Silk Road 16-Day Inclusive Tour
The Silk Road is an ancient trade and cultural exchange network connecting the East and the West. It is not limited to one road, but consists of multiple land and sea routes.The Silk Road is traditionally believed to start in Xi'an, China, pass through Central Asia, Persia (now Iran), and finally reach Istanbul, Turkey, and further connect to Europe.
This 16 days Silk Road Tour will start from Xi'an in Shaanxi, end at Urumqi in Xinjiang, China.
Please arrange your own international or domestic transportation if not arranged with us when you booking.
Our highlights include:
-
The world-famous Terracotta Warriors
-
Datang Everbright City and Tang Dynasty cultural atmosphere
-
Da Ci’en Temple and the Giant Wild Goose Pagoda
-
UNESCO World Heritage Site – Dunhuang Mogao Caves and Buddhist murals
-
Mingsha Sand Dunes and Crescent Lake
-
Jiayuguan Fortress – the “First Pass Under Heaven” and the western end of the Ming Great Wall
-
Tianshan Mountains and Heavenly Lake
-
Kanas Lake and Hemu Village
-
Sailimu Lake – the “Last Tear of the Atlantic”
-
Nalati Grassland in the Ili Valley
-
Duku Highway – one of China’s most scenic mountain roads (Really depends on weather)
-
High-speed train journey from Dunhuang to Turpan
-
Authentic regional cuisines along the Silk Road
Xi'an, one of China’s oldest and most culturally rich cities, served as the capital of thirteen dynasties and remains a key window into ancient Chinese civilization.
It is widely regarded as the starting point of the Silk Road because, during the Western Han Dynasty, the city—then known as Chang’an—was the political and economic center of the empire. From here, the envoy Zhang Qian set out on his historic journey to the Western Regions in 138 BCE, opening routes that later developed into the Silk Road.
As a prosperous metropolis where goods such as silk, ceramics, and tea were traded and distributed, Chang’an became the point from which merchants, diplomats, and ideas began their journeys westward.
Its strategic location on the Guanzhong Plain, linking the Central Plains with the Hexi Corridor, further strengthened its role as a gateway between China and the wider world.
Northern Xinjiang, located in China’s northwest near Kazakhstan and Mongolia, is a breathtaking region of turquoise lakes, vast grasslands, and majestic mountains.
Known for destinations such as Kanas Lake and the Ili Valley, the region is especially beautiful in autumn with colorful forests, while in summer the lavender fields of the Ili Valley are in full bloom.
The area is culturally diverse, home to Kazakh, Uyghur, and Mongolian communities, where traditional yurts on the grasslands and wooden houses in mountain villages reflect the local way of life.
Local cuisine features dishes such as lamb skewers, Dapanji (a hearty chicken and noodle dish), and dairy specialties like kumis (fermented mare’s milk).
Northern Xinjiang’s blend of landscapes, cultures, and flavors makes it a truly memorable destination along the Silk Road.
What to expect?
-
All meals (15B/14L/14D), 15 nights 4-5 star hotel stay;
-
All transportations (train tickets and car usage);
-
All entry tickets;
-
High speed bullet train experience.
*exclude transportation/expenses between your home city to Xi‘an and from Urumqi to your home city, exclude any personal expenses
Minimum of 3 people is required to proceed with tour.
Available dates:
April 6 - April 21, 2026 (Full)
April 27 - May 12, 2026 (Full)
May 18 - June 2, 2026 (Full)
June 8 - June 23, 2026 (Full)
June 29 - July 14, 2026 (Full)
July 20 - August 4, 2026 (Full)
August 10 - August 25, 2026
August 31 - September 15, 2026
September 21 - October 6, 2026
October 12 - October 27, 2026
*Please contact us for other day's departure.
Q&A
1. What is the Silk Road?
The Silk Road was an ancient network of trade and cultural exchange routes connecting East and West for more than 2,000 years.
Rather than a single road, it consisted of multiple land and maritime routes linking China with Central Asia, the Middle East, and Europe. Merchants, travelers, monks and explorers carried goods, ideas, technologies and religions across deserts and mountains.
