Heart of Central Asia: Xinjiang's Silk Road Treasures

2026 Urumqi 4-day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Welcome

Day 1

Private transfer from Urumqi Diwopu International Airport to hotel. Evening visit to the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar for a glimpse of Uyghur culture.

Meals:None
Hotel:Urumqi

Day 2: Heavenly Lake & Tianshan Mountains

Day 2
  • Morning: Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (Tianchi) - A stunning alpine lake at 1,910m elevation in the Tianshan Mountains. The turquoise waters reflect the snow-capped Bogda Peak.
  • Midday: Lunch at a lakeside Kazakh yurt - Enjoy authentic Kazakh cuisine including horse milk tea, naan bread, and grilled lamb skewers.
  • Afternoon: Cable car ride to the glacier viewpoint or hike around the lake shore. Experience the pristine alpine landscape.
  • Evening: Return to Urumqi. Dinner at a Uyghur restaurant with live music and dance.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hotel:Urumqi

Day 3: Culture & History

Day 3
  • Morning: Xinjiang Museum - Home to the famous Xinjiang mummies (3,000-4,000 years old), the Loulan Beauty, and stunning Silk Road artifacts.
  • Midday: Lunch at a Uyghur naan workshop - Watch how different types of naan bread are made in a traditional tandoor oven.
  • Afternoon: Red Hill Park (Hongshan) - The symbol of Urumqi. Climb to the 910-meter summit for panoramic views of the city surrounded by snow-capped mountains.
  • Evening: Xinjiang Grand Bazaar night market - Shop for Xinjiang specialties: dried fruits, carpets, hats, and handmade knives.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch
Hotel:Urumqi

Day 4: Desert & Departure

Day 4
  • Morning: Southern Pastures (Nanshan) - A beautiful grassland area at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains. Perfect for hiking, horse riding, and experiencing Kazakh nomadic culture.
  • Midday: Traditional Kazakh lunch in a yurt - Try handmade noodles, lamb pilaf, and sweet yogurt.
  • Afternoon: Visit a Uyghur home for a tea ceremony and learn about the region's multicultural heritage.
  • Evening: Airport drop-off - Private transfer to Urumqi Diwopu International Airport for departure.
Meals:Breakfast, Lunch