(Departures: June – October)
One of the world’s great trade routes, the exotic Silk Road has captured the imagination of many, stirring visions of a wondrous and far-off land. Bring the adventure to life on this incredible journey. Experience the rich convergence of cultures and religions as you travel from Xian to Kashgar, passing countless wonders and curiosities. Witness the army of Terracotta Warriors and the Great Wall. Visit an Uigher home in an oasis town, ride a camel among the sand dunes and experience Kashgar’s Sunday Market. China’s Great Silk Road takes you back to a time when life was a colorful feast for the taking.
Photo courtesy of Travel Indochina
Days 1-4: Xian & Jiayuguan
On arrival in Xian, transfer to your hotel. Marvel at the remarkable Army of Terracotta Warriors, a huge number of intricate, life-size warriors, undiscovered for centuries. Wander the fascinating streets of the thriving Muslim Quarter, visit the Big Goose Pagoda, then in the evening you have the chance to indulge in a sumptuous dumpling banquet.
Fly to beautiful and remote Jiayuguan. Here, the vast desert is flanked by snowcapped peaks, making for a stunning contrast. Discover an ancient frontier fortress and climb a remote part of the Great Wall, before stopping at the Great Wall Museum.
Hotels: UAA Hotel, Jiayuguan Hotel
Days 5-8: Dunhuang & Turpan
Travel by road to the oasis town of Dunhuang and take an exhilarating camel ride through the desert. At the spectacular Mogao Caves, witness ancient Buddhist cave art before taking an overnight train to Turpan, home to the striking Emin Minaret.
After lunch with a local Uighur family, wander the colorful bazaar, and then head into the Flaming Mountains to see the haunting ruins of Gaochang and Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves.
Hotels: Xihugongguan Hotel, Overnight train, Grand Turpan
Days 9-13: Urumqi & Kashgar
Watch the desert scenes passing you by on the drive to Urumqi, where the fascinating Xinjiang Provincial Museum awaits. Ramble through the bustling market before boarding your flight to Kashgar, still an important hub for traders throughout Central Asia.
Experience the clamour and excitement of the Sunday Bazaar, the impressive Id Kah Mosque and then step back in time on a walking tour through the city’s backstreets. Return to Urumqi for a trip to the beautiful Heavenly Lake, set against the spectacular ice-capped Tianshan Mountain Range. The area is dotted with traditional yurts inhabited by Kazak people.
On your last day, enjoy some free time before your departure transfer.
Hotels: Taxinan Barony, Urumqi Yilite Hotel
Cost from $3495.00 per person, land only
Based on twin share accommodations
CALL NOW to BOOK 415-331-3791
Includes:
– 11 nights hotel accommodation
– 1 overnight train (soft sleeper four-berth cabin)
– breakfast daily and 1 lunch
– 3 internal flights within Asia
– transport in air-conditioned vehicles
– small group touring
– entrance fees
– Western tour leader based on a minimum of 7 travelers
– local English-speaking guides
– return transfers
Does not include:
– International airfare
– Gratuity
– personal items, alcohol drinks, any other expense not listed above
– trip insurance
