15 Days Oriental Express Legendary Tour to Xinjiang

Welcome to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. Getting off the plane, you will find your tour guide is already waiting for you at the airport. Along the way to your hotel, you can enjoy the charming natural scenery and learn more about the history, culture and customs of the vast region from the guide. And you can get a nice rest once arriving at the hotel.

For your first day in Xinjiang, you will be taken to visit the Heavenly Lake, which is located halfway up the Bogda Peak, the highest mountain in the eastern Tianshan Mountains. The Lake will offer you picturesque scenery that earns it the name of the“Yaochi”(a fairyland in a Chinese myth). Trekking, taking the cruise or even the cable car to the Maya Mountains, you'll harvest an incredible view of Bogoda Peak. Still, the surprise hasn't done yet until your boarding on the Oriental Express to Yining. 

What the guide can't let you miss out is the Karajun Grassland. This pristine grassland is a living canvas painted with vibrant hues of green, dotted with wildflowers that sway gently in the breeze. The air is crisp and pure, carrying the faint scent of earth anf blossoms, while the distant snow-capped Tianshan Mountains provide a majestic backdrop, their peaks glistening under the sun. As you wander through the grassland, you'll encounter herds of grazing sheep and horses, their movements as graceful as the clouds drifting above.

Enjoy a nice breakfast or an iced Americano at hotel, you'll then be driven to the Sayram Lake. On the way, you will pass through the Guozigou Bridge, the gateway to the Ili Valley, which you must open wide your eyes and have a good look at. As for the Lake, nestled in the embrace of the Tianshan Mountains, it is a jewel of nature, its waters shimmering like a sapphire under the vast blue sky. Here, time seems to stand still, inviting you to lose yourselves in its tranquil embrace.

Having enjoyed natural exploration, next you are going to the Horgos Chinese Culture Center which stands as a proud ambassador of China's rich heritage. Its walls echoes with the whispers of ancient wisdom and modern innovation. Like a seasoned storyteller, it unfolds the tapestry of Chinese traditions, from the delicate brushstrokes of calligraphy to the harmonious movements of Tai Chi, inviting you to embark on a sensory journey through time.

Right now we are heading to the Hemu Village, but the first highlight for today is the much well-known Five Colored Beach, a natural masterpiece that feels like stepping into a painter's dream. As you wander through this stunning landscape, you'll be captivated by the vibrant layers of red, yellow, green, and purple hues that streak across the cliffs, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the deep blue sky and the shimmering river below, so don't miss it out.

Settling in the picturesque Hemu Village, you can soak in the serene atmosphere of this charming countryside nestled in the Altay Mountains. Why not take a leisure stroll along the Hemu River, which meanders through the vast, open grasslands, or visit the Tuwa People who have been living there for thousands of years, learning their culture and customs which make our Chinese culture shine through history?

Enjoy a chill morning at the Village, and then your day will start with the journey to the breathtaking Kanas Lake. Upon arriving at the Lake, you are greeted by a sight that seems almost otherworldly. The lake's crystal-clear waters shimmer in shades of turquoise and emerald, reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks and dense forests. As you explore the area, you may choose to take a leisurely boat ride across the lake, or take a hike, allowing you to fully appreciate its vastness and the dramatic landscapes that surround it.

Today, let's continue the exploration of the Kanas Lake. In the morning, you might take a walk to wake up yourself. And when ready, you will go up to the Guanyu Pavilion where you can gain a panoramic view of natural wonders or simply the tranquility of the area.

Maybe it seems your tour is finished when it's dark, but without a campfire, we cannot call it a day. Then you will again take on the train heading to Kuqa.

Once visiting Kuqa, there one attraction you can't miss--the Tianshan Grand Canyon. What makes it charming is not only its magnificence and precipitousness, but also its tranquility, mysteriousness and serene. And you cannot miss the opportunity of taking photos at the following sites: the“Sacred Dog Guarding Canyon”Black Cliff, Sky Hole, and Treasure-burying Hole. Apart from that, you can also harvest a camel-riding experience. 

