Xinjiang Tours & Trips
Ready for an adventure? Xinjiang’s Uyghur bazaars sit along what used to be the ancient Silk Road trade routes, begging to be explored. Heaven Lake's alpine waters reflect mountains all around it, while Jiaohe city's ruins show you what centuries of history leave behind. This Chinese region brings together Central Asian culture with dramatic mountain and desert terrain, telling stories of the old trade routes that connected civilizations.
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- Choose from 28 Xinjiang tours
- 2 verified reviews from TourRadar travelers
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- M
Malte • traveled in October
Very nice tour. Requires previous hiking experience and physical fitness. Remarks: Tour was advertised as tour for 20 people max. incl, and English speaking guide. Where 56 participants and no English guide which made communication difficult sometimes.
Silk Road Epic: 8-Day Trekking Expedition on China’s Ancient Wusun Trail – Tianshan Mountains Wilderness & Nomadic Culture
The best Xinjiang tour packages
Compiled by
MelissaXinjiang travel expert at TourRadar
- Comfort 8-Day Xinjiang Tour: Urumqi, Tianchi, Turpan, Kashgar, Karakul, Taxkorgan
- Tailor-Made 7 Days China Gobi Desert Tour in Xinjiang, Daily Start & No Local Payments
- 8 Days Spectacular Northern Xinjiang Small Group Tour (Max 20)| Northwest China Package Adventure
- 12 Days Amazing Northern Xinjiang Small Group Tour (Max 20)| Northwest China Package Adventure
- Discover Xinjiang 7-Day Tour: Urumqi, Tianchi, Turpan and Kashgar
- 11 Days Northern Xinjiang Group Tour with Nalati Grassland
- 11 Days Xinjiang Group Tour to Kashgar and Kanas Lake
- Urumqi and Turpan Highlights Tour 6D in Xinjiang
- Budget Tour: Urumqi, Tianchi, Turpan and Kashgar 7 Days in Xinjiang
- Skiing and Hot Spring 5-Day Tour in Urumqi
The varied terrains of Xinjiang stretch from Turpan's Kumtag Desert to Kashgar's historic old town. The 2000-year-old Stone City in Taxkorgan stands proud, while Karakul Lake mirrors Muztag Ata mountain. Ancient Bezklik Caves reveal historical treasures. 4-star hotels and English-speaking guides included.
Duration 8 days Destinations Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
- NZ$2,583
Ancient mummies at the Urumqi Regional Museum set the stage for Xinjiang's wonders, leading to Kashgar's vibrant Sunday Market. The region's largest Islamic bazaar buzzes with activity, while Bezeklik Caves' murals and traditional Uighur villages paint a picture of local life.
Duration 7 days Destinations Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator TravelChinaGuide From
- NZ$4,133
Duration 8 days Destinations Urumqi Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From $3,418
20% Off- NZ$2,735You save $684
Duration 12 days Destinations Urumqi Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator UME Travel Co. Ltd From $4,671
20% Off- NZ$3,737You save $934
UNESCO's Heavenly Lake stands as a centerpiece among Xinjiang's treasures, complemented by ancient cities of Turpan and Kashgar's cultural heritage. The Pamir Plateau leads to Karakul Lake, with 5-star hotels and authentic Uyghur cuisine enhancing the experience. Private transport and expert guides included.
Duration 7 days Destinations Urumqi, Heavenly Lake, Turpan, Kashgar Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
20% Off- NZ$2,583
Duration 11 days Destinations Urumqi Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Joy Travel From
20% Off- NZ$3,554+$1,185 local payments
Duration 11 days Destinations Kashgar, Tashkurgan, Urumqi, Turpan, Karakol, Heavenly Lake Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Joy Travel From
20% Off- NZ$3,403+$1,120 local payments
Duration 6 days Destinations Urumqi, Turpan Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
20% Off- NZ$2,049
The grand expanses of Xinjiang unfold from Urumqi's Xinjiang Museum to Kashgar's old town bazaars. Alpine beauty awaits at Tianchi Lake, while ancient Gaochang ruins tell tales of the past. The historic Id Ghar Mosque stands as a testament to time. Accommodations include 3-star hotels and an authentic overnight train through China's largest province.
