Take China Group Tours in 2025 to enjoy a 30% discount compared to a private tour. Same Experience & Lowest Price!
Beijing to Urumqi Distance
The distance between Beijing and Urumqi is approximately 2,772 kilometers (1,723 miles).
Beijing, the capital of China, is situated in the northern part of the country.
Urumqi, on the other hand, is located in the far northwestern region of China, within the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region.
Urumqi is a vibrant city in Northwest China. Explore its Grand Bazaar, hike the Tianshan Tianchi, and discover ancient Silk Road Attractions. Don't miss one of the most satisfying - Xinjiang Food for an amazing China Tour.
It is also the capital of Xinjiang Region, and the gateway to Xinjiang in terms of transportation and tourism. So Urumqi is definitely worth visiting!
Here is your transportation guide for Beijing to Urumqi by Train and Flight.
| Option | Duration | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Ticket Price (RMB) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Train Z179 | 38 hours | 6:26 PM | 8:32 AM (two days later) | 352-940 | Cheapest,scenic | Requires planning for food and comfort |
| Train Z69 | 31 hours | 10:19 AM | 5:28 PM (next day) | 317-849 | Cheaper, fewer stops, scenic | Requires planning for food and comfort |
| Flight | 4-4.5 hours | Multiple times daily | Varies | 600-3000 | Fastest, beginner-friendly | More expensive, subject to weather conditions |
Beijing to Urumqi Flight: How to Take Flight From Beijing to Urumqi
There are multiple flights operating from Beijing to Urumqi Daily. Taking a direct flight from Beijing to Urumqi is the most recommended way to travel.
Beijing to Urumqi Flight Time: Approximately 4 - 4.5 hours
Beijing to Urumqi Flight Price: Ranges from 600 - 3,000 RMB, depending on the airline and time of booking.
With a direct flight you will reach Urumqi from Beijing within 5 hours, at a flight ticket price ranging from 600 RMB to 3,000 RMB. It would save a lot time and energy with planing and catching connecting flights.
Unlike trains in China, which can require some research for international tourists to navigate, flying from Beijing to Urumqi is a more straightforward and beginner-friendly option.
The only thing to be mindful is to how to choose departing airport for you Beijing to Urumqi flight. Read on to learn more.
How to Choose from The 2 Departing Airports for Beijing to Urumqi Flight
Beijing has two major airports from which you can catch a flight to Urumqi:
Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), Chinese Name: 北京首都国际机场.
Address: Shunyi District(顺义区), Beijing
Transportation: Easily accessible via Airport Express trains, taxis, and shuttle buses. It's about 25 km from the city center.
Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX), Chinese Name:北京大兴国际机场
Address: Daxing District, Beijing
Transportation: Connects to the city via the Daxing Airport Express and taxis, approximately 46 km from the city center.
For your flight from Beijing to Urumqi, both airports are ideal.
| Feature | Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) | Beijing Daxing International Airport (PKX) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Location | Northeast of Beijing | South of Beijing | |
| Proximity to City Center | Slightly closer | Further | |
| Size and Crowdedness | Larger, often more crowded | Smaller, less crowded | |
| Flight Frequency | More frequent flights to Urumqi | Fewer flights, but increasing | |
| Transportation to the Airport | Multiple options (subway, bus, taxi) | Express train, bus, taxi | |
| Pros | More choices for flights and amenities | Newer, more efficient design | |
| Cons | Can be crowded and chaotic | Fewer amenities initially |
Insider Tip: If you love architecture, do visit Daxing International Airport, as The airport was designed by the renowned Zaha Hadid Architects. It is newly built with futuristic and fluid designs.
That's why we at Asia Odyssey Travel would recommend Daxing airport for you Beijing to Urumqi Flight. For more info or Best Tour Service our Travel Expert are always happy to help. Contact us now to plan you trip!
How to Get Around from Airport in Urumqi
Upon arrival at Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC,地窝堡机场), you can use the following options:
Airport Shuttle Buses: These run regularly to major city points. Wait time could be longer.
Taxis: Readily available outside the terminal; ensure the meter is used.
Ride-hailing Apps: Popular options include Didi, which may provide convenience. Yet it might be challenging for international travelers to ues Chinese Apps.
Pick up arrangement by tour service: This In a city with less developed public transportation system the pick service by tour group can be the most worry-free way to get around when you reach Urumqi.
And Asia Odyssey Travel Xinjiang Tour can arrange seamless logistics you you can enjoy your Xinjiang Trip hassle free.
Tips for Beijing to Urumqi Flight
Mountain View Seat: For breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains during your flight in Xinjiang, book a seat on the left side of the plane.
Check-In Early: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before your flight, especially during peak seasons. Security check can be slightly more strict for you Beijing to Urumqi Flight.
Beijing to Urumqi Train: How to Take Train from Beijing to Urumqi
Options for the Xinjiang to Urumqi train are limited because it's a long journey. Of course, you can catch a connecting train at multiple transfer points.
In the meantime we at Asia Odyssey Travel do recommend direct train as the first choice if you plan to go from Beijing to Urumqi by Train. Here are your options:
Train Z69
Departure: 10:19 AM from Beijingxi
Arrival: 5:28 PM the next day
Ticket Price: Ranges from 317 to 849 RMB
Train Z179
Departure: 6:26 PM from Beijingxi
Arrival: 8:32 AM two days later
Ticket Price: Ranges from 352 to 940 RMB
Trains with letter “Z” indicates it's a direct express. It runs at between 160-200 km/h (100-125 mph). Z-trains are perfect for passengers traveling between major cities, such as Beijing and Urumqi, without many intermediate stops.
