Embark on a captivating journey along China’s western Silk Road, exploring the rich history, culture, and natural wonders of Dunhuang, Turpan, and Urumqi. From the ancient Buddhist caves of Mogao Grottoes and the golden sands of Echoing Sand Mountain, to the historic villages and ruins of Turpan and the breathtaking Heavenly Lake in the Tianshan Mountains, this tour offers a perfect blend of heritage, adventure, and local experiences. Discover bustling night markets, traditional Uyghur culture, and the stunning landscapes that have inspired travelers for centuries.
10D9N SILK ROAD GROUP TOUR (2026)
ITINERARY
Day 01
SINGAPORE – XIAN
Upon arrival at Xian International Airport, you will be met by our friendly representative and transferred to your hotel in the city. The remainder of the day is free for you to enjoy at your own leisure.
Overnight: Hotel in Xian
Day 02
XIAN
Xian, known as the eastern gateway of the ancient Silk Road, offers an extraordinary journey through China’s past. Travel about one hour from the city center to reach the outskirts, where you will explore the remarkable Terracotta Army—one of the greatest archaeological finds of modern times. Located near the mausoleum of China’s first emperor, Qin Shi Huang, this vast site continues to reveal new discoveries and provides an unforgettable insight into the power and sophistication of ancient China. Spend approximately three hours immersing yourself in this iconic historical landmark. After lunch, proceed to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a renowned Buddhist landmark with deep historical significance. Built to preserve sacred scriptures brought from India by a distinguished monk, the seven-story pagoda reflects traditional Chinese architectural design and features an array of Buddha statues. Visitors may ascend the pagoda to enjoy panoramic views of Xian and its surrounding cityscape.
Overnight: Hotel in Xian
Day 03
XIAN
Dedicate the day to discovering Xian’s rich traditions, history, and local way of life. Begin with a visit to the Shaanxi History Museum, one of China’s most prominent museums, showcasing an extensive collection of cultural relics unearthed from Shaanxi Province and across the country. Its modern complex is inspired by Tang Dynasty architectural style, reflecting the depth and brilliance of the region’s historical and cultural legacy. Next, travel to the Ancient City Wall, the best-preserved and most complete city wall in China, as well as one of the largest ancient military defense systems in the world. Enter through the main gate and experience the impressive scale of the wall from above. You may choose to stroll along the ramparts or enjoy a bike ride to fully appreciate its vast length and panoramic views of the city below. The day concludes with a visit to the Grand Mosque and the surrounding Old Muslim Quarter. This historic complex, known for its grand layout and long history, beautifully blends Islamic traditions with classic Chinese architectural elements. Featuring traditional Chinese pavilions, painted beams, and carved structures alongside Islamic design, the mosque stands as a unique cultural landmark.
Overnight: Hotel in Xian
Day 04
XIAN – JIAYUGUAN
Depart early from your hotel and transfer to the airport for your morning flight to Jiayuguan, with a flight time of approximately 2–3 hours. Upon arrival, you will be met and escorted to begin sightseeing at Jiayuguan Pass. This impressive Ming Dynasty fortress marks the western end of the Great Wall and once served as a vital military stronghold guarding the ancient Silk Road. Continue with a visit to the Great Wall Museum, opened in 1989 as China’s first museum dedicated to presenting the history and culture of the Great Wall in a comprehensive manner. Please note that exploring the site involves climbing numerous steps between towers and requires about two hours of walking. Later, visit the dramatic section known as the “Suspended Wall,” where the Great Wall follows a steep mountain ridge at an incline of nearly 45 degrees. Perched high above the landscape, this section appears to hang from the hillside, offering a striking and unforgettable view.
Overnight: Hotel in Jiayuguan
Day 05
JIAYUGUAN – DUNHUANG
In the morning, drive about 5 hours to Dunhuang, stopping en route at the Yulin Grottoes, an important cultural site carved into cliffs along the Yulin River. Formerly known as Ten-Thousand Buddha Gorge, the grottoes feature well-preserved murals and sculptures set among elm-lined valleys. Arrive in Dunhuang and visit Echoing Sand Mountain and Crescent Lake, where the shifting sands create unique sounds and the crescent-shaped lake has endured for centuries. A camel ride through the desert (approx. 40 minutes) is highly recommended. Please bring sunglasses and a mask for dust protection. In the evening, enjoy a walk through Shazhou Night Market, Dunhuang’s liveliest night spot, to sample local cuisine and experience the vibrant atmosphere.
