How to plan a Silk Road Tour in China

Planning a Silk Road tour （丝绸之路）in China is a thrilling way to experience some of the most historically rich and culturally diverse regions of the country. Spanning ancient trade routes that once connected China to the Mediterranean, a Silk Road tour offers the chance to explore bustling markets, ancient architecture, desert landscapes, and vibrant cultures. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to plan a Silk Road tour in China, covering everything from top attractions to food and accommodations, climate, and essential travel tips.

Top Attractions Along the Silk Road in China

The Silk Road is dotted with incredible attractions that reflect the rich history and cultural exchanges that took place along the route. Some of the must-see sites include:

Xi’an (西安) – The Eastern Gateway

• Terracotta Army (秦始皇陵兵马俑) (UNESCO): Discovered in 1974, this 3rd-century BCE mausoleum guards the tomb of Emperor Qin Shi Huang with 8,000 life-sized clay warriors, horses, and chariots. It’s a testament to ancient military prowess and artistic mastery.
• City Wall (明城墙): The best-preserved ancient city wall in China, built during the Ming Dynasty (1370–1378), offers cycling or walking tours with panoramic views of the city.
• Great Mosque (西安大清真寺): One of China’s oldest and largest mosques, blending Islamic and Chinese architectural styles.

Dunhuang (敦煌) – Oasis of Art and Desert

• Mogao Grottoes (莫高窟) (UNESCO): Known as the “Caves of the Thousand Buddhas,” these 492 caves house 45,000 sq.m of frescoes and 2,400 painted statues, spanning 1,000 years of Buddhist art. The Flying Apsaras murals are particularly iconic.
• Mingsha Shan (Singing Sand Dunes, 鸣沙山) & Yueyaquan (Crescent Moon Spring, 月牙泉): A surreal desert landscape where sand dunes “sing” when disturbed, cradling a freshwater spring that has defied desertification for millennia.
• Yadan National Geopark (雅丹国家地质公园): A hauntingly beautiful “ghost city” of wind-sculpted rock formations, resembling a medieval fortress.

Jiayuguan (嘉峪关) – The First and Greatest Pass

• Jiayuguan Fortress (嘉峪关关城) (UNESCO): The westernmost end of the Great Wall, built in 1372 to guard the Hexi Corridor. Its imposing walls and watchtowers overlook the Gobi Desert.
• First Beacon Tower (天下第一墩): The starting point of the Ming Dynasty Great Wall, perched on a cliff above the Taolai River.

Zhangye (张掖) – Nature’s Palette

• Zhangye Danxia Landform (张掖丹霞地貌) (UNESCO Global Geopark): A riot of colors – reds, oranges, and purples – sculpted by erosion into dramatic peaks and valleys. It’s 被誉为 “China’s Rainbow Mountain” and featured in National Geographic.
• Mati Temple (马蹄寺): A Buddhist complex carved into cliffs, blending grotto art with the lush Qilian Mountains.

Turpan (吐鲁番) – Oasis in the Flames

• Jiaohe Ancient City (交河故城) (UNESCO): A 2,300-year-old ruin built on a natural plateau, with well-preserved mud-brick structures, including a Buddhist temple and government buildings.
• Flaming Mountains (火焰山): Made famous by Journey to the West, these rust-red mountains resemble smoldering flames. The nearby Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves (柏孜克里克千佛洞) feature Uyghur and Tang Dynasty murals.
• Karez Irrigation System (坎儿井): An ancient underground canal network, vital for sustaining Turpan’s oases.

Kashgar (喀什) – The Westernmost Gem

• Kashgar Old Town (喀什古城): A labyrinth of narrow streets, bustling bazaars, and mud-brick architecture. Highlights include the Id Kah Mosque (艾提尕尔清真寺，China’s largest) and the Sunday Market (周日巴扎).
• Stone City of Tashkurgan (塔什库尔干石头城): A 2,000-year-old fortress overlooking the Pamir Plateau, once a key stop on the southern Silk Road.

