How to Get to Xinjiang: Flights, Trains, Roads to Xinjiang (Updated 2025)

Where is Xinjiang in China?

Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar

Kashgar Old City

Xinjiang is an autonomous region located in the northwest of China, and it’s the largest provincial-level division in China by area, covering approximately 1.6 million square kilometers (620,000 square miles). Xinjiang played a crucial role in the historical Silk Road network, serving as a crucial crossroads for trade and cultural exchange between East and West. Cities like Kashgar, Turpan, and Urumqi in Xinjiang were important oasis towns along the Silk Road, serving as key trading posts where merchants exchanged goods, ideas, and technologies between different regions.

Where is Xinjiang Located on Map

Urumqi is the capital city of Xinjiang and serves as the Visitors Center of Northern Xinjiang, which is renowned for its natural beauty and diverse landscapes, including lakes, rivers, mountains, forests and valleys. You can get Urumqi by flight and high-speed train easily.

Kashgar serves as the Visitors Center of Southern Xinjiang, which is renowned for its rich history and culuture. You can get Kashgar by road and flight, from overseas or other regions of China.

Turpan serves as the Visitors Center of Eastern Xinjiang, which is renowned for its distinctive landscapes and historical sites. You can get Turpan by flight and high-speed train from from other cities in China, or you can take a car from Urumqi to Turpan.

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How to Take a Flight to Xinjiang?

International Flights to Xinjiang

Xinjiang has two international airports: Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC) in Urumqi, the capital, and Kashi Laining International Airport (KHG) in the Kashgar region of western Xinjiang.

Currently, there are limited direct international flights to Xinjiang. It’s highly suggested to fly into major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou and then take a domestic flight to Xinjiang. Urumqi Diwopu International Airport is the main international gateway to the region.

Urumqi Diwobao International Airport

Kashgar International Airport

Domestic Flights to Xinjiang

Xinjiang is well-connected to other parts of China through several airports:

• Urumqi Diwopu International Airport (URC): The main airport in Xinjiang, you can easily take a domestic flight to Urumqi from most capital cities of different provinces in China like Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Xi’an, Lanzhou, Xining and Chengdu.
• Kashi Laining International Airport (KHG): The main airport in western Xinjiang, you can easily take a domestic flight to Kashgar from western cities of China like Chengdu, Xian and Lanzhou.
• Turpan Jiaohe Airport: Located 200 km southeast of Urumqi, you can take a limited domestic flight to Turpan from western cities of China like Chengdu and Xian.

Flights are frequent, making it convenient to reach Xinjiang from various locations within China.

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How to Get to Xinjiang By Train?

You can also take a train to Xinjiang, though it’s a long distance.

High Speed Train - Best Way to Travel along China Silk Road

Lanzhou-Urumqi High Speed Train is the main high-speed railway to Xinjiang now. This railway connects Lanzhou to Urumqi for 11 hours, passing through key Silk Road cities such as Xining, Zhangye, Jiayuguan, Dunhuang, and Turpan. You can enjoy diverse landscapes along the way, from the lush mountains around Xining to the arid deserts near Dunhuang and Turpan.

Considering to make stops at the following stations:

• Xining (西宁): Gateway to Qinghai Lake and Taer Monastery.
• Zhangyexi (张掖西): Known for the colorful Danxia Landform.
• Jiayuguannan (嘉峪关南): Features the western end of the Great Wall.
• Liuyuannan (柳园南): Close to Dunhuang, famous for the Mogao Caves.
• Turpanbei (吐鲁番北): Rich in Uyghur culture and historical sites like the Jiaohe Ruins.

Gansu High Speed Train

Gansu Xinjiang High Speed Train

Another transportation option is the Xi'an-Urumqi high-speed train departing from Xi'an North Station in the early morning. The journey spans approximately 14 hours, offering sleeper class accommodations for a more comfortable experience during the long trip.

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Regular Long-Distance Train - Budget Friendly Way to Xinjiang

If you're looking for a more affordable way to travel to Xinjiang, consider taking a regular long-distance train, often referred to as a "green train." These trains offer a more budget-friendly option compared to high-speed trains, but they also come with longer travel times (over 30 hours), depending on the route and train speed.

The amenities on regular trains are generally more basic than on modern high-speed trains. You can expect hard seats, hard sleepers, or soft sleepers, with limited dining and entertainment options.

