9D8N Silk Road China (Urumqi, Turpan, LiuYuan, Dunhuang, Jiayuguan, Jiuquan, Zhangye & Lanzhou)

Arrive in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, and check into your hotel. Urumqi is a crossroads of Central Asian cultures, blending Han Chinese and Uyghur influences. After dinner, relax and prepare for the adventures ahead in this bustling city, which serves as the gateway to Xinjiang's natural wonders.

Your first stop is Heavenly Lake (Tianchi), nestled in the Tianshan Mountains, famous for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking views. You’ll explore the lake by electrical car and cruise along its serene shores, offering a glimpse of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. In the afternoon, visit Grand Bazaar, a lively market that epitomizes the region's diverse culture, offering everything from spices to handmade carpets and jewelry. After your visit, head to Turpan, a city known for its historical landmarks and unique desert landscape.

Start your exploration with Flaming Hill (Huoyan Shan), which is named for the intense heat and red-hot rock formations that create a dramatic, fiery landscape, especially in summer. Visit the SuGong Pagoda, an ancient structure that stands tall against the vast desert backdrop, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area. Next, wander through Grape Valley, where lush vineyards thrive in the desert’s harsh climate, thanks to the Karez irrigation system. Finally, visit the Karez Well system, an ancient underground water network that is a vital source of water for the region’s agriculture, highlighting the ingenuity of the local people.

After breakfast, travel by bullet train to LiuYuan and then continue by car to Dunhuang. In Dunhuang, visit the Dunhuang Mosque, which blends traditional Chinese and Islamic architectural styles, reflecting the city’s multicultural history. In the evening, stroll through the bustling night market, where you can sample local snacks, shop for unique trinkets, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this desert town.

Explore the Singing Sand Dunes, a famous natural phenomenon where the sand produces a musical hum when the wind blows, creating a unique desert sound. Ride camels through the dunes for a traditional desert experience. Visit Crescent Moon Lake, a stunning oasis nestled among the dunes, known for its crescent shape and the contrast it provides to the surrounding arid landscape.

Travel to Jiayuguan to visit the JiaYuGuan Pass, one of the most significant fortifications along the ancient Great Wall of China. The pass is a symbol of the Wall’s westernmost reach and was strategically located to protect the ancient Silk Road. Afterward, head to JiuQuan Mosque, a serene religious site that combines Islamic and Chinese architectural styles, reflecting the cultural fusion of the region.

In Zhangye, visit the Rainbow Mountains (Zhangye Danxia), a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its vibrant, multi-colored rock formations created over millions of years. The electric car ride provides a stunning view of the rainbow-colored peaks that stretch across the valley. Afterward, visit the Zhangye Mosque, an architectural blend of Islamic and traditional Chinese styles, and explore the rich cultural heritage of the city.

Arrive in Lanzhou, the capital of Gansu Province, and visit the HuangHe (Yellow River) Mother Statue, which pays homage to the river, the cradle of Chinese civilization. Explore the Waterwheel Garden, showcasing ancient irrigation techniques used by local farmers along the Yellow River. See the HuangHe Bridge, a key crossing point over the river, and visit NanGuan Mosque, a peaceful place of worship that reflects Lanzhou’s rich Islamic culture. Finally, stroll through NanGuan National Flavor Street, famous for its array of local delicacies and vibrant street life.

After breakfast, transfer to Lanzhou Airport for your flight home, bringing an end to your journey through one of China’s most culturally rich and naturally diverse regions. From the dramatic landscapes of the Rainbow Mountains to the ancient Great Wall fortifications, your trip has been filled with memorable experiences that showcase the region’s rich history and unique geography.