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Take China Silk Road Tours for Brilliant Cultures and Stunning Landscapes along Ancient Routes in Northwestern China!
With over 2,200 years of history, China’s Silk Road stretches across an impressive 4,000 kilometers, linking East and West in a journey through ancient civilizations and breathtaking landscapes. Begin your Silk Road adventure in Chang’an (modern-day Xian), then travel through Gansu and Xinjiang, extending westward toward Central Asia.
China Silk Road Tours: Top Destinations & Highlights
1. Gansu Silk Road: Known for iconic sites like the Mogao Caves in Dunhuang, the vibrant Zhangye Danxia landforms, and Jiayuguan’s Great Wall Fortress, Gansu offers a fascinating blend of Buddhist art, desert landscapes, and Silk Road history.
2. Xinjiang Silk Road: Famous for its diverse cultures and natural beauty, Xinjiang beckons travelers to explore the oasis city of Kashgar, the crystalline waters of Kanas Lake, and the vibrant markets in Urumqi. Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and expansive deserts, this region brings to life the multi-ethnic tapestry of the Silk Road.
How to Start & Plan Your China Silk Road Tour
Our China Silk Road Tours provide over 20 expertly designed itineraries, ranging from 5 to 13 days. Choose your starting point based on your preferences:
Asia Odyssey Travel: Your Silk Road Experts at the Best Prices
As a Xinjiang-based agency, Asia Odyssey Travel offers both private and small-group tours with meticulously planned itineraries and affordable pricing. Join us to experience the Silk Road’s vast landscapes, rich heritage, and timeless adventure!
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First time exploring the Ancient Silk Road in China? Discover our top 3 recommended China Silk Road tours featuring classic routes and essential highlights. Choose from 8 to 11-day tours beginning in Xi’an, Dunhuang, or Urumqi for adventures!
Looking for a small group experience along the China Silk Road? Our Silk Road GROUP tours offer the most affordable way to journey this ancient route. In 5 to 13 days, explore Xinjiang, Gansu, and Qinghai with small groups - all at unbeatable prices. Learn more about Silk Road Group Tours >>
Planning a Silk Road journey through China? Our expert travel articles and curated tours offer essential tips, itinerary ideas, and destination highlights. Explore Gansu, Xinjiang, and Qinghai, discovering ancient sites, stunning landscapes, and cultural treasures. Check our comprehensive China Silk Road Travel Guide and start planning your unforgettable adventure along this historic trade route.
Key destinations include Xian (starting point of the ancient route), Dunhuang for its Mogao Caves, Turpan’s ancient city of Jiaohe, and Kashgar’s vibrant markets. The route spans Gansu and Xinjiang in China, extending westward into Central Asia’s Five Stans (Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan).
The best months for a Silk Road tour are April–June and September–October, when temperatures are mild, skies are clear, and sites are less crowded. Summer can be very hot, especially in the desert areas, while winter can bring cold and challenging travel conditions.
Gansu offers incredible Buddhist sites like the Mogao Caves and the scenic Zhangye Danxia landform. Xinjiang highlights include diverse ethnic cultures, the Heavenly Lake of Tianchi, and the ancient city of Kashgar, set against breathtaking landscapes of deserts and mountains.
Xinjiang’s culture is unique with its blend of Uighur, Kazakh, and Tajik influences. It’s home to diverse scenery like the Heavenly Lake of Tianchi, Kanas Lake, and Kashgar’s Old City, offering a truly multicultural experience.
Decide on your main interests, such as history, culture, or scenery, then choose an entry city like Xi’an, Dunhuang, or Urumqi. Planning your tour length is important, as the Silk Road can range from a week to several weeks. Choose between joining a group tour or arranging a private tour for a more flexible experience.
Xi’an is a popular starting point as it was historically the Silk Road's beginning. Other good entry points include Dunhuang for central access or Urumqi for western Xinjiang and Central Asia links. Choose a city based on the main sites you want to explore.
From Central Asia, Kashgar in Xinjiang is ideal. Located near Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan, Kashgar offers a seamless entry with its vibrant culture and connection to the western Silk Road.
The Ancient Silk Road was a land route through Central Asia, whereas the Maritime Silk Road connected China to Southeast Asia, South Asia, and beyond via sea. Some Silk Road tours offer an extension to Quanzhou, a key port for maritime trade.
The Silk Road’s cuisine reflects its diverse cultures. Enjoy noodles and lamb skewers in Gansu, Uighur kebabs and naan in Xinjiang, and Central Asian influences with dishes like pilaf and samsa in Kashgar.
Dress comfortably and in layers. Summers can be hot, while evenings may be cooler, especially in desert areas. If visiting religious sites, modest attire is recommended, particularly in Xinjiang.
Yes, many tours extend to Central Asia’s Five Stans, adding historical and cultural depth to the experience. You can choose itineraries that start in China and continue westward into countries like Uzbekistan or Kyrgyzstan.
Travel is primarily by high-speed train and private vehicle. Some remote parts may require longer drives. Group tours often use big van for comfort and convenience.
Ju Le
Malaysia
Northern Xinjiang took my breath away with its endless natural beauty. While I’d heard of Kanas Lake, discovering Hemu Village, the picturesque Saramy Lake, and the vibrant Wucaitan Danxia formations added so much more. Urho Ghost City’s mysterious landscapes and the relaxing, scenic spots around each lake made every day exciting. This area is an absolute paradise for nature lovers!
Destination(s): Dunhuang/Gansu
Date of Experience: Sep 07, 2024
Tour Customized by: Owen
You May be Interested in This Tour: 8 Days Northern Xinjiang Group Tour: Kanas Lakes, Hemu Village & Sayram Lake
Zhen Xin
Hong Kong
Dunhuang’s stunning desert and artistic treasures made for an unforgettable experience! The Mogao Caves were filled with remarkable historical art, while the desert landscape offered the thrill of camel riding and hiking up the sand dunes. Reaching the top rewarded us with panoramic views of the magical Crescent Lake nestled among the dunes. It was a surreal mix of history, art, and adventure!
Destination(s): Dunhuang/Gansu
Date of Experience: Aug 18, 2024
Tour Customized by: Owen
You May be Interested in This Tour: 6 Days Best Gansu Tour from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan & Zhangye
Lynic
Taipei, China
Spending 3 relaxing days around the serene beauty of Qinghai Lake and its nearby salt lake was the perfect way to start our Silk Road adventure. Heading to Zhangye, Jiayuguan, and Dunhuang added cultural depth with visits to the Mogao Caves, filled with incredible ancient artwork. From scenic views to cultural highlights, this journey was packed with exciting activities and unforgettable moments! Highly recommended Asia Odyssey Travel.
Destination(s): Qinghai, Dunhuang/Gansu
Date of Experience: Aug 16, 2024
Tour Customized by: Owen
You May be Interested in This Tour: 7 Days Qinghai Gansu Classic Tour: Nature & Legendary Silk Road Legacies
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