Arrival in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang. Your guide will meet you at the airport and transfer you to the hotel. The rest of the day is free for rest and relaxation.

After breakfast, we will drive for approximately 1.5 hours to visit the breathtaking Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), which is nestled in the magnificent Tianshan Mountains. Encircled by lush forests and towering snow-capped peaks, the lake stands as one of the most renowned natural scenic spots in Xinjiang, boasting picturesque scenery that blends water and mountains harmoniously. In the afternoon, we will drive back to Urumqi and proceed to explore the bustling Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, renowned as the largest bazaar in China, where you can experience rich ethnic customs and distinctive local specialties.

Today we will drive southward across the magnificent Tianshan Mountains, traveling through a series of tunnels and winding mountain highways that connect northern and southern Xinjiang. Along the route, you will witness a dramatic shift in scenery: from towering alpine peaks and lush valleys to vast arid desert landscapes, creating a striking contrast of natural beauty. After a day of picturesque driving, we will arrive in Korla in the evening to check in and rest.

Departing from Korla, we will drive towards Kuqa and visit the spectacular Tianshan Grand Canyon (Kuqa), which is famous for its towering red sandstone cliffs and unique geological formations shaped by long-term natural erosion. The magnificent and precipitous canyon scenery showcases the extraordinary craftsmanship of nature, allowing you to appreciate the grandeur of Xinjiang’s landforms. After exploring the remarkable natural wonder, we will stay overnight in Kuqa to end the day’s journey.

First, we will visit the famous Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, one of the oldest Buddhist cave complexes along the Silk Road, celebrated for its exquisite and well-preserved ancient murals that carry profound historical and cultural significance. Afterward, we will continue our journey to explore the impressive Wensu Grand Canyon, often hailed as the “Grand Canyon of Xinjiang,” where magnificent geological landscapes await. After a full day of cultural and natural exploration, we will check in and stay overnight in Aksu.

Travel from Aksu to Kashgar, the most legendary oasis city along the ancient Silk Road, full of profound history and distinctive ethnic charm.Upon arrival, we will explore the charming Kashgar Old Town, famous for its well-preserved traditional Uyghur houses, intricate architectural details and lively, authentic streets.

We will drive along the famous Karakoram Highway, one of the highest international highways in the world, enjoying breathtaking alpine scenery all the way. We will make a stop at the stunning Karakul Lake, where you can admire spectacular views of the snow-capped Muztag Ata Peak reflected in the clear lake water, forming a picturesque natural scene. After appreciating the magnificent plateau landscape, we will continue our journey to Tashkurgan and stay overnight there.

We will visit the historic Tashkurgan Stone Fort, a renowned ancient fortress standing proudly on the Pamir Plateau, bearing witness to the long history and strategic importance of this borderland. Afterwards, we will drive back to Kashgar along the picturesque Karakoram Highway, enjoying the magnificent and ever-changing plateau scenery along the route.

We will visit the grand Id Kah Mosque, the largest and most influential mosque in Xinjiang, showcasing exquisite Islamic architectural art and profound religious and cultural heritage. If your trip falls on Sunday, we will further explore the famous Kashgar Sunday Bazaar, one of the most vibrant and bustling markets in Central Asia, where you can experience rich local customs, diverse handicrafts and authentic regional specialties.

End of the unforgettable Xinjiang Silk Road journey.Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.