For centuries, both the Land Silk Road and the Maritime Silk Road not only transported goods such as silk, porcelain, pepper and spices, but also promoted peaceful exchange and friendship among different civilizations.
2. Why is it called the Silk Road?
The Silk Road is named after Chinese silk, one of the most famous luxury goods traded along these routes.
During the Han Dynasty, silk became extremely popular in the Roman Empire. Roman nobles admired its beauty and softness, and silk garments became a symbol of wealth. Some ancient writers even described silk as “woven gold.”
Because silk became the most recognizable product traded along these routes, historians later named this network the Silk Road.
3. Where does the Silk Road start and what route does our journey follow?
The Silk Road traditionally began in Xi’an, the ancient capital of the Han and Tang dynasties and the eastern starting point of the historic Silk Road.
From Xi’an, the ancient trade routes extended west through the famous Hexi Corridor, passing important Silk Road cities such as Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang, before continuing across Central Asia toward Persia (modern Iran) and eventually reaching the Mediterranean world.
Although the Silk Road included many routes across Asia, one of the most historic sections was the Land Silk Road through the Hexi Corridor.
Our journey follows this classic Silk Road route, starting in Xi’an, traveling west through Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang, and continuing into Xinjiang, where travelers can experience the dramatic landscapes and cultures that once connected East and West.
4. Who helped open the Silk Road?
One of the key figures behind the Silk Road was the Chinese explorer Zhang Qian.
In 138 BCE, Emperor Han Wudi sent Zhang Qian west to explore Central Asia. His journey provided China with valuable knowledge about the lands beyond its borders and opened the door for trade and communication between East and West.
5. How is Marco Polo connected to the Silk Road?
Marco Polo was one of the most famous travelers associated with the Silk Road.
In 1271, he left Venice, Italy, with his father and uncle and began a long journey east along the Land Silk Road, crossing Central Asia before eventually reaching China during the Yuan Dynasty.
Marco Polo spent about 17 years in the East, serving at the court of the Mongol emperor Kublai Khan and traveling through many parts of the empire.
In 1295, he returned to Italy, traveling partly along the Maritime Silk Road.
His book, The Travels of Marco Polo, introduced many Europeans to the lands, cities, and cultures connected by the Silk Road, making it one of the most famous travel routes in the world.
6. What religions spread along the Silk Road?
The Silk Road was not only a trade route but also a pathway for the spread of religions and ideas.
One of the most important examples is Buddhism, which spread from India to China through Central Asia along the Silk Road. Buddhist monks, pilgrims, and scholars traveled across deserts and mountains carrying sacred texts and teachings. Many famous sites, such as the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, reflect this rich Buddhist cultural exchange.
Other religions also traveled along these routes, including Christianity, Islam, and Zoroastrianism. Early Christian communities reached parts of Central Asia and China through Silk Road trade networks.
These religious exchanges helped shape the cultural and spiritual landscape of the regions connected by the Silk Road.
7. What goods traveled along the Silk Road?Including
Many different goods traveled along the Silk Road, linking distant civilizations across Asia and Europe.
From China came highly valued products such as silk, porcelain, tea, lacquerware, and paper. Chinese silk was especially famous in the ancient world. In the Roman Empire, silk was so rare and luxurious that it was sometimes described as “woven gold.”
From the West and Central Asia came other luxury goods, including Roman glassware, Persian silver vessels, spices, precious stones, and fine textiles. Roman glass was admired for its clear and delicate appearance, while Persian silver objects often featured detailed scenes of royal hunts and mythological animals.These goods were transported thousands of kilometers across deserts and mountains by camel caravans, creating one of the earliest international trade networks in history.
Because Chinese silk was one of the most valuable and recognizable goods traded along these routes, this vast network of trade routes later became known as the “Silk Road.”
8. Was trade based on money or barter?
Trade along the Silk Road used both currency and barter.
Different regions used their own coins, but goods were often exchanged directly. Valuable products such as silk, spices and precious metals sometimes functioned almost like currency.
