Tour Overview

This 7-day Muslim-friendly tour offers an immersive experience in Xinjiang, taking you through the region’s diverse landscapes, historic cities, and rich cultural heritage. The tour focuses on Muslim-friendly accommodations,...

Code of Tour: CDT0000091197

Length of Travel: 5 Day

Destinations of Tour: Urumqi-Kashgar-Urumqi

Departure City: Urumqi

Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour: Private

Features of Tour:

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This 7-day Muslim-friendly tour offers an immersive experience in Xinjiang, taking you through the region’s diverse landscapes, historic cities, and rich cultural heritage. The tour focuses on Muslim-friendly accommodations, halal food, and visits to famous religious and cultural sites, making it ideal for Muslim travelers from countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, and Australia. During this tour, you will explore the ancient cities of Urumqi, Turpan, and Kashgar, discover stunning natural scenery such as Tianchi Lake and the Pamir Plateau, and immerse yourself in the unique culture and history of Xinjiang.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Urumqi and the Tian Shan Tianchi (Tianchi Lake), a stunning alpine lake with breathtaking views.
• Discover the ancient ruins of Gaochang Ancient City and Jiaohe Ancient City.
• Visit the world-famous Id Kah Mosque and Kashgar Old City, known for its traditional Uyghur architecture.
• Experience the majestic White Sand Lake and Karakul Lake on the Pamir Plateau, with views of Muztagh Ata Mountain.
• Enjoy authentic halal food at local restaurants and markets throughout the tour.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrive in Urumqi
• Day 2: Urumqi-Tianchi Lake-Urumqi
• Day 3: Urumqi-Turpan
• Day 4: Turpan-Kashgar
• Day 5: Kashgar
• Day 6: Kashgar
• Day 7: Departure from Kashgar

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi

Accommodation: Stay in Urumqi

Meals: None

Activities:

Upon arrival at Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, you will be greeted by your local tour guide and transferred to your hotel in the city.

The rest of the day is free for you to rest and acclimate to the local time zone. If you feel up to it, take a short walk around Urumqi and get a first glimpse of the city.

In the evening, you can enjoy a halal dinner at one of the local restaurants in Urumqi (at your own discretion).

Day 2: Urumqi – Tian Shan Tianchi – City Tour

Accommodation: Stay in Urumqi

Meals: Breakfast

Activities:

Morning: After breakfast at your hotel, head to Tian Shan Tianchi (Tianchi Lake), located about 110 kilometers from Urumqi. Known as the “Heavenly Lake,” this scenic area is surrounded by the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan Mountain range. You will take a sightseeing bus to the lake and enjoy a short walk around its shores, admiring the lush green landscapes and crystal-clear water.

Lunch: Enjoy a halal picnic lunch in the scenic area.

Afternoon: Return to Urumqi and visit the International Grand Bazaar, a lively market offering a wide variety of local handicrafts, foods, and traditional goods. You will also visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum, which houses a collection of historical artifacts, including ancient silk road treasures and mummies from the region.

Evening: You will have some free time to relax, shop, or explore the city. You may also enjoy dinner at a halal restaurant.

Day 3: Full Day Tour of Turpan

Accommodation: Stay in Turpan

Meals: Breakfast

Activities:

Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive to Turpan, located about 200 kilometers southeast of Urumqi. Known for its historical sites and desert landscapes, Turpan is one of the hottest places in China.

Visit Gaochang Ancient City, an ancient oasis city that was once a prominent stop on the Silk Road. The site is home to ruins of temples, residential areas, and a large Buddhist monastery.

Explore Tuyugou Village, a traditional Uyghur village that is famous for its Tuyugou Mazha (ancient tombs) and Tuyugou Grand Canyon, which offers dramatic views of desert canyons and cliffs.

Lunch: Enjoy a halal lunch in Turpan.

Afternoon: Visit Flame Mountain, a striking red sandstone mountain range known for its heat and its fiery appearance in the summer. It is a popular attraction for visitors who want to see the famous desert scenery.

Explore Turpan Bazaar, where you can shop for traditional goods like dried fruits, spices, and handcrafted items.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local halal restaurant and stay overnight in Turpan.

Day 4: Turpan – Kashgar

Accommodation: Stay in Kashgar

Meals: Breakfast

Activities:

Morning: After breakfast, visit Su Gong Tower, an ancient Islamic landmark in Turpan, and the Jiaohe Ancient City, a UNESCO World Heritage site that is over 2,000 years old. The city is a well-preserved ancient settlement built into the cliffs and provides fascinating insights into the region’s history.

Lunch: Halal lunch in Turpan.

Afternoon: Visit the Karez Irrigation System, an ancient system of underground canals used for water distribution in the region’s arid climate. After the tour, transfer to the airport for a flight to Kashgar, a historical city at the western edge of China.

Evening: Arrive in Kashgar, and check into your hotel. Enjoy a halal dinner and relax for the night.

