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13 Days Silk Road Group Tour from Kashgar to Xining (Xinjiang/Gansu/Qinghai)

Silk · 13 days · from $3984 USD

History · Desert

13 Days Silk Road Group Tour from Kashgar to Xining (Xinjiang/Gansu/Qinghai) — 13 days · Silk · History, Desert. Private & small-group China tour with English

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Kashgar, Xinjiang Arrival — Pick-up and Hotel Check-in Ni Hao! Welcome to Kashgar , the westernmost frontier city in China, known as a dazzling jewel on the ancient Silk Road. Upon your arrival at Kashgar airport, your tour guide and driver will greet you at the exit. They’ll then escort you directly to the downtown area and assist you with checking in at your hotel. Note: We recommend choosing a morning flight to Kashgar, as you’ll need to apply for a border permit in advance (office hours: 10:30 AM–6:00 PM). This permit is required for entering border areas such as Tashkurgan County and the Pamir Plateau on the second day. Kashgar (喀什), located in the southwestern part of Xinjiang, was historically known as Shule ( (疏勒国), and was one of the thirty-six kingdoms of the Western Regions (西域三十六国). For centuries, Kashgar has been a significant city in southern Xinjiang. It served as the western terminus for the northern, central, and southern routes of the ancient Silk Road, connecting Europe and Asia. It has long been a transportation hub and distribution center for goods between East and West. Trade is highly developed here, earning it the title of “Kingdom of Bazaars (markets).” Diverse cultures from Asia and Europe converge on Kashgar, clashing and blending intensely with the local culture, injecting new vitality into Kashgar. This cultural fusion is specifically reflected in Kashgar Old City’s architecture, cuisine, and vibrant markets. The city has always been a melting pot of various ethnic groups, including Uyghurs, Han Chinese, Tajiks, and other nationalities. Additionally, located at the junction of the Pamir Plateau and the Tarim Basin, Kashgar also serves as a gateway to some stunning natural landscapes. Kashgar Arrival Ideas: By Air: Kashgar International Airport (IATA: KHG, ICAO: ZWSH) is one of China’s westernmost airports. Domestic flights connect Kashgar to major Chinese cities, including:Urumqi (about 2 hours), Lanzhou (about 4 hours), Beijing (about 6 hours), Shanghai (about 7 hours), Xi’an (about 5 hours), Chengdu (about 5 hours), and Guangzhou (about 7 hours). Some international flights from nearby Central Asian countries may also fly into Kashgar. From Borders: The Torugart Pass and Irkeshtam Pass are important channels between China and Kyrgyzstan. The Karasu Port is a crucial gateway between China and Tajikistan. The Khunjerab Pass is the only land border crossing between China and Pakistan. If you plan to arrive via a land border, please contact your travel advisor for specific costs and arrangements.
