14 Days China Silk Road Self-Driving Tour from Urumqi to Xian (Xinjiang-Gansu-Ningxia-Xian)

Morning:

Change Chinese Driving Permit (if you haven't done so on Day 1). The paperwork is essential for driving in China as a foreigner, and it’s best to complete this early in the day.

Leave Urumqi: Start the journey towards Heavenly Lake (Tian Chi), which is about 1.5 hours away. The lake is nestled in the Tianshan Mountains and offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks and crystal-clear waters. It's a tranquil spot to begin your exploration of the region's natural beauty.

Afternoon:

After enjoying Heavenly Lake, drive toward Turpan, which will take around 3.5 hours.

Stop at Flaming Mountains: On the way to Turpan, you’ll stop to visit the Flaming Mountains, a striking group of red sandstone hills. The mountains are famous for their appearance in the Journey to the West, and the heat radiating from the rocks gives them a fiery look, especially during sunset.

Accommodation: Stay in Turpan, an oasis town at the edge of the desert. Turpan is historically important, as it was a key stop on the Silk Road, and features ancient irrigation systems and architectural wonders.

Self-Driving Tip:

As you drive towards Heavenly Lake, the road will be winding and at times steep. Low gears will help you maintain control on the sharp curves and mountain slopes.

Make sure to check your vehicle's brake system and engine temperature before embarking on mountain roads. The weather can also shift rapidly in the mountains, so bring a light jacket even if it’s warm in the valley.

Morning:

Start with a visit to the Jiaohe Ruins, an ancient earthen city that dates back over 2,000 years. This ancient city was carved into the cliffs, and its well-preserved structures give a glimpse into how people lived in the harsh desert environment.

After the ruins, head to the Karez Wells, a unique and ancient irrigation system that brought water from deep underground to irrigate the fertile areas of Turpan. The system is still used today and is an engineering marvel that allowed the desert city to thrive.

Afternoon:

Drive to Shanshan (Approx. 1.5 hours). This small town is an oasis and gateway to the Kumtag Desert.

Visit the Kumtag Desert, a vast desert area known for its towering sand dunes. The desert provides a classic desert experience, complete with opportunities for camel rides and desert hiking. The golden sand dunes stretch endlessly, and the silence of the desert is unforgettable.

Accommodation: Overnight in Shanshan, a peaceful desert town that serves as a base for exploring the desert.

Self-Driving Tip:

As you approach the desert, the roads may become dusty and bumpy. Use caution and reduce speed when driving on unsealed desert roads.

Be mindful of soft sand in desert areas. Lowering tire pressure slightly will give you more traction on sand. Keep water and snacks handy as services may be limited in remote desert regions.

Driving Distance: Approx. 340 km

Driving Time: Approx. 5 hours

Road Conditions: Mostly paved roads, but expect some off-road terrain leading to Hami Grand Canyon (Dahai Dao)

Activities:

Morning:

Witness the Desert Sunrise: Begin the day early with a desert sunrise in Shanshan or the surrounding Kumtag Desert. The desert landscape is particularly beautiful in the morning light, with the sand dunes glowing in shades of gold and orange. It’s a peaceful and meditative experience.

Afternoon:

Drive to Hami Grand Canyon (Dahai Dao): After the sunrise, drive toward the Hami Grand Canyon, a unique and less-known desert canyon (Approx. 3 hours of off-road driving). The Hami Grand Canyon offers stunning views of rugged rock formations, deep ravines, and striking colors in the canyon walls. Be sure to take plenty of photos as the scenery is dramatic and unspoiled by mass tourism.

After exploring the canyon, continue the drive to Hami city for the night.

Accommodation: Stay in Hami, a Silk Road city known for its famous melons. Hami is also historically significant and was once a key point along the ancient trade routes.

Self-Driving Tip:

Off-road desert driving can be challenging. The dusty and bumpy roads require careful navigation. Use 4WD to make sure you can handle any sudden changes in terrain.

Dust storms may limit visibility, so drive cautiously when encountering low visibility conditions. Keep your vehicle windows closed, and maintain a slow speed to avoid kicking up dust

Driving Distance: Approx. 500 km

Driving Time: Approx. 6-7 hours

Road Conditions: Highways and well-paved roads, but expect long desert stretches

Activities:

Morning:

Drive to Dunhuang: Leave Hami early in the morning for Dunhuang. The drive will take around 5 hours, mostly on the G30 highway that cuts through the Gobi Desert. The landscape during this portion of the drive is vast, with endless sand dunes and desolate terrain. Keep an eye on fuel levels, as services along the way are sparse.

