Urumqi to Turpan: How to Get to Turpan from Urumqi (Train & Car)

Where in Urumqi and Turpan in Xinjiang China

Urumqi and Turpan are both located in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region of China.

Urumqi is the capital city of Xinjiang and is situated in the northern part of Xinjiang, approximately 2,500 kilometers (about 1,550 miles) west of Beijing.

Geographically, Urumqi lies at the foot of the Tianshan Mountains and is surrounded by arid desert landscapes.

Turpan is located to the east of Urumqi. Turpan is situated in a low valley and is known for being one of the hottest places in China.

It lies below sea level and is surrounded by mountains, making it a unique geographical area, especially with its nearby attractions like the Flaming Mountains and the ancient city of Jiaohe.

Urumqi to Turpan Distance: 180 Kilometers/112 Miles

The distance from Urumqi to Turpan is approximately 180 kilometers (about 112 miles) by road.

Best Way to Go From Urumqi to Turpan: Join Tour with AOT

Xinjiang is one of the vast regions in China. Despite significant progress, including the introduction of high-speed trains in China, the public transportation system remains underdeveloped.

Therefore, joining a tour is the most ideal option for traveling from Urumqi to Turpan, or anywhere else in Xinjiang.

We at AOT链接 offer Xinjiang Tours with seamless logistics, including transportation from Urumqi to Turpan by chartered vehicle.

Even on a group tour, you will have the flexibility to make stops along the way to Turpan, visiting iconic sites such as the Flaming Mountains, Tuyugou Village, Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, Karez Irrigation System链接, and Jiaohe Ancient City.

How to Get to Turpan from Urumqi by Train:From 1 Hour and 25 RMB

There are multiple options for Urumqi to Turpan Trains.

Here’s most recommended way to Get to Turpan from Urumqi by Train:

Book online with 12306, the China Railways Official Site, book tickets for high speed trains D2708 or D2718 go from Urumqi Railway Station(乌鲁木齐火车站) for Turpanbei Railyway Station(吐鲁番北站) in the morning, and reach Turpan in about 55 minutes with train ticket costs ranging from 51.5 to 80 RMB.

Both trains will get you to Turpan before 10:00 am, leaving you enough time to explore the Turpan city area.

How to Get Around Turpan from Turpanbei Station

First of all, here’s a insider note from AOT(链接) -Do Not Choose Trains bound for Turpan Station(吐鲁番火车站)! Choose Train Bound for Turpanbei Station(吐鲁番北站) only!

Turpan Station(吐鲁番火车站) is the old station of Turpan and it’s located way further from city than Turpanbei(吐鲁番北站). You only option to get to Turpan city is Taxi, which would cost more than 100 RMB.

On the other hand the Turpanbei(吐鲁番北站) is recently built near the Turpan airport with public transportation to Turpan city.

Once arrive at Turpanbei Station (吐鲁番北站) you can take Special Bus line 2 to reach Turpan City at about 5 RMB, or take taxi or carpool your way to Turpan city at around 30 RMB.

吐鲁番北站比吐鲁番站离市区近很多,吐鲁番站到市区100, 北站到市区30

How to Get to Turpan from Urumqi by Car

Here's a detailed guide to help you plan your adventure from Urumqi to Turpan by Car. It’s a brief yet grand road trip to Turpan. Here’s a possible route to drive to Turpan from Urumqi:

Drive south along the G30 highway via Dabancheng district from Urumqi, then go pass Gobi Desert and Turpan Depression, then merge into G312 to reach Turpan.

Distance: 196 kilometers (122 miles)

Estimated Driving Time: 2.5 to 3.5 hours excluding stops

Urumqi to Turpan Road Trip Chapter 1: Urumqi to Dabancheng

Start your journey from Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang.

Drive south along the G30 Highway, passing through the Dabancheng District.

Enjoy the panoramic views of the Tianshan Mountains and the surrounding desert landscapes.

Urumqi to Turpan Road Trip Chapter 2: Dabancheng to Turpan

Continue south on the G30 Highway, immersing yourself in the vastness of the Gobi Desert.

Pass through the Turpan Depression, one of the lowest points in the world, known for its unique ecosystem and ancient grape vineyards.

Marvel at the striking Flaming Mountains, a geological formation with vibrant red hues.

Attractions Along the Way From Urumqi to Turpan

Salt Lake (盐湖): This is a popular stop along the way, known for its unique landscape and scenery.

Tianshan Wind Farm (天山风力发电站): You can see the large wind turbines of the largest wind farm in Asia, which are a striking sight and worth a visit.

Flaming Mountains (火焰山大峡谷): This iconic landmark can be explored upon arrival in Turpan.

Tuyugou Village (吐峪沟麻扎村): Located near Turpan, this village showcases local culture and history.

Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves (柏孜克里克千佛洞): A significant historical site with beautiful Buddhist cave art.

Sugong Tower (苏公塔): This historic tower is a popular attraction in Turpan.

Karez Irrigation System (坎儿井): An engineering marvel and an important part of Turpan's agriculture.

Jiaohe Ancient City (交河故城): A well-preserved ancient city that you can visit before returning to Urumqi.

Tips for Road Trip from Urumqi to Turpan by Car

Plan for Stops: Consider taking breaks at scenic viewpoints or local eateries along the way.

Stay Hydrated: Keep in mind that Xinjiang's weather is generally dry and hot. While the Turpan region has a slightly milder climate, it's essential to carry plenty of water, as temperatures can soar, particularly during the summer months. Best Time to visit链接

Be Aware of Strong Wind: Strong winds are common on the Urumqi-Turpan route. Be prepared with weather forecasts, defensive driving techniques, reduced speeds, and a well-maintained vehicle.

There are so many attractions worth visiting on the way from Urumqi to Turpan, how to plan an efficient route to cover your travel interest is the key.

And admittedly there are nuance to consider when driving as a international traveler in China.

If you prefer to learn more, contact your travel expert at AOT链接 for personalized consultation!