In medieval Europe, black pepper was so valuable it was sometimes used as money.
9. How did traders travel across the desert?
Travel across the Silk Road depended heavily on camels.
The Bactrian camel, with two humps, could survive harsh desert conditions and travel long distances without water. Camel caravans became the backbone of Silk Road trade.
10. What did travelers eat on the Silk Road?
One of the most practical foods for travelers was naan, a dry flatbread popular in Xinjiang and Central Asia.
Because it could last for a long time without spoiling, naan was ideal for long journeys across deserts.
Archaeologists have even discovered pieces of naan in Tang Dynasty tombs in Turpan, more than 1,000 years old.
11. What famous animals were associated with the Silk Road?
The Silk Road was famous for the Ferghana horses, known in Chinese history as the “Heavenly Horses.”
These powerful horses from Central Asia were highly prized by Chinese emperors and played an important role in Silk Road history.
12.Was Xi’an really an international city?
During the Tang Dynasty, the city of Chang’an (today’s Xi’an) was one of the most international cities in the world.
Merchants from Persia, Central Asia, India and the Middle East lived and traded there. Foreign fashion, music and foods became popular among local residents.
13. What are the most worthwhile places to visit along the Silk Road?
The Silk Road offers a remarkable combination of historic cities, cultural landmarks, and breathtaking natural landscapes across Asia.
Historic Silk Road Cities and Cultural Sites
China
-
Xi’an – Terracotta Warriors
Often referred to as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” this extraordinary archaeological discovery reveals thousands of life-sized clay soldiers guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor.
-
Dunhuang – Mogao Caves
A UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its magnificent Buddhist cave temples and ancient murals.
-
Turpan – Jiaohe Ancient City
One of the best-preserved ancient earthen cities along the Silk Road, with a history of more than 2,000 years.
-
Jiayuguan – Western End of the Ming Great Wall
A historic fortress marking the traditional gateway between China and Central Asia.
Central Asia
-
Samarkand (Uzbekistan) – famous for Registan Square, one of the most iconic landmarks of Islamic architecture along the Silk Road.
West Asia
-
Isfahan (Iran) and Istanbul (Turkey) – historic Silk Road cities that once connected Asia and Europe.
Spectacular Natural Landscapes Along the Silk Road
The Silk Road is also known for its dramatic natural scenery.
-
Mingsha Mountain & Crescent Lake (Dunhuang) – a magical desert oasis surrounded by golden sand dunes.
-
Tianshan Heavenly Lake (Xinjiang) – a stunning alpine lake in the Tianshan Mountains, often praised as the “Pearl of Lakes in the World.”
-
Pamir Plateau (Kashgar) – breathtaking high-altitude landscapes often called the “Roof of the World.”
-
Kanas Lake (Xinjiang) – a fairy-tale forest lake famous for its pristine natural beauty.
14. When is the best time to visit the Silk Road?
The best time to visit is spring to autumn (April–September), when the landscapes are at their most beautiful. Vast grasslands are in full bloom, alpine lakes shine in brilliant colours, and the region comes alive with wildflowers, fresh mountain air and vibrant ethnic culture. This is the perfect season to experience the natural beauty and diversity of the Silk Road.
From October to February, Xinjiang transforms into a completely different winter wonderland. Snow-covered mountains create breathtaking scenery, and the region is home to several large international ski resorts, offering excellent opportunities for winter travel and skiing.
We offer different packages for different seasons. Please click here to see more details.
15. How safe is traveling along the Silk Road in China?
Traveling the Silk Road in China is very safe, with strong public security, especially in Xinjiang, where police assistance is easily accessible. Mobile payment is widely used, reducing the need for cash. Medical care is convenient, but carrying some medicine for long trips is recommended. While travel in China is safe and well-supported, travellers are advised to arrange their own travel insurance prior to departure, or please contact us to arrange for you.
16.What should you prepare for a trip along the Silk Road?
Traveling along the Silk Road involves crossing different landscapes and climate zones, so proper preparation is important.