Afternoon:

Visit the Singing Sand Mountains: After reaching Dunhuang, visit the Singing Sand Mountains. The unique sound of the sand when it is blown by the wind makes this spot especially famous. Take a camel ride across the dunes or simply enjoy the breathtaking views from the top of the sand hills.

Crescent Lake: Just a short distance from the Singing Sand Mountains, you'll visit Crescent Lake, a natural oasis in the middle of the desert. Surrounded by towering sand dunes, the lake is an incredible contrast to the dry surroundings. The sunset over the dunes and lake is a perfect end to your day’s exploration.

Accommodation: Stay in Dunhuang, a city steeped in history as a Silk Road stopping point.

Self-Driving Tip:

This is a long drive, so ensure you have plenty of snacks and water on hand. Fuel stations are limited in the desert, so fill up whenever possible.

The desert heat can be intense, so be sure to wear a hat and sunscreen and drink plenty of water. Keep your vehicle windows closed to avoid getting dust in the car.

Driving Distance: Approx. 300 km

Driving Time: Approx. 5-6 hours

Road Conditions: Well-maintained paved roads leading to Mogao Caves and Yadan Devil’s City

Activities:

Morning:

Mogao Caves (Dunhuang Caves): Start the day with a visit to the Mogao Caves, an extraordinary complex of ancient Buddhist caves that date back over 1,500 years. The caves house incredible frescoes, sculptures, and manuscripts that depict religious life, cultural practices, and historical events along the Silk Road.

Be sure to book tickets in advance, as the site has limited visitor capacity. It’s also recommended to take a guided tour to better understand the significance of each cave and the Buddhist art they contain.

Afternoon:

Yumen Pass: After visiting the caves, head to Yumen Pass, one of the most important historical sites along the Silk Road. The pass was a key military checkpoint and trade route gateway. Today, it’s a reminder of the struggles and triumphs of ancient travelers.

Yadan Devil’s City: The afternoon will be spent at Yadan Devil’s City, a collection of natural wind-eroded rock formations that create eerie, mystical landscapes. The formations resemble towers and pillars, giving the area a supernatural vibe. It’s a fantastic spot for photography and exploration, especially when the light casts long shadows over the formations.

Accommodation: Return to Dunhuang for the evening.

Self-Driving Tip:

The roads to Yadan Devil’s City and Yumen Pass are rough and sometimes sandy, so be sure to lower tire pressure for better traction.

When driving through the desert roads around Yadan, soft sand may cause vehicles to get stuck. Keep your speed low and avoid sudden stops in sandy patches. If you're unsure, always drive in low gear for better control.

Morning:

Start Point: Dunhuang, a historic oasis city located on the edge of the Gobi Desert. It's known for its ancient Mogao Caves (also called the Thousand Buddha Caves), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that holds thousands of Buddhist murals and statues.

Recommended Activities in Dunhuang:

• Mogao Caves: If you haven't visited yet, you should plan to spend the morning here. The cave system contains some of China’s most significant Buddhist art.

• Dunhuang Yardang National Geological Park: If you want to explore more desert landscapes, this park features striking wind-eroded rock formations, often referred to as "Yardangs."

Departure:

After your morning activities, head out from Dunhuang to Jiayuguan, a drive of about 370KM. This journey typically takes around 4 hours. The route passes through vast desert landscapes and some barren plains, but it offers incredible views along the way.

Road Conditions:

Road Quality: Paved, good condition. Expect smooth highways and a few small, rural towns along the way.

Traffic: Light to moderate, mainly long stretches with few vehicles, making it a relatively easy drive.

Scenic Views: The desert landscape offers sweeping views, and as you approach Jiayuguan, you'll see more mountainous terrain.

Arrival in Jiayuguan:

Afternoon in Jiayuguan:

• Jiayuguan Fort: Visit this iconic Ming Dynasty fort, which marks the westernmost point of the Great Wall of China. It was built in 1372 and served as a military defense post along the ancient Silk Road. The fort offers a unique perspective on China’s military history and provides excellent views of the surrounding desert.

• Jiayuguan Overhanging Great Wall: You can also visit this unique section of the Great Wall, where the wall appears to hang over a cliff, giving it a dramatic, striking appearance. It's a bit off the main path, but the views are worth it.