  • Day 2: Kashgar - China-Pakistan Highway - Tashkurgan — Pamir Plateau, Baisha Lake, Karakul Lake This morning, your guide and driver will pick you up from your hotel in Kashgar to embark on an exhilarating road trip along the China-Pakistan Highway. Along the way, you can enjoy the beautiful landscape of Pamirs Plateau, visit Baisha Lake and Karakul Lake, admire the distant and mysterious Muztagh Ata Peak, Kongur Tagh, Kongur Tiube, and conclude in Tashkurgan. (Total distance: 300 kilometers, approximately 7-8 hours of travel) The China-Pakistan Highway (中巴公路) , also known as theKarakoram Highway (KKH), is one of the world’s highest paved international roads. It connects China and Pakistan across the Pamir Plateau (帕米尔高原) and is locally referred to as the Pamir Highway. Historically, routes across the Pamir Plateau – known as Congling (葱岭) in ancient times – were vital parts of the Silk Road. This section posed one of the most daunting challenges for merchants and travelers due to its harsh, rugged terrain. Here, several of the world’s renowned mountain ranges – the Himalayas, the Karakoram, the Kunlun Mountains, the Tianshan Mountains, and the Hindu Kush – converge and radiate outward, forming a massive mountainous junction. Today, the China-Pakistan Highway has transformed these perilous trade routes of the past into magnificent thoroughfares, attracting numerous tourists to the Pamir Plateau to experience its stunning natural scenery. Along the way, you will visit the following attractions: Baisha Mountain-Baisha Lake Scenic Area (白沙山-白沙湖景区): As you drive along National Highway G314, you’ll encounter Baisha Lake (白沙湖) , also known as Bulunkou Lake – a striking plateau lake nestled in the Pamir Plateau (elevation:about 3,660 meters). From its shore, you’re treated to a stunning vista: half pristine blue water, and half white sand mountain, both harmonizing with distant snow-capped peaks to create a magnificent spectacle. On the lake’s northern shore stands the renowned Baisha Mountain (白沙山) , winding for over 1,200 meters. The dark mountain body, covered with white sand, presents a soft silvery-white color under the clean sunlight of the Pamir Plateau, resembling white silk. Legend has it that as the lake water gradually dries up in autumn and winter, the white sand at the bottom of the lake emerges. In spring, the wind blows this sand onto the mountain, creating the extraordinary spectacle of sand accumulating into a mountain. Whenever strong winds blow, Baisha Mountain emits a sound, earning it the name “Singing Sand Mountain.” The southern shore of the lake is embraced by a chain of snow-capped mountains, with the highest peak being Mount Kongur Tagh at an elevation of 7,530 meters, adding further grandeur and mystery to this captivating landscape. Karakul Lake (喀拉库勒湖)： Karakul Lake is a high-altitude moraine lake (elevation:about 3,600 meters).Its name in the Kyrgyz language means “Black Lake,” attributed to its deep, dark waters. However, if you spend enough time by the lake, you will notice that it changes colors under different lighting conditions, appearing deep blue, emerald green, or ink black, earning it the nickname “the ever-changing lake.” Yet, the true highlights of Karakul Lake are the imposing peaks known as the “Kunlun Trio” that tower behind it: Kongur Tagh, Kongur Tiube, and Muztagh Ata, with altitudes of 7,719 meters, 7,595 meters, and 7,546 meters, respectively. On clear days, their majestic reflections are perfectly cast upon the glistening surface of the lake, creating the most iconic views of Karakul Lake. Among these, Muztagh Ata is particularly striking, covered with many glaciers, and is known as the “Father of Ice Mountains.” Afterward, drive to Tashkurgan County (塔什库尔干) from accommodation.
  • Day 3: Tashkurgan - China-Pakistan Highway - Kashgar — Stone City (Tashkurgan Fort), Alaer Golden Grasslands Today, you will be exploring Tashkurgan County before driving back to Kashgar along the scenic China-Pakistan Highway. Tashkurgan or Taxkorgan , officially known as Tashkurgan Tajik Autonomous County (塔什库尔干塔吉克自治县), is situated in the eastern part of the Pamir Plateau, at an elevation of about 3,600 meters. In Uyghur, Tashkurgan means “Stone Fort,” a name derived from the ancient stone fortresses located to the north of the town. It has the unique geographical advantage of being “one county bordering three countries,” namely Tajikistan, Afghanistan, and Pakistan. As the final pass of the Silk Road within China’s borders, Tashkurgan has been both an outlet for Central Plains civilization and a gateway for religious transmission throughout history. After breakfast, you will set out to explore Stone