chosen because most our trips are outskirts and not inner city.

Vivi

Vivi‚ Indonesia, October 31, 2024

Hi Juliet,

I am very happy during this cruise trip. The service is excellent. The staff is smiling all the time and manger Stephen is very helpful. But I don't understand why the tips is different between the local customers and the foreign customers.

Kenny

Kenny‚ Canada, October 15, 2024

Hi Phoebe,

You were so helpful and responsive. I am glad I booked this adventure with you. Booking my one-day Great Wall Huanghuacheng excursion with China Discovery was worth every penny! The car ride was quite long and very comfortable. I was super grateful that there was some water provided because the climb was intense. My guide, Jack, was kind, knowledgeable, patient, and encouraging the whole time. The hike was the second hardest hike of my life but worth every moment and every drop of sweat. This was an experience I will never forget.

Thank you for your help!

Best,

Cassidy

Cassidy‚ USA, October 14, 2024

Hi Wonder,

Sorry that this review is delayed for so long! Here it is:

1. Wonder was very prompt, patient and flexible with our questions and specific requests, through the process of planning and arrangement. He kept us updated on trains and hotels, and made sure everything was going well during the trip. It was a pleasure to have Wonder as our travel consultant, and his work did result in a wonderful trip!

2. The tour arrangements were very well organized, hotels were comfortable, meals enjoyable, and the guides and drivers were helpful and kind. Thanks to our guides Steven, Elan, Alina, and Helen. Through them we learned so much about each place we visited, creating more meaning and connection for our travels. We’ll have great memories!

3. Yes, we’ll definitely recommend your service to our friends.

4. Very good travel service, very responsive to our needs and desires, very prompt.

Thank you again Wonder, for everything!

Best Wishes,

Lena, Kevin & Ariana

Lena‚ USA, October 14, 2024

Hello, Shirley

First, I wanted to thank you for your assistance in planning our trip to China these past few months. We have exchanged many emails and your support and suggestions have been essential to our holiday.

Second, we want to highly recommend Lyla as a guide in the Guilin area. She went above and beyond for us and demonstrated great depth and breadth of knowledge about numerous topics. We asked many questions and she was very thoughtful and informative with her responses. She was also very conscientious and always made she we were comfortable and prepared for the daily activities.

We cannot recommend her highly enough and we hope other English-speaking tourists are fortunate to have her as their guide.

Thank you,

Heidi

Heidi‚ USA, October 11, 2024
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Check What our customers are saying about us on Tripadvisor.com

We are one of the few China travel agencies who have kept active and received lots of feedbacks and reviews during pandemic years

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Ginagerri
"My email to China Discovery started in April, 2024 for a trip to Cheng du in September. Our travel consultant Phoebe Gao from Chengdu office was patience and extremely helpful. She had put together..." read more »
Reviewed on October 13, 2024
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Lily T
"My trip to Guilin was successfully planned & executed with the help of Reya, our travel consultant with Chengdu Bamboo tours (part of China Discovery). We're a group of 4 elderly people..." read more »
Reviewed on October 31, 2024
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How Our Teams Serve you at China Discovery

"Highest Standards of Quality and Honesty" is the core value of each specialized team at China Discovery.

Eveyone in our company is working hard for only one goal, which is to ensure the highest level of service, luxury, and attention to detail from the minute you begin planning your trip, to the day you return home.

1-on-1 Travel Consultant

China Tour

Our travel consultants are professional, experienced and responsible, helping you from the very beginning to the end of your China trip!

After sending us an inquiry, one of our travel consultants will get back to you within 0.5~23.5 hrs. In the next few days, he/she will be working closely with you to formulate a customized tour plan, as well as providing professional suggestions based on your travel interests, time, and budget.

Beside, he/she will keep in contact with you during your entire tour in China, continually checking if everything is going well as planned.

We're working at Chengdu Bamboo International Tours, local based in Chengdu.

Local Tour Guides

China Tour

Our local guide in every destination is not only very friendly, enthusiastic but also very informative and knowledgeable.

Once you arrive in the destination, the patient and punctual guides will pick you up and take you to get under skin of the city at your own pace. By in-depth discovery and explanation, they’ll show you more about the history, culture, customs and authentic local life. Throughout the journey, they're not only expert guides who take care of all the details but also fellow travelers who are dedicated to help you explore in comfort and style.

