25 Days Kyrgyzstan-China Self-Driving Tour Kashgar to Shanghai

Tour Overview

Code of Tour: CDT0000090163

Length of Travel: 25 Day

Destinations of Tour: Irkstan-Kashgar-Taklamakan-Turpan- Dunhuang-Xining-Xi’an-Luoyang- Suzhou-Shanghai

Departure City: Kashgar

Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour:

Features of Tour:

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Embark on an exhilarating 25-day self-driving adventure from the rugged landscapes of Kyrgyzstan to the bustling metropolis of Shanghai. This journey takes you through some of China’s most diverse and historically rich regions, offering a unique blend of cultural experiences, natural wonders, and historical landmarks.

Starting from the Irkstan Pass, you will drive through the ancient Silk Road cities, cross vast deserts, explore picturesque lakes, and traverse scenic highlands. This tour provides a deep dive into the cultural and historical tapestry of China, from the bazaars of Kashgar to the modern skyline of Shanghai.

Key Highlights:

Kashgar: Wander through the vibrant Kashgar Bazaar, visit the historic Id Kah Mosque, and explore the Abakh Khoja Tomb.
Taklamakan Desert: Experience the vast and mesmerizing Taklamakan Desert, one of the largest sandy deserts in the world.
Turpan: Visit the Grape Valley, Flaming Mountains, and ancient ruins that showcase the rich history and culture of this oasis city.
Dunhuang: Discover the renowned Mogao Caves, filled with Buddhist art, and enjoy the scenic beauty of the Crescent Moon Spring.
Xi’an: Explore the ancient city of Xi’an, home to the world-famous Terra Cotta Warriors and the historic city walls.
Luoyang: Visit the Longmen Grottoes and the White Horse Temple, significant sites in Chinese Buddhist history.
Suzhou: Stroll through the classical Chinese gardens and visit the charming water towns.
Shanghai: Conclude your journey in Shanghai, exploring its modern attractions and historical sites, including a visit to the 2010 World Expo site.

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Irkstan to Kashgar

Distance: Variable
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Enter China, complete border procedures, and drive to Kashgar.

Day 2: Kashgar

Distance: Local exploration
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Kashgar Sunday Market, Id Kah Mosque, and Abakh Khoja Tomb.

Day 3: Kashgar to Yecheng

Distance: 260 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Morning visit in Kashgar, afternoon drive to Yecheng.

Day 4: Yecheng to Hetian

Distance: 260 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Drive to Hetian, visit the Hetian Jade Market.

Day 5: Hetian to Mingfeng

Distance: 300 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Drive to Mingfeng, start of the Taklamakan Desert road, sunset in the desert.

Day 6: Mingfeng to Luntai

Distance: 560 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Drive through the Taklamakan Desert, challenging yet scenic.

Day 7: Luntai to Turpan

Distance: 530 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Drive through Kuerle, famous for pears, and arrive in Turpan.

Day 8: Turpan

Distance: Local exploration
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Jiaohe Ancient City, Sugong Tower, Grape Valley, and Flaming Mountains.

Day 9: Turpan to Hami

Distance: 390 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Maza Village, Shanshan Desert Park, and Hami King Tomb.

Day 10: Hami to Dunhuang

Distance: 400 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Dunhuang Grottos, Crescent Moon Spring, and Singing Sand Dunes.

Day 11: Dunhuang to Zhangye

Distance: 620 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Jiayuguan Pass, drive to Zhangye.

Day 12: Zhangye to Xining

Distance: 350 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Zhangye Dafo Temple, drive to Xining.

Day 13: Xining to Qinghai Lake

Distance: 300 km
Accommodation: Hotel or camping
Highlights: Visit Taer Monastery, Qinghai Lake.

Day 14: Qinghai Lake to Lanzhou

Distance: 390 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Qinghai Lake, drive to Lanzhou.

Day 15: Lanzhou to Tianshui

Distance: 330 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Maijishan Grottoes in Tianshui.

Day 16: Tianshui to Xi’an

Distance: 395 km
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Drive to Xi’an, visit the city wall, drum tower, and bell tower.

Day 17: Xi’an

Distance: Local exploration
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Terra Cotta Warriors and Shaanxi Historical Museum.

Day 18: Xi’an to Luoyang to Dengfeng

Distance: Variable
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Longmen Grottoes and Baima Temple, drive to Dengfeng.

Day 19: Dengfeng to Xuzhou

Distance: Variable
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Shaolin Temple, drive to Xuzhou.

Day 20: Xuzhou to Nanjing

Distance: Variable
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Drive to Nanjing, afternoon city exploration.

Day 21: Nanjing to Suzhou

Distance: Variable
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit Suzhou Gardens and Tongli Water Village.

Day 22: Suzhou to Shanghai

Distance: Variable
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Drive to Shanghai, afternoon city exploration.

Day 23: Shanghai

Distance: Local exploration
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Visit the 2010 World Expo site.

Day 24: Shanghai

Distance: Local exploration
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Explore Shanghai’s major attractions.

Day 25: Shanghai

Distance: Variable
Accommodation: Hotel
Highlights: Complete vehicle exit procedures, end of the tour.

Travel Tips for Self-Driving in China

Documentation: Ensure you have the necessary permits and temporary driving licenses.
Navigation: Use reliable GPS and local maps. Be prepared for areas with limited signal.
Fuel: Keep your tank full, especially in remote areas.
Language: Learn basic Mandarin or have a translation app.
Health and Safety: Carry a first aid kit and stay hydrated, especially in desert regions.
Local Laws: Adhere to traffic laws and customs procedures.
Accommodation: Book hotels in advance, especially during peak seasons.