• Hard Seat: The most affordable but least comfortable for long journeys.

• Hard Sleeper: Offers basic sleeping berths, providing more comfort.

• Soft Sleeper: More comfortable with private compartments.

It's advisable to choose a sleeper ticket for better rest and comfort during the lengthy trip. These trains provide a cost-effective way to experience the journey and offer a glimpse into the diverse landscapes of China.

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How to Get to Xinjiang By Road?

Traveling to Xinjiang by road is another option, with both domestic and international road routes available. It's important to note that road journeys can be quite long and typically take several days.

Xinjiang Desert Highway

China Pakistan Highway

Overland Journey to Xinjiang via Hexi Corridor

Commencing from mainland China, you can embark on an overland trip to Xinjiang. Typically starting from Lanzhou, Xining, or Zhangye, you will traverse the Hexi Corridor, passing through Jiayuguan and Dunhuang before entering Xinjiang via cities like Hami, Turpan, and finally reaching Urumqi.

This renowned Silk Road route offers a blend of natural splendor and cultural heritage across Gansu, Qinghai, and Xinjiang. The entire expedition typically spans 5-7 days. Consider incorporating high-speed train segments, such as from Dunhuang to Turpan, for a more efficient and comfortable journey.

International overland Routes to Xinjiang

Entering Xinjiang through land border crossings is another appealing choice. You can visit Xinjiang by international overland travel through border passes with neighboring countries like Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Pakistan, and Mongolia. Noteworthy border crossings include:

• China-Kyrgyzstan Border: Torugart Pass, Irkeshtam Pass.
• China-Pakistan Border: Khunjerab Pass.
• China-Tajikistan Border: Kulma Pass.

Upon crossing these borders into Xinjiang, visitors typically head to Kashgar and Tashkurgan County before exploring further within the region.

You can also opt for road travel to Xinjiang from northern border crossings like Jiemu Nai Pass, Baktuu Pass, Khorgos Pass with Kazakhstan, and Takashiken Pass with Mongolia. Ensure you have all necessary documents, including visas and permits, for crossing the border.

Golden Hue, Alaer Golden Grasslands

Stone City (Tashkurgan Fort)

How to Get to Xinjiang from Mainland China?

Beijing to Xinjiang

Distance: 2,800 km to Urumqi, 3,500 km to Kashgar

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By Air: Best Way to travel from Beijing to Xinjiang (Urumqi, Kashgar)

By Direct Green Train: You’ll spend 31-38 hours to travel from Beijing West Station to Urumqi Station by regular train.

By Connected High-Speed Train: You can take a bullet train from Beijing West Station to Lanzhou West Station for 7-9 hours, then a high-speed train from Lanzhou West Station to Urumqi Station for 11 hours.

Gorgeous Wucaitan in Burqin, Xinjiang

Heavenly Lake of Tianshan

Shanghai to Xinjiang

Distance: 4,000 km to Urumqi, 5,200 km to Kashgar

By Air: Best Way to travel from Shanghai to Xinjiang (Urumqi, Kashgar)

By Direct Green Train: You’ll spend 39-40 hours to travel from Shanghai Station to Urumqi Station by regular train.

By Connected High-Speed Train: You can take a bullet train from Shanghai Hongqiao Station to Lanzhou West Station for 11-12 hours, then a high-speed train from Lanzhou West Station to Urumqi Station for 11 hours. It’s quite a long distance.

Hemu Village, Xinjiang

Kanas Lake, Xinjiang

Guangzhou to Xinjiang

Distance: 4,300 km to Urumqi, 5,100 km to Kashgar

By Air: Best Way to travel from Guangzhou to Xinjiang (Urumqi, Kashgar)

By Direct Regular Train: You’ll spend 48 hours to travel from Guangzhou Station to Urumqi Station by regular train.

By Connected High-Speed Train: You can take a bullet train from Guangzhou South Station to Lanzhou West Station for 10-12 hours, then a high-speed train from Lanzhou West Station to Urumqi Station for 11 hours. It’s quite a long distance.

Kashgar Old City

Snow Capped Mountains at Alaer Golden Grasslands

Chengdu to Xinjiang

Distance: 2,800 km to Urumqi, 3,500 km to Kashgar

By Air: Best Way to travel from Chengdu to Xinjiang (Urumqi, Kashgar)

By Direct Regular Train: You’ll spend 28-31 hours to travel from Chengdu West Station to Urumqi Station by regular train.

