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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 Jiaohe Acient city Ruins.
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 Asia Odyssey Travel
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 Asia Odyssey Travel 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 , and Jiaohe ancient city Ruins.
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 Asia Odyssey Travel -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.
How to Get to Turpan from Urumqi by Car
Here's a detailed guide to help you plan your adventure from Xinjiang 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.
Urumqi Attractions | Top 6 Things to Do in Urumqi China
10 Things to Do in Turpan: Tourist Attractions & Places to Visit
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 Xinjiang.
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.
How to Plan a Road Trip in Xinjiang? (2025 Routes & Maps)
And admittedly there are nuance to consider when driving as a international traveler in China.
If you prefer to learn more, get in touch with your Travel Expert at Asia Odyssey Travel for personalized consultation! Contact us now!
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
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