Tianshui (天水) – Cradle of Chinese Civilization

• Maijishan Grottoes (麦积山石窟) (UNESCO): Carved into a sheer cliff, these 160+ caves house 7,800 clay statues and 1,000 sq.m of murals, earning it the title “Eastern Sculpture Museum.”

Lanzhou (兰州) – Gateway to the West

• Bingling Temple Grottoes (炳灵寺石窟): A UNESCO site with 183 caves, including the earliest dated Buddhist inscription in China (420 CE). Reachable by boat on the Liujiaxia Reservoir (刘家峡水库).

Urumqi (乌鲁木齐) – Modern Metropolis Meets Wilderness

• Heavenly Lake (Tianchi, 天池): A pristine alpine lake surrounded by snow-capped peaks, 110 km northeast of Urumqi (乌鲁木齐).
• Xinjiang International Grand Bazaar (新疆国际大巴扎): A vibrant market showcasing Uyghur culture, with textiles, spices, and traditional music.

Wuwei (武威) – Ancient Capital of Liang

• Leitai Han Tomb (雷台汉墓): The discovery site of the Galloping Horse Treading on a Flying Swallow (马踏飞燕), China’s national symbol of tourism.

Food Along the Silk Road

The Silk Road is not just a route for trade but also a cultural exchange that influenced local cuisines. When traveling along the Silk Road in China, here are some foods to try:

Shaanxi (陕西)

Mutton Soup with Bread (Yangrou Paomo, 羊肉泡馍)

1. Features: A dish where baked bread is torn into small pieces and added to a rich mutton soup. The bread absorbs the soup, creating a soft and flavorful texture.
2. Historical Background: Originating in the Tang Dynasty, it was a staple for traders and soldiers along the Silk Road. It is now a symbol of Xi’an’s (西安) culture.
3. Recommendation: This dish is a must-try for experiencing Xi’an’s culinary culture, with its unique combination of bread and rich soup.

Roujiamo (肉夹馍, 中国汉堡)

• Features: A crispy baked bread (Baiji bread, 白吉馍) filled with stewed meat (usually pork or lamb), offering a juicy and fragrant taste.
• Historical Background: Known as the “Chinese hamburger,” it was a common fast food along the Silk Road.
• Recommendation: Convenient to carry and delicious, this dish was a favorite among traders and herdsmen on the Silk Road and is perfect for modern tourists.

Liangpi (Cold Skin, 凉皮)

• Features: A refreshing dish made from wheat or rice flour, served with chili oil, vinegar, garlic, and bean sprouts.
• Historical Background: A traditional Shaanxi (陕西) snack with a long history, perfect for cooling down in the summer.
• Recommendation: With its smooth texture and rich seasonings, Liangpi is an excellent choice for experiencing Shaanxi’s snack culture.

Biangbiang Noodles (Biangbiang Mian, 油泼面)

• Features: Wide noodles handmade by stretching, served with chili oil, minced meat, and vegetables, offering a chewy and flavorful experience.
• Historical Background: A specialty of Shaanxi (陕西), the name “Biangbiang” imitates the sound of stretching the noodles.
• Recommendation: Known for its unique noodle-making process and fun name, this dish is a representative of Shaanxi’s culinary culture.

Gansu (甘肃)

Lanzhou Beef Noodles (兰州牛肉面)

• Features: A noodle dish with a beef-based soup, featuring hand-pulled noodles and beef slices, known for its rich broth and chewy noodles.
• Historical Background: Originating in the Qing Dynasty, it reflects the fusion of Central Asian and Chinese culinary traditions.
• Recommendation: The highlight of this dish is its broth and hand-pulling noodle technique, making it a perfect choice for experiencing Gansu’s culinary culture.

Liangpi (Cold Skin, 凉皮)

• Features: A refreshing dish made from wheat or pea starch, with a smooth texture and served with chili oil, vinegar, and garlic.
• Historical Background: A traditional Gansu (甘肃) snack with a long history, commonly found along the Silk Road.
• Recommendation: As a representative of Gansu’s snacks, Liangpi is perfect for cooling down in the summer.

