9 Days Silk Road: Dunhuang to Kashgar
Tour Overview
This 9-day Silk Road journey takes you from the Buddhist cave art of Dunhuang to the Central Asian bazaars of Kashgar, tracing the ancient trade routes that connected China with the West. Explore the Mogao Caves, cross the Flaming Mountains of Turpan, experience modern Urumqi, and discover the timeless charm of Kashgar's Old City. A compact yet comprehensive introduction to the cultural crossroads of the Silk Road.
Trip Highlights
- Marvel at the Mogao Caves — 1,000 years of Buddhist art
- Camel ride at the Singing Sand Dunes
- Visit the ancient Jiaohe Ruins in Turpan
- Explore the Karez underground irrigation system
- See the Tarim mummies at Xinjiang Regional Museum
- Experience Kashgar's legendary Sunday Market
- Wander through Kashgar Old City's maze-like alleys
- Visit Id Kah Mosque, China's largest
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- 1Day
Arrive in Dunhuang
Your guide meets you at Dunhuang Airport or train station. Transfer to hotel. Evening visit to the lively Dunhuang Night Market.
- 2Day
Dunhuang — Mogao Caves & Singing Sand Dunes
Morning at the UNESCO World Heritage Mogao Caves (8 caves included). Afternoon camel ride at the Singing Sand Dunes. Sunset at Crescent Moon Spring.
- 3Day
Dunhuang → Turpan (High-Speed Train)
High-speed train across the Gobi Desert to Turpan. Afternoon visit to the ancient Jiaohe Ruins, a spectacular earthen city dating back 2,300 years.
- 4Day
Turpan — Flaming Mountains & Oasis Culture
Visit the Flaming Mountains, Karez underground irrigation system, and lush Grape Valley. Enjoy a traditional Uyghur lunch with a local family in the vineyards.
- 5Day
Turpan → Urumqi
Drive to Urumqi (3 hours). Visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum to see the Tarim mummies and Silk Road artifacts. Afternoon at Hongshan Park for panoramic city views.
- 6Day
Urumqi — Heavenly Lake
Day trip to Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) in the Tianshan Mountains. Scenic boat ride and hiking trails. Afternoon return to Urumqi and visit the Grand Bazaar.
- 7Day
Urumqi ✈ Kashgar
Morning flight to Kashgar. Afternoon exploration of the Old City — lose yourself in narrow alleys, visit local craft workshops, and watch traditional bread-making at a tandoor bakery.
- 8Day
Kashgar — Sunday Market & Id Kah Mosque
Full day experiencing Kashgar's most iconic sights. Morning at the legendary Sunday Market. Visit Id Kah Mosque, Abakh Khoja Tomb, and the handicraft street. Evening farewell dinner.
- 9Day
Depart Kashgar
Free time until your airport transfer. Your Silk Road journey concludes. Safe travels!
What's Included
8 nights 4-star hotel accommodation (twin-share)
English-speaking guide throughout
All domestic flights & high-speed trains
Private air-conditioned vehicle & driver
Meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner)
All entrance fees & listed activities
Airport transfers on arrival & departure
Travel insurance (China domestic)
What's Excluded
International flights to/from China
Chinese visa fees
Personal expenses & tips
Single room supplement ($320)
What Our Travelers Say
Join 20,000+ happy travelers who have explored the Silk Road with us
"Thanks to the team for making our journey safe and unforgettable. Every detail was perfectly arranged — from the desert camps to the ancient cities. Truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience."
"Special thanks to Alice for her professional arrangements. Our guides Harry and Jane were incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. The drivers Zhou and Huang provided excellent service throughout."
"Amazing 13-day Xinjiang + Silk Road tour! Our guide Ali was exceptional — his knowledge of history and genuine care for every traveler made this journey extraordinary."
"Everything went smoothly as planned. The Silk Road exceeded all our expectations. We're already planning our next visit — there's so much more to explore!"
"Thank you Alice and assistant Richard for all the help! As first-time China travelers, we were nervous, but you made everything seamless."
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