Xi'an to Urumqi Train: Best Ways to Go to Urumqi from Xi'an by Train (Time, Tickets, Tips)

Xi'an to Urumqi Train Overview

There are also various other options for regular trains from Xi'an to Urumqi. Whether you opt for a regular sleeper train or a high-speed bullet train, the Xi'an to Urumqi journey offers a unique window into China's diverse geography, stretching from the historic heartland of Xi'an to the cultural hub of Urumqi in Xinjiang.

Train Time from Xi'an to Urumqi: 13 to 32 Hours

The Train Time from Xi'an to Urumqi varies depending on the type of train you choose:

Xi'an to Urumqi High-Speed Bullet Trains (D-trains): These trains take around 13-14 hours, making them the fastest option available.

High Speed Trains from Xi'an to Urumqi offers modern comforts with seating classes, which means though the travel time on train is shorter but there will be no sleeper berths on your way to Urumqi.

Xi'an to Urumqi Regular Sleeper Trains (Z/T/K-trains): The traditional trains take anywhere from 24 to 32 hours. Depending on number of stops and routes it takes to reach Urumqi from Xi'an.

These trains come with sleeper compartments, offering more affordable options but at the expense of a longer travel time to reach Urumqi.

Xi'an to Urumqi Train Schedule

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Xi'an to Urumqi Train Price & Tickets

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Departure Station for Xi'an to Urumqi Train: Xi'an Train Station

If you take a regular sleeper train to Urumqi your train will depart from Xi'an Railway Station(西安火车站).

For those choosing a regular sleeper train to go to Urumqi, your journey will begin at Xi'an Railway Station (西安火车站), theXi'an 's traditional and central railway hub. Here's the key info:

Xi'an Railway Station Address: No. 44 Huancheng North Road, Lianhu District, Xi'an (西安市莲湖区环城北路44号)

How to Get to Xi'an Railway Station:

By Metro: Take Metro Line 4 and exit at Wulukou Station (五路口), which is within walking distance of the railway station.

By Taxi: A taxi ride from downtown Xi'an to the railway station takes around 15-30 minutes, depending on traffic.

If you opt for a bullet train to reach Urumqi, your journey will begin at Xi'anbei Railway Station (西安北站), the Xi'an's newly built high-speed rail hub.

Xi'anbei Railway Station Address: Weiyang District, Xi'an (西安市未央区)

How to Get to Xi'anbei Railway Station:

By Metro: Take Metro Line 2 directly to Xi'anbei Station (西安北站), a convenient and quick option.

By Taxi: It takes around 30-45 minutes by taxi from central Xi'an to Xi'anbei Station, depending on traffic.

Arrival Station for Xi'an to Urumqi Train: How to Get around from Urumqi Train Station

After arriving at Urumqi Railway Station (乌鲁木齐火车站), you'll find several transportation options to explore the city or reach your hotel:

By Metro: The Urumqi Metro Line 1 connects the railway station to major areas of the city.

By Taxi: Taxis are readily available, and the fare to downtown Urumqi is about ¥30-¥50 depending on traffic and distance.

Private Pick-Up Services: For a more stress-free option, arrange a pick-up through your hotel or a tour service in advance.

Join a tour with AOT链接, enjoy seamless logistics with hotels, transportation all covered. Contact your travel expert to enjoy a worry-free travel in Xinjiang!

Seat/Cabin Class for Regular & High-Speed Train from Xi'an to Urumqi

As an international tourist in China, you might find it challenging to choose from all the train types and options.

Admittedly, China has built the longest railway network, with most trains updated to an advanced state with modern amenities. But it can be difficult to decide which is the best way to travel, especially if you're a first-time traveler.

At AOT链接, we've gathered feedback from many of our guests and conducted surveys about the train experience in China as an international traveler.

We hope this will help you gain a clearer picture of train travel in China链接 and choose the best option for your Xi'an to Urumqi Train.

Here's the option summary for trains from Xi'an to Urumqi:

Travel Norm - Bullet Train : The fastest option, with first-class seats that offer spacious, reclinable chairs and modern amenities like power outlets and sometimes Wi-Fi.

While comfortable, you're still seated in an open space, in this case it means sitting for 13 to 14 hours all the way from Xi'an to Urumqi.

It's best for those who value speed, comfort in public spaces, and a modern travel experience.

Worth Trying - Hard Sleeper: A more budget-friendly option, offering basic, open-plan bunk beds. You'll be sharing a semi-open space with five other travelers and passing corridor traffic, so privacy is very limited.

The transportation is not that costly. So if comfort is your priority do choose the premium softer sleeper cabins.

But the hard sleeper can be quite an experience for adventurous spirits!

Everything is good but might have to share cabin with strangers - Soft Sleeper (24-32 hours): A more comfortable option with enclosed cabins and only four beds per compartment. It provides better privacy and bedding compared to the hard sleeper.

However, you'll still share the cabin with strangers, which may be slightly awkward for some travelers, according to some of our AOT's customer's feedback.

Tips for Taking Xi'an to Urumqi Train

Research Cabin Class: For firs-time traveler in China train can be a great and potentially eye-opening experience. It is essential to do a little research beforehand. If you would like to know more about Train

Bring Snacks: Dining options on board are limited and may not suit all tastes, so bring snacks, drinks, and entertainment.

Arrive Early: Train stations can get crowded, especially in large cities like Shanghai. Arrive at least an hour before departure.

Prepare for Security Check: Chinese train stations have security checks similar to airports, which can see more strict, so ensure you factor in enough time for bag scans and ticket verification.

Here's a FAQ for taking Bullet trains in China链接https://www.asiaodysseytravel.com/china-high-speed-train/travel-faqs/

Side Trip Ideas for Xi'an to Urumqi Train

While the train journey from Xi'an to Urumqi itself is a remarkable adventure, there are several fascinating side trips you can consider along the way.

More importantly the train route from Xi'an to Urumqi somewhat overlaps with the route of the marvellous ancient silk road that starts from Xi'an as well!

So with side trips along the way from Xi'an to Urumqi, you would have a chance to visit all the enchanting historical sites along the Silk Road and effectively traverse the Silk Road yourself from Xi'an.

And of course it would be a more comfortable journey on trains from Xi’an to Urumqi, not riding camels or caravans like merchants and explorers like Marco Polo back in the day!

Here are the possible side trip ideas:

Zhangye: This city is famous for its Rainbow Mountains or Danxia Landform(丹霞地貌), a geological wonder with vibrant, multicolored hills.

Lanzhou: 'Pearl of the Yellow River', Lanzhou is a captivating city situated along the banks of the Yellow River, one of China's most iconic rivers.

Dunhuang: A must-visit for history buffs, Dunhuang is home to the Mogao Caves(莫高窟), a UNESCO World Heritage Site with thousands of Buddhist murals and sculptures.

Turpan: This oasis city offers a stark contrast to the surrounding desert. Explore the Jiaohe Ruins(交河故城), a well-preserved ancient city, and visit the Flaming Mountains.

Kashgar: This vibrant city is a cultural melting pot, with influences from China, Central Asia, and the Middle East. Explore Kashgar Old City(喀什古城, )the Sunday Bazaar, one of the largest bazaars in China.

Hop off the train from Xi'an to have a side trip at any of destinations will grant you a wonderful trip along the way to Urumqi. Spend one or two days at each destinations.

In the mean time planing is essential for a China Train Tour链接. Contact your travel expert for more inspiration!