9 Days Through Silk Road Splendors: Deserts, Oasis & Lost Kingdoms

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 set off for the captivating oasis city of Kuqa (Kucha), once the heart of the powerful ancient Buddhist Kingdom of Kucha and a vital hub on the legendary Silk Road for over a millennium. Immerse yourselves in its rich tapestry of history as we explore the magnificent Kuqa Grand Mosque – Xinjiang's second largest and oldest mosque, built in the 15th century atop the foundations of earlier temples – and lose ourselves in the vibrant, timeless atmosphere of its enchanting Old Street, where whispers of caravans past mingle with the sights and sounds of authentic Uyghur life.

Today, we embark on a journey through time! We'll explore the Kezi'er Thousand Buddha Caves — one of China's oldest Buddhist grottoes, carved into the cliffs between the 3rd and 8th centuries. Marvel at vibrant Silk Road-era murals where deities, merchants, and musicians whisper tales of ancient Kucha's golden age as a spiritual crossroads. After stepping out of these sacred caves, nature's drama unfolds: the Tianshan Grand Canyon awaits with its fiery red cliffs, serpentine ravines, and towering sandstone pillars sculpted by 200 million years of wind and water. As dusk paints the sky, we journey towards Aral, carrying the echoes of history and wilderness.

Embark on one of Asia's most awe-inspiring journeys—the Aral-Hotan Desert Highway. This 424-km (263-mile) engineering marvel cuts straight through the heart of the Taklimakan Desert, China's second largest and the world's secondlargest shifting-sand desert. Once a perilous Silk Road route, today it offers a thrilling adventure across golden dunes, silent wilderness, and timeless oases.

After breakfast we will visit the Hotan Museum then head to Tuan Cheng (团城, meaning "Round City" or "Gathered City") is a captivating historic district renowned for its unique architecture, vibrant local life, and deep-rooted Uyghur traditions. Once a bustling trade hub along the southern Silk Road, it has been transformed into a cultural landmark through careful restoration. At night we step into a living tapestry of history at the Yotgan Ancient City Night Performance, where the buried ruins of the 10th-century Khotan Kingdom blaze back to life after dark. Through dazzling light projections on ancient walls, hypnotic Uyghur muqam melodies, and dynamic dance reenactments of Silk Road caravans, this open-air spectacle resurrects the golden age of Buddhism, jade trade, and desert oasis life— all under the stars of the Taklimakan.

Yarkant or Shache offers an authentic, less-touristy immersion into the soul of old Xinjiang.The Old Street provides a vibrant snapshot of enduring traditions and daily life. The Amannisa Khan Mausoleum celebrates the pinnacle of Uyghur artistic heritage. The Jiaman Mosque(加满清真寺） stands as a testament to profound faith and centuries of Islamic architectural achievement. Today, we will spend all the afternoon in these historical area，and have an afternoon tea at local tea shop.

After breakfast, our first stop is the Local Art Center to enjoy a Twelve Muqam performance. Then, we'll head to Kashgar, a city historically renowned as a major trading hub.Nestled at the foot of the Pamirs, where the Tian Shan and Kunlun mountain ranges converge, Kashgar played a vital role in ancient caravan routes—especially along the Silk Road, which connected the region westward to Europe.In the afternoon, we will head to the western part of the town to enjoy a Uygur wedding cultural show. Afterwards, visit the largest mosque in China, the Id Kah Mosque, aswell as the exhibition area of Kashgar's old city ruins. As evening falls, the old city comes alive with a unique charm. We recommend taking a walk and unwinding with a cup of tea at Kashgar's Century-Old Teahouse —a place steeped in local history and featured as one of the filming locations forThe 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.”

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).