5-Day Xinjiang Adventure Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Heavenly Lake (Tianchi). Located in the Tianshan Mountains, this stunning alpine lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks and lush forests. You can take a boat ride on the lake or hike along its shores to fully appreciate its natural beauty.

Enjoy lunch at Tianchi Restaurant, which offers delicious local dishes with a view of Heavenly Lake. Afterward, you can continue exploring the area or simply relax by the lake.

Return to Urumqi and have dinner at Mirage Restaurant, known for its exquisite Uyghur cuisine and elegant ambiance. It's an excellent way to end your day with some authentic flavors.

Travel to Turpan and start your day by visiting the Jiaohe Ancient City. This archaeological site dates back over 2,000 years and offers fascinating insights into ancient city planning and architecture. Wander through the ruins and imagine life in this once-thriving city.

Have lunch at Turpan Vineyard Restaurant, where you can savor local dishes made from fresh ingredients grown in Turpan's fertile lands. Afterward, head to the Karez System, an ingenious underground irrigation system that has sustained agriculture in this arid region for centuries.

For dinner, dine at Eden Restaurant, which offers both traditional Uyghur cuisine and modern dishes in a charming setting. It's an ideal place to relax after a day of exploration.

Begin your day with a visit to the Flaming Mountains. These striking red sandstone hills are famous for their intense heat and unique appearance. You can take photos of this otherworldly landscape and learn about its geological significance.

Enjoy lunch at Flaming Mountain Restaurant, where you can taste local specialties while taking in views of the mountains. Afterward, explore the nearby Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, which house ancient Buddhist murals dating back over 1,500 years.

Conclude your day with dinner at Grape Valley Restaurant, located in Turpan's picturesque Grape Valley. The restaurant offers delicious meals made from locally sourced ingredients amidst beautiful vineyard scenery.

Start your day by exploring the Id Kah Mosque. This is the largest mosque in China and a significant religious site for Muslims in Xinjiang. The mosque's architecture is stunning, and you can learn about its history and cultural importance while walking through its serene courtyards.

Head to the Kashgar Old Town for lunch at a local eatery. The old town is a maze of narrow streets filled with traditional Uyghur homes, shops, and markets. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through this historic area, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere and perhaps picking up some unique souvenirs.

For dinner, visit Night Market Kashgar, where you can sample a variety of local dishes and street food. The market comes alive in the evening with vendors selling everything from kebabs to freshly baked bread. It's a perfect way to end your day immersed in Kashgar's rich culinary traditions.