Here's a FAQ for taking Bullet trains in China: China High Speed Train 101.
Why Direct Train is More Recommended?
Catching a connecting train for long-distance travel is exhausting. If you opt for a slower-paced journey with connecting train to Urumqi, instead of spending more than two days just waiting for and catching connecting trains plan for side trip!
Spend one or two days at the following destinations then hop on the train to Urumqi again. So you can take breaks from long haul train and have an epic China High Speed Train Tour on Train to Urumqi.
Side Trip Ideas for Beijing to Urumqi Train
While the train journey from Beijing to Urumqi itself is a remarkable adventure, there are several fascinating side trips you can consider along the way:
Datong: This ancient city is known for its well-preserved Yungang Grottoes(云岗石窟), one of the best Grottoes in China, UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring thousands of Buddhist sculptures.
Zhangye: This city is famous for its Rainbow Mountains or Danxia Landform(丹霞地貌), a geological wonder with vibrant, multicolored hills.
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.
Though the Train from Beijing to Urumqi does not stop at Dunhuang you can hop off at Liuyuan(柳园)station, which is located near Dunhuang.
Turpan: This oasis city offers a stark contrast to the surrounding desert. Explore the Jiaohe Acient city 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.
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 Beijing 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.
Admittedly planing is essential for a China High Speed Train Tour. Contact your travel expert for more inspiration!
Tips for Taking Beijing to Urumqi Train
Choose Sleeper Cabins: For a train journey lasting over 30 hours, you need a bed. So at least opt for a hard sleeper.
A hard sleeper is a semi-open space with three bunk beds in one row. You get a closed space with a soft sleeper, which accommodates four people.
Booking: Purchase tickets in advance, especially during holidays or peak travel seasons.
Comfort: Bring snacks and drinks, as dining options on board may be limited.
Timing: Arrive at train station early for security. Factor in the traffic in Beijing's rush hours.
Luggage: Ensure your bags are manageable; overhead storage can be limited.
Travel Ideas for Xinjiang Tour
Urumqi (1-2 days): Start your journey in Urumqi. Visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum and explore the Grand Bazaar. Consider a day trip to the scenic Heavenly Lake for hiking and relaxation.
Kashgar & Tashkurgan (3-4 days): Explore the Old Town, dazzling Bazaars. Take a day trip to Tashkurgan to see the stunning scenery of the Pamir Plateau and visit Tajik family.
Turpan & Korla (2-3 days): Travel to Turpan, famous for its unique desert landscape and historical sites like the Karez irrigation system and the Flaming Mountains. Then, head to Korla to explore the ancient Iron Gate Pass and enjoy local Xinjiang Food.
Kuqa & Hotan (2-3 days): Next, visit Kuqa to explore the Kizil Caves and local culture. Continue to Hotan, known for jade, silk production and the ancient ruins of the Hotan Kingdom.
Aletai, Hemu Village & Kanas Lake (3-4 days): Venture north to Aletai, where you can explore picturesque valleys and enjoy outdoor activities. Visit Hemu Village for rural experiences, and head to Kanas Lake for breathtaking sunrise/sunset views.
Burqin & Karamay (2 days): Visit Burqin to see the Rainbow Mountains and enjoy outdoor activities. Then, explore Karamay, known for its unique geological formations and the Ghost City.
Yining & Naraty Grassland (2-3 days): Travel to Yining, explore local markets and attractions. visit Naraty Grassland for horseback riding and a taste of pastoral culture.
When planning your Xinjiang Itinerary, do consider how vast Xinjiang is as a travel destination. So allocate your time to maximize your Xinjiang Trip.
Browse more Xinjiang tours with Asia Odyssey Travel or simply get in touch with your Travel Expert; tell us your travel interest, we have you covered. Contact us now!
Travel with Asia Odyssey Travel, Culture & Nature Xinjiang Tour
First-time visitor or not, Xinjiang is Not What You Think. It's More Than What You Imagine!
Looking for natural grandeur? Experience the the sunrise at pristine Kanas Lake, the sky-touching Naraty Grassland, the boundless Taklamakan Desert along the acient Xinjiang Silk Road.
Looking to broaden your horizons? Discover exquisite Uyghur crafts at the bazaars at Kashgar, the nomadic dances of Tajiks on the Pamir Plateau at Tashkurgan, and the finest vineyards at Grape Valley at Turpan. You can even visit the oldest Buddha Grottoes in China!
Your Xinjiang Trip will be an eye-opening adventure and a soul-touching journey!
Asia Odyssey Travel: Your Best Xinjiang Guide
- Genuine Service: Not just an agency—we are your travel companions.
- Exclusive Access: Secure your tickets and accommodations even in high season.
- Authentic Experience: Best local guides with cultural insights.
- Travel Made Easy: Flights, hotels, activities—all taken care of!
- Skip the Tourist Routine: Avoid all tourist traps and travel down to earth
- 24/7 Support: Always on-line for your peace of mind
Asia Odyssey Travel, leading your China Adventure Since 2010. What's your travel idea? Let's talk!
Data in submission...