City (石头城) , also known as Tashkurgan Fort, a fortress of great strategic importance on the ancient Silk Road. Archaeological evidence During the Han period, it was once the capital of the Puli Kingdom (蒲犁国) one of the thirty-six states of the Western Regions (西域三十六国). After the Tang Dynasty unified the Western Regions, it became the largest post station on the ancient Silk Road crossing the Congling (Pamir Plateau). The renowned Chinese Buddhist monk Xuanzang (玄奘) stopped here to preach for 22 days on his return journey from India. It is built on a high hill, with an extremely steep terrain, mainly constructed from piled stones, forming a unique stone city landscape. For travelers, it is a fantastic experience to explore the city ruins, witness the vicissitudes of the ancient city, and imagine how many merchants, monks, and explorers once traveled westward or eastward from here, or ponder how the Tajik ancestors, over a thousand years ago without advanced tools, managed to complete such a massive and magnificent project. Following your visit to the fort, you will explore the expansive golden grasslands (金草滩) at the foot of the Stone City. This area, known as Alar National Wetland Park, comprises wetlands, meadows, rivers, marshes, snow-capped mountains, and plateaus. The Tashkurgan River flows through this area, where lush water and grass abound, and livestock roam freely, blending beautifully with the distant snow-capped mountains, white clouds, and blue sky. When the setting sun casts its light, the verdant grasslands turn a golden hue, and in the distance, the herders’ white felt tents and flocks of sheep are bathed in the sunset as if cloaked in a golden glow. Hence, this area is aptly named “Golden Grasslands.” Lastly, you will leave Tashkurgan and drive back to Kashgar city along the scenic China-Pakistan Highway. This journey is not merely a return trip but a continuous discovery of the profound and majestic beauty that defines the Pamir Plateau. You’ll have the opportunity to admire the spectacular snow-capped peaks from various angles on both sides. Muztagh Ata, Kongur Tagh, and Kongur Jiubie Peak form a triangular configuration, standing like towering pillars on the Pamir Plateau. Stay overnight in in Kashgar city.
  • Day 4: Kashgar to Urumqi — Kashgar Old City, Id Kah Mosque Your exploration can begin in Kashgar Old City (喀什老城市) . The Old City is the soul of Kashgar, encapsulating over two millennia of cultural and commercial exchanges along the Silk Road. Situated at the heart of the city and spread across 3.6 square kilometers, the Old City is a living museum, telling tales of ancient trade and cultural fusion. As a crucial hub for East-West traffic and a distribution center for goods, it offers a vivid glimpse into past prosperity. Within Kashgar Old City, the streets and alleys intersect intricately, narrow and winding paths with buildings of varying heights, creating a layout that resembles a maze. As you wander through, you’ll see traditional Uyghur mud-brick houses and numerous structures with Islamic features, such as pointed arches, domes, intricate woodcarvings, and colorful ceramic tiles. These architectural and street designs perfectly Central Asian and Islamic architectural elements with Uyghur characteristics, creating a sense of time travel for visitors. The Kashgar Old City thrives with commercial activity, with numerous bazaars and street markets scattered throughout, such as the Pottery Bazaar, Flower Pot (Doppa) Bazaar, Blacksmith Bazaar, Woodwork Bazaar, Medicine Tea Bazaar, Han Bazaar (Food Street)… This area is not only an excellent place to purchase and appreciate various handicrafts but also an ideal spot to savor Uyghur cuisine. Indulge in succulent lamb kebabs (羊肉串), rich and spicy lagman noodles (拉条子), savory samsas (烤包子), and freshly baked Naan (囊). As you wander through, the scenes, sounds, and scents on the streets seem to transport you back to the heyday of the Silk Road. You can almost visualize the bustling caravans, with merchants from China, Persia, Arabia, and many local regions converging here. The air is filled with the melodious ringing of bells on camels’ necks. Furthermore, Kashgar Old City is a hub for numerous cultural and religious activities as well as a place for residents’ daily lives and social interactions. One of the most notable landmarks is Id Kah Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺) , one of the largest mosques in China, attracting thousands of worshippers daily. After the tour, you’ll be escorted to the airport for your flight to Urumqi. Upon arrival at Urumqi airport, your local tour guide will greet you and accompany you to downtown Urumqi.
