Tour Overview

This 8-day Xinjiang Muslim Tour is designed for Muslim travelers who wish to explore the historical, cultural, and natural wonders of Urumqi, Kashgar, and Yarkent. The tour includes visits...

Code of Tour: CDT0000091198

Length of Travel: 5 Day

Destinations of Tour: Urumqi-Turpan-Urumqi

Departure City: Urumqi

Price of Tour: Request

Type of Tour: Private

Features of Tour:

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This 8-day Xinjiang Muslim Tour is designed for Muslim travelers who wish to explore the historical, cultural, and natural wonders of Urumqi, Kashgar, and Yarkent. The tour includes visits to Islamic heritage sites, breathtaking natural landscapes, and fascinating Silk Road cities, with a special focus on halal food, Muslim-friendly accommodations, and cultural experiences. From the majestic Tian Shan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) to the ancient cities of Kashgar and Turpan, and the cultural richness of Yarkent, this tour promises a deep dive into Xinjiang’s unique Muslim heritage.

Tour Highlights

• Explore Urumqi: Visit the stunning Tian Shan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake) and the International Grand Bazaar in Urumqi.
• Visit Turpan: Discover the ancient Gaochang City, Flame Mountain, and the Tuyugou Village.
• Tour Kashgar: Visit the iconic Id Kah Mosque, the Kashgar Old City, and the famous Fragrant Concubine Garden.
• Experience Yarkent: Learn about the history and culture of the Uyghur people in Yarkent and visit the Amanni Shah Tomb.
• Halal food at every meal: Enjoy a full range of halal meals throughout the tour, from breakfast to dinner, ensuring a Muslim-friendly dining experience.
• Cultural immersion: Visit local bazaars, historical Islamic sites, and traditional Uyghur villages, where you can explore local handicrafts and cuisine.

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 – Maigatit – Yarkent
• Day 7: Yarkent – Kashgar
• Day 8: Departure from Kashgar

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Urumqi

Accommodation: Stay in Urumqi

Meals: None

Activities:
Arrival: Upon arrival at Urumqi Diwopu International Airport, you will be met by your tour guide and transferred to your hotel.
Free time: The rest of the day is free for you to rest and adjust to the time zone. If you have time, you may explore Urumqi on your own or simply relax.
Overnight: Enjoy a comfortable stay at a Muslim-friendly hotel in Urumqi.

Day 2: Urumqi – Tian Shan Tianchi – City Tour

Accommodation: Stay in Urumqi

Meals: Halal Breakfast, Halal Lunch, Halal Dinner

Activities:
Morning: After a halal breakfast, depart for a scenic drive to Tian Shan Tianchi (Heavenly Lake), a stunning alpine lake set in the Tian Shan Mountains. You will enjoy a sightseeing bus ride around the lake and take in the breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear waters.
Lunch: Halal lunch in a local restaurant near Tianchi Lake.
Afternoon: After lunch, return to Urumqi for a city tour. Visit the International Grand Bazaar, a famous market offering local products, spices, and handicrafts. You will also visit the Xinjiang Regional Museum, where you can learn about the diverse cultures, ancient Silk Road artifacts, and mummies from the region.
Evening: Dinner will be served at a halal restaurant, offering traditional Uyghur cuisine.
Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Urumqi.

Day 3: Full Day Tour of Turpan

Accommodation: Stay in Turpan

Meals: Halal Breakfast, Halal Lunch, Halal Dinner

Activities:

Morning: After a halal breakfast, travel to Turpan, a historic city located along the ancient Silk Road. Visit the Gaochang Ancient City, a city that was an important stop on the Silk Road and is over 2,000 years old. You will explore its ruins, which include temples, residential houses, and a Buddhist monastery.

Lunch: Enjoy a halal lunch at a local restaurant in Turpan.

