Embark on an extraordinary 13-day journey aboard China’s most prestigious luxury train, the Silk Road Express, as it weaves through the ancient territories where East once met West. This meticulously crafted expedition, launching in September 2025, promises to unlock the mysteries of China’s legendary Silk Road, offering an unprecedented blend of opulent rail travel and immersive cultural experiences. From the spiritual heights of Tibet’s gateway to the depths of desert oases, this journey traverses landscapes that have witnessed millennia of human history, trade, and cultural exchange.
-
Destination
-
Trip duration
13 days, 12 nights
-
Price
From 68800 cny
-
Availability period
9 Sep. 2025 - 21 Sep. 2025
-
Min/Max travelers
Minimum: 1
-
Transport
Train
-
Accommodation
Train and well-selected hotels
A Trails Exclusive Departure — Early Bird Offer!
Enjoy a discount of RMB 5,000 when you book with us by January 16, 2025. This limited-time offer is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Contact us today for more details and to secure your place on The Silk Road Express.
- Experience the epitome of luxury rail travel aboard the newly launched Silk Road Express, where every detail has been carefully curated to provide an unparalleled journey through time and space
- Traverse the legendary “Winding Dragon Road” with its 608 hairpin turns, offering breathtaking views of the Pamir Plateau
- Discover the ancient Kashgar Old Town, a living museum where the air is still rich with the scent of spices and the sounds of traditional craftsmen
- Witness the majesty of the Kirlz Thousand Buddha Caves, predating the famous Dunhuang grottos by 150 years
- Explore the “Switzerland of the East” at Kanas, where pristine lakes mirror snow-capped peaks and dense forests create nature’s perfect symphony
This extraordinary journey combines the romance of luxury rail travel with the allure of ancient trade routes, offering privileged access to some of China’s most remote and spectacular destinations. From sampling authentic Xinjiang cuisine to witnessing time-honored traditions, each moment has been thoughtfully orchestrated to create not just a journey, but a collection of once-in-a-lifetime experiences. Whether you’re watching the sunset paint the Pamir Plateau in gold, or listening to the echoes of history in millennium-old grottoes, this expedition promises to transform your understanding of one of humanity’s greatest trading routes while traveling in unprecedented comfort and style.
Day 1
Arrival in Xining
As you touch down in Xining (Elevation: 2,200m), the ancient gateway to the Tibetan Plateau, you'll feel the first whispers of high-altitude air - crisp, pure, and laden with centuries of history. Your home for the night, the sophisticated Sofitel Xining, seamlessly blends contemporary luxury with traditional Tibetan elements. As twilight descends, join fellow travelers for an intimate welcome reception, where the chef's carefully curated menu tells the story of regional flavors through modern gastronomy.
Food
-/-/D
Accommodation
Xi'ning Sofitel Hotel or equivalent
Day 2
Xi'ning – Ruoqiang
Dawn breaks over the ancient Tar Temple, where butter lamps have flickered continuously since 1379. Here, among the largest Tibetan Buddhist monastery in Qinghai, you'll witness the mesmerizing "three wonders" - intricate butter flowers sculpted by devoted monks, centuries-old murals that seem to pulse with life, and embroidery so fine it appears to float off the fabric. As afternoon yields to evening, board the prestigious Silk Road Express, where panoramic windows frame the mirror-like surface of Qinghai Lake and the golden-hued peaks of Aer Mountain, while you dine on gourmet cuisine in your private cabin.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Silk Road Express Train
Day 3
Ruoqiang – Kuche
Step into the haunting beauty of the Milan ruins, where sand-swept remnants of the Han Dynasty's Loulan civilization emerge from the desert like apparitions. The Loulan Museum unfolds before you like a treasure chest, each artifact a testament to the ingenuity and artistry of ancient traders who once called this oasis home. As night falls, your rail journey continues toward Kuche, the rhythmic movement of the train a reminder of countless caravans that once traversed these routes.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Silk Road Express Train
Day 4
Kuche
The Kirlz Thousand Buddha Caves await, their walls adorned with artwork that predates the famous Dunhuang grottos. Here, in the cool sanctuary of these ancient chambers, Buddhist art tells stories of devotion and enlightenment. Later, stand in awe before the majesty of Tianshan Mysterious Grand Canyon, where wind and water have sculpted nature's own cathedral. The day culminates at Kuche Palace, an architectural marvel where Chinese and Islamic designs dance together in stone and wood, telling tales of cultural fusion that defined the Silk Road.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Silk Road Express Train