By Connected High-Speed Train: You can take a bullet train from Chengdu East Station to Lanzhou Station for 7-8 hours, then a high-speed train from Lanzhou West Station to Urumqi Station for 11 hours. It’s quite a long distance.

The minaret is named after the Turpan ruler Emin Khoja

It's quite hot in the Flaming Mountain

Xi'an (西安) to Xinjiang

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Distance: 2,700 km to Urumqi, 3,800 km to Kashgar

By Air: Best Way to travel from Xi’an to Xinjiang (Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan)

By Budget Regular Train: You’ll spend 24-25 hours to travel from Xi’an Station to Urumqi Station by regular train.

By Express High-Speed Train: You can take a high-speed train from Xi’an North Station to Urumqi Station for 13-14 hours directly.

Turpan Grape Valley is full of grapes

Entrance of Jiaohe Ancient City

Xining to Xinjiang

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Distance: 1,900 km to Urumqi, 2,900 km to Kashgar

By Air: Best Way to travel from Xining to Xinjiang (Urumqi, Kashgar)

By Budget Regular Train: You’ll spend 14-16 hours to travel from Xining Station to Urumqi Station by regular train.

By Express High-Speed Train: You can take a high-speed train from Xining Station to Urumqi Station for 10-11 hours directly.

Aerial photo of Jiaohe Ancient City

Restoration of the caves in Turpan Museum

Lanzhou to Xinjiang

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Distance: 2,700 km to Urumqi, 3,800 km to Kashgar

By Air: Best Way to travel from Lanzhou to Xinjiang (Urumqi, Kashgar)

By Budget Regular Train: You’ll spend 16-18 hours to travel from Lanzhou Station to Urumqi Station by regular train.

By Express High-Speed Train: You can take a high-speed train from Lanzhou West Station to Urumqi Station for 11-12 hours directly.

Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar, Urumqi

Heavenly Lake of Tianshan

Dunhuang to Xinjiang

Distance: 2,700 km to Urumqi, 3,800 km to Kashgar

By Air: Best Way to travel from Dunhuang to Xinjiang (Turpan)

By Budget Regular Train: The nearest station to Dunhuang is Liuyuan South Station. You’ll spend 7-8 hours to travel from Liuyuan South Station to Urumqi Station by regular train.

By Express High-Speed Train: You can also take a high-speed train from Liuyuan South Station to Urumqi Station for 4-5 hours directly.

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How to Travel around Xinjiang

Xinjiang is a vast region in northwest China, and visitors can travel around Xinjiang by variours ways.

• Domestic Flights: Xinjiang has well-connected airports, making domestic flights a convenient option for travelers looking to explore different parts of the region efficiently. Flying between major cities like Urumqi, Kashgar, Turpan, and Hotan is the quickest way to cover long distances in Xinjiang.
• Train Travel: Train travel offers a more budget-friendly and scenic way to experience Xinjiang's vast landscapes while connecting major cities like Urumqi, Turpan, Kashgar.
• Car Rental: Renting a car can provide flexibility and freedom to explore remote areas and attractions in Xinjiang at your pace. Ensure you have the necessary permits and licenses for driving in China.
• Organized Tours: Joining organized tours or hiring local guides can be a great way to navigate Xinjiang, especially if you want to explore specific cultural sites, natural wonders, or off-the-beaten-path locations like Turpan, Kashgar and Urumqi.

Urumqi to Kashgar

Urumqi to Kashgar Map

Distance: 1,500 km

By Air: Flying from Urumqi Diwopu International Airport to Kashgar Airport is the quickest way to travel between the two cities. There are over 15 daily flights between Urumqi and Kashgar, with a flight time of approximately 2 hours.

By Train: Taking a train from Urumqi to Kashgar offers a scenic route through Xinjiang's diverse landscapes. There are over 5 daily train services between Urumqi and Kashgar, with a train journey lasting approximately 11-17 hours. Different types of trains are available, including high-speed trains and regular sleeper trains, offering varying levels of comfort and speed.

By Road: The road distance is 1500 kilometers, requiring 2-3 days for a one-way journey by car.

Whether you opt for a quick flight, a scenic train ride, or a road trip, each mode of transportation offers a unique perspective on the diverse landscapes and cultures of Xinjiang.