  • Day 5: Urumqi - Tianchi Lake - Urumqi — Heavenly Lake of Tianshan, Urumqi Grand Bazaar Today, you’ll embark on a full-day exploration, from the breathtaking natural beauty of Tianshan Tianchi Lake to the enlightening exhibits at the Xinjiang Regional Museum. In the morning, you’ll be driven approximately 70 kilometers (about 1-1.5 hours) to Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (天山天池) , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled at an elevation of around 1,980 meters (6,500 feet) above sea level, this serene alpine lake is surrounded by lush forests, snow-capped peaks, and breathtaking landscapes. Renowned for its crystal-clear waters, panoramic Bogda mountain views, and connections to ancient myths and legends, Heavenly Lake is a must-see. One such legend involves the Queen Mother of the West (Xi Wangmu), who is said to have hosted a banquet for the Eight Immortals here. Upon arrival, you’ll first take 40-minute sightseeing bus ride through the dramatic mountains. Then, enjoy 10-minute walk to the picturesque lake. Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Heavenly Lake , taking in the fresh mountain air and diverse flora and fauna. Optional Activities (additional fee required): Boat Ride: Cruise across the peaceful waters of the lake, immersing yourself in its beauty and the reflections of the snow-capped mountains. Cableway Ride: Take a cableway up to Mayashan for even more stunning views of Bogda Mountain. After lunch, return to Urumqi and visit the Urumqi Grand Bazaar , also known as the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, is a vibrant marketplace and a perfect way to spend your free time. Explore the many shops and stalls offering various local products, including traditional Uyghur clothing, carpets, handmade crafts, silk scarves, jewelry, spices, and dried fruits. Be sure to try local favorites such as lamb kebabs, polu (pilaf), naan bread, and laghman (hand-pulled noodles). Additionally, the architecture of the Grand Bazaar itself is worth admiring with its grand minarets, domes, and intricate Islamic-inspired designs. After the tour, return to your hotel in Urumqi.
  • Day 6: Urumqi to Turpan — Tuyoq Village, Jiaohe Ancient City Ruins, Karez System, Emin Minaret After breakfast, embark on a scenic 3-hour drive (180 km) from Urumqi to Turpan . Along the way, you’ll pass the striking Salt Lake and the impressive wind power station, the largest in Asia, at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. Turpan (吐鲁番) is located in the eastern part of Xinjiang. Situated in the Turpan Depression at 154 m below sea level, it’s the second-lowest depression in the world and the hottest spot in China, earning it the nickname “Fire Land.” Despite its arid climate, the ingenious Karez irrigation system has transformed this desert region into a fertile oasis, renowned for its agriculture, especially grape production. As a crucial stop on the ancient Silk Road, Turpan served as a hub for trade and cultural exchange between East and West. The area is dotted with historical sites – ancient city ruins, remnants of fortifications, and Buddhist cave complexes – testifying to its rich cultural roots. Upon arrival in Turpan, you will drive to Tuyoq Valley along the Flaming Mountain Grand Canyon. The Flaming Mountains (Huoyan Shan), named for their intense heat and reddish-brown sandstone that appears to glow like fire under the desert sun, are one of Turpan’s most iconic landscapes. Stretching over 100 kilometers from east to west, these eroded hills create a striking, otherworldly view. Along the way, we can stop for photos. The winding road along the cliffs of the Flaming Mountains will soon lead you to Mazar Village (麻扎村) , nestled in the Tuyoq Valley (吐峪沟) . It is the oldest surviving Uyghur village, with a history of over 1700 years. The mud-constructed town offers a glimpse of traditional Uighur life and architecture. Here, every household grows mulberry, apricot, or jujube trees around their homes. The doors are adorned with colorful paintings of flowers and fruits, and the window lattices are also decorated with a variety of motifs. The ancestors of Mazar Village, adapting to the local environment and survival needs, ingeniously used locally sourced yellow clay to construct their homes. This has resulted in one of the best-preserved earthen architecture complexes in China today. The earth-toned dwellings adorned with colorful door frames, set against the backdrop of red mountains, are extremely photogenic. Next, visit to Jiaohe Ancient City (交河故城) , one of the best-preserved ruins of ancient cities along the Silk Road and inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as part of the joint application “Silk Roads: the Routes Network of Chang’an-Tianshan Corridor.” Jiaohe Ruins offers a profound glimpse into ancient city planning and the historical complexity of the civilizations on the Silk Road. Nestled between two deep river valleys, Jiaohe, meaning “the confluence of two rivers,” is strategically positioned on a large, steep plateau that provides formidable natural defenses. As a key city connecting the Central Plains (中原) and the vast regions