Since having enjoyed God-made beauty, how about exploring the Kuqa Royal Palace then? This grand man-made architectural marvel, with its intricate Uyghur-inspired designs and sprawling courtyards, will transport you to an era of opulence and grandeur. Just imagine, as you wander through its halls, you can hear the echoes of royal gatherings and whispers of history. As nights falls, you will head to the Kashgar.

Today, please hold your breath for the well-known Karakul Lake which means the“Black Sea Lake”. On the way to it, you can still get a closer look at the remarkable Bulunkou Lake, Mount Kongur Tiube and Muztagh Ata. What you are suggested to do is take a walk around, and immerse yourself in the marvellous natural beauty. To deepen your memories of here, why not take some fascinating photos?

The day will start with the visit to the Baisha Lake. The Lake has a picturesque natural scenery, with the snow-capped mountains and the lakes and rivers at the bottom of the mountains, forming a grand and imposing spectacle.

It's almost to the dinner time, you must be hungry. Thus, you will be hosted with a nice dinner when back to Kashgar.

Today will be a great day for you. When you are ready, your local guide will first drive you through the Panlong Ancient Road to visit the local Tajik families. Looking around the house and having a chat with the hosts, you will get to know the people in a real sense. There, you can also enjoy their specialty cuisines, with melodious sounds around.

The next stop is the history-telling Stone City. Once functioned as a stronghold, the cultural ruins will tell you some fascinating stories about communications between the East and the West along the ancient Silk Road, which you can't miss.

And what's amazing outside is the Jincao Beach. Just embrace the sunset, and have nice photos there, sure you will retain unforgettable memories.

Enjoy a chill morning at the hotel, and then you'll officially usher your day with a visit to the Kashgar Ancient City which has been standing here for over 2,000 years. Walking on the streets, you will be impressed by the exotic vibe around here. Please pay attention to the Uyghurs who stand on both sides of the streets, they are welcoming you with their amazing singing and dancing.

The next stop after lunch is the Id Kah Mosque built in 1442 which is not only the largest mosque in Xinjiang, but also the largest mosque across the country.

And then you'll visit the Abak Hoja Tomb, also known as the Fragrant Concubine Garden. Please do have a closer look at the exquisite glazed tiles outside the tombs. They are an embodiment of the Uyghur aesthetic value and tell the stories about the master of the tomb.

After dinner, the Express will take you to Khotan.

When in Hotan, you must have a cultural exploration. There are two spots you cannot miss. One is the Hotan Museum where each exhibit is a testimony of time and gives a deeper understanding of the cultural heritage of Hotan. 

And the other is the Hotan Tuancheng Folk Tourism Area. As you step into this enchanting area, you are immediately greeted by the lively atmosphere and the warm smiles of the local Uyghur people. The air is also filled with the tantalizing aroma of sizzling kebabs and freshly baked naan bread, drawing you towards the bustling food stalls. More than a place to visit, it's also an experience that immerses you in the vibrant culture and warm hospitality of the Uyghur people, leaving you with memories that will last a lifetime. Then the train will take you to Korla.

As the train slowly pulls into the Korla Station, your journey into the heart of Xinjiang's natural and cultural wonders begins. You'll be warmly greeted and taken to the fascinating Lop Nur People Village, where you'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the unique traditions and lifestyle of the local community.

Apart from that, the adventure allows you to explore one of China's most pristine and breathtaking poplar forest reserves. And just hop on a sightseeing bus, it will take you along the Tarim River, where you'll witness the delicate balance of life in the desert. For those seeking a bit more excitement, you can embark on a camel ride across China's first mobile desert, where the shifting sands create an ever-changing landscape.

Today our journey comes to an end. After breakfast，your guide will take you to the airport.