Urumqi to Turpan

Urumqi to Turpan Map

Distance: 200 km

By Air: No flights

By Train: The high-speed train can take you from Urumqi to Turpan in just 1 hour, while a regular train journey takes around 2 hours, costing only half as much as the high-speed train. This can be a great choice for independent travelers.

By Road: Traveling by road from Urumqi to Turpan is best suited for group tours. Although the journey takes 3-4 hours, travelers can enjoy the vast natural landscapes of Xinjiang along the way.

When planning your journey from Urumqi to Turpan, consider factors such as your preferred mode of transportation, budget, and the time you have available for travel. Each option offers a unique perspective on Xinjiang's landscapes and cultural heritage, allowing you to tailor your experience to suit your interests and travel preferences.

Urumqi to Kanas Lake

Urumqi to Kanas Lake Map

Distance: 700 km

By Air: Flying from Urumqi Diwopu International Airport to Kanas Airport is the quickest way to travel between the two cities. There are several seasonal flights between Urumqi and Kanas Lake, with a flight time of approximately 1.5 hours.

By Train: No Trains

By Road: Renting a car or joining an organized tour from Urumqi to Kanas Lake allows for greater flexibility to explore the surrounding areas and attractions. The whole road journey takes 12-13 hours, it’s suggested to separate it into two days, first arrive in Buerjin County or Beitun City, then transfer to Kanas Lake Scenic Area. The drive from Urumqi to Kanas Lake offers stunning views of the Tian Shan Mountains and surrounding landscapes.

When planning your journey to Kanas Lake from Urumqi, consider factors such as the time you have available, your budget, and your preferred mode of transportation. The stunning natural beauty of Kanas Lake and its surroundings make the journey worth the effort, offering a memorable experience in one of Xinjiang's most scenic destinations.

Bezeklik caves in Turpan

Kanas Lake, Xinjiang

How to Plan a Trip to Xinjiang?

Southern Xinjiang - Explore the Historical Sites & Rich Culture

Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, Xinjiang.

Day 2: Head to Heavenly Lake of Tianchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Urumqi City. After visiting, return Urumqi for sightseeing.

Day 3-4: Visit Turpan for a round trip from Urumqi in 2 days. Visit historical sites such as the Jiaohe Ruins, Emin Minaret, and Karez System.

Day 5: Take a domestic flight to Kashgar. Explore the Kashgar Old City, with its traditional Uyghur architecture, bustling markets, and historic sites.

Day 6-7: Visit Tashkurgan for a round trip from Kashgar in 2 days via the China-Pakistan Highway. Visit the Stone Fort, enjoy breathtaking views of the Pamir Mountains, and immerse yourself in the unique culture of the Tajik people in Tashkurgan.

Day 8: Depart from Kashgar, taking with you memories of the historical sites, rich culture, and stunning landscapes of Southern Xinjiang.

This optimized itinerary allows you to delve deep into the historical sites and rich culture of Southern Xinjiang, from the urban hub of Urumqi to the ancient cities of Turpan and Kashgar, and the remote beauty of Tashkurgan. Enjoy your exploration of this fascinating region!

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Northern Xinjiang - Enjoy the Breathtaking Landscape & Nature Beauty

Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi, Xinjiang.

Day 2: Head to Heavenly Lake of Tianchi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site near Urumqi City. After visiting, drive another 5 hours to Funyun County for overnight.

Day 3: Visit the striking geological formations of Keketuohai in Fuyun, then drive to Buerjin County for another 5 hours. Visit Wucaitan (Five-Colored Beach) Yardang landform before sunset**.**

Day 4: Transfer to Kanas Lake Scenic Area, spending whole day exploring Kanas Lake. Stay in Jiadengyu for overnight.

Day 5: Head to Hemu Village, explore the traditional wooden houses where Tuwa lives.

Day 6: Get up early for the amazing sunrise, then drive to another surreal landscapes of Karamay’s Urho Ghost Town close to Karamay City for 7 hours.

Day 7: Drive to Sayram Lake for 5 hours, explore the beautiful lake, then transfer another 3 hours to Yining City for overnight.

Day 8: Head to Naraty Grassland for vast nature beauty, spend whole day exploring Sky Prairie Scenic Area (空中草原).

Day 9: Drive to Jinghe County via Yining City for 8 hours.

Day 10: Visit Dushanzi Grand Canyon in Kuitun City, then drive back to Urumqi City for 6 hours.

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Keketuohai National Geological Park, Xinjiang