Day 5
Kashgar – Tashkurgan
Ascend into the clouds as you journey to Tashkurgan ((Elevation: 3,000m), where the air grows thin and views become endless. The golden grasslands of Baisha Lake spread beneath you like a sea of amber, while the ancient Stone City stands as a silent sentinel to times past. At the Golden Grass Beach, watch as the setting sun transforms the landscape into a canvas of golden hues, creating a moment of pure magic atop the Pamir Plateau.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Panoramic Star Hotel or equivalent
Day 6
Tashkurgan – Kashgar
Embark on perhaps the most spectacular drive in Asia - the legendary "Winding Dragon Road." As you navigate its 608 hairpin turns, each bend reveals new vistas of the mighty Pamir Plateau, creating an ever-changing panorama of natural wonder. The journey reaches its crescendo at Kalakuli Lake, a mirror of heaven beneath the snow-crowned Muztagh Peak (Elevation: 7,546m), creating a scene that seems to belong more to dreams than reality.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar or equivalent
Day 7
Kashgar
Kashgar's Old Town unfolds like a living museum, its 3.6 square kilometers a maze of ancient alleyways where the air is rich with the scent of spices and the sounds of traditional craftsmen at work. In the serene Xiangfei Garden and the magnificent Id Kah Mosque, you'll witness where civilizations have converged for millennia. As evening approaches, participate in the time-honored gate opening ceremony, a tradition that has marked the rhythm of life here for centuries.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Radisson Blu Hotel Kashgar or equivalent
Day 8
Kashgar – Urumqi
Soar to Urumqi, where the UNESCO-listed Heavenly Lake awaits your discovery. Here, crystal-clear waters mirror snow-capped peaks in perfect symmetry, creating a natural masterpiece that has inspired poets and painters for generations. The lake, spanning 160 square kilometers, offers a sanctuary of peace where nature's grandeur reaches its zenith.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Grand Mercure Urumqi Hualing Hotel or equivalent
Day 9
Urumqi – Buerjin
Journey to Buerjin, where nature performs an artistic miracle along the Irtysh River. The Colorful Beach presents a stunning contrast: lush vegetation on the southern bank faces a rainbow of Yadan formations across the water, creating nature's own gallery. As night falls, immerse yourself in local life at the Buerjin night market, where the day's catch from glacier-fed rivers becomes a feast for the senses.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Buerjin Tourist Hotel or equivalent
Day 10
Kanas
Enter the realm of fairy tales at Kanas, where pristine lakes reflect dense forests, and seasonal colors paint the landscape in ever-changing hues. Explore the tri-point of Moon Bay, Wolong Bay, and the main lake, where each turn reveals a new perspective of this "Switzerland of the East." The combination of glaciers, lakes, forests, and grasslands creates a natural symphony that will leave you breathless.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Jiadengyu Xinjiang Exchange Center or equivalent
Day 11
Hemu
The journey continues to Hemu Village, a place that seems frozen in time. Here, wooden houses cluster along the riverbank like ancient sentinels, while white birch forests shimmer in the mountain light. Cross the iconic bridge that has become a photographer's dream, and witness a way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries in this ethereal corner of the world.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Hemu Villa or equivalent
Day 12
Hemu – Altay – Urumqi
Your final full day begins at the prestigious Xinjiang Museum, where millennia of history unfold through precious artifacts and ancient treasures. Later, lose yourself in the Grand Bazaar, the world's largest of its kind, where Islamic architecture creates a magnificent backdrop for a sensory journey through Central Asian culture. Each archway and corridor tells a story of cultural exchange that has shaped this unique corner of the world.
Food
B/L/D
Accommodation
Grand Mercure Urumqi Hualing Hotel or equivalent
Day 13
Urumqi – home
As the morning sun bathes Urumqi in golden light, prepare to bid farewell to this extraordinary journey. Take one last moment to reflect on the countless stories, magnificent landscapes, and rich cultural tapestry you've experienced along the ancient Silk Road. Depart with not just memories, but a profound connection to one of humanity's greatest trading routes and the countless stories it continues to tell.
Food
B/-/-
Silk Road Express
Presidential Suite Collection / The Heritage Series
Experience unparalleled luxury in our signature 22-square-meter suites, featuring an expansive king-size bed (71" × 79"). The lavishly appointed en-suite bathroom showcases premium fixtures from THG Paris West Coast and Urbain collections, complemented by state-of-the-art TOTO smart toilets, delivering an exceptional bathing experience.