Evening:

Accommodation: Check into your hotel in Jiayuguan. Consider staying near the historical center for easy access to the fort and other sites.

Dinner: Try local Gansu cuisine at a nearby restaurant. You can try dishes like Gansu Lanzhou beef noodles or chuanbei roast lamb.

Morning:

• Departure: After breakfast in Jiayuguan, head towards Zhangye, which is about 230KM away (around 3 hours of driving). This stretch takes you through a mix of desert and mountainous terrain, showcasing the beauty of Gansu Province.

Road Conditions:

• Road Quality: Paved, in good condition. Some winding roads as you approach Zhangye, but nothing too challenging for a self-driving trip.

• Traffic: Light to moderate traffic, as the road is less traveled than major highways.

• Scenic Views: This part of the trip offers a combination of desert vistas and rugged, mountainous views. The landscape becomes more colorful as you near Zhangye.

Arrival in Zhangye:

• Afternoon in Zhangye:

  • Zhangye Danxia National Geological Park (Rainbow Mountains): One of the most famous scenic spots in China. These multi-colored hills are the result of millions of years of erosion and sedimentation, creating vibrant red, orange, green, and yellow rock formations. The park is relatively easy to explore with a well-established tourist route, but make sure to bring a camera to capture the vivid landscapes.

  • Binggou Danxia: Another stunning site just outside Zhangye. It's a smaller version of the Rainbow Mountains, with similar colored formations.

Optional Activities:

• Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple: If you have some extra time, you can also visit the Zhangye Giant Buddha Temple, which houses a 34-meter-long reclining Buddha, dating back to the Western Han Dynasty. It’s one of the largest and oldest wooden Buddha statues in China.

Evening:

• Accommodation: Zhangye offers a range of hotels from budget options to mid-range and higher-end choices. Many accommodations near the city center provide easy access to restaurants and shops.

• Dinner: Try some local specialties, such as Zhangye-style roasted lamb or hand-pulled noodles.

Additional Notes:

• Time Zone: Both Jiayuguan and Zhangye are in China Standard Time (CST), so there won’t be any time zone change.

• Altitude: The altitude in both Jiayuguan and Zhangye is relatively moderate. However, Zhangye is located at around 1,500 meters (4,920 feet), so some visitors may feel slightly winded at higher altitudes, especially during outdoor activities.

Morning:

• Departure: After breakfast, start your journey from Zhangye to Zhongwei. This is a longer stretch, covering about 540KM, and it will take 6-7 hours of driving. The route passes through both desert and mountainous areas, so you’ll experience a variety of scenic landscapes.

Road Conditions:

• Road Quality: Paved highways for most of the journey, with good road conditions. Expect some sections of winding roads as you approach Wuwei and Zhongwei, but overall the route is easy to drive.

• Traffic: Light to moderate traffic, with fewer vehicles the further you get from major cities.

• Scenic Views: The first part of the journey will take you through Gansu's expansive desert landscape, while the latter part offers views of rolling hills and agricultural fields as you get closer to Zhongwei.

Stop in Wuwei (Optional):

• Wuwei is a historical city, and although it’s not a major tourist hotspot, it has some interesting sites you can stop by:

  • Wuwei Confucian Temple: A peaceful place to stretch your legs and experience the ancient architecture.

  • Wuwei Museum: This museum houses an impressive collection of relics and artifacts from the Western Xia and Han dynasties, offering a glimpse into the region’s ancient history.

Lunch Break:

• Consider stopping for lunch in Wuwei or any small towns along the way for some local food. Gansu cuisine is known for hearty noodles, and a bowl of Lanzhou Beef Noodles would be a great choice to fuel up for the next leg of the trip.

Arrival in Zhongwei:

• Afternoon: Once you arrive in Zhongwei, you can visit Shapotou Scenic Area, a popular spot where the Yellow River meets the desert. The area is known for its sand dunes, camel rides, and beautiful desert landscapes. You can also visit Shapotou Railway Station, which was historically important during the early days of the Silk Road.

Overnight in Zhongwei:

• Accommodation: Zhongwei offers a range of hotels, from budget options to mid-range. Many hotels are situated near the main attractions like the Shapotou Scenic Area, making it convenient to explore the area at your leisure.

• Dinner: Enjoy local dishes, such as camel meat, which is a regional specialty, or hand-pulled noodles.