Overnight: Hotel in Jiayuguan
Day 06
DUNHUANG – TURPAN
Today’s tour begins at the Mogao Grottoes (Thousand Buddha Grottoes), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s greatest artistic and religious treasures. The grottoes feature exquisite murals and sculptures created over 1,000 years of Buddhist art across multiple dynasties. Before entering the caves, enjoy a 40-minute Silk Road film at the Visitor Center. A professional Mogao guide will then lead you to 8 selected grottoes, using special lighting to clearly view the murals and paintings (no photos or videos allowed inside). The total visit lasts about 4 hours, including the film. After lunch at a local restaurant, transfer to Liuyuan Station to board a high-speed train to Turpan.
Overnight: Hotel in Turpan
Day 07
TURPAN
Enjoy a full day exploring Turpan. First, visit Tuyoq Village, the oldest Uighur village, located deep in Flaming Mountain Canyon. Once a sacred site for both Buddhism and Islam, the village features canyon scenery, ancient caves, tombs, and traditional buildings. From here, admire the dramatic Flaming Mountains, famously described in Journey to the West. Next, visit the Astana Tombs, the ancient cemetery of Gaochang City, known as the “Underground Museum” for its rich archaeological discoveries. Finally, explore the Jiaohe Ruins, a 2,300-year-old ancient city dramatically situated on a plateau between two rivers.
Overnight: Hotel in Turpan
Day 08
TURPAN – URUMIQI
After breakfast, explore Turpan city, starting with the Sugong Minaret, China’s largest Islamic minaret, built in 1778 by Sulaiman to honor his father’s achievements. Next, visit the Karez Well, an ingenious underground irrigation system that channels water to local farmland. After lunch at a local restaurant, drive approximately 3 hours to Urumqi, passing Asia’s largest wind power station at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains and catching a glimpse of Dabancheng Salt Lake along the way. Upon arrival in Urumqi, transfer to your hotel for check-in.
Overnight: Hotel in Urumiqi
Day 09
URUMIQI – HEAVENLY LAKE
Today, visit the stunning Heavenly Lake (approx. 1.5 hrs), located 2,000 meters up in the Tianshan Mountains. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, wildflowers, and evergreen pines, the lake is reached via a 40-minute scenic shuttle bus through dramatic mountain roads. Take a walk to the lakeside or enjoy a boat ride. Lunch in a local Kazakh yurt is highly recommended. In the afternoon, return to Urumqi (approx. 1.5 hrs) and visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum to see Silk Road artifacts and minority culture treasures. End the day at the Xinjiang International Bazaar, the largest market in Urumqi, where you can browse fruits, crafts, carpets, knives, clothing, and more.
Overnight: Hotel in Urumiqi
Day 10
URUMIQI – SINGAPORE
Free and easy at your own leisure till airport transfer for your flight home.
Package includes:
- Domestic flight from Xian to Jiayuguan
- Express train from Liuyuan to Turpan
- All accommodation with breakfast included
- Private transportation with professional drivers
- Experienced English speaking guides
- All lodgings and meals for guides and drivers
- Entrance fees to all place of interest mentioned in above itinerary
Package excludes:
- Return international air ticket
- Travel insurance
- All meals not indicated
- Chinese Visa (Singaporeans are Visa-free up to 30 days)
- Tips for guide and driver
- All expenses of a personal nature
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IWT LLP, acts only as an agent for The Client in acquiring transportation, accommodations, sightseeing, trekking and other services for The Client’s benefit, and on the express condition that IWT LLP shall not be liable nor responsible for any loss (including without limitation, direct, indirect, special, incidental or consequential loss, economic loss), damage, mishap, bodily injury, death, delay, defect, omission or any irregularity that may be caused to The Client, third parties or properties. IWT LLP is to be released from all liabilities deriving from acts of terrorism, hijacking, civil unrest, natural calamities, labour strikes, thefts or any other factors beyond IWT LLP’s control. Any losses and expenses are to be borne by The Client. In the event that IWT LLP is found liable by a court of competent jurisdiction on any basis in relation to The Client’s booking done via IWT LLP, IWT LLP’s maximum liability to the client is limited to the cost of the booking in question. See our full Terms and Conditions.