Afternoon: Visit Tuyugou Village, known for its ancient Tuyugou Mazha (tombs) and Tuyugou Grand Canyon. Continue your visit to Flame Mountain, a stunning red sandstone mountain range famous for its fiery colors in the summer heat. Then, visit the Turpan Bazaar to shop for local dried fruits, spices, and handicrafts.

Evening: After the day’s activities, enjoy a halal dinner in Turpan before returning to your hotel for the night.

Overnight: Stay at a local hotel in Turpan.

Day 4: Turpan – Kashgar

Accommodation: Stay in Kashgar

Meals: Halal Breakfast, Halal Lunch, Halal Dinner

Activities:

Morning: After a hearty halal breakfast, visit Su Gong Tower and Jiaohe Ancient City, both iconic historical sites in Turpan. The Jiaohe City ruins are more than 2,000 years old and are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Then, explore the Karez Irrigation System, an ancient underground water system that allowed Turpan to thrive in its desert environment.

Lunch: Enjoy a halal lunch in Turpan.

Afternoon: Take a flight from Urumqi to Kashgar, the heart of Uyghur culture. Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Kashgar.

Evening: After settling in, enjoy a halal dinner in Kashgar at a local restaurant.

Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Kashgar.

Day 5: Full Day Tour of Kashgar

Accommodation: Stay in Kashgar

Meals: Halal Breakfast, Halal Lunch, Halal Dinner

Activities:

Morning: Begin your day with a visit to Id Kah Mosque, the largest mosque in Xinjiang, located in the heart of Kashgar. Continue your visit to the Old Tea House where you can enjoy traditional Uyghur tea and watch local performances.

Lunch: Enjoy a delicious halal lunch at a traditional Uyghur restaurant.

Afternoon: Explore the Handicraft Street in Kashgar Old City, known for its handmade carpets, textiles, and jewelry. Visit Kashgar Old City, a historic district with narrow alleys, ancient homes, and traditional architecture. You will also visit the Fragrant Concubine Garden, a peaceful park with a historical story behind it.

Evening: Dinner at a halal restaurant in Kashgar. Enjoy the flavorful dishes of the region, such as lamb kebabs and pilaf.

Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Kashgar.

Day 6: Kashgar – Maigatit – Yarkent

Accommodation: Stay in Yarkent

Meals: Halal Breakfast, Halal Lunch, Halal Dinner

Activities:

Morning: After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive towards Yarkent. En route, stop at Maigatit, a village famous for its Daolang Art Village, which is known for its unique paintings. Enjoy panoramic views of the Taklamakan Desert as you drive along the desert landscapes.

Lunch: Halal lunch in a local restaurant along the way.

Afternoon: Arrive in Yarkent, a historic city that is rich in Uyghur culture. Explore local landmarks and gain insights into the traditions of the Uyghur people.

Evening: Enjoy a halal dinner at your hotel in Yarkent.

Overnight: Stay at a local hotel in Yarkent.

Day 7: Yarkent – Kashgar

Accommodation: Stay in Kashgar

Meals: Halal Breakfast, Halal Lunch, Halal Dinner

Activities:

Morning: After breakfast, visit the Amanni Shah Tomb, a significant historical site, and Shache Royal Tombs, which offer insights into the royal history of the region. You will also explore the Old City of Yarkent and visit the Ancient City Wall Park to see remnants of the city’s ancient defensive walls.

Lunch: Enjoy a halal lunch in Yarkent.

Afternoon: Return to Kashgar, where you can enjoy some free time for shopping or relaxation.

Evening: Have your final halal dinner in Kashgar, perhaps at one of the city’s famous restaurants.

Overnight: Stay at your hotel in Kashgar.

Day 8: Departure from Kashgar

Meals: Halal Breakfast

Activities:

After breakfast, enjoy some free time to relax, shop, or explore the city at your leisure.

Your guide will transfer you to Kashgar Airport for your departure flight.

You can fly to major cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, or Guangzhou, concluding your unforgettable Xinjiang journey.

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!