3 Days Urumqi Heavenly Lake and Turpan Tour

A 3-day journey through Xinjiang’s best: Heavenly Lake, Turpan’s oasis, and ancient ruins. The tour costs $533.34 per person and offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sights.
What we love: The scenic ride to Heavenly Lake, with its forested mountains and snow-capped peaks, offers a memorable visual. Plus, the chance to meet local Kazakh nomads adds an authentic touch.
A consideration: The tour involves some long driving stretches—about 3 hours on Day 2—so it’s best suited for travelers comfortable with bus trips.
Who it’s for: If you’re seeking a well-rounded introduction to Xinjiang’s landscapes and history, with knowledgeable guides and convenient logistics, this tour will serve you well.

Key Points

• Natural wonder: Heavenly Lake offers spectacular mountain scenery, boat rides, and cable car options.
• Cultural immersion: Visiting a Uyghur family in Tuyoq village provides authentic local experiences.
• Historical sites: The ancient Jiaohe ruins and Bezeklik Caves reveal millennia of history.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable guides make navigation and storytelling engaging.
• Comfort & convenience: Private transport, air-conditioned vehicles, and bottled water ensure comfort.
• Flexible activities: Options like boat rides and cable cars enhance your visit, but some are at an extra cost.

A close-up look at the 3-day Xinjiang tour

First Impressions: Urumqi’s Gateway to Nature and Culture

This tour kicks off in Urumqi, the capital of Xinjiang, with a pickup from your hotel. It’s a good way to transition from city life to the stunning outdoors. Your guide (who many reviewers praise for their friendliness and knowledge) will escort you to Tianchi Forest Park, home to the legendary Heavenly Lake. The journey involves a scenic 40-minute shuttle bus ride through the Tianshan mountains, which sets the tone for the trip: expect sweeping views, lush forests, and a sense of adventure.

Heavenly Lake: The Crown Jewel

Once at the lake’s edge, you’re free to explore. The tour offers several options: a trek around the lake, a boat cruise, or even a cable car ride up Maya Mountain, which affords incredible panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and green valleys. Keep in mind, the admission ticket is not included, so budget accordingly.

Many travelers appreciate the well-organized transport and the chance to enjoy the natural scenery at your own pace. We loved the way the guide shared insights about the Tianshan Mountains’ geology and local flora, making the experience both beautiful and educational.

Urumqi’s International Bazaar: A Cultural Feast

In the afternoon, you’ll return to Urumqi’s International Bazaar, a lively market where the sights and smells reflect the diversity of Xinjiang. From colorful textiles and intricate carpets to fresh fruit and traditional crafts, this is a sensory overload in a good way. A highlight is the culture show with banquet (optional, at an extra $45 per person), where you might see traditional dance and music performances—adding a dash of entertainment to your shopping.

Day 2: From Urumqi to Turpan’s Oasis and Ancient Sites

The drive to Turpan takes about three hours, passing notable sights like the largest wind power station in Asia and a glimpse of Salt Lake in Dabancheng. This transport time is a good opportunity to relax and absorb the changing scenery—from the mountains to the desert.

Tuyoq Village: Ancient and Holy

The first stop in Turpan is the Tuyoq Village, an ancient Uyghur settlement at the heart of Flaming Mountain Canyon. The site’s history as a Buddhist and Islamic holy place makes it uniquely layered. You’ll walk through old buildings, explore the Thousand Buddha Caves, and see the Maza tombs. Many review mentions highlight the charming canyon scenery and the authentic atmosphere of the old village.

Bezeklik Thousand Buddha Caves: A Religious Art Treasure

After lunch, your guide takes you to the Bezeklik Caves, a complex of Buddhist grottoes spanning from the 5th to 14th centuries. The murals depicting Buddha surrounded by Turks, Indians, and Europeans are stunning examples of religious art, and the outlook over Flaming Mountain adds dramatic context. The murals’ masterpiece quality is often praised, though some travelers note that entrance fees are separate.

Day 3: Deep into Turpan’s Water and History

The last day starts with a visit to the Karez irrigation system, an ingenious underground water channel that’s been vital for Turpan’s agriculture for centuries. Walking along the Karez Well gives tangible insight into how locals harness water in an arid environment, a facet of life that truly stands out.

Next, you’ll see Sugong Minaret, built in 1778, which celebrates the leadership of Sulaiman, a key figure in Turpan’s history. The largest Islamic minaret in China is a striking piece of architecture, and many find it a quiet spot to reflect on centuries of religious tradition.

The tour wraps up with a visit to Jiaohe Ruins, an ancient city that dates back over 2,300 years. Situated on a loess plateau between two rivers, these ruins are remarkably well-preserved and listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walking among the stone walls and remnants of ancient houses we felt transported back in time. Many reviewers comment on the impressive preservation, making this site a highlight.

Logistic and Comfort Considerations

Throughout the trip, private transportation ensures smooth transfers and climate-controlled comfort. The guide’s English service is available 24/7, making questions easy to ask and stories engaging. Bottled water and paper napkins are provided, which are thoughtful touches on long travel days.

Be aware that admission tickets to attractions like Heavenly Lake, Bezeklik Caves, and Jiaohe are not included in the tour price, so budget an extra amount for these. Optional activities like boating or camel rides are also extra, meaning you can tailor the experience to your interests.

What the Reviews Say

Participants consistently highlight the knowledgeable guides, with one reviewer mentioning, “We really appreciated the dedication, friendliness, and sense of responsibility shown by your team. From the planning stages to the end of the trip, everything was handled with care and professionalism.” Others praise the stunning scenery and authentic experiences, like meeting local Uyghur families.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for those who value culture combined with natural beauty. It suits travelers comfortable with long drives (about 3 hours on Day 2) and looking for a rundown of Xinjiang’s highlights. It’s perfect for history buffs and nature lovers alike, especially if you appreciate guided insights and convenience.

Final thoughts

This 3-day tour offers a well-balanced mix of spectacular landscapes, ancient sites, and local culture. It’s a smart choice for travelers who want to see the best of Xinjiang without the hassle of planning logistics themselves. The expert guides and comfortable transportation make a big difference, especially when navigating such a vast and diverse region.

While some may find the driving stretches a bit lengthy, the scenery and historical sites compensate with their richness and authenticity. The flexibility to add optional activities, like boat rides or cultural shows, means you can customize your experience.

Overall, it provides excellent value for the price, given the inclusiveness of transportation and guidance, along with the chance to encounter local traditions and breathtaking views. If you want a taste of Xinjiang’s natural wonders and ancient history, this tour offers a memorable and enriching experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, generally most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some long drives and walking at sites.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, but there are opportunities for lunch and optional dinners you might arrange independently.

Do I need to pay extra for entry to attractions?
Yes, entrance fees such as for Heavenly Lake, Bezeklik Caves, and Jiaohe are not included and need to be paid separately.

Can I do additional activities like boating or camel riding?
Yes, these activities are available but are not included in the base price and are optional.

What’s the tour’s duration?
The whole experience lasts about three days, with about 8 hours of activity each day.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The tour uses private, air-conditioned vehicles, making long drives more pleasant.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this tour is booked around 118 days ahead, so plan early to secure your spot.

What language is the guide service in?
The guide service is in English, available 24/7 online for assistance.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, some cash for extras, and a camera for capturing the stunning scenery.

This tour offers a meaningful glimpse into Xinjiang’s natural beauty and complex history, making it a worthwhile option for curious travelers eager for authentic experiences and knowledgeable guidance.