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Silk Road Wonders & China's Imperial Heritage

STARTS AT
Chengdu
FINISH AT
Beijing
DURATION
14 days
GROUP SIZE
6
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About This Trip

Embark on an unforgettable two-week journey through China, where ancient history, cultural treasures, and breathtaking landscapes come to life. Begin in Chengdu, where you’ll meet the beloved giant pandas before traveling to Xi’an, home to the legendary Terracotta Warriors, the imposing Ancient City Wall, and the fascinating Hanyang Tomb. Next, fly to Dunhuang to marvel at the world-renowned Mogao Caves, a masterpiece of Buddhist art, and take in the mesmerizing landscapes of the Singing Sand Dunes and Crescent Spring. Along the way to Liuyuan, stop at the hidden gem of Yulin Cave, adorned with stunning murals. Your adventure continues in Xinjiang, where you’ll explore the historic Silk Road cities of Turpan and Kashgar. Discover the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Grottoes, stand before the fiery landscape of Flaming Mountain, wander through the ancient ruins of Jiaohe, and soak in the vibrant energy of Kashgar’s Sunday Bazaar and the grand Id Kah Mosque. Conclude your journey in Beijing, where the majestic Great Wall, the imperial splendor of the Forbidden City, the serene Summer Palace, and the historic Temple of Heaven offer a fitting finale to your exploration of China’s rich and diverse heritage.

Day 1

Welcome to the hometown of pandas – Chengdu! Upon your arrival, your guide will warmly greet you and escort you to your hotel, just a short 1-hour drive away.
Chengdu

Day 2

Pandas are undoubtedly the highlight of Chengdu, but the city has much more to offer with its relaxed atmosphere and rich cultural heritage. In the morning, head to the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding at 8:00 AM to spend two hours observing these adorable pandas enjoying their breakfast and playful antics. In the afternoon, stroll through the tranquil River View Tower Park, where you can immerse yourself in the local tea culture or watch Chengdu residents play Chinese mahjong. End the day with a leisurely walk down the vibrant Jinli Street, full of charm and history.
Chengdu

Day 3

Enjoy a free morning to explore Chengdu further or indulge in its delicious local cuisine. In the afternoon, board a high-speed train for a 4-hour journey to Xi'an, the ancient capital that marks the starting point of the legendary Silk Road. Upon arrival, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel in the heart of the city.
Xi'an

Day 4

After breakfast, travel about an hour to Lintong to visit the Terracotta Warriors, one of the world's greatest archaeological wonders. Marvel at thousands of life-sized, vividly detailed clay soldiers and chariots. In the afternoon, return to the city to visit the Ancient City Wall, an iconic symbol of Xi'an’s rich history.
Xi'an

Day 5

Fly to Dunhuang, a key crossroads of the northern and southern Silk Road routes near the vast Taklamakan Desert. Before reaching the airport, make a brief stop at Hanyang Tomb to learn about the daily life of the Han Dynasty about 2,000 years ago. Contrast this with the military prowess displayed by the Terracotta Warriors from the Qin Dynasty just before the Han.
Dunhuang

Day 6

Located southwest of Dunhuang, the Mogao Caves are one of the world's largest and richest Buddhist art galleries. Spend your day marveling at stunning murals, sculptures, and ancient scriptures that provide a glimpse into China’s deep cultural and spiritual history. Next, head to the Singing Sand Dune and Crescent Moon Spring. Watch the sunset over the desert, and if you wish, enjoy some sand activities (at your own expense).
Dunhuang

Day 7

Travel 2.5 hours to Liuyuan Railway Station, then board your high-speed train to Turpan. On the way, stop at the Yulin Cave, a quieter but fascinating branch of the Mogao Grottos that offers surprising hidden gems. Arrive in Turpan and transfer to your hotel.
Turpan

Day 8

Today, explore the ancient ruins and sites around Turpan. Visit the Gaochang Ruins, the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, and the Flaming Mountains. Then, take a trip to Tuyoq Village to experience the vibrant local life. These weathered ruins and caves will transport you back to ancient times.
Turpan

Day 9

Continue your exploration of Turpan with visits to the Emin Minaret (Sugong Tower), the Jiaohe Ruins, and the ancient Karez Irrigation System. In the afternoon, take a 2.5-hour drive to Urumqi Airport for your flight to Kashgar. Upon arrival, your guide will transfer you to your hotel.
Kashgar

Day 10

Explore Kashgar, a city rich in Silk Road history. Visit the Id Kah Mosque, China’s largest mosque, the Abakh Khoja Tomb, and the bustling Sunday Bazaar, a vibrant market that has been a key trade point for over 2,000 years.
Kashgar

Day 11

Fly to Beijing with a connection in Urumqi. The flight from Kashgar to Urumqi is about 2 hours, followed by another 4-hour flight to Beijing. Upon arrival, your local guide will transfer you to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Beijing

Day 12

In the morning, explore Tiananmen Square, a symbol of China’s political history, followed by the grandeur of the Forbidden City, the heart of ancient Chinese imperial power. After visiting the palace, unwind in the royal gardens of the Summer Palace. Spend about 40 minutes at Tiananmen Square, 2.5 to 3 hours at the Forbidden City, and 1.5 hours at the Summer Palace. Optional: In the evening, treat yourself to a spectacular Kung Fu Show (at an additional cost), and your guide will be happy to assist with bookings.
Beijing

Day 13

Today, enjoy a memorable visit to the Great Wall of China. Start with a visit to the Temple of Heaven, a masterpiece of traditional Chinese architecture, before heading to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. Take a cable car up and hike for 1.5 to 2 hours, soaking in the stunning views before descending by cable car. Afterward, return to downtown Beijing.
Beijing

Day 14

It’s time to say farewell! Before being transferred to the airport, you’ll have some free time for last-minute shopping or to pick up small gifts for your loved ones.