Day 5: Kashgar – White Sand Lake & Karakul Lake

Accommodation: Stay in Kashgar

Meals: Breakfast

Activities:

Morning: After breakfast, depart for the Pamir Plateau, a remote and stunningly beautiful area located on the border between China and Tajikistan. Travel along the Karakol Highway, passing through rugged mountainous terrain.

Visit White Sand Lake, a tranquil and picturesque spot surrounded by desert and mountains.

Continue to Karakul Lake, a stunning high-altitude lake that offers breathtaking views of Muztagh Ata, the “Father of the Ice Mountains.” The serene waters of the lake are surrounded by snow-capped peaks, creating a peaceful and dramatic landscape.

Lunch: Enjoy a halal picnic lunch at Karakul Lake with views of the surrounding mountains.

Afternoon: After exploring the lakes and surrounding areas, return to Kashgar in the late afternoon.

Evening: Enjoy a halal dinner in Kashgar city and spend the evening at leisure.

Day 6: Full Day Tour of Kashgar

Accommodation: Stay in Kashgar

Meals: Breakfast

Activities:
Morning: After breakfast, begin a full day of sightseeing in Kashgar, one of the most famous cities along the Silk Road.
Visit the Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Xinjiang and an important religious and cultural site for the Uyghur Muslim population.
Explore the Old Tea House, where you can experience traditional Uyghur tea culture and watch local performances.
Stroll through Handicraft Street, which is lined with artisans selling handmade carpets, jewelry, and textiles.
Lunch: Enjoy a halal lunch in one of Kashgar’s popular restaurants.
Afternoon: Visit Kashgar Old City, a maze of narrow streets, ancient buildings, and bustling markets. Explore traditional Uyghur homes, mosques, and markets.
Finally, visit Fragrant Concubine Garden, a beautiful historical site linked to the famous story of the Fragrant Concubine, a prominent figure in Kashgar’s history.

Evening: Enjoy a final halal dinner in Kashgar and have some free time to explore or shop for souvenirs.

Day 7: Departure from Kashgar

Meals: Breakfast

Activities:
After breakfast, you will have some free time before being transferred to Kashgar Airport for your departure flight.
You can choose to fly to major Chinese cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, or continue your travels to other destinations.

Service Included:

• Admission fees for all of the sightseeing spots listed in the itinerary;
• Meals as listed in the itinerary;
• Hotels as listed in the itinerary;
• Private English-speaking tour guide;
• Private vehicle for transfers & sightseeing with skilled driver;
• Service charge & government taxes;
• Luggage transfers between airports and hotels;
• Domestic train tickets of soft sleeper.

Service Excluded:

• Any arrival and departure international airfares or train tickets;
• Single room supplement;
• Tips to guides and drivers;
• Personal expenses and gratuities to service staff;
• Personal travel accident insurance;
• All optional programs.

Muslim Travel Tips for Xinjiang Muslim Tour

Traveling to Xinjiang, especially for Muslim travelers, offers a unique opportunity to explore one of China’s most culturally diverse regions. Xinjiang is home to a large Uyghur Muslim population, which ensures that Muslim travelers will find an environment with accessible halal food, mosques, and Muslim-friendly services. However, as with any destination, it’s helpful to know a few travel tips to make your trip smooth and enjoyable. Below are some key Muslim travel tips for your Xinjiang Muslim tour:

1. Halal Food in Xinjiang

Xinjiang is known for its rich, flavorful, and halal cuisine, which is influenced by the region’s Uyghur Muslim culture. As a Muslim traveler, you’ll have no trouble finding halal food. Here’s what you should know:

• Halal Restaurants: Most major cities like Urumqi, Kashgar, and Turpan have plenty of halal restaurants serving Uyghur dishes such as lamb kebabs (kebab), pilaf (pilav), laghman (hand-pulled noodles), and nan (flatbread). Look for signs or restaurants labeled 清真 (Qīngzhēn), which means halal in Chinese.
• Street Food: Xinjiang is famous for its street food, especially kebabs and lamb skewers, which are widely available in cities and bazaars. Ensure that the food stall is halal-certified if you’re uncertain.
• Halal Meal Availability: On tours, meals will generally be halal, but it’s always good to confirm with the guide. Many hotels also offer halal meals upon request, especially in major tourist hubs.
• Common Halal Dishes: Make sure to try the famous Uyghur pilaf (polu), roast lamb, samsa (meat-filled pastry), and the refreshing melon dishes, which are prevalent in the region.

2. Finding Mosques

Xinjiang is home to many mosques that cater to Muslim travelers, especially in cities like Kashgar and Urumqi, where you can pray or explore Islamic architecture.

