22 Days Kazakhstan-China-Laos Self-Driving Tour from Xinjiang Khorgas to Yunnan Mohan

Tour Overview

Code of Tour: CDT0000090167

Length of Travel: 22 Day

Destinations of Tour: Huocheng - Sayram Lake - Urumqi - Hami - Turpan - Dunhuang - Xining - Lanzhou - Xi’an - Chengdu - Xichang - Yuanyang - Jinghong - Mohan

Departure City: Xinjiang

Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour:

Features of Tour:

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Embark on an epic 22-day self-driving adventure that spans three diverse countries: Kazakhstan, China, and Laos. This journey begins in Xinjiang’s Khorgas and concludes at Yunnan’s Mohan, blending historical grandeur, cultural richness, and breathtaking landscapes. As you traverse from the arid expanses of Xinjiang through the heart of China’s Silk Road to the lush landscapes of Laos, you’ll witness an array of dramatic scenery, iconic landmarks, and vibrant cultures.

This tour is designed for those with a passion for exploration and a love of diverse experiences, offering a unique opportunity to explore ancient trade routes, marvel at natural wonders, and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of three distinct regions. From the bustling cities to serene lakes and ancient relics, this journey promises unforgettable memories and remarkable discoveries.

Areas

Xinjiang, Gansu, Qinghai, Gansu, Shaanxi, Sichuan, Yunnan Province

Itinerary

Huocheng – Sayram Lake – Urumqi – Hami – Turpan – Dunhuang – Xining – Lanzhou – Xi’an – Chengdu – Xichang – Yuanyang – Jinghong – Mohan

Season

April to November

Trip Highlights

Silk Road Exploration: Traverse the legendary Silk Road, a historic trade route that has connected East and West for centuries. Explore its key stops, including the ancient city of Dunhuang and the magnificent Jiayuguan Pass.
Sayram Lake: Discover the beauty of Sayram Lake in Xinjiang, the largest alpine lake in the region, known for its stunning mountain views and tranquil waters. Experience the charm of the surrounding yurts and traditional Kazakh culture.
Turpan: Visit Turpan, one of the world’s lowest points, famous for its ancient Karez irrigation system, the lush Grape Valley, and the dramatic Flaming Mountain.
Dunhuang Mogao Caves: Explore the Mogao Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich collection of Buddhist art and ancient manuscripts, set amidst the stunning desert landscape of Dunhuang.
Qinghai Lake: Drive to Qinghai Lake, China’s largest saltwater lake, surrounded by breathtaking highland scenery and known for its vibrant blue waters and birdlife.
Kumbum Monastery: Visit the Kumbum Monastery in Qinghai, an important Tibetan Buddhist site renowned for its intricate frescoes and architectural beauty.
Xi’an Terra-Cotta Warriors: Marvel at the Terra-Cotta Warriors in Xi’an, an awe-inspiring archaeological site featuring thousands of life-sized statues that guard the tomb of China’s first emperor.
Chengdu Panda Base: Experience the joy of seeing giant pandas up close at the Chengdu Panda Base, a world-renowned conservation facility dedicated to these beloved creatures.
Leshan Giant Buddha: Stand in awe before the Leshan Giant Buddha, the world’s largest stone Buddha statue, carved out of a cliff face and surrounded by lush greenery.
Yuanyang Rice Terraces: Witness the breathtaking Yuanyang Rice Terraces, famous for their intricate patterns and stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Jinghong and Tropical Botanic Garden: Explore Jinghong in Yunnan Province and visit the Tropical Botanic Garden, which showcases a diverse range of tropical plant species and lush landscapes.
Cultural Immersion: Engage with the diverse cultures of the regions you pass through, from the ethnic minority villages in Yunnan to the traditional lifestyles in Xinjiang.