Climate considerations
-
Desert regions (such as Dunhuang and Turpan) can be very hot during the day with large temperature differences at night, so sun protection and warm layers are recommended.
-
High-altitude areas (such as the Jiayuguan) have thinner air, so travelers should be aware of possible altitude sickness.
Travel essentials
-
Passport and visa (some Central Asian countries require visas)
-
Sun protection items such as sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat
-
Light clothing and warm layers due to large temperature differences
-
Mobile payment and some cash, as WeChat or Alipay may not be supported in certain regions.
DAY1 Transit City < Xi'an
• Arrive in Xi’an, the historic starting point of the Silk Road. Visit the Xi’an Museum, where ancient artifacts tell the story of this former imperial capital.
• Walk or cycle along the Ancient City Wall, one of the best-preserved city walls in China, and enjoy wide views of the old city and modern Xi’an.
• In the evening, explore Yongxingfang Food Street and the lively Muslim Quarter, where you can taste local food such as Roujiamo and Biangbiang noodles.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Xi’an
Meals: Lunch/Dinner
Altitude: 400m
DAY2 Xi'an
• Visit the world-famous Terracotta Warriors, often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World.” Thousands of life-sized soldiers, horses, and chariots stand in battle formation, guarding the tomb of China’s first emperor.
• Continue to Huaqing Palace, a historic royal site at the foot of Mount Li, known for its hot springs and the famous love story of Emperor Xuanzong and Yang Guifei.
• In the evening, watch the large outdoor show “Legend of the Camel Bell.” The performance brings the history of the Silk Road to life through music, dance, lights, and impressive stage effects.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Xi'an
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude: 400m
DAY 3 Xi’an < Zhangye < Jiayuguan
• In the morning, visit the lively Xiaonanmen Morning Market, where local residents come for breakfast and fresh produce, offering a glimpse of daily life in Xi’an.
• Take a high-speed train across the landscapes of northwest China to Zhangye, then explore the colorful hills of Zhangye Danxia Geopark, often called the “Rainbow Mountains.”
• Continue to Jiayuguan, stopping at the historic Giant Buddha Temple, home to one of the largest reclining Buddha statues in China.
Traffic: Train / Car
Hotel: In Jiayuguan
Meals: Breakfast/Dinner
Altitude: 1400-2722m
DAY4 Xi'an < Dunhuang
• Visit Jiayuguan Fortress, the western end of the Ming Great Wall, known as the “First Pass Under Heaven.” This historic fortress once guarded the gateway between China and Central Asia along the Silk Road.
• Continue to the oasis city of Dunhuang and explore the famous Mingsha Sand Dunes and Crescent Lake, where tall desert dunes rise beside a small natural lake. You may also enjoy an optional camel ride across the sand dunes.
• In the evening, visit the lively Shazhou Night Market, a popular place where visitors can try local snacks, see traditional crafts, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of a Silk Road town.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Dunhuang
Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
Altitude: 1500m
DAY5 Dunhuang < Turpan
• Visit the world-famous Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the “Louvre of the East.” These ancient cave temples contain thousands of Buddhist murals and statues that tell the story of the Silk Road over many centuries.
• Later, take a high-speed train across the vast desert landscapes of northwest China from Liuyuan to Turpan, arriving in one of the most important oasis towns along the Silk Road.
Traffic: Car / Train
Hotel: In Turpan
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
Altitude: 50-1200m
DAY6 Turpan < Urumqi
• Explore the ancient Jiaohe Ruins, one of the largest and best-preserved earthen cities in the world, with a history of more than 2,000 years along the Silk Road.
• Continue to the Flaming Mountains, famous for their red sandstone hills and desert scenery, and learn about the traditional Karez Irrigation System, an underground water system that has supported life in this dry region for centuries.
• Walk through the green Grape Valley, known for its vineyards and local Uyghur culture, before visiting the historic Sugong Minaret, one of the most famous Islamic landmarks in Xinjiang.
• Later, travel to Urumqi, the largest city in Xinjiang and an important cultural and commercial center in northwest China.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Urumqi
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 900m
DAY7 Urumqi < S21 Desert Highway < Beitun
• Travel north from Urumqi along the S21 Desert Highway, a modern road that crosses the vast Junggar Basin in northern Xinjiang.
• Stop in the Gurbantunggut Desert, the largest desert in Xinjiang, where endless sand dunes and open landscapes show the dramatic beauty of this remote region.
• Continue the journey through wide desert scenery to Beitun, a small city near the Altay region and an important gateway to northern Xinjiang.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Beitun
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 513m
DAY8 Beitun < Altay < Hemu
• Travel along the scenic Ahe Highway toward Hemu Village, passing forests, rivers, and wide grasslands in the beautiful Altay region of northern Xinjiang.
• Arrive in Hemu, a peaceful mountain village famous for its wooden houses and stunning natural scenery. The village is home to the Tuva people, one of the smallest ethnic groups in China.
• Enjoy free time to explore the village. You may walk through the quiet valley, ride a horse across the grasslands, or watch the beautiful sunset over the mountains.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Hemu
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 513-1360m
DAY9 Hemu < Kanas < Burqin
• Start the morning in Hemu Village, where you may hike to a viewpoint overlooking the village. From the hilltop, you can see wooden houses, forests, and the peaceful river running through the valley.
• Continue to the famous Kanas Lake, one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in China. Surrounded by mountains and forests, the lake is known for its clear water and changing colors.
• Visit scenic spots such as Moon Bay and Immortal Bay, then travel to the riverside town of Burqin for the evening.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Burqin
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 1197-1600m
DAY10 Burqin < Urho Ghost City < Karamay
• Travel across the wide landscapes of northern Xinjiang toward Urho.
• Explore Urho Ghost City (World Devil City), famous for its strange rock formations shaped by wind and sand over thousands of years. Take a sightseeing train through the scenic area to see the dramatic desert landscape.
• Continue to Karamay, a modern city known for its oil industry.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Karamay
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 250-1600m
DAY11 Karamay < Sailimu Lake < Qingshui River
•Travel west across the open landscapes of northern Xinjiang toward Sailimu Lake, often called the “Last Tear of the Atlantic.” Surrounded by mountains and wide grasslands, it is one of the most beautiful alpine lakes in the region.
• Enjoy the clear blue water, fresh mountain air, and peaceful grassland scenery around the lake.
• Later, continue the journey to Qingshui River, a small town in the Ili Valley.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Qingshui River
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 250-2020m
DAY12 Qingshui River < Nalati Grassland < Nalati
• Travel to the famous Nalati Grassland, one of the most beautiful grasslands in Xinjiang.
• Walk across wide green meadows and enjoy views of mountains, rivers, and open grasslands.
• This area is home to Kazakh herders, who still live a traditional nomadic life with their horses and sheep.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Nalati
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 1800m
DAY13 Nalati < Duku Highway < Kuitun
• Travel along the famous Duku Highway, one of the most scenic mountain roads in China. The road crosses the Tianshan Mountains, offering changing views of grasslands, forests, rivers, and high mountain valleys.
• Enjoy the dramatic landscapes along the way before arriving in Kuitun, a city located at the northern gateway of the Tianshan Mountains.
• If the Duku Highway is closed due to weather conditions, the itinerary will follow an alternative route via Balikun and Hami.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Kuitun
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 500-600m
DAY14 Kuitun < Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) < Urumqi
• Travel to the beautiful Heavenly Lake (Tianchi) in the Tianshan Mountains, often called the “Pearl of the Tianshan Mountains.”
• Walk around the lake and enjoy the peaceful scenery of forests, mountains, and clear blue water.
• Later, continue to Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang and an important cultural center in northwest China.
Traffic: Car
Hotel: In Urumqi
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Altitude: 460-1910m
DAY15 Urumqi < TransitCity
• Visit the famous Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, a vibrant market filled with local crafts, souvenirs and regional specialties.
• Transfer to the airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your Silk Road journey.
Traffic: Car
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch
Altitude: 680-900m
DAY16 TransitCity < Perth