of the Western Regions (西域), Jiaohe Ancient City played a vital role in the transportation network of the Silk Road. It witnessed the bustling trade along the Silk Road and the exchange and integration of Eastern and Western cultures. Unlike many ancient cities, its structures were not built up from the ground but carved down into the existing plateau of loess soil. Walking through the ruins, you can see the remains of government offices, residential houses, Buddhist stupas, and temples. These remnants not only provide important physical evidence for studying the history and culture of the Silk Road but also offer valuable insights into the social, economic, and religious life that shaped this region. Tips: There is no shelter inside the ruin, so be mindful of sun protection. The History of Jiaohe Ancient City The Ancient City of Jiaohe witnessed the development of civilization in the Western Region and the Silk Road. Approximately 2,000 years ago, it was established as the capital of the Jushi Kingdom (车师国), one of the 36 kingdoms in the Western Regions (西域三十六国). Following Zhang Qian’s pioneering efforts during the Western Han Dynasty to carve a path through the Western Regions, Jiaohe City emerged as a crucial hub on the Silk Road. In 60 BC, the Han Dynasty central government established the Protectorate of the Western Regions (西域都护府) to administer the various states in the region, officially incorporating the Western Regions into the Chinese domain. During the Northern and Southern Dynasties, Jiaohe became a county under the jurisdiction of Gaochang（高昌). The city reached its zenith during the Tang Dynasty with the establishment of the Anxi Protectorate (安西都护府), marking a new era in the governance of the Western Regions. During this period, Jiaohe was a bustling center of international trade and vibrant cultural exchanges among diverse ethnic groups. From the 19th to the 14th century, due to the impact of wars, Jiaohe gradually declined and eventually became a ruin. Afterwards, head to the Karez System (坎儿井 ) to learn about the ancient underground irrigation system a few thousand years ago and how this system has benefitted the people along the desert’s edge, transforming barren land into a lush oasis. This traditional engineering marvel is considered one of China’s three great ancient engineering projects, alongside the Great Wall and the Grand Canal. It has been recognized in the 2024 World Irrigation Project Heritage list. The origin of the Karez Irrigation System Turpan, in Xinjiang, is one of China’s most arid regions, with annual rainfall of only 16 millimeters and evaporation exceeding 3,000 millimeters. These extreme conditions have led to severe surface water scarcity. To improve their survival prospects, people ingeniously utilized the natural slope of mountains to channel underground rainwater, glacial melt, and snowmelt from spring and summer to the surface for irrigation. This method greatly reduced water loss through surface evaporation, meeting the water needs of this arid region. It’s often said, “Without the Karez, there would be no Turpan; without the Karez, there would be no civilization in Turpan.” The Karez has turned extremely arid basins into green havens, making Turpan a crucial corridor for East-West exchanges along the Silk Road and a place where diverse cultures converge and coexist. The Karez system is often referred to as the “ Underground Great Wall “. In Xinjiang, there are over 1,700 karez wells which, if connected, would stretch over 5,000 kilometers, forming a vast underground river network. It is estimated that the Karez system has a history of over 2,000 years. Imagine centuries ago, without modern measuring tools or mechanical assistance, how ancient people located underground water sources, determined the gradient and direction in complete darkness, and connected such lengthy channels. Today, you have the opportunity to step into the Karez and personally unravel the secrets of this most mysterious hydraulic engineering project, experiencing first-hand how ancient innovation works. Next, continue your exploration at the Emin Minaret (额敏塔), the tallest Islamic minaret in Xinjiang. Also known as Sugong Ta (苏公塔) , this remarkable structure was erected in 1778 by the local ruler Suleiman, in tribute to his father, Emin Khoja, whose considerable efforts helped maintain national unity. It stands 44 meters (144 feet) tall and is made from sun-dried bricks, which give it a distinct, earthy color. The tower’s cylindrical body tapers elegantly as it rises, topped by an ornate, pointed dome. Uyghur artisans crafted up to 15 different types of brick patterns, including waves, diamonds, floral clusters, and crosses, which create endlessly looping designs around the tower. Gazing up from beneath the tower, you can fully appreciate the simplicity and grandeur of these designs. The accompanying mosque is an integral part of the complex, which you can visit as well. Emin Minaret serves not only as a religious structure but also as a cultural icon for the Uyghur people, embodying a unique blend of Islamic and Uyghur architectural traditions. After the tour, be escorted to your hotel in Turpan.