Silk Road Express
Executive Chambers / Serenity Series
Thoughtfully designed 11-square-meter private sanctuaries, each furnished with a generous single bed (67" × 75"), perfect for the discerning solo traveler.
Silk Road Express
Twin Harmony Rooms / Effulgent Series
Elegant 11-square-meter accommodations featuring two carefully positioned single beds (30" × 75" each), ideal for traveling companions seeking both comfort and privacy.
Silk Road Express
Family Haven / Bliss Series
Specially crafted 11-square-meter family spaces combining a spacious double bed (67" × 75") with a dedicated children's bed (24" × 67"), creating the perfect retreat for family travelers.
Burqin
Buerjin Tourist Hotel
Riverside location offering comfortable rooms with views of the Irtysh River, equipped with modern amenities and local design touches.
Urumqi
Grand Mercure Urumqi Hualing
Elegant rooms combining contemporary design with local artistic elements, offering city views and executive floor options. Complete with international dining options and comprehensive business facilities.
Hemu Village, Kanas Town, Burqin
Hemu Villa
Authentic wooden villa accommodations in God's Reserved Village, offering intimate connection with nature while maintaining modern comfort standards.
Jiadengyu
Jiadengyu Xinjiang Exchange Center
Premium mountain lodging near Kanas Lake, featuring panoramic views of the surrounding natural landscape and traditional architectural elements.
Tashkurgan
Panoramic Star Hotel
Specially designed mountain-view accommodations at 3000m elevation, featuring climate-controlled rooms and traditional architectural elements, perfect for Pamir Plateau exploration.
Kashgar
Radisson Blu Kashgar
Modern rooms with panoramic city views, featuring signature Sleep Number® beds and premium amenities. Full-service facilities including fitness center and multiple dining venues.
Xi'ning
Sofitel Xi'ning
Contemporary luxury accommodations featuring premium amenities and sophisticated design, complemented by mountain views and exclusive club access. Strategic location in Xi'ning's central district offering convenient access to major attractions.
Create the experience of your dream with our travel experts
Make your own trailIncluded
- All accommodations aboard the Silk Road Express and in premium hotels;
- All meals as specified in the itinerary;
- Comprehensive sightseeing program;
- Professional English-speaking guides;
- All ground transportation;
- Entrance fees to all sites;
- Welcome and farewell dinners;
- Onboard lectures and entertainment;
- CNY 127000/per person for a single room stay (train & hotel);
- The deposit : CNY 30000/per berth/per person.
- A Trails Hotline: 400-860-0836.
Not Included
- Main transportation to Xi'ning and from Urumqi;
- In-tour flights (Kashgar-Urumqi, Aletai-Urumqi);
- Additional tours not mentioned in the program;
- Expenditures of a personal nature, such as extra meals or snacks, drinks, souvenirs, laundry etc.;
Payment and Cancellations
- Deposit: CNY 30,000 per person/berth to confirm the booking (non-refundable)
- Full payment is due 3 months before departure date. Full payment is required immediately for bookings made less than 28 days before start of the itinerary.In case of delayed payment, A Trails reserves the right to cancel booked services and withhold the deposit.
- Intermediate bank charges and fees are the responsibility of the client.
- Cancellation policy: Once the reservation is made, the deposit (CNY 30,000/berth) is non-refundable. This amount is only for berth cancellation and not the full berth fare; the company reserves the right to continue using the berth. After deducting the train berth charge, the following cancellation fees apply to the remaining tour cost: • 60+ days prior to departure: No additional charge •59-30 days: 10% of remaining tour cost •29-16 days: 15% of remaining tour cost •15-11 days: 20% of remaining tour cost •10-7 days: 30% of remaining tour cost •6-4 days: 50% of remaining tour cost •3-1 days: 70% of remaining tour cost •Day of departure or no-show: 100% of remaining tour cost
Important notes
Few important details to frame the experience:
- Participants with severe hypertension, heart disease, asthma, infectious diseases, or mental illnesses are not permitted to join.
- Any concealment of medical conditions is at participant's own risk.
- The company reserves the right to terminate participation in case of serious illness.
- Guests aged 70+ must provide a medical examination report (within 6 months) or written health certification.
- Guests aged 75+ must be accompanied by immediate family members.
- If accompaniment cannot be arranged, written health certification and liability waiver are required.
- Accommodation Policy: • Twin/Double Room: CNY 66,900 per person. •Single Room: CNY 127,000 per person • This tour requires minimum 12 participants to operate. • Commission rate: 15% of selling price