7-Day Xinjiang Adventure with Local Cuisine Itinerary

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Lao Fangzi Xinjiang Restaurant. Then, embark on a breathtaking journey to the Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Take a boat ride on the crystal-clear waters and enjoy the pristine alpine scenery.

After returning to Urumqi, indulge in a sumptuous lunch at Yipin Xinjiang Restaurant. Spend your afternoon exploring the otherworldly landscape of the Flaming Mountains (Huoyan Shan), where the red sandstone formations create a mesmerizing sight.

Dine at Jiulongshan Roast Whole Lamb and savor the succulent flavors of traditional Xinjiang cuisine. Then, relax with an evening walk around Grand Bazaar (International Bazaar), where you can shop for local crafts and enjoy the lively market atmosphere.

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at Hongfu Restaurant before delving into the fascinating world of the Urumqi Glacier No. 1 (Xinjiang Bingtuan Bingdi)}, where you can witness a real glacier in the desert.

For lunch, head to Dapeng Roast Whole Lamb and savor their specialty dish. Then, visit the Heavenly Lake of Tianshan (Tianshan Tianchi)}, a tranquil alpine lake surrounded by lush forests and meadows.

Experience the dynamic Urumqi nightlife by exploring the city's bars and lounges. Start with a pre-dinner drink at a local hotspot like Devalt Yining Wine Culture Museum (Yili Wine Museum), followed by a delightful dinner at Tianshan Tianchi Lake Fish Banquet to end the day.

Take a private day tour from Urumqi to Turpan, where you'll be transported to the ancient Silk Road oasis. Begin with a visit to the Jiaohe Ancient City (Yarghul), an impressive ruins site that offers a glimpse into the region's history.

Enjoy a traditional Uighur lunch at Kashgar Food Street in Turpan. Then, explore the fascinating Karez System, an ancient underground irrigation system that allowed agriculture to thrive in this arid region.

Dine at Turpan Grand Bazaar Food Street and sample a variety of local dishes. After dinner, take a leisurely walk through the bustling market, where you can shop for souvenirs and interact with the friendly locals.

Begin your day with a visit to the Id Kah Mosque (Id Kah Tohmti), the largest mosque in China. Immerse yourself in the spiritual atmosphere and witness the unique blend of Islamic and Uighur architectural styles.

For lunch, indulge in the flavors of Kashgar cuisine at Dapeng Roast Whole Lamb. Then, explore the vibrant Sunday Livestock Market (Xingren Bazaar), where local herders and traders gather to buy and sell livestock, creating a lively and colorful spectacle.

Dine at Kashgar Food Street and enjoy an array of local dishes. After dinner, take a stroll through the Kashgar Old Town (Kashi Ancient Town), a maze of narrow alleys, traditional houses, and bustling markets that will transport you back in time.

Embark on a private day tour to explore the lesser-known attractions of Urumqi. Visit the Nanshan Pasture (Nanshan Grassland), where you can witness traditional Kazakh nomadic culture and enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery.

Enjoy a picnic lunch at the pasture or return to the city to dine at Xinjiang Grand Bazaar Food Street. Spend the rest of the afternoon visiting the Shuimogou Scenic Area, known for its picturesque landscapes, waterfalls, and colorful peacocks.

For dinner, indulge in the flavors of Xinjiang cuisine at Yipin Xinjiang Restaurant. End the day with a cultural performance at the Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, where you can witness traditional music and dance from the various ethnic groups of the region.

Savor your final breakfast in Xinjiang at Tianshan Tianchi Lake Fish Banquet, enjoying the serene ambiance of the restaurant. Then, take a morning stroll through the Hongshan Park (Red Hill Park), reflecting on the memorable experiences of your trip.

Visit the Urumqi South Railway Station (Urumqi Nan Zhan) to continue your journey to the next destination. Before departure, have a light lunch at Lao Fangzi Xinjiang Restaurant to bid farewell to the flavors of Xinjiang.

Depart from Urumqi, carrying with you the memories of the region's stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and the warm hospitality of its people.