Legendary Silk Road 13-Day Tour

• Arrive in Beijing and transfer to the hotel

• 4+ star hotels

• None

Welcome to Beijing, the vibrant capital of China, where a rich cultural heritage and unique travel experiences await you.

Upon your arrival, our professional tour guide will greet you at the airport and assist you with your transfer to the hotel for a relaxing break.

The remainder of the day is yours to explore at your leisure. If you're interested in venturing out, your guide can offer valuable suggestions to enhance your visit.

Arrival Tips

As an international aviation hub, Beijing is connected to many cities around the world by direct flights. In addition, you can also choose to arrive in Beijing conveniently by high-speed train, such as from Shanghai (about 5-6 hours), Xi'an (about 5.5 hours) and Guangzhou (about 8-9.5 hours).

• Tian'anmen Square--Forbidden City--Jingshan Park--Summer Palace

• 4+ star hotels

• Breakfast

   

Start your day at Tian'anmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world, where you can take in the iconic sights and monuments. 

Next, proceed to the Forbidden City, the magnificent imperial palace that housed Chinese emperors for centuries, and explore its stunning architecture and rich history.

In the afternoon, visit Jingshan Park, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Forbidden City from the hilltop. 

Finally, conclude your day at the Summer Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can stroll through beautiful gardens and along Kunming Lake, soaking in the serene atmosphere.

Recommended Activities

• You can choose foot massage, houhai night bars or Sanlitun bar street at night.

• Watching Peking Opera Show, Kung fu Show or Acrobatic Show.

• Great Wall--Bird Nest

• 4+ star hotels

• Breakfast

Start your day with a visit to the Great Wall of China, one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. You can hike along its ancient paths and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. After exploring the wall, head to the Bird's Nest, the stunning National Stadium built for the 2008 Olympics. Take some time to admire its unique architecture and learn about its significance in modern Chinese history.

Recommended Dinner

You can go to Quanjude and enjoy a meal of the famous Peking duck.

• Temple of Heaven--Hutongs--High speed Train to Xi'an

• 4+ star hotels

• Breakfast&Lunch

Begin your day at the Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage site where emperors once prayed for good harvests. Stroll through its beautiful gardens and observe locals engaging in traditional activities like tai chi and dancing. 

Afterward, explore the Hutongs of Beijing, taking a rickshaw ride through these historic alleys to experience the city's traditional lifestyle.

In the afternoon, you'll head to the train station for your high-speed train journey to Xi'an, where your next adventure awaits!

• Terracotta Warriors and Horses--Da Ci'en Temple--Big Wild Goose Pagoda--Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City

• 4+ star hotels

• Breakfast

Start your day with a visit to the Terracotta Warriors and Horses, an extraordinary archaeological site showcasing thousands of life-sized figures buried with China's first emperor. 

After exploring this fascinating site, head to Da Ci'en Temple, known for its serene atmosphere and historical significance.

In the afternoon, continue to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a renowned Buddhist pagoda that offers stunning views of the surrounding area. 

Finally, conclude your day at the Grand Tang Dynasty Ever Bright City, where you can enjoy vibrant performances, shop for souvenirs, and savor delicious local cuisine in a lively setting.

• Xi'an Museum--Small Wild Goose Pagoda--Ancient City Wall

• 4+ star hotels

• Breakfast

Begin your day at the Xi'an Museum, where you can delve into the rich history and culture of Xi'an through its impressive collections.

Next, visit the Small Wild Goose Pagoda, an iconic structure that offers beautiful views and a glimpse into ancient architecture.

In the afternoon, explore the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China, where you can walk or bike along its length while enjoying the surrounding scenery. 

• Xi'an--Flight to Dunhuang--Mingsha Mountain--Crescent Lake

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

After breakfast, you'll catch a flight from Xi'an to Dunhuang, a city famous for its stunning desert landscapes. 

Upon arrival, head to Mingsha Mountain, where you can experience the unique phenomenon of the singing sands as you hike or take a camel ride up the dunes.

In the afternoon, visit the picturesque Crescent Lake, a serene oasis surrounded by the vast desert. Here, you can relax, take in the breathtaking views, and explore the area. This enchanting setting will leave you with lasting memories before concluding your day in Dunhuang.

