Itinerary Details

Itinerary Quick Look

We’re happy to tailor this 12-day private tour to match your interests. Please note that the time frame is for reference only and may vary due to traffic conditions on the day of your tour.

Day 1: Kunming Arrival | Airport Transfer

Your private guide will welcome you in the arrivals area of the airport or train station and escort you directly to your hotel in a dedicated, non-smoking vehicle exclusively reserved for your group.

Day 2: Kunming | The Stone Forest, Jiuxiang Scenic Region

The Kunming Stone Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcases an extraordinary landscape of sharp limestone formations rising dramatically from the ground, resembling a petrified forest.

Afterward, you'll journey to the Jiuxiang Scenic Region, often referred to as the 'Museum of Karst Caves.' These stunning caves were shaped over time by rainwater eroding the limestone.

Day 3: Kunming to Dali | Erhai, Zhoucheng Town

In the morning, you'll enjoy a 2½-hour high-speed train journey from Kunming to Dali. Upon arrival, the renowned Erhai Lake awaits your discovery.

Follow in the footsteps of the popular drama Meet Yourself as you explore Haishe Ecological Park and Panxi Village. Capture stunning photos with the breathtaking Erhai Lake as your backdrop.

Next, visit Zhoucheng Town, the cultural heart of the Bai minority, famous for its intricate batik crafts. Numerous workshops offer insight into the traditional Bai tie-dyeing process. If you'd like to create your own dyed fabric, simply let your private guide know!

Day 4: Dali to Lijiang | Shaxi Ancient Town

You'll take a 1½-hour drive to Shaxi Ancient Town, nestled between Dali and Lijiang. Once a thriving hub along the historic Tea Horse Road, Shaxi played a vital role as a trading post and a key branch of the Silk Road. Strolling through its streets feels like stepping back in time to the days of this ancient trade route.

Your final stop is the Black Dragon Pool, renowned for its picturesque views of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. On clear days, the snowcapped peaks reflect beautifully on the pool’s tranquil waters, creating a truly mesmerizing scene.

Day 5: Lijiang | Jade Dragon Snow Mountain

You'll ride a cable car to Shanzidou Peak, the highest point of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. The ascent offers breathtaking views that many visitors rave about. As you climb, the landscape changes dramatically—vegetation becomes sparse, the air turns fresher, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a remarkable alpine environment that inspires awe.

Next, explore Yushui Village, situated at the southern base of Jade Dragon Snow Mountain. This village is a vibrant center for preserving Dongba culture. Discover intricate wood and stone carvings, colorful murals, and traditional Naxi clothing and crafts. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy unique folk cultural performances that bring the local traditions to life.

Day 6: Lijiang - Chengdu - Urumqi | Airport Transfer

In the morning, you'll fly from Lijiang to Urumqi with a layover in Chengdu. If you'd like to extend your stay in Chengdu to visit attractions such as the Panda Base, feel free to reach out to us with your request.

Day 7: Urumqi | Heavenly Lake and International Grand Bazaar

Heavenly Lake, a stunning alpine lake created by glacial meltwater, rests at an elevation of 1,940 meters (6,370 feet) above sea level. A boat ride (at your own expense) across its pristine waters offers a unique perspective of the lake’s beauty and the majestic mountains that surround it.

For those interested in authentic handcrafted items like silks, rugs, carpets, and traditional musical instruments reflecting Uyghur culture, a visit to the iconic Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar is a must. This vibrant market combines shopping with cultural immersion and impressive architecture.

Day 8: Urumqi to Turpan | Jiaohe Ruins, Emin Minaret

You'll take a 3-hour drive from Urumqi to Turpan.

Your first stop will be the Emin Minaret, the tallest in China, standing at 44 meters (144 feet). Visitors can ascend its 71 steps for sweeping views of Turpan city. Afterward, explore the Karez Well System, an ingenious ancient irrigation system designed to combat water scarcity in the desert.

Next, you'll visit the Jiaohe Ruins, an extraordinary site known as the world's largest, oldest, and best-preserved earthen city. Perched on a plateau island between two river branches, the ruins offer breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into the past, enhanced by their dramatic cliffside location.

Day 9: Turpan | Tuyugou Village, Kumtag Desert

Today, we begin our journey in Tuyugou Village, passing the iconic Flaming Mountains along the way. With a history stretching back over 1,700 years, Tuyugou is a vibrant Uyghur village where you can immerse yourself in the local way of life. 

Next, we’ll visit the Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves, located 45 kilometers east of Turpan. Older than the Dunhuang Caves, Bezeklik's murals, though once magnificent, have been weathered by time and human intervention.

For a truly unforgettable experience, we recommend visiting the Kumtag Desert later in the afternoon to avoid the harsh midday sun. The endless expanse of sand, with its shifting dunes and textures, creates a striking and ever-changing landscape.

Day 10: Turpan to Kashgar | Kashgar Old Town

The morning flight from Turpan to Kashgar takes approximately 2 hours. Upon arrival in Kashgar, you'll begin your visit at the Id Kah Mosque, an important cultural landmark and a stunning example of Islamic architecture.

Next, take a stroll through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Kashgar Old Town, where you can experience the traditional atmosphere. Here, you'll find historic Uyghur homes with intricately carved doorways, lively teahouses, and vibrant street food stalls offering local flavors.

Your private guide will then take you to a charming spot called 'Guli's Home,' which translates to 'home of beautiful girls,' where you can enjoy a relaxing afternoon tea. During your visit, the talented girls will treat you to a traditional Uyghur dance performance.

Day 11: Kashgar | Karakul Lake

You'll embark on a scenic drive along a well-maintained road, covering nearly 200 km (124 miles), to visit Karakul Lake, Muztagata, and Baisha Lake.

Karakul Lake, located along the historic Karakoram Highway, offers breathtaking views of some of Central Asia's most spectacular landscapes. The lake’s deep blue waters can appear nearly black, depending on the light, adding to its mystique.

Muztagata, towering at 7,546 meters (24,757 ft) above sea level, is the second-highest peak on the edge of the Tibetan Plateau, making it a striking presence in the surrounding scenery.

As you pass Baisha Lake, you'll be struck by the contrast between the crystal-clear blue waters and the surrounding white sand mountains, creating a striking natural scene.

Day 12: Kashgar Departure

Time to say farewell to Xinjiang. Your private guide and driver will accompany you to the airport for your flight home. We hope you've created unforgettable memories with China Highlights!