  • Day 7: Turpan to Dunhuang by High-speed Train — Train Station Transfers Today, you’ll be transferred to Turpan North Station to board the high-speed train to Liuyuan South Station . Upon arrival, your tour guide and driver will greet you at the exit and escort you to your hotel in Dunhuang (Distance 120km, about 2-hour drive). Welcome to Dunhuang , a must-visit city located in the Gansu province of China! Upon arrival in Dunhang, your guide will meet you at the Liuyuan Train Station and escort you to your hotel. You can explore on your own based on your arrival time. Feel free to seek travel ideas from your tour guide. Dunhuang , a city in Jiuquan (酒泉市), which was formerly known as Suzhou (肃州), is the birthplace of the “su” character in Gansu Province (甘肃的“肃”). Dunhuang is a desert oasis of ancient wonders. Discover the hidden gems of China’s western frontier. Explore the breathtaking Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with vibrant murals and intricate sculptures. Trek through the Gobi Desert, marveling at the Crescent Lake’s turquoise waters and towering sand dunes. From stargazing under pristine skies to experiencing the thrill of sandboarding, and camel riding, Dunhuang offers a captivating journey through time and nature. Dunhuang is also famous for Tunhuangology (敦煌学), a specialized field of study dedicated to exploring and interpreting the vast cultural and historical treasures in the Mogao Caves. Free Time Ideas: Dunhuang Shazhou Night Market (敦煌沙洲夜市) for Dunhuang food. There are many distinctive snacks that you must try, such as Apricot Skin Water (杏皮水), Donkey Meat Noodles (驴肉黄面), and Bubble Oil Cakes (泡儿油糕). The locals in Dunhuang enjoy eating lamb, chicken, and beef, and they are good at noodle making.
  • Day 8: Dunhuang Tour — Mogao Grottoes, Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Spring Today, you will enjoy a wonderful Dunhuang Culture Tour by visiting Mogao Grottoes (4-4.5hrs), a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can enjoy the relaxing time in Echoing Sand Mountain & Crescent Lake , don’t miss the delicious food at the Shazhou Night Market. Dunhuang Mogao Grottoes is the must-visit place for a trip to Gansu. You may read many stories about A. Stein (斯坦因a British archaeologist and explorer) and the vast trove of artifacts (Paintings, Sculptures, Manuscripts) he brought from the Mogao Grottoes in the early 20th century. You may have already seen the artifacts Stein collected in the British Museum in London. Or you may have heard of Paul Pelliot (French archaeologist & Sinologist) who like A. Stein, conducted several expeditions to Dunhuang and collected a large number of artifacts which is primarily housed in the Guimet Museum in Paris, France. Welcome to visit Mogao Grottoes the source of the world famous Dunhuang Manuscripts (Dunhuang Yi shu敦煌遗书; Cave 16-17) and explore valuable insights into the history and culture of the Silk Road. The Mogao Caves (Mogao Grottoes莫高窟), also known as the Thousand Buddha Grottoes (千佛洞), are acclaimed as the “Treasure House of Eastern Art东方艺术宝库.” The remaining 735 caves are dotted along cliffs rising about 15-30 m high and over 1,700 m, forming a magnificent spectacle of this world cultural heritage site. Despite the significant loss of artifacts to oversea museums, the Mogao Caves remain one of the world’s largest and most richly endowed repositories of Buddhist art. Spanning sixteen kingdoms, Northern Wei, Western Wei, Northern Zhou, Sui, Tang, Five Dynasties, Song, and Western Xia dynasties, the construction of the Mogao Grottoes lasted for over a thousand years until the Yuan Dynasty, resulting in about 45,000 ㎡ murals and 2,415 clay sculptures. In the year 366 AD, the first cave of the Mogao