Qinghai (青海)

Qinghai Liangpi (Cold Skin, 青海酿皮)

• Features: Similar to Gansu Liangpi but thicker, with unique seasonings.
• Historical Background: A traditional Qinghai (青海) snack reflecting the culinary culture along the Silk Road.
• Recommendation: The thick texture and unique seasonings make it a representative of Qinghai’s culinary culture.

Hand-Grabbed Lamb (手抓羊肉)

• Features: Lamb boiled and eaten with hands, tender and served with salt or garlic.
• Historical Background: A traditional diet of nomadic people, reflecting nomadic culture.
• Recommendation: The preparation and eating style reflect the lifestyle of nomadic people, making it a great choice for experiencing Qinghai’s culinary culture.

Xinjiang (新疆)

Xinjiang Pilaf (Zhuafan, 抓饭)

• Features: A dish made with lamb, onions, carrots, and rice, cooked in a large pot. The rice absorbs the flavors of the meat and spices, creating a fragrant and delicious meal.
• Historical Background: Originating from Central Asia, it is a traditional dish of the Uyghur people in Xinjiang (新疆), reflecting the culinary exchange along the Silk Road.
• Recommendation: With its rich ingredients and unique cooking method, this dish is a representative of Xinjiang’s culinary culture.

Grilled Lamb Skewers (烤羊肉串)

• Features: Lamb cut into small pieces, skewered and grilled over an open flame, seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and Sichuan pepper, offering a rich flavor.
• Historical Background: A traditional snack in Xinjiang (新疆), it was a staple for traders and herdsmen along the Silk Road.
• Recommendation: The aroma and unique seasonings make it a symbol of Xinjiang’s culinary culture and a must-try for tourists.

Naan (馕)

• Features: A baked flatbread with a crispy exterior and soft interior, often eaten with lamb soup or pilaf.
• Historical Background: Originating from Central Asia, it is a traditional staple of the Uyghur people in Xinjiang (新疆).
• Recommendation: The preparation and texture make it a representative of Xinjiang’s culinary culture and a perfect choice for experiencing Xinjiang’s lifestyle.

Big Plate Chicken (大盘鸡)

• Features: A dish where chicken, potatoes, and peppers are stewed together, served with wide noodles, offering a rich and fragrant flavor.
• Historical Background: A traditional dish in Xinjiang (新疆), blending cooking techniques from Central China and Central Asia.
• Recommendation: With its rich ingredients and unique cooking method, this dish is a representative of Xinjiang’s culinary culture and a must-try for tourists.

3. Accommodation on the Silk Road

Accommodation along the Silk Road in China ranges from basic guesthouses to luxury hotels. Here’s what you can expect:

• Shaanxi (陕西)

  1. Quanjude Hotel (全季酒店, Xi’an)

  • Location: Xi’an, Shaanxi
  • Features: Conveniently located near major attractions like the Terracotta Army and Xi’an Bell Tower. Offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Rating: 4.5/5 based on guest reviews.

  2. The Westin Xi’an

  • Location: Xi’an, Shaanxi
  • Features: Luxury hotel with modern amenities, spacious rooms, and a prime location in the city center. Offers stunning views of the cityscape.
  • Rating: 4.8/5.

  Gansu (甘肃)

  1. Lanzhou International Hotel (兰州饭店)

  • Location: Lanzhou, Gansu
  • Features: A landmark hotel in Lanzhou with a rich history. Offers comfortable accommodations and a range of dining options.
  • Rating: 4.2/5.

  2. Sofitel Lanzhou

  • Location: Lanzhou, Gansu
  • Features: Luxury hotel with elegant rooms, fine dining, and excellent service. Perfect for both business and leisure travelers.
  • Rating: 4.7/5.

  Qinghai (青海)

  1. Xining Hilton Hotel (西宁希尔顿酒店)

  • Location: Xining, Qinghai
  • Features: A luxury hotel with modern facilities, comfortable rooms, and a prime location in Xining. Offers a range of dining and wellness options.
  • Rating: 4.8/5.