Our guides are passionate about what they do, and it shows all the way!

Local Drivers & Vehicle

Using our private transfer service makes you comfortable, relaxed and worry free all the way!

Our private service includes licensed drivers with many years’ driving experience and air-conditioned, non-smoking, clean and well-maintained cars/vans. Drivers are local, polite, friendly and helpful, taking you to your tourist sites, hotels, airport/train stations in safety. All kinds of vehicle are offered, and yours depends on the size of your group. Usually, we offer sedan cars, SUVs, business vans (MPV) and different types of buses, all with extra space for your luggage.

Our private transfer service guarantees you the highest comfort!

Comfortable & Homelike Hotels

China Tour

In each destination, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a great location!

The hotels we choose are based on star rating, great locations, well-equipped facilities, cozy bed, high quality service and guests’ feedbacks. Choices are a lot ranging from luxury 5 star, comfortable 4 star to budget 3 star. You could decide where to stay to best suit for your budget and likes. Generally, the hotels have both Western and Chinese breakfast with a wide choices.

If you have already got an ideal hotel, please feel free to tell our travel consultants and they'll book the hotel for you.

Have good sleep in our well-selected hotels in all the destinations of China.

Meals & Dining

China Tour

We can satisfy all the dietary requirements no matter you want Chinese local food, western food, vegetarian food or muslin food.

The restaurants we will take you for lunch or dinner are all designated tourist restaurants approved by local tourist administration bureau. They have very good sanitary conditions and the food is prepared fresh and clean.

There will be some meals excluded in your itinerary as you like, and your private guide will be delighted to give you some suggestions and take you to the local restaurants to taste like Beijing Roast Duck, Xian Dumpling Dinner, Sichuan Hotpot, etc., if you are interested in local food tasting.

All the dining options will satisfy your stomach!

Photo gallery of this trip

  • Beijing Daxing International Airport Beijing Daxing International Airport
  • Tiananmen Gate at Tiananmen Square Tiananmen Gate at Tiananmen Square
  • The Fudol Couple - Summer Palace The Fudol Couple - Summer Palace
  • Beijing Fobidden City from Jingshan Park - Sara from Australia Beijing Fobidden City from Jingshan Park - Sara from Australia
  • Kim - Mutianyu Great Wall Kim - Mutianyu Great Wall
  • Our customers visited Bird's Nest in 2019 Our customers visited Bird's Nest in 2019
  • Our Guest at the Sacred Way Our Guest at the Sacred Way
  • Cameron's Family from New Zealand - Temple of Heaven, Beijing Cameron's Family from New Zealand - Temple of Heaven, Beijing
  • Visit beautiful Muslim Quarter Visit beautiful Muslim Quarter
  • Great Mosque Xian Great Mosque Xian
  • Terracotta Warriors Pit One - Nguyen from Canada Terracotta Warriors Pit One - Nguyen from Canada
  • Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall Our guests biking on the Ancient City Wall
  • Xian Big Wild Goose Pagoda Xian Big Wild Goose Pagoda
  • Shanxi Provincial Museum Shanxi Provincial Museum
  • title Robert's family from USA - Mogao Cave title Robert's family from USA - Mogao Cave
  • Irene’s group from Malaysia Mogao Grottoes Irene’s group from Malaysia Mogao Grottoes
  • Jiaohe Anicent City Sunset Jiaohe Anicent City Sunset
  • Flaming Mountain Grand Canyon Flaming Mountain Grand Canyon
  • Peaceful Mazar Village in Tuyugou Valley Peaceful Mazar Village in Tuyugou Valley
  • Modern Urumqi city with Tianshan Mountains as background Modern Urumqi city with Tianshan Mountains as background
  • Stunning scenery of Heavenly Lake of Tianshan Stunning scenery of Heavenly Lake of Tianshan
  • Id Kah Mosque is the most influential Islamic mosque in Xinjiang Id Kah Mosque is the most influential Islamic mosque in Xinjiang
  • Kashgar Old Town Kashgar Old Town
  • Kai's Group from New Zealand  - Abakh Hoja Tomb, Xinjiang Kai's Group from New Zealand - Abakh Hoja Tomb, Xinjiang
  • Kashgar's bazaar Kashgar's bazaar

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Customize your own China Tour

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