• Major Mosques: Be sure to visit prominent mosques like Id Kah Mosque in Kashgar, Huaisheng Mosque in Urumqi, and Juma Mosque in Turpan. These are not only important religious landmarks but also cultural centers that provide insight into the Muslim history of the region.
• Praying Facilities: Many large hotels and tourist attractions in Xinjiang provide private spaces for Muslims to pray. However, if you’re traveling with a tour, your guide will often arrange stops at mosques for daily prayers.
• Prayer Times: Xinjiang follows the Muslim prayer timetable, which varies slightly depending on the location and the time of year. Make sure to check prayer times at your hotel or local mosque so you can plan your day accordingly.
• Respectful Attire: When visiting mosques, dress modestly in accordance with Islamic traditions. Women should consider wearing a scarf or head covering while inside mosques, and men should wear long pants and avoid shorts.

3. Language and Communication

While Mandarin Chinese is the official language, Uyghur is the primary language spoken by the local population in Xinjiang. However, communication for Muslim travelers is generally manageable.

• English Proficiency: English is not widely spoken in rural areas, but you will find it in tourist hubs like Urumqi and Kashgar. Your tour guide will be invaluable in bridging the communication gap. Most hotel staff in major cities can speak some English.
• Basic Phrases: Learning a few basic phrases in Mandarin or Uyghur can go a long way. Simple words like “hello” (你好 – Nǐ hǎo) and “thank you” (谢谢 – Xièxiè) are useful. If you need to know the halal status of food or places, it’s often easier to ask in Mandarin, as many Uyghur-speaking locals will understand it.
• Muslim-Friendly Terms: In China, the term 清真 (Qīngzhēn) means halal, and 穆斯林 (Mùsīlín) means Muslim. It can be helpful to use these terms when searching for halal food or facilities.

4. Dress Modestly and Respectfully

• Modesty in Clothing: Xinjiang is a region where Islam plays a central role, so it’s essential to respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting religious sites and rural areas.
  • Women: It’s advisable for women to wear long sleeves and skirts or pants, and a headscarf is recommended, especially when entering mosques.
  • Men: Men should avoid wearing shorts when visiting religious sites or public places in the cities.

5. Understanding Local Culture

• Respect for Islam: The people of Xinjiang, particularly the Uyghur community, are proud of their Muslim identity. While tourism is widespread in cities like Kashgar, it’s important to be mindful of the local culture and traditions. Always show respect when visiting mosques, interacting with locals, or attending local ceremonies or events.
• Halal and Non-Halal Food Separation: In Muslim-majority areas like Kashgar, halal food and non-halal food are typically separated, but in some areas, non-halal meat (such as pork) may still be available. It’s wise to check before eating.

6. Drinking Water and Health Tips

• Bottled Water: Tap water in Xinjiang is not always safe to drink. Always opt for bottled water, which is widely available at hotels, restaurants, and convenience stores.
• Travel Health: Xinjiang is generally a safe destination for Muslim travelers, but like any international trip, make sure you carry necessary medications, especially if you have specific dietary or health needs. It’s also a good idea to carry a small first aid kit with common remedies like pain relievers, bandages, and hand sanitizer.

7. Currency and Shopping

• Currency: The currency in Xinjiang is Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs are widely available in cities like Urumqi and Kashgar, and most businesses accept major credit cards. However, it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for small shops, local markets, and rural areas.
• Bazaars and Markets: Xinjiang’s bazaars are bustling hubs for shopping, and they are often where you’ll find unique handicrafts, spices, dry fruits, and textiles. Bargaining is common in local markets, and it’s often a fun and friendly experience.

8. Safety and Local Etiquette

• Safety: Xinjiang is generally a safe region for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, be vigilant about your personal belongings, especially in crowded places like markets or buses.
• Respect for Local Customs: Be respectful when taking photos, especially of local people or religious sites. Always ask permission before taking photos of individuals, and be considerate when photographing inside mosques or private spaces.
• Traffic: Like many parts of China, traffic can be chaotic in the larger cities. Always use pedestrian crossings, and if traveling by taxi, ensure the driver uses the meter or agree on the fare upfront.

9. Best Time to Visit

• Spring and Autumn: The best times to visit Xinjiang are in the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) when the weather is pleasant, and you can enjoy the beautiful landscapes without the extreme temperatures of summer or winter.
• Summer: Summer (June-August) is peak tourist season and can get quite hot, especially in desert regions like Turpan. If you’re traveling during this time, be sure to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun.

10. Local Muslim Festivals

• Ramadan: If you visit during Ramadan, many Muslim communities in Xinjiang will be observing fasting. This is a special time for Muslims to focus on prayer and reflection. While restaurants may be closed during the daytime, they will open for evening meals after Iftar (the evening meal that breaks the fast). You will also witness a rich cultural atmosphere as local communities come together for prayers and gatherings.

By following these Muslim travel tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your Xinjiang Muslim Tour, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience while embracing the culture, cuisine, and history of this fascinating region. Enjoy your travels and make beautiful memories in Xinjiang!