  2. Wyndham Grand Plaza Royale Xining

  • Location: Xining, Qinghai
  • Features: Offers spacious rooms, excellent service, and a convenient location for exploring Xining. Features multiple dining venues and recreational facilities.
  • Rating: 4.6/5.

  Xinjiang (新疆)

  1. Regent Kempinski Hotel, Tianchi (天池凯宾斯基酒店)

  • Location: Changji Hui Autonomous Prefecture, Xinjiang
  • Features: A luxury resort hotel near Tianchi Lake, offering stunning views, elegant accommodations, and world-class facilities.
  • Rating: 4.9/5.

  2. Sheraton Korla Hotel (库尔勒喜来登酒店)

  • Location: Korla, Xinjiang
  • Features: A modern hotel with comfortable rooms, excellent dining options, and a convenient location for exploring Korla.
  • Rating: 4.5/5.

  3. Dunhuang Mingyue Hotel (敦煌鸣月酒店)

  • Location: Dunhuang, Gansu
  • Features: Located near the famous Mogao Caves, this hotel offers a unique cultural experience with traditional decor and modern comforts.
  • Rating: 4.7/5.

  4. Silk Road Hotel (丝绸之路酒店, Urumqi)

  • Location: Urumqi, Xinjiang
  • Features: A culturally themed hotel with beautiful decor reflecting the Silk Road’s heritage. Offers comfortable rooms and excellent service.
  • Rating: 4.3/5.

4. Weather and Climate

The Silk Road spans diverse geographical regions, from deserts to mountains to plateaus, which means the climate can vary significantly.

• Spring (March to May): This is one of the best times to visit, with mild temperatures across most regions.
• Summer (June to August): Temperatures can be extremely hot in the desert regions of Turpan and Dunhuang, so it’s best to plan your travels to the cooler mountain areas, such as Xi’an or Urumqi.
• Autumn (September to November): Another excellent time to travel, with pleasant temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for exploring historical sites.
• Winter (December to February): While the desert regions are cold, the Tibetan Plateau and Xinjiang can be snowy, but this is also the off-season, meaning fewer tourists.

5. Best Time to Visit the Silk Road

Spring (March to May)

• Weather：The weather is generally pleasant, with gradually rising temperatures. In the western regions of China and Central Asia, the spring rains have usually ended by April and May, and the daytime temperatures in the lower elevations are comfortable, typically ranging from 15°C to 25°C4.
• Scenery：It is a great time to witness the awakening of nature, with blooming flowers and greenery emerging. In places like Xinjiang, the grasslands start to turn green, and the mountain scenery is beautiful with melting snow on the peaks.
• Crowd：Compared to the peak tourist season in summer and autumn, there are relatively fewer tourists, allowing you to enjoy the attractions with more space and less hustle and bustle.

Summer (June to August)

• Weather：Summer is the peak tourist season in many parts of the Silk Road. The weather is hot, especially in desert areas such as Dunhuang and Turpan, where temperatures can exceed 35°C. However, in some high-altitude areas like the Tianshan Mountains and the Pamir Plateau, it remains relatively cool and is suitable for escaping the heat9.
• Scenery：The landscapes are vibrant, and the long daylight hours provide more time for exploration. In Gansu and Xinjiang, the grasslands are lush, and the lakes are clear, presenting a beautiful summer scenery.
• Activities：It is an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and camping. Many local festivals and activities are also held during this period, allowing you to experience the local culture more deeply.

Autumn (September to November)

• Weather：The weather becomes cooler, and the autumn scenery is charming. The temperature is moderate, with clear skies and fresh air, making it very comfortable for traveling.
• Scenery：This is the season when the leaves change color, and the landscapes are painted with vibrant hues of red, yellow, and orange. In places like Jiayuguan and Zhangye in Gansu, the colorful Danxia landforms are even more spectacular against the backdrop of the autumn sky.
• Harvest season：Autumn is also the harvest season, and you can taste a variety of fresh fruits and local specialties along the way, such as grapes, melons, and pears in Xinjiang.