Duration 7 days Destinations Urumqi, Heavenly Lake, Turpan, Kashgar Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
20% Off- NZ$1,618
Winter transforms Xinjiang from Silk Road International Resort's slopes to UNESCO-listed Heavenly Lake's skating rink. Local culture thrives at Erdaoqiao Bazaar, while Gudhai's desert hot springs offer relaxation. Ancient history comes alive at Xinjiang Museum's mummy exhibits.
Duration 5 days Destinations Urumqi, Heavenly Lake Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Silk Road Trips From
20% Off- NZ$1,894
What our customers ask about Xinjiang Tours & Trips
What are the must-see highlights of a general tour in Xinjiang Country Region?
Xinjiang's main attractions span from high-altitude lakes to ancient Silk Road cities. The Heavenly Lake sits at 3100 meters in the Tianshan Mountains while the city of Turpan showcases the ingenious Karez underground irrigation system. Kashgar's Id Ghar Mosque and bustling old town bazaars offer glimpses into local life. Natural and cultural sites include the Bezklik Thousand Buddha Caves near the Flaming Mountains and Karakul Lake which reflects the 3600-meter Muztagh Ata peak. A TourRadar traveler noted "The landscape views across the Pamir Plateau and diversity of cultural experiences made this journey truly unforgettable." Most tours include stays at upscale properties like the 5-star Wanda Hotel in Urumqi or quality 4-star hotels in Turpan.
When is the best time to visit Xinjiang Country Region?
June through September offers the most reliable weather for exploring both urban and mountain areas. Summer temperatures in Urumqi and Turpan range from 25-30°C (77-86°F) making it comfortable to visit places like Heavenly Lake and archaeological sites. The higher regions around Kashgar and Karakul Lake are most accessible in July and August. Winter brings opportunities for skiing at the Silk Road International Resort near Urumqi though temperatures drop significantly from November to March. As one TourRadar visitor shared "The weather in September was perfect for hiking and sightseeing with clear skies for amazing mountain views."
What types of accommodation can I expect on a Xinjiang Country Region tour?
The region offers a range of places to stay from high-end hotels to simpler lodgings. Urumqi features the 5-star Wanda Hotel while Turpan provides comfortable 4-star options. Remote destinations like Taxkorgan have basic but clean 3-star hotels. Some tours incorporate special stays at places like the Gudu Hot Spring Resort in the Gurbantünggüt Desert or mountain camping experiences. A TourRadar guest noted "The mix of accommodations from luxury hotels in Urumqi to traditional guesthouses in smaller towns gave us a great feel for the region."
How many days should I plan for a comprehensive Xinjiang Country Region tour?
A thorough exploration typically takes 7-8 days. Standard itineraries dedicate 2-3 days to Urumqi and Heavenly Lake 2 days in Turpan exploring ancient ruins and 3 days in Kashgar with its mountain surroundings. Trips to outlying areas like Taxkorgan need extra time. The 320km route from Kashgar to Karakul Lake and Taxkorgan requires about 6 hours each way but rewards travelers with exceptional views. One TourRadar participant shared "Eight days gave us enough time to see the major highlights without feeling rushed though we could have easily spent longer exploring the region."
What kind of food experiences can I expect in Xinjiang Country Region?
The local cuisine blends Uyghur and Chinese influences. Kashgar's old town serves authentic Uyghur dishes like hand-pulled noodles nang bread and traditional pilaf. Markets such as Erdaoqiao Bazaar in Urumqi sell regional specialties and dried fruits. Tours usually cover hotel breakfasts while letting visitors discover local restaurants for other meals. Taxkorgan offers unique options like yak hot pot. A TourRadar guest noted "The food was a highlight especially the traditional Uyghur meals in local homes and markets."
What unique experiences are included in Xinjiang Country Region tours?
Tours feature visits to Turpan's ancient Karez water system explorations of the Flaming Mountains and Bezeklik Caves and encounters with local culture at Kashgar's Sunday Animal Market. Natural attractions range from desert hot springs to the mirror-like Heavenly Lake. Some itineraries include nights at distinctive properties like the Gudu Hot Spring Resort. As one TourRadar visitor shared "The mix of historical sites natural wonders and cultural experiences made this trip unlike any other - especially the contrast between desert oases and mountain landscapes."