Morning:

Departure: After breakfast, you’ll depart from Zhongwei and drive towards Yinchuan, the capital of Ningxia. The total distance for today’s drive is 210KM, and it should take about 2-3 hours.

Road Conditions:

Road Quality: Excellent paved roads throughout. The route is mainly a straightforward drive on highways, and it’s an easy leg of the journey compared to previous days.

Traffic: Light to moderate, with very few vehicles on the rural roads between Zhongwei and Wuzhong.

Scenic Views: The drive is relatively flat, with expansive views of farmland and grasslands. As you approach Yinchuan, the terrain will begin to change slightly, becoming more urban and developed.

Stop in Wuzhong (Optional):

Wuzhong is a small city, but it can be a good place to take a break. If you’re interested, you can explore:

• Liupanshan National Forest Park: This is a beautiful natural spot located just outside Wuzhong, offering picturesque mountain views and a chance to stretch your legs.

• Local Markets: If you have time, you can explore the local markets in Wuzhong to see local crafts and produce.

Arrival in Yinchuan:

Afternoon in Yinchuan:

• Western Xia Tombs: Visit this historical site, which is home to the tombs of the Western Xia Dynasty (1038–1227). The tombs are located in a quiet, picturesque area surrounded by mountains. It’s a perfect spot for history buffs to learn about the ancient dynasty that ruled parts of northwest China.

• Ningxia Museum: If you’re interested in local culture, the Ningxia Museum has exhibits on the history, culture, and ethnic diversity of the Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

Evening:

Accommodation: Check into a hotel in Yinchuan. Choose one near the city center for convenience, as it will give you easy access to restaurants and markets.

Dinner: Try Hui-style hot pot, a specialty of the Ningxia Hui people. The cuisine is rich and flavorful, and it’s a great way to relax after a long day of driving.

Morning:

• Departure: After breakfast in Yinchuan, begin your journey towards Guyuan, a smaller city located in the southeastern part of Ningxia. The drive covers about 320KM and will take around 3-4 hours.

Road Conditions:

• Road Quality: Excellent paved roads for most of the journey, with a few winding sections in rural areas as you approach Guyuan. The highways are in good condition.

• Traffic: Light to moderate. This route will be less trafficked compared to larger highways, but you’ll still encounter occasional vehicles.

• Scenic Views: The drive takes you through flat and semi-arid regions, with vast open spaces and farming areas. As you get closer to Guyuan, the landscape becomes more hilly and lush.

Arrival in Guyuan:

• Afternoon in Guyuan:

  • Guyuan Ancient City Wall: Upon arrival in Guyuan, take some time to visit the ancient city wall. Built to defend the city during the Ming Dynasty, it’s a great place to learn about the history of the area.

  • Guyuan Confucian Temple: A peaceful stop to experience traditional Chinese architecture and culture.

  • Natural Scenery: Guyuan is surrounded by picturesque hills and valleys. You can explore some of the nearby countryside for a relaxing walk or short hike.

Evening:

• Accommodation: There are a range of mid-range hotels in Guyuan, particularly near the city center and the ancient city wall. Many hotels offer comfortable rooms with basic amenities.

• Dinner: Try the local Ningxia lamb dishes, a regional specialty. Lamb kebabs and roast lamb are common in Guyuan, and they’re sure to be flavorful and satisfying after a long drive.

Morning:

• Departure: After breakfast, depart from Guyuan and head towards Xi'an, the final destination of this leg of your journey. The distance today is 460KM, which will take approximately 5-6 hours to drive.

• Lunch Break: Along the way, consider stopping for lunch in Baoji, a historic city known as the “Bronze Capital” of China. It offers several options for a break, where you can enjoy local delicacies.

Road Conditions:

• Road Quality: Paved highways throughout the journey. The roads are well-maintained, but the final approach to Xi'an may have slightly more traffic, especially as you get closer to the city.

• Traffic: Light to moderate. You may encounter more vehicles as you approach larger cities, especially around Baoji.

• Scenic Views: The terrain is more varied today. You’ll pass through rolling hills and farmland, eventually entering the more developed areas as you get closer to Xi'an.

Stop in Baoji (Optional):

• Baoji is a historic city that serves as the gateway to Xi'an. While you’re here, you might consider visiting:

  • Baoji Bronze Ware Museum: Baoji is famous for its bronze artifacts, and this museum showcases an impressive collection from the Zhou Dynasty and earlier. It’s a great stop to immerse yourself in the region’s rich history.