Winter (December to February)

• Weather：Winter is extremely cold along the Silk Road, especially in the northern regions. Temperatures can drop below freezing, and there may be heavy snowfall and strong winds.
• Scenery：However, if you don’t mind the cold, winter can offer a unique and serene experience. The snow-covered landscapes of the Gobi Desert and the ancient cities look like a fairy tale world, and you can enjoy the beauty of ice sculptures and snow-capped mountains.
• Discounts：It is the off-season for tourism, so you can often enjoy significant discounts on accommodation and transportation costs. Additionally, some attractions may have fewer visitors, allowing for a more peaceful exploration5.

6. How to Get Around the Silk Road

Traveling along the Silk Road in China involves several options:

• Train: China’s high-speed train network has made traveling along the Silk Road more accessible. Routes connect major cities like Xi’an, Urumqi, and Dunhuang.
• Flights: Flights are available between major cities, especially for longer distances like Xi’an to Kashgar or Xi’an to Urumqi.
• Buses: For short distances or more remote areas, buses are a convenient and affordable option.
• Private Car/Guided Tours: Hiring a private car or joining a guided tour is often the best way to navigate the Silk Road, especially if you want to visit less accessible sites or explore at your own pace.

7. Travel Tips for the Silk Road Tour

• Clothing

  • Comfortable Shoes: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring historical sites and long distances.
  • Weather-Appropriate Clothing: Pack light clothing for summer and warm layers for spring, autumn, and winter. Temperatures can vary significantly between day and night, especially in regions like Gansu and Xinjiang.
  • Sun Protection: Bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against the strong sunlight, particularly in desert and high-altitude areas.

  Transportation

  • Public Transport: Major cities like Xi’an, Lanzhou, and Urumqi have well-developed public transportation systems. Use buses and subways for convenient travel within cities.
  • Private Cars: For remote areas or customized itineraries, consider hiring a private car or renting a vehicle. This offers flexibility and access to less-traveled sites.
  • Book Tickets in Advance: During peak tourist seasons, book train and flight tickets well in advance to secure your preferred travel dates and routes.

  Health and Safety

  • Medications: Bring any necessary medications, including those for common ailments like colds, stomach issues, and altitude sickness.
  • Food and Water: Stay hydrated, especially in dry climates. Stick to bottled water and be cautious with street food to avoid stomach issues.
  • Altitude Sickness: If traveling to high-altitude areas like Qinghai, take precautions against altitude sickness. Acclimate gradually and consider bringing altitude sickness medication.

  Culture and Etiquette

  • Respect Local Customs: Be mindful of local customs and religious practices, particularly in regions with diverse ethnic groups like Xinjiang.
  • Dress Modestly: When visiting religious sites, dress modestly and follow any specific dress codes required.
  • Learn Basic Phrases: Learning a few basic phrases in local languages or dialects can enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for their culture.

  Practical Tips

  • Plan Your Itinerary: Research and plan your route in advance, considering the distances between destinations and the time needed to explore each site.
  • Research Attractions: Familiarize yourself with the opening hours, ticket prices, and any special requirements of the attractions you plan to visit.
  • Respect the Environment: Be mindful of preserving the natural and cultural heritage. Avoid littering and respect historical sites.

8. Safety and Health

The Silk Road regions are generally safe for travelers, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Altitude Sickness: If you’re traveling to the Tibetan Plateau, you may experience altitude sickness. It’s recommended to take it easy and drink plenty of water.
• Travel Insurance: Always have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen situations.
• Local Health Concerns: While the health infrastructure in major cities is good, make sure to carry basic medicines and follow food hygiene practices in more remote areas.

By following these tips and planning carefully, a Silk Road tour in China will be an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and stunning landscapes. Whether you’re tracing the footsteps of ancient travelers or exploring the modern-day marvels along the route, the Silk Road offers a truly immersive experience.