Caves was carved into the cliff by the Monk Le Zun (乐僔; over 1,650 years ago). In the 7th century, Xuanzang (唐僧) translated numerous Buddhist scriptures at the Mogao Caves. In 1900, Daoist Wang (王圆箓) discovered the Library Cave (藏经洞; Sutra Cave; Cave 16). From 1941 to 1943, Zhang Daqian (张大千), a prodigious Chinese artist of the twentieth century, copied 276 murals here. At the Mogao Caves, you can explore various types of grottoes (large statue caves, Nirvana caves, central pillar caves, vaulted ceiling caves, hall caves) and learn about the pigments used by ancient artists in painting murals (cinnabar, orpiment, azurite, mica, gamboge, gold leaf, shell powder). You can admire narrative paintings of Buddhist themes (the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, the Nine-Colored Deer Sacrificing Itself to Save Others), diverse clay sculptures (Buddha statues, Bodhisattva figures, guardians, deities), Flying Apsaras (飞天) and Swirling Dances (Sema; 胡旋舞) in the prosperous Tang Dynasty, as well as the attire and customs of patrons from various dynasties. At the Mogao Caves, you can witness the brilliance and charm of the ancient Silk Road and the efforts and achievements of generations of cultural heritage preservation workers and researchers (such as Chang Shuhong常书鸿, a Chinese painter known as the “guardian of Dunhuang”敦煌守护神). You can start at the Mogao Caves Digital Center (莫高窟数字中心), watch a 40-minute digital film, and then take a shuttle bus to the caves. Guided by the site interpreters, you will visit 8 caves sequentially (Ticket A; no photography allowed inside the caves). You may have the chance to see significant caves like the Library Cave (Caves 16-17; the largest cave), the Nine-Storey Tower (Cave 96; one of Mogao’s iconic structures; the largest Buddha statue), the Nirvana Sutra Cave (Cave 148; reclining Buddha), the Early Tang Treasures Cave (Cave 332), and the Northern Wei Masterpieces Cave (Cave 257). The actual eight caves visited may vary based on the site’s conditions. If interested, you can visit the Cultural Relics Protection and Display Center (文物保护陈列中心) to see 1:1 replicas of eight special caves, including Caves 275, 249, 285, 419, 220, 217, 25, and 3 (photography allowed). After the tour, you can return to your hotel to rest, and if time permits, you can visit the Dunhuang City Museum (optional) after lunch. In the afternoon, time to visit Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake (鸣沙山月牙泉) and even sit on the peak of Singing Sand Dunes (1,715 m) to wait for a stunning sunset in front of the Crescent Spring. The Singing Sand Dunes & Crescent Lake is praised as “one of the Top 5 Most Beautiful Deserts in China,” “China’s Best Natural Landscape Tourist Destination,” and “China’s Most Beautiful Moon-watching Spot.” It is a geological park known for the unique spectacle of mountains, springs, and sand coexisting in the desert. You can enjoy various activities (self-pay) such as camel riding, sand sliding, desert motorcycles, off-road vehicles, helicopters, gliders… You will meet people in costumes of traditional Han clothing or Flying Apsaras. The Mingsha Mountain is named for the sound produced by the moving sands, with recorded volumes of the singing reaching up to 83 decibels. This phenomenon of sand-producing sound is one of the Dunhuang Eight Views, known as “ShalingQingming沙岭晴鸣” in the Dunhuang County Chronicles《敦煌县志》, where Dunhuang’s ancient name of Shazhou (沙洲) also originates. The Singing Sand Dunes stretches from the Mogao Caves in the east to the Dang River in the west, spanning about 40 km east to west and 20 km north to south. The mountain is formed from deposits of fine sand in five colors (red, yellow, green, black, white). The sand of Mingsha