Optional Activities

If you wish, you can choose to do desert camping for one night at the Mingsha Mountain. During the camping, there are abundant activities and programs for you to have fun, such as sandboarding, desert motorcycle, campfire and so on.

• Mogao Caves--Flight to Turpan

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

After breakfast, you'll visit the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its stunning Buddhist art and ancient murals. Spend the morning exploring these remarkable caves, which offer a glimpse into China's rich cultural history.

In the afternoon, you'll catch a flight to Turpan, an oasis city in Xinjiang known for its unique geography and historical sites. Upon arrival, you'll have the evening free to relax or explore the vibrant local culture before settling in for the night.

• The Flaming Mountain--Tuyu Valley--The Village of Mazar--The Karez Well--The Ruins of Jiaohe

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

In the morning, you will start your adventure at the Flaming Mountain, famous for its striking red rock formations and scorching temperatures. After taking in the breathtaking views, you'll head to Tuyu Valley, where you can enjoy the scenic landscapes and perhaps spot some local wildlife.

Next, visit the Village of Mazar, a quaint settlement that offers insight into the region's culture and traditions. Here, you can learn about the local way of life and enjoy the hospitality of the residents.

In the afternoon, explore the Karez Well, an ancient irrigation system that showcases the ingenuity of local engineering. Finally, you'll conclude your day at The Ruins of Jiaohe, an impressive archaeological site that dates back over 2,000 years, providing a fascinating glimpse into the area's history.

• Xinjiang Museum--Tianchi lake

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

In the morning, you'll begin your day at the Xinjiang Museum, where you can explore fascinating exhibits that showcase the rich history and diverse cultures of the Xinjiang region. This is a great opportunity to learn about the local heritage and art.

After your museum visit, you will head to Tianchi Lake, a stunning alpine lake surrounded by breathtaking mountains. Here, you can enjoy the serene beauty of the area, take a leisurely walk along the shores, and capture some memorable photos. It's the perfect spot to relax and appreciate the natural landscapes of Xinjiang.

Recommended Activities:

There are generally three ways to explore Tianchi. You can take a walk around the lake, take a boat tour, or ride the cable car to the top of the mountain. (Boat trips and cable cars will be charged extra.

If time permits, you can even enjoy all of these experiences.

• Urumqi--Flight to Kashgar--Apakhoga Tomb--The Etigar Mosque--Old Town of Kashgar

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

Upon arriving in Kashgar, you'll start your day by visiting the Apakhoga Tomb, an important historical site that showcases exquisite Uyghur architecture. This tomb is a beautiful testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.

Next, you'll explore the Etigar Mosque, the largest mosque in China, known for its stunning design and vibrant atmosphere. Here, you can witness the local community in prayer and appreciate the mosque's intricate craftsmanship.

In the afternoon, you will wander through the Old Town of Kashgar, where you can immerse yourself in the traditional Uyghur lifestyle. Stroll along narrow streets lined with unique shops, sample local delicacies, and soak in the lively atmosphere of this historic area.

• Baisha Lake (White Sand Lake)- Karakul Lake

• 4+ stars Hotel

• Breakfast

In the morning, you'll visit Baisha Lake (White Sand Lake), known for its serene beauty and striking blue waters. Take a leisurely stroll along the shoreline, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and capture stunning photos of the surrounding landscape.

Afterward, you’ll head to Karakul Lake, one of the highest lakes in China, nestled at the foot of the Pamir Mountains. Here, you can marvel at the breathtaking views, with the lake reflecting the majestic mountains.

• Kashgar Bazaar--livestock Bazaar--Kashgar Departure

• None

• Breakfast

In the morning, you’ll explore the vibrant Kashgar Bazaar, a bustling marketplace that’s both chaotic and colorful. In Uyghur, "bazaar" refers to a grand marketplace, and this one has been a key trading hub in West and Central Asia since the Silk Road flourished. Here, you can find a variety of goods, from traditional Muslim crafts and authentic Iranian saffron to Pashmina wool, exquisite carpets, fresh fruits, spices, and even camels.

If you happen to visit on a Sunday, be sure to experience the lively livestock market. Farmers and herders bring their herds of sheep, camels, horses, cows, and donkeys to trade, creating a bustling scene filled with energy and unique sights.

After your tour, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight to your next destination. If you plan to leave China via a land border, we can arrange for a vehicle to take you directly there.