13 Days Xinjiang to Tashkent Group Tour

Today your flight will arrive in Kashgar. We'll greet you at the airport exit with a welcome board, then transfer you to the local hotel for check-in. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the city.

Morning after breakfast, your guide and driver will meet you at the hotel lobby to start the adventure. We'll visit the famous two-section Sunday Bazaar—its covered area sells clothing, nuts, household goods and more, with fascinating local bargaining.

Then, a 4-hour drive on the China-Pakistan Highway to enjoy Pamirs Plateau's scenery. We'll stop at Bulongkol Lake (White Sand Mountain), a must-see by the Karakoram Highway. Experience Karakul Lake, where livestock herds reflect on the water and Kyrgyz herdsmen graze. Next day, explore the stunning highway landscapes before driving to Taxkorgan County for overnight stay.

Today we’ll drive back to Kashgar, stopping at the Stone Fortress en route. Oval-shaped with sun-dried brick walls on a stone foundation (1,285m outer circumference), it’s overlooked by the Golden Grasslands—new wooden paths let you snap better photos here. Wander the pastures to experience Tajik customs, with yurts and frame houses offering accommodation. Enjoy raft rides or rent yachts, camels, or horses at the on-site reception center.

Meet your guide and driver at the hotel lobby for a full-day Kashgar city tour. Visit Id Kah Mosque—China’s largest and locals’ most sacred Islamic site. At around 10:30, catch the Old Town’s opening ceremony with cultural shows, then explore Uighur culture by visiting a local family. End the tour with a stroll along the bustling Handicraft Street, dotted with dazzling jewelry, primitive pottery, unique musical instruments and local daily supplies. Relax at a teahouse to soak up local traditions before being transferred to the airport for your flight to Urumqi.

Today drive to the picturesque Heavenly Lake, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, blooming wildflowers and evergreen pines. Trek along the lake in fresh air or take a cable car up Maya Mountain for stunning mountain views. Then transfer back to Urumqi (1.5hrs) to visit Xinjiang International Bazaar—Urumqi’s largest. Explore the bustling market packed with fruits, clothing, crafts, knives, carpets and more.

Today drive to Turpan, a land of historical sites and oases. First, visit Tuyoq Village—the oldest Uyghur village in the heart of Flaming Mountain Canyon, boasting canyon views, Thousand Buddha Caves, Maza Tombs and ancient buildings. Then explore Jiaohe Ruins, one of China’s best-preserved ancient ruins and a 2014 UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overnight in Turpan.

Morning departure from the hotel—head to Karez Well, a unique ancient irrigation system that also offers relief from summer heat. Then visit Sugong Minaret, China’s largest Islamic minaret built in 1778. Afterward, drive back to Urumqi and transfer to the airport for your flight to Tashkent. visit Independence square which is the main square of the country, erected as a symbol of victory over fascism in World War II. Then you will have a chance to walk along the local Broadway, a walking street between independence square and Amir Timur square. Further you can take a ride in famous Tashkent metro, among the most beautiful subways in the world. First line was opened in 1977.

Morning flight to Urgench. Upon arrival, drive to Khiva—Uzbekistan’s oldest city—and explore the walled inner town of Ichan-Qala. This historic conservation area (designated in 1969) boasts over 400 traditional dwellings and 60 architectural gems: palaces, mosques, madrasahs, mausoleums, and caravanserais. Highlights include the 17th-century Kunya-Ark fortress, Kalta Minor minaret, and Tash Khouvli palace—an 1830s masterpiece of Khorezm architecture.

Early morning transfer to Bukhara, a medieval "town museum" with over 140 architectural monuments. The 6-hour drive (440 km) crosses the Kizilkum desert, with scenic views of the Amu Darya—Central Asia's deepest river—along the way. Upon arrival, enjoy free time to explore the city's narrow streets, green parks, and scattered historic sites.

Spend a full day exploring Bukhara's iconic historic sites. Start with the 4th-century Citadel Ark, a former royal palace of Bukhara Empire dynasties. Next, admire the 9th-10th century Samanids Mausoleum—an architectural masterpiece. Continue to Chashma Ayub (Job's Well) and the Bolo-Hauz Mosque (Mosque of Forty Columns), built to honor Governor Abu-Fayud Khan. Wander the shopping domes and visit Nodir Divan Begi Madrasah, part of the famous Lyabi House Ensemble. Conclude with the Poi Kalon Complex, featuring the 12th-16th century Kalon Minaret, Kalon Mosque, and Mir Arab Madrasah.

After breakfast, depart for Samarkand on a 4-hour drive (290 km). En route, stop at Gijduvan Village to visit a renowned private pottery workshop—home to the Narzullayevs family's sixth generation of master potters, who have made Gijduvan ceramics famous globally. Admire the school's signature geometric patterns and dominant green-blue decorative hues. Continue driving to Samarkand afterward.

Optional Activity: Traditional costume show in Samarkand – 25 USD per person