9D8N CHINA NORTHERN XINJIANG HIGHLIGHTS

9D8N China Northern Xinjiang Private Tour

Day 01 – ARRIVE URUMQI
Upon arrival in Urumqi, transfer to hotel and leisure time on your own for the rest of the day.  Urumqi, the capital city of Xinjiang Province and once a major stop on the Silk Road, is today a modern metropolis that serves as a gateway to explore the stunning landscapes of Xinjiang and the cultural heritage of its peoples including the Uyghurs, Han Chinese, Kazakhs, Mongolians and others.

Day 02 – URUMQI  [B]
Today, visit the Tianchi Lake (Heavenly Lake) located in the Tianshan Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Nestled about 1,900m above sea level, the lake is known for its spectacular scenery with views of snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, glaciers, steep valleys and ancient relics reflecting the region’s culture and history.  A boat ride (45mins round trip/if operating) and a cable car ride up Mount Maya for a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding landscape are great ways to appreciate the beauty of the place.  End the day in Urumqi where you can explore the city at your own pace or visit the popular and bustling International Grand Bazaar.   

Day 03 – URUMQI  [B]
Today, visit the Tianshan Grand Canyon, a narrow winding gorge located in the southern foothills of the Tianshan Mountains renowned for its stunning geological features including towering red cliffs and unique rock formations.  Other highlights of this scenic area are Tianshui Lake, Green Dragon Bay, Zhaobi Mountain and Qiaoya Meadows where herds of cattle and sheep and Kazakh yurts are scattered across the meadows. 

Day 04 – URUMQI  [B]
Today, travel to Turpan, well known for its historical significance as an oasis town along the Silk Road and its unique water management system, the Karez Well System which has been on the UNESCO World Heritage Tentative List.  Highlights include the Karez Folk Custom Garden, Jiaohe Ancient City, Flaming Mountain, Bezeklik Caves and Grape Valley.  Jiaohe Ancient City, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an archaeological site with one of the most well-preserved and significant ruins of an ancient city in the region, offering a glimpse into the history of this once prosperous oasis along the Silk Road.  The Flaming Mountain is known for its red sandstone cliffs which glow in the setting sun and as the place where the Monkey King fought the gods (“Journey to the West” legend).  The Bezeklik Caves are a complex of Buddhist cave temples carved into the cliff sides of the Flaming Mountain renowned for its exquisite murals and sculptures depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology and history.  The Grape Valley is a lush oasis in the Turpan Basin known for its vineyards and agricultural significance in an otherwise arid landscape.  It benefits from an underground irrigation system, the Karez Well System.

Day 05 – URUMQI – YINING  [B]
Today, take a high-speed train to Yining, the capital of Ili Prefecture which is in the northwestern part of Xinjiang bordering Kazakhstan and reputedly the most beautiful region in Xinjiang.  Yining was an important hub along the northern route of the ancient Silk Road facilitating trade and the exchange of ideas and cultures between China and Central Asia and historical sites, museums, and markets showcasing the blend of cultures and crafts in the region bear testimony to that history.  On arrival in Yining, explore the colourful and fascinating Liuxing Street, a hexagonal block lined with colourful buildings and eateries.

Day 06 – YINING  [B]
Today, visit the Lake Sayram-Guozigou (Fruit Valley) region.  Lake Sayram, the largest and highest alpine lake in Xinjiang renowned for its crystal-clear, turquoise waters and stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains.  There will be various stops around the lake with explanations of the scenery, the folklore and the historical significance of particular locations – for example, the Wusun tombs and the Dianjiangtai Historical Park (where Genghis Khan picked his generals for his westward expeditions).  At a vantage viewing platform, enjoy awesome views of Lake Sayram, the Guozigou Bridge, a stunning cable-stayed bridge, and the Guozigou (Fruit Valley), a beautiful 28km long valley bounded by snow-capped mountains.

Day 07 – YINING – NALATI GRASSLAND  [B]
Today, visit the Nalati Grassland, a vast prairie comparable to the Steppes of Mongolia and the Pampas in South America and renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty.  The vast rolling grasslands are surrounded by mountains and framed by blue skies making it an ideal place for nature lovers and photographers.  Highlights include hiking the Sky Grassland, horse riding (optional) and appreciating the Kazakh way of life and its customs.  End the day at a neighbouring town.

Day 08 – NALATI GRASSLANDS – YINING  [B]
Today, continue with the tour of the Nalati Grasslands, viewing the Hegu Grassland that is famous for its valley landform, snow-capped peaks in the distance, lush forests on the hill slopes and herds of cattle and sheep grazing on the alpine meadows.  Thereafter, take a high-speed train ride (back) to Yining.

Day 09 – DEPART YINING  [B]
Free time until your transfer to Yining airport for your departure flight.

Whether you prefer the above itinerary “as-is” or have it customised, if you will indicate the start/end dates of your intended travel and provide your contact details, we will get in touch with you to discuss the itinerary on a no-obligations basis on your part.