  • Famen Temple: Located about 10 kilometers north of Baoji, this Buddhist temple houses a relic of the Buddha, making it an important pilgrimage site.

Arrival in Xi'an:

• Afternoon in Xi'an:

  • Upon arrival in Xi'an, the ancient capital of China, you’ll be greeted by the city’s ancient city walls and bustling streets. Xi'an is one of the most historic cities in China, home to the famous Terracotta Army and a melting pot of cultures.

  • Optional Activities: Depending on your arrival time, you can visit the Big Wild Goose Pagoda, a beautiful Buddhist pagoda dating back to the Tang Dynasty. You may also want to explore Xi'an City Wall, which offers a fantastic view of the city from above.

Evening:

• Accommodation: Xi'an has a wide range of accommodations, from budget hostels to luxurious 5-star hotels. Consider staying in the city center or near the Muslim Quarter for easy access to local restaurants and markets.

• Dinner: Xi'an is famous for its Muslim-inspired cuisine, particularly in the Muslim Quarter. Try the local specialties such as yangrou paomo (a lamb soup with flatbread) or roujiamo (a Chinese-style hamburger). Be sure to explore the food stalls in the Muslim Quarter for a true taste of the city.

Morning

Terracotta Warriors (秦始皇兵马俑):

• Departure Time: After breakfast at the hotel, depart for the Terracotta Warriors site, located about 40 minutes outside Xi'an city.

• Activity: The Terracotta Army is one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in the world. You’ll explore the excavation pits and the museum where thousands of life-sized clay soldiers, horses, and chariots were buried to protect Emperor Qin Shi Huang in the afterlife. The museum is arranged in different halls, each showcasing incredible details of these ancient warriors, their armor, and weapons.

• Highlights: Pit 1 (largest and most famous), Pit 2 (with more intricate formations), and Pit 3 (the command center with the fewest statues).

Lunch

Enjoy a traditional Chinese lunch in a local restaurant, with the chance to sample regional delicacies like Xi'an cold noodles and lamb skewers.

Afternoon

Huaqing Palace (华清宫):

• Departure: Head to Huaqing Palace, located at the base of Lishan Mountain (about a 40-minute drive from the Terracotta Army site). This historical palace complex is known for its hot springs, which were used by emperors for relaxation.

• Activity: You’ll explore the Huaqing Hot Springs, where Emperor Xuanzong and Consort Yang famously spent time. The scenic area includes gardens, pools, and the Xianguan Hall.

• Highlights: The ancient Huaqing Pool (皇池) and the Yan’an Pavilion, where Emperor Xuanzong had his secret meetings with consort Yang. A chance to admire the Lishan Mountain views.

Evening

Empress Wu’s Feast:

• Venue: The dinner will be served at a restaurant known for hosting Empress Wu Zetian’s themed banquets. You will enjoy a royal-style feast based on the Tang Dynasty’s court cuisine, including a mix of meats, steamed dishes, soups, and traditional side dishes.

• Entertainment: As part of the experience, traditional Tang Dynasty performances, such as Tang Dynasty music and dances, may be showcased, providing a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the region during that time.

Optional Evening Stroll:

• After the meal, you may wish to take a short walk along the Big Wild Goose Pagoda or explore the lively streets of Xi’an City Center. The Bell Tower and Drum Tower are especially charming at night.

Notes:

Xi'an City: Known for its historic significance, Xi'an was the starting point of the Silk Road and the capital of several ancient Chinese dynasties. The two primary sites you'll visit today—the Terracotta Warriors and Huaqing Palace—are integral to the cultural and historical heritage of the region.

Weather: Xi'an typically experiences mild temperatures in April, with daytime highs ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), but evenings can get cooler.

Driving Distance: None (Departure day)

Driving Time: N/A

Road Conditions: N/A

Activities:

Morning:

Transfer to Xi'an Airport: On your final day, transfer from your hotel to Xi'an Airport. Before leaving, make sure to check out from your accommodation and gather all belongings.

For those returning the vehicle, ensure that the car is in good condition. Verify you have all necessary documents such as fuel receipts, and return it promptly to avoid additional charges.

Self-Driving Tip:

If you're returning the car, make sure to inspect it for any damages and clean it before drop-off.

Make sure you have all your documents—like rental agreements, insurance papers, and fuel receipts—for a smooth vehicle return process.