Mountain is carried by the wind from the Gobi Desert and the Kumtag Desert to settle here, gradually accumulating over time. The Crescent Lake is nestled amidst the Mingsha Mountain, named for its crescent moon-like shape. The spring water spans 242 meters from east to west and can reach up to 50 meters wide from north to south, with an average depth of around 1.5 meters. The spring is home to the Ironback Fish (铁背鱼local fish) and Seven Star Grass (七星草; medicinal herb) which is included in the “Three Treasures of Crescent Spring月牙泉三宝” by locals (the third one is Five-colored Sand五色沙), believed to bring good luck to people. So try your luck to find them. Remarkably, the sand has not encroached upon the spring, and the water remains clear and abundant, traversing through time, creating the world wonder of the “First Spring in the Desert沙漠第一泉.” Notes： 1. To protect the caves, the Mogao Caves implemented a real-name reservation system for timed visits, implementing a daily limit on the number of visitors. The ticketing system includes A/Regular tickets (6,000 tickets/day) and B/Emergency tickets (12,000 tickets/day; for domestic visitors only). A Ticket includes access to 8 caves and 2 digital movies. B ticket includes access to 4 caves and the Cave Artifacts Conservation and Research Exhibition Center. 2. Visitors must follow the visiting arrangement set by the management of the Mogao Caves on the day of the visit. The visiting order of the Mingsha Mountain and the Mogao Caves is subject to change. 3. If you are particularly interested in the caves, you can also purchase tickets for special caves at the site (may require queuing) to explore more exquisite caves. The special caves (self-pay) are divided into Line 1 (Caves 45, 320, 321, 420, 9) and Line 2 (Caves 275, 45, 156, 158, 159). 4. During the Dunhuang Cultural Expo or in case of inclement weather or other factors affecting the visit, if the Mogao Caves cannot be visited as planned, our company will refund the Mogao Caves tickets according to the actual cost, or arrange a visit to the Western Thousand Buddha Caves as an alternative. 5. Optional activities in the Mingsha Mountain Scenic Area: Shoe covers; Sightseeing vehicle; Camel riding; Motorcycle; Off-road vehicle (seats 3 people); Paragliding; Helicopter (seats 3 people). 6. When participating in desert recreational activities, take care of your photographic equipment and prevent sand from entering the camera. When riding a camel, follow the staff’s instructions when mounting and dismounting.
  • Day 9: Dunhuang to Jiayuguan — Overhanging Great Wall, Jiayuguan Pass Today, you will head to Jiayuguan (400km, 5hrs) to explore Jiayuguan City for the Great Wall on the Cliff (Overhanging Great Wall) & the Jiayuguan Pass (Jiayuguan Fortress) . Jiayuguan is a good place to grasp the essence of a famous Chinese poem that goes, ‘In the boundless desert, lonely smoke rises straight; Over the endless river, the sun sinks round大漠孤烟直，长河落日圆’. You will climb the Great Wa

What's included

  • Accommodation: Throughout the trip, stay in 3 star hotels as listed in the itinerary. Meals: Breakfasts are included in itinerary. Please refer to the itinerary for the details of the meals provided. Attraction
  • Tickets: Entrance tickets for all listed attractions are included, guaranteeing full visits. In case of unexpected circumstances, alternative arrangements will be discussed with the tourists. Transportation
  • Arrangement: Air-conditioned vehicles. Transfer
  • Service: Airport pick-up and drop-off service. Travel
  • Insurance: Travel insurance is usually not included and should be purchased separately. Operation
  • Service: Our service from tour planning, handling, operational and finishing your trip