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Chinese Silk Road detailed itinerary

DAY 1: ARRIVE IN XIAN

Arrive at Xian Airport, where you are met and transferred to our hotel in the city. Our tour leader will greet you at a welcome meeting before our group dinner.
Overnight in Xian.

DAY 2: TERRA-COTTA WARRIORS OF XIAN

We begin our adventure with a visit to the famed Terra-Cotta Warriors, considered the greatest archaeological find of the 20th century. Afterwards, we return to the center of Xian to visit the Bell Tower, the best-preserved and largest wooden tower in China. In the afternoon, see the Wild Goose pagoda, a well- preserved ancient and holy building for Buddhism. We conclude our sightseeing with a walking tour around the Hui minority area of Xian, ending at the Hui Grand Mosque, one of the oldest and largest mosques in China, with its combination of Chinese and Arabic architectural styles. 
Dinner and overnight in Xian.

DAY 3: XIAN SITES, TRAIN TO LANZHOU

This morning we will visit the ancient city walls of Xian by foot. Later visit the Shaanxi Historical Museum, built in the style of the Tang-Dynasty. It houses over 370,000 items from Chinese history including murals, paintings, pottery, coins, as well as bronze, gold, and silver objects. In the afternoon we take a bullet train to Lanzhou. This train ride is approximately 3:20 hours long.
Dinner and overnight in Lanzhou.

DAY 4: TO BINGLING GROTTOS (UNESCO), TO XIAHE

We drive this morning to the Bingling (or ‘Ten Thousand’ in the Tibetan language) Grottos (UNESCO), a series of grottos filled with Buddhist sculptures carved into natural caves and caverns set in a canyon along the Yellow River. Construction dates back to the Western Jin Dynasty (265-316 AD). To reach the grottos, we take a boat from the town of Liujiaxia, passing through the Liujiaxia Reservoir. Afterwards we continue on to the town of Xiahe for the evening.
Dinner and overnight in Xiahe.

DAY 5: LABRANG MONASTERY (TIBETAN)

Today we “step” into Tibet as we visit Labrang Monastery, the largest and most influential and major monastery of the Gelugpa (or Yellow Hat) sect of Tibetan Buddhism. The architectural layout follows a true Tibetan style while the construction patterns are a blend with Chinese styles. We have the entire morning to explore the monastery. After lunch we depart for Lanzhou.
Dinner and overnight in Lanzhou.

DAY 6: TRAIN TO ZHANGYE, DANXIA RAINBOW MOUNTAIN

After breakfast we transfer to the train station and take the fast train to Zhangye (approx. 3 hours). After lunch we visit Danxia National Geological Park, also known as Rainbow Mountain, which is located 40 miles/65 km from Zhangye city. It is unique for its color and shape. Wind, rain and time created extraordinary shapes, including towers, columns and canyons with different colors, patterns and sizes, similar to a layer cake. 
Dinner and overnight in Zhangye.

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DAY 7: TO JIAYUGUAN, WESTERN GREAT WALL, WEI-JIN ANCIENT TOMBS

After breakfast we drive to Jiayuguan (approx 3 hours). Upon arrival in Jiayuguan we are transferred to a local restaurant for lunch. After lunch, we explore Jiayuguan Pass (Jiayuguan Fort), also known as the “Impregnable Pass under Heaven”. Jiayuguan is located on the western end of the Great Wall of the Ming Dynasty and is considered the most magnificent and well-preserved pass among over a thousand passes along the Great Wall. 

Later we visit the Great Wall Museum for a historical overview of the Great Wall, and then the Over-Hanging Cliff Great Wall. Situated outside of the city, this suspended wall is a part of the Great Wall and was originally built on a ridge at a 45-degree angle. We end this fascinating day with a visit to the Wei-Jin ancient tombs. Built between the 3rd and 5th centuries during the Wei and Jin Dynasties, it is renowned as the largest subterranean art gallery in the world and houses a great deal of colorful murals. 
Dinner and overnight in Jiayuguan.

DAY 8: TO DUNHUANG, TEN-THOUSAND-BUDDHA GORGE

After breakfast, we drive to the historical city of Dunhuang. We visit Yulin Grottos which is also called the ‘Ten-Thousand-Buddha Gorge’, and is situated in a valley along the Yulin River.

