2-Day Private Tour to Turpan from Urumqi: Karez System, JIaohe Ruins and More
Active
2d
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Turpan has a history that covers thousands of years and many empires and religions. During this 2 days guided tour, you can chose 4-6 attractions in Turpan to visit, such as Jiaohe Ancient City, Gaochang Ancient City, Karez Irrigation System, Emin Minaret, Bezklik Thousand Buddha Caves and Flame Mountain. The tour includes tasty local lunch, all entrance fee(4 -6 attractions), an English-speaking guide and transport by private vehicle.
Available options
Private Tour
Your tour guide will pick you up at 8:00am in your Urumqi Hotel's lobby. After two days tour, you can choose to finish in Turpan or be dropped off at your hotel in Urumqi.<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Private tour
Professional guide
Bottled water
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
2 Days Lunches in the local restaurant
Transport by private vehicle
Entrance Fee
What you'll see
Your English speaking guide and private car will pick you up at 8:00am in your Urumqi hotel's lobby. Then heading directly to Turpan, it will take about 3 hours. Your professional tour guide will give you an explication of the Silk Road and the related Chinese history and culture on the way. Feel free to discuss with your tour guide on which attractions you are interested, choose 4-6 attractions in Turpan, then your tour guide will put together an itinerary for you.
• Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves. It is a complex of Buddhist cave grottos dating from the 5th to 14th century. They are high on the cliffs of the west Mutou Valley under the Flaming Mountains, and most of the surviving caves date from the West Uyghur kingdom around the 10th to 13th centuries.
• Emin Minaret (Su Gong Ta), the largest extant old tower in Xinjiang and the only Islamic tower among the hundred famous towers in China.
• 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. Here you can learn how the locals have irrigated a dry climate like Turpan for hundreds of years.
• Ancient City of Jiaohe (Yarkhoto)–the capital of the Anterior Jushi Kingdom. Like a willow leaf, the ancient city of Jiaohe has a history of 2300 years. Jiaohe ancient city was considered as the largest, oldest and best-preserved earthen city in the world. It was listed as the World Heritage by UNESCO on June 22, 2014.
• Flaming Mountains, which are barren, eroded, red sandstone hills. It is the hottest place in China with the highest temperature around 47.8 °C (118 °F) and surface temperature over 70 °C (158 °F) in summer.
• Astana Tombs which served mainly as the cemetery for the descendants of Chinese settlers in Gaochang from the 4th century to the first half of the 8th century. The complex contains over 1,000 tombs. Due to the arid environment many important artifacts have been well preserved at the tombs, including natural mummies.
• Ancient City of Gaochang: Gaochang ancient city was a key point along the Silk Road. The city was built in the first Century BC and later became capital of the Idikut (Gaochang) Uighur Kingdom in the 8th Century. By the 14th century, the city was damaged and abandoned due to warfare between Mongolian aristocrats and Uigurs.
Please note: Your 2 days tour including the entrance fee to 4-6 attractions in Turpan, two days lunches in the local restaurant, English speaking tour guide and private vehicle, please book your own accommodation in Turpan. After two days tour you can choose to be dropped off at your hotel in Urumqi or finish in Turpan.
What's not included
Gratuities
Accommodations in Turpan
Available languages
Guide guide
ZH-TW
CMN
EN
Important information
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Dress code is smart casual
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Please book your own accommodation in Turpan
Important notes
• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended
• A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
About Urumqi
Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, is a vibrant city where modern urban life meets ancient Silk Road history. Known for its diverse ethnic cultures, stunning natural landscapes, and unique culinary scene, Urumqi offers a truly unique travel experience in western China.
Top Attractions
Heavenly Lake (Tianchi)
Heavenly Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the Tianshan Mountains. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular spot for hiking and photography.
Nature
Half day to full day
¥130 (entrance fee)
International Grand Bazaar
The International Grand Bazaar is a bustling market where you can find a variety of goods, from traditional crafts to modern souvenirs. It's a great place to experience the local culture and shop for unique items.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary
Red Hill Park
Red Hill Park is a popular recreational area with lush greenery, walking paths, and scenic views. It's a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors within the city.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum
This museum showcases the rich history and culture of the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. It features a wide range of exhibits, including artifacts, art, and historical documents.
Historical
1-2 hours
¥20
Erdaoqiao Market
Erdaoqiao Market is a vibrant market where you can find a variety of goods, including spices, dried fruits, and traditional crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and shop for unique items.
Cultural
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary
Must-Try Local Dishes
Lagman
A hearty noodle dish with meat, vegetables, and a flavorful broth.
Main course
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Kebabs
Grilled skewers of meat, often served with flatbread and vegetables.
Snack
Contains meat, vegetarian options available
Nang
A type of flatbread baked in a tandoor oven, often served with meals.
Bread
Vegetarian
Manti
Steamed dumplings filled with meat and spices, served with a yogurt sauce.
Dumplings
Contains meat, can be made vegetarian
Popular Activities
Hiking in the Tianshan Mountains
Exploring Heavenly Lake
Wildlife spotting in Kanas Lake
Boat rides on Heavenly Lake
Visiting tea houses
Shopping at local markets
Exploring the International Grand Bazaar
Visiting the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region Museum
Best Time to Visit
May to September
The best time to visit Urumqi is during the summer months when the weather is warm and pleasant. This is the ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.
20°C to 35°C
68°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Chinese (Mandarin)
- Widely spoken: Uyghur, Kazakh, Russian
- English: Limited
Currency
Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Time Zone
GMT+8
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Urumqi is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid scams and petty crime.
Important Precautions:
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Urumqi Diwopu International Airport • 15 km from city center
By train
Urumqi Railway Station, Urumqi South Railway Station
By bus
Urumqi Long-Distance Bus Station, Urumqi South Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Urumqi Metro is efficient and affordable, with multiple lines connecting key areas of the city. It is a convenient way to get around, especially during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Didi Chuxing
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Saybagh District
Tianshan District
Shayibake District
Day trips
Heavenly Lake (Tianchi)
110 km from Urumqi • Full day
Heavenly Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the Tianshan Mountains. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular spot for hiking and photography.
Turpan
200 km from Urumqi • Full day
Turpan is an ancient city known for its rich history and unique landscapes. It is home to the Karez irrigation system, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the Flaming Mountains.
Kanas Lake
400 km from Urumqi • Overnight
Kanas Lake is a stunning alpine lake located in the Altai Mountains. It is known for its crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings, making it a popular spot for hiking and photography.
Festivals
Xinjiang International Folk Festival • August
Urumqi International Ice and Snow Sculpture Festival • January to February
Eid al-Fitr • Varies (Islamic calendar)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in the local language to enhance your experience and connect with locals
- Try local snacks and street food for an authentic culinary experience
- Visit attractions early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience
- Dress in layers as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day
- Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps to avoid scams and ensure a safe and reliable ride
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