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Kazakhstan – Enter Horgos – Huocheng

Activities: Enter China through Horgos. Complete customs and vehicle registration procedures. Drive to Huocheng.
Accommodation: Huocheng

Day 2: Huocheng – Yining

Activities: Handle vehicle and driver’s temporary license procedures at related offices. Explore Yining.
Accommodation: Yining

Day 3: Yining – Sayram Lake – Jinghe (230 km)

Activities: Drive to Jinghe, passing Sayram Lake. Enjoy scenic views of mountain passes, yurts, and yaks.
Accommodation: Jinghe

Day 4: Jinghe – Kuytun – Urumqi (420 km)

Activities: Drive to Urumqi. Explore the city upon arrival.
Accommodation: Urumqi

Day 5: Urumqi – Turpan (192 km)

Activities: Drive to Turpan. Explore Turpan’s attractions including the Karez well system, Grape Valley, Gaochang Ancient City, and Flaming Mountain.
Accommodation: Turpan

Day 6: Turpan – Shanshan – Hami (400 km)

Activities: Enjoy free time in Turpan before driving to Hami.
Accommodation: Hami

Day 7: Hami – Dunhuang [Enter Gansu Province] (400 km)

Activities: Drive to Dunhuang. Visit the Mogao Caves, Sand Sounding Dunes, and Crescent Moon Spring.
Accommodation: Dunhuang

Day 8: Dunhuang – Jiayuguan – Zhangye (630 km)

Activities: Drive to Zhangye, visiting Jiayuguan and Jiayu Pass along the way.
Accommodation: Zhangye

Day 9: Zhangye – Mingle – Qinghai Lake [Enter Qinghai Province] (420 km)

Activities: Drive to Qinghai Lake, passing through Mingle. Enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Accommodation: Qinghai Lake

Day 10: Qinghai Lake – Kumbum – Lanzhou [Enter Gansu Province] (310 km)

Activities: Drive to Lanzhou, stopping at Kumbum Monastery.
Accommodation: Lanzhou

Day 11: Lanzhou – Terra-Cotta Warriors [Enter Shaanxi Province] (680 km)

Activities: Long drive to visit the Terra-Cotta Warriors. Arrive late and rest.
Accommodation: Near Terra-Cotta Warriors

Day 12: Terra-Cotta Warriors – Xi’an (35 km)

Activities: Visit Terra-Cotta Warriors in the morning, then drive to Xi’an.
Accommodation: Xi’an

Day 13: Xi’an

Activities: Explore Xi’an’s historical sites including the ancient city wall, Drum Tower, Bell Tower, and Shanxi Historical Museum.
Accommodation: Xi’an

Day 14: Xi’an – Guangyuan [Enter Sichuan Province] (470 km)

Activities: Drive to Guangyuan, enjoying the scenic route.
Accommodation: Guangyuan

Day 15: Guangyuan – Jiange – Chengdu (310 km)

Activities: Drive to Chengdu via Jiange. Explore Chengdu’s highlights.
Accommodation: Chengdu

Day 16: Chengdu – Leshan Giant Buddha (150 km)

Activities: Visit Chengdu Panda Base in the morning, then drive to Leshan to see the Giant Buddha.
Accommodation: Leshan

Day 17: Leshan – Xichang (430 km)

Activities: Drive to Xichang. Enjoy the scenic drive.
Accommodation: Xichang

Day 18: Xichang – Kunming [Enter Yunnan Province] (500 km)

Activities: Drive to Kunming. Explore Kunming upon arrival.
Accommodation: Kunming

Day 19: Kunming – Jianshui – Yuanyang (280 km)

Activities: Drive to Yuanyang, visiting Jianshui Ancient Town along the way. Enjoy the Yuanyang Rice Terraces.
Accommodation: Yuanyang

Day 20: Yuanyang – Jinghong (450 km)

Activities: Drive to Jinghong, taking in the scenic views.
Accommodation: Jinghong

Day 21: Jinghong – Menglun – Mengla (130 km)

Activities: Explore Jinghong, including the Menglun Tropical Botanic Garden and Ganlanba Village. Drive to Mengla.
Accommodation: Mengla

Day 22: Mengla – Mohan – Exit to Laos (40 km)

Activities: Complete exit procedures at the customs and cross the border into Laos. The NAVO service ends here.
Accommodation: None (tour ends)