There is time to rest in the afternoon before we visit Shazhou night market this evening.
Dinner and overnight in Dunhuang.

DAY 9: DUNHUANG, MOGAO GROTTOS

This morning is dedicated to exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Mogao Grottos. Constructed over a millennium from the 4th to 14th centuries, the caves are also known as the Thousand Buddha Caves, and besides being the most-notable grottos in China, they are also considered the best preserved treasure house of Buddhist art, sutras, murals and sculptures in the world. 

In the afternoon we explore Crescent Lake, a natural wonder of the Gobi Desert with their massive sand dunes. The contrast between the golden sand hill and the blue lake are breathtaking.
Dinner and overnight in Dunhuang.

DAY 10: TRAIN TO TURPAN

After breakfast we visit the Dunhuang Museum, which exhibits relics excavated from the local area, including paper and coins. The museum is also home to an excellent reconstruction of the Great Wall during the Han Dynasty. 

This afternoon we take a bullet train to Turpan.
Dinner and overnight in Turpan.

DAY 11: ANCIENT CITY OF IDIKUT, BIZEKLIK THOUSAND BUDDHA CAVES, LUNCH WITH A LOCAL UIGHUR FAMILY

We begin with a visit to the ancient city of Idikut (Gaochang). First built in the 1st century BC, Gaochang later became the capital of the Idikut (Gaochang) Uighur Kingdom in the 8th century. Later we visit Bizeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, which used to be an important center for Buddhist worship under the Xizhou Huigu Government of the Idikut (Gaochang) Kingdom.

After, we drive Toyuk Village, an old, beautiful and timeless village with a friendly Uighur community. Here, we visit several local families and eat lunch with one of them in their home.

After lunch we visit the world famous Karez Irrigation System, which is unique to this part of the world. The system is considered as one of the three great projects in China, with the other two being the Great Wall and the Grand Canal. We also visit the Emin Suliman Minaret, which is a magnificent combination of ancient Uighur and Islamic architecture. It is the tallest ancient pagoda in Xinjiang and the only Islamic ancient pagoda in the country. Locals call it “pure tower". Along the way, enjoy the Flaming Mountains - red sandstone hills that are part of the Tian Shan Mountain Range.
Dinner and overnight in Turpan.

DAY 12: ANCIENT CITY OF YARGUL, TRAIN TO KUCHE

Today we visit the ancient city of Yargul (Jiaohe), which is considered one of the best-preserved ancient cities in China. The ruins of the buildings are divided into temples, civilian dwellings and government offices. Workshops and residential houses in the streets are still visible. 

This afternoon we will take a comfortable ‘sleeper train’ (7 hours) to Kuche, arriving in the evening where we will check in to our hotel. 
Dinner and overnight in Kuche.

DAY 13: KIZIL THOUSAND BUDDHA CAVES, TIANSHAN GREAT CANYON

This morning we visit the Kizil Thousand Buddha Caves, which sits high on the cliffs over the northern bank of the Muzat River. The caves were hewn between the 3rd and 8th century and form one of the earliest Buddhist art treasure troves in China. These caves were also in use one century before the famous Mogao Grotto at Dunhuang. After lunch, we drive to the Tianshan Mysterious Great Canyon, noted for the unique color and shape of its mountains. Today the Tianshan Great Canyon is regarded as one of the ten most beautiful canyons in China. 
Dinner and overnight in Kuche.

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DAY 14: ANCIENT CITIES OF KUCHE & SUBASH; TO AKSU

This morning we will explore the Old City of Kuche and its community of friendly Uighur people. We visit the Grand Mosque, built in the 17th century. The roof of the mosque was constructed using 300,000 eggs, cement and bricks. Later we visit the ancient city of Subash dating from the 2nd and 3rd centuries as well as the Kizil Kagha Beacon Tower, an ancient military outpost. Afterwards, we drive to Aksu.
Dinner and overnight in Aksu.

DAY 15: TO HOTAN

We depart Aksu after breakfast and head for Hotan. We travel along the new highway opened in 2007, following the route of the Hotan River, which was also a significant ancient trading route.
Dinner and overnight in Hotan.

DAY 16: HOTAN STITES

This morning we will visit a traditional mulberry paper making workshop. The ancient tradition of paper making has been around for 2000 years, yet there are few remaining families who uphold the tradition. The process is both complex and fascinating. Then continue with a visit to the Grand Bazaar of Hotan, a wonderful, authentic local market. 

After lunch, we visit a workshop showcasing traditional Silk Atlas fabric, followed by visit to the Hotan Museum.
Dinner and overnight in Hotan.

DAY 17: TAKLAMAKAN DESERT ADVENTURE

This morning we drive into the Taklamakan Desert for a very unique and memorable experience where our tented camps allow us the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the legendary desert. 

Upon arrival, we check into our desert camp and have the opportunity to participate in adventure activities. Feel the thrill of a 4x4 SUV desert excursion or trek across the golden dunes on foot, or sway along on a camel safari. 

Tonight we enjoy dinner and a UNESCO-listed 12 Muqam local performance by the fire. 
Overnight at our comfortable, permanent-tented, campsite in the desert.

DAY 18: ANCIENT CAPITAL OF YARKAND; TO KASHGAR

After breakfast, we leave the desert camp behind and depart for Kashgar with a captivating stop at Yarkand. Once a royal capital and a pivotal hub on the Southern Silk Road, Yarkand offers a deep dive into history. Explore the regal Royal Cemetery and lose yourself in the soul-stirring melodies of a—a living piece of Uyghur heritage. We continue our journey onward to Kashgar, where dinner awaits.
Dinner and overnight in Kashgar.

DAY 19: ANCIENT UYGHUR CITY OF KASHGAR

After breakfast, we explore the rich and enduring culture of the Uyghur people in Kashgar. Our first visit is to the historic Apak Hoja Tomb, also known as the Fragrant Concubine Tomb.

We then visit Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in China, admired for its intricate architecture and cultural significance. From there, we continue our walking tour through Kashgar’s famous Old City, where we’ll experience the traditional character of this historic neighborhood. Along the way, we’ll enjoy tea in a centuries-old traditional teahouse.
Dinner and overnight in Kashgar.

DAY 20: TAJIK VILLAGES & NOMADIC HERDSMAN, STUNNING KARAKUL LAKE; TO TASHKURGAN

Today is an early start as we set out along the Karakorum Highway, one of the most beautiful roads in the world. The hues and colors of some of the world’s highest mountain ranges dominate every horizon on our journey towards Karakul Lake, as Kyrgyz nomadic herders and ancient caravanserais dot the vast landscape. Karakul Lake (which means ‘great’ lake ) sits at the foot of the Muztagh Ata (7546m) and Kongur (7719m) mountains. ‘Muztagh Ata’ means Father of the Ice Mountain and is one the most beautiful and mysterious mountains in the world. Hiking around Karakul Lake, which is located 11,800 feet above sea level, you are surrounded by a series of mountains and grasslands where herds of yaks can be observed. 

We will enjoy a picnic lunch on the shores of the lake before continuing on to Tashkurgan, an important hub on the old Silk Road. The name Tashkurgan is actually a translation of ‘Stone Fort.’ This whole area around this Tajik town borders Pakistan and Afghanistan and are connected via the Khunjerab Pass. On the way into Tashkurgan there are many Tajik villages and nomadic herdsman. 
Dinner and overnight in Tashkurgan.

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DAY 21: TASHKURGAN'S ANCIENT STONE FORT; TO KASHGAR

After breakfast, we explore the town’s ancient stone fort - still standing after 1800 years! We also visit the Tashkurgan Historical and Cultural Museum and walk around this historic town. This is a fantastic opportunity to try traditional Tajik food and immerse yourself in the culture of the Tajik community. After lunch we drive to Kashgar.
Dinner and overnight in Kashgar.

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DAY 22: KASHGAR'S ANCIENT SUNDAY MARKET

Today we visit the largest bazaar in Central Asia at the Kashgar Sunday Main Bazaar, including stops at the Livestock Market, which is considered the most interesting and traditional part of the famed Sunday Market. In the afternoon, we take a flight to Urumqi. 
Dinner and overnight in Urumqi.

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DAY 23: DEPART URUMQI

Our Chinese Silk Road adventure concludes today with a transfer to the airport for your departing flight.

FAQ's

HOW BIG ARE THE GROUPS? 

Each group is limited to 16 participants. Small groups are an important ingredient in adventure travel. They allow for more interaction and more personalized service throughout the itinerary.

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WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?

All accommodations throughout; all meals, starting with dinner on day 1 and finishing with breakfast on departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks tour); bottled drinking water throughout the trip; all internal transportation; airport transfers on day 1 and departure day (i.e. the last day of the ElderTreks tour); all day trips and entrance fees as outlined in the itinerary; tips for hotels (porterage), bus driver, restaurants, national guides, and spot guides; services of a trip leader. 

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WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED IN THE TOUR PRICE?

International flights, tips to ElderTreks tour leader, alcoholic drinks, visas and travel insurance.​

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ARE THESE “EDUCATIONAL” TOURS?

Yes, in the broadest sense of the word, “educational”. We visit cultural centers and historical sites, We believe that it is equally educational to meet local people on a non-commercial basis, visit their homes and even try to learn a few words in the native language. Sometimes the most “educational” moments are spent walking through a street market.

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HOW DO WE TRAVEL DURING THE TOUR?

All internal transportation is included in the land price of the trip. We use minivans and 4 x 4’s where necessary for road travel, trains, and one internal flight.

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WHAT ARE OUR ACCOMMODATIONS LIKE?

We stay in comfortable accommodations, both hotels and guesthouses with private bathrooms. The only exception is one night in a comfortable, permanent-tented camp with proper beds and an ensuite bathrooms in the Taklamakan Desert.

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WHAT ABOUT THE WEATHER?

Conditions along the Silk Road vary from a typical continental climate around Xian to a desert climate and even mountains as you travel westward to Kashgar and the border with Pakistan. Be prepared for extremes in temperature. Average daytime temperatures are 82 °F (28 °C), but night time temperatures can drop to 54 °F (12 °C).

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WHEN IS PAYMENT DUE?

A non-refundable deposit of $500 USD (plus insurance if you require it) is due at time of booking and will reserve your place on the tour. Payment of the full land cost is due 120 days before departure. Cancellation charges are applicable and are outlined in the “Terms and Conditions” section of our brochure.

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IS MEDICAL INSURANCE REQUIRED?

Insurance coverage is not included in the cost of your trip. Please note that medical insurance is not required for this adventure but is recommended. ElderTreks offers comprehensive travel insurance with Manulife for Canadian guests, and John Hancock for American guests.  Please CLICK HERE to view and purchase your insurance policy today. If you are purchasing insurance elsewhere, please ensure you provide the details to ElderTreks as soon as possible. 

WHAT SHOULD I TAKE ON THE TOUR?

There is a detailed “What to Take” list in our Trip Kit, which we will send to you after you have booked the trip.

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Please note that during our stay at the guesthouses, our luggage will be forwarded to the next major hotel and will not come with us to the guesthouse. Therefore, you must bring a medium sized backpack to carry your essential overnight items during these nights. We will try to obtain lockers for your backpacks during the day at train stations, however you should be prepared to carry your belongings on your back in case lockers are not available. This will be the arrangement 6 times during the tour, twice for 2 nights, 4 times for 1 night.

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WHAT MEALS ARE INCLUDED?

All meals are included, starting with dinner on day 1, and finishing with breakfast on departure day. We eat a variety of local foods prepared in a wide range of settings.

Traditional ryokans (inns) and minshuku (family-run guesthouses) typically serve multi-course, Japanese-style meals that reflect local and seasonal ingredients. These meals are beautifully presented and can differ significantly from Western-style meals. Further information is provided in the pre-departure trip kit.

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CAN YOU ARRANGE MY FLIGHTS?

We would be happy to take care of your air arrangements. ElderTreks offers personalized flight itineraries — not group flights. Stop over en route, come in a few days early, or extend your stay. Call us for a customized itinerary.

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WHAT IF I WOULD LIKE MORE INFORMATION?

If you have any further questions about the adventure, please call our office for more details. A Trip Specialist will be happy to answer your questions. A Trip Kit containing further details on the destination will be sent to you once you have booked the trip.

Dates & Prices

All pricing is currently listed in USD

*Single Supplement is the additional amount applied to the cost of the trip to those who are travelling solo and do not wish to share.