Travel Through Time and History to Explore the Ancient Silk Road in 10 days

Today, we arrived in Korla City, which is regarded as the premier city in southern Xinjiang. Korla is situated in the heart of Eurasia, on the northeastern edge of the Tarim Basin. To the north, it is bordered by the Kuruk Mountains (库鲁克山)and the Huola Mountains (霍拉山), which are branches of the Tianshan Mountains.To the south lies the Taklamakan Desert, the second-largest desert in the world.

After breakfast, we will visit Bosten Lake, China's largest inland freshwater lake, historically known as the “West Sea.” In the afternoon, we will travel to Lop Nor Village, which is located in the desert and is one of the largest villages in western China. The village is spread across the Taklimakan Desert, where we recommend trying camel riding and experiencing the excitement of desert off-road vehicles. In the evening, you will have the option to stay at a desert camp, giving you the chance to witness the beautiful desert sunset and the starry sky, along with stunning star trails.

Today, we will drive to the Tarim Populus Euphratica Forest Park to see the largest populus forest in Xinjiang, which turns a beautiful golden color in the fall. After our visit, we will head to Kuqa for dinner and then check into our hotel. Kuqa Old Town (热斯坦街) features ancient streets lined with thousand-year-old wooden structures that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. The vibrant doors and windows, along with the old city walls, provide a glimpse into a city where Western civilization once thrived. Even today, wandering through the old town allows you to uncover historical clues in the form of scattered bricks and tiles.

After breakfast, we will visit Kuqa City. The Kuqa Palace was constructed by Han craftsmen sent by Emperor Qianlong of the Qing Dynasty in 1759 to honor the local Uyghur leader. In the afternoon, we will drive to the Tianshan Grand Canyon, where the average altitude is 1,600 meters, and the highest peak reaches 2,048 meters. The unique peaks and mountains that form the canyon are made of ochre muddy sandstone. In the local Uyghur language, it is referred to as “Kiziliya,” which means “red cliffs.” Later, we will continue our journey to Aksu, another significant city in southern Xinjiang.

Kashgar has been historically significant primarily as a trading center.Located at the foot of the Pamirs, where the Tian Shan and Kunlun mountain ranges converge, Kashgar has played a crucial role in historical caravan routes,particularly the famous Silk Road that leads westward to Europe.

After breakfast, we will meet at the main gate of Kashgar Old Town to watch 'The Opening Ceremony,' which lasts about 10 minutes. Following the ceremony, you will have free time to explore the town, purchase souvenirs, try lamb buns, or sample ethnic clothing.In the afternoon, we will head to the western part of the town to enjoy a Uygur wedding cultural show. Afterwards, we will visit the largest mosque in China, the Id Kah Mosque, as well as the exhibition area of Kashgar's old city ruins. In the evening, the old city takes on a different charm. We recommend taking the time to enjoy a cup of tea at the Century Old Teahouse in Kashgar. This teahouse has witnessed the city's history and is also one of the filming locations for "The Kite Runner."

After breakfast, we will travel to Taxkorgan, located at the convergence of three countries. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to see Karakul Lake and Whitesand Lake. We will arrive at Karakul Lake in the afternoon, at the foot of Mustagh Ata Mountain, which translates to “Father of Glaciers.” For dinner, we recommend trying the local yak hot pot.

Embark on an exploration of the Ancient Stone City, which lies along the Silk Road and has been a significant connection between the West and the East for over 1,300 years. Afterward, we will drive to Bandir Blue Lake via the Palong Ancient Path, which spans a total of 75 kilometers and features numerous sharp bends, including 180-degree and even 270-degree turns. We are expected to arrive in the afternoon.

The magnificent Danxia（丹霞） landform is common in Xinjiang, but this red mountain is even more bizarre, as if entering an alien world.

Fly back home, and the trip ends.Our guide and driver will take you to the